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9 Ways to Get the Country Cottage Look

Country cottages conjure a picture of a simple life somewhere untouched by fashion and fads, where you can unwind and leave the worries of the world at the doorstep. And while we may not be able to pick up and move to the middle of nowhere, we can still bring that sense of calm and tranquility to our own homes with these country cottage home design tips. 

1. Have fun with clashing prints and patterns.

Cottage homes really pull at our heartstrings because they have that “lived in” nostalgic feel. That’s why a cottage will always look best if it’s slightly eclectic, a look achieved by years of decorating and redecorating.

2. Arrange some flowers.

The rougher and more unstructured, the better. You want the flowers to have a “just picked” look about them. So take to the garden and grab a handful of fresh flowers and foliage. Pop them into a vase or a rustic enamel jug for some instant country charm.

3. Set the table.

Country cottage homes are known for kitchens where the oven is always hot and the kettle is always boiling. If you live in the kind of community where the neighbors are always stopping by for a chat, then keeping some of your good china on the table will ensure you’re always ready when guests come around.

4. Start a window herb garden.

Indulge your indoor-plant obsession and increase the flavor of home-cooked meals in one fell swoop! Creating a windowsill herb garden is essential to a cottage kitchen, and for some extra style points, house them in terra-cotta pots.

5. Go for open shelving.

If your good crockery must be stored up and away, the next best thing is to keep it on display with some open shelving. In country-style kitchens, one of the most popular options is wall-mounted wooden dish racks. But if installing wall-mounted storage isn’t an option, consider investing in an antique buffet for your dining room, or a portable kitchen trolley to keep items on display rather than hidden away.

6. Style with blue and white.

These days country homes can be everything from all-white to brimming with color. But sticking to a classic blue-and-white color scheme is a foolproof way to achieve a French country cottage aesthetic. Search thrift stores for vintage blue and white china, invest in a pair of ginger jars, or consider buying a duvet for your bed in a ticking pattern. Layer with natural linens for an even more welcoming effect.

7. Create storage by your entryway.

Living in the country, one thing is for certain: You need somewhere to hang your boots at the end of the day. Carve out a convenient space by the front (or back) door for a set of storage hooks, a bench, or hallway table.

8. Choose cast-iron furniture.

For a truly French provincial country cottage appeal, cast-iron furniture is your friend. It also requires less maintenance than timber furniture and will lend a modern edge to the otherwise traditional look that is country style.

9. Opt for natural fibers.

These days selecting natural fibers over man-made plastics is more important than ever. Rattan, wicker, and cane baskets will add instant warmth to any interior while being better for the planet in the long-run. And don’t be afraid to think outside the box on this one, wicker can be used everywhere, from storage baskets to dining chairs and even pendant lamps.

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This article originally appeared on our sister site, Homes to Love.

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