Cozying Up to Cottagecore

What is cottagecore? It is an aesthetic that promotes the simplicity of an uncomplicated way of life that is in harmony with nature. Cottagecore encourages acquiring skills that make this lifestyle possible, such as bread making, cooking, gardening and baking. The trend began during the pandemic lockdown, reviving the joy of engaging in mundane domestic skills such as knitting, crocheting, needlework and sewing. It's about taking the time to do things intentionally and slowing down the pace of daily life.

With its "back to basics" attitude, cottagecore is a direct counter to technology and consumerism. It is a maximalist style that draws inspiration from a desire to return to the past. Even if you are not as accomplished as Martha Stewart, you can still incorporate the cottagecore vibe into your home decor.

Here are some ideas to lead you up the garden path toward cottagecore style:

• First things first — The first thing you will want to do is assess the comfort and functionality of your home. You do not want your space to feel too "fancy" but rather give the impression that people live there. When designing this look, avoid anything that is there "only for show" and does not serve a purpose. A cottagecore home is meant to be lived in.
• Layer it on — Cottagecore relies on layering a variety of prints, patterns and textures together to achieve its maximalist aesthetic. Here, more is more. Upholstered furniture, throw pillows, blankets and wall decor are places likely to receive this treatment. Be mindful of your color palette to ensure the elements are coordinated and not clashing.
• Florals — Florals are a staple of cottagecore and are used generously throughout the home. In the beginning, the trend favored tiny floral prints. Now, botanical prints have evolved into bolder, larger versions showing up on all furnishings, from textiles to wallcoverings. Large floral wallpaper prints or murals on accent walls provide unexpected focus in any room. Wallpaper itself is making a comeback as a decorative element and has been adopted by cottagecore designers for its nostalgic quality.
• Wood — Carefully crafted wooden accent pieces, such as hutches and sideboards, are finding new fans among cottagecore designers. Burl wood, known for its one-of-a-kind knots and swirls, is also turning up in furniture. Burl wood highlights the naturally occurring imperfections found in nature and turns them into something unique. Large pieces of wood furniture with large flat surfaces, such as dining room tables, coffee tables and credenzas, are the perfect place to showcase a burl treatment. While burl wood is an expensive option, there are veneer versions that capture the same visual effect without the high price tag.
• Made by hand — One-of-a-kind products that feature craftsmanship, such as upcycled vintage embroidered tablecloths and napkins to dress your dining table for special occasions, are highly sought-after cottagecore elements. Search for handmade quilts to create a cozy, nostalgic feeling in your bedroom. Family heirlooms and vintage pieces also lend a special personal aura to any room. Of course, you can carve out space to pursue arts such as pottery, quilting or painting to create your own bespoke furnishings.
• Appeal to your senses — Burning candles or sprigs of herbs in vases adds a calming touch to your home, helping you destress from the cares of the day. Don't forget to bring nature indoors with fresh flowers from your garden. Even good-quality faux flowers can remind us of the outdoors. In the winter, create an indoor garden by bringing your houseplants back inside and putting them in a room that receives plenty of natural light. If you are fortunate enough to have a fireplace, a burning fire creates a cozy atmosphere by spreading warmth and light into the room.

Cottagecore design is trending, and for good reason. With an emphasis on warmth, comfort and relaxation, cottagecore may just be the antidote to a stressful modern world. Contact us for more ideas for creating a welcoming, comfortable home for yourself, your family and your guests.