Create a cottage feel to your home

There are a whole array of cottages in the United Kingdom from the limestone cottages of the Cotswolds, to Welsh Cottages to pastel painted thatched roof cottages to the whitewashed crofts of the Scottish Highlands and they all offer their own unique beautiful architecture and have interesting original architectural features that add character.

Whether you have a traditional cottage or a more modern home that you would like to add some country cottage charm to, here are some ideas to get you started. 

Install a log burner, a wood burning fire or stove

The addition of a log burner or fire not only gives a focus point to the room but when lit instantly supplies that cosy feeling, curl up with a blanket, add a candle and hot chocolate into the mix and you’ve nailed the cosy look right there.

Choose a Traditional Sofa

When it comes to sofas we are spoilt for choice, which isn’t always a blessing when you can’t make up your mind.  Choose a sofa that has a timeless feel to it, one that you have seen in time gone by photos, and yet looks just as fabulous now.  A Chesterfield is a perfect example of this, and we often think of them being made out of leather, however nowadays they are also available in fabrics such as tweed. 

 Use traditional cupboards and features in your kitchen

When fitting your kitchen choose classic and traditional cupboards such as shaker, in oak and painted wood.  This can be added to with standalone pieces such as dressers, or kitchen islands that can be made by craftsman or found in antique and vintage shops.  Add those extra elements such as plate racks, a Belfast sink, and shelves that can house vintage crockery finds.    

Add an Aga or range cooker

An Aga or range cooker has become an iconic feature of a cottage kitchen.  These can become a central focus point of the kitchen and there are an array of wooden over mantles or add a brick type chimney with a wooden beam.

 Incorporate all the unique features

 Not everyone likes original features, so over the years they can become hidden, boarded up or decorated over.  Each unique feature is a thing of beauty and adds to the charm of the house so should be embraced.  Original fireplaces, wooden beams, brick walls should be allowed to be shown in all their glory.

 Create a cottage style bedroom

When we think of cottage style bedrooms we think flowers, chintz and all pretty things.  This look is simple of create with floral bedding, pretty throws and cushions.  Wrought iron beds, wooden furniture some of which could be painted in pastel shades.  Gingham can also look very effective and can work perfectly well alongside a floral backdrop. 

 Adding flowers to each room

This can range from an elegant bouquet in the hall, to a simple posy on the bedside table.  Think English country garden flowers to complement the cottage look.