How to Decorate in English Cottage Style

There is something romantic about an English cottage style. Many people desire the thatched roof, vegetable garden, lace-strewn upholstery, pebbled path leading to the front door and neatly trimmed rose shrubs. Even if you live in an apartment, you can still indulge in the luxuries of a real English cottage. With a few innovative tips, you can align your home in the style of an English cottage.

Things You'll Need

• Light and white paint
• Soft lighting
• Fireplace
• Antique furniture
• Accessories
• Chinaware
• Rugs and carpets
• Lacy curtains
• Flowers and plants

Instructions

1. Nature inspires the decor of English cottages, with walls painted in subdued hues of the outdoors. Opt for colors that are not only soothing to the eye but would also accentuate the rest of the decor. Do up your bedroom in pastel shades of pink and lavender. Paint the drawing room in light shades of yellow, green and golden. Use loads of white all around you, especially when it comes to painting a fence or grill.

2. Lighting plays an important role in English cottage style decor. Opt for soft lighting. Instead of going for the usual overhead variety, choose an abundance of table lamps, floor lamps and candles. English cottage windows are simple and allow lots of light in.

3. A proper fireplace is one of the most important parts of an English cottage. Recreate the magic by decorating your fireplace. Place faux stone lining surrounding the fireplace to create a natural look. Display family photographs and other important artifacts in and around the mantel.

4. English cottages are synonymous with antique furniture pieces that make you feel warm and cozy. Accessorize the room with antique mirrors, collectibles, photo frames, old books and ceramic figurines. Ensure that all the furniture is displayed properly, as each one is a piece of art. However, too much antique furniture in one room makes it claustrophobic, so ensure that each piece has space to breathe. An English setting would remain incomplete without fine English chinaware. Thus, fill the kitchen with authentic English crockery and items.

5. Hardwood flooring along with matching rugs would add warmth and colour to the room. Opt for classic designs and colours when choosing rugs, carpets and upholstery. Pastel shades of coral, brown, yellow, white and pink will set the tone. Consider lacy curtains with soft floral prints to enhance the mood of the room. This, as opposed to heavy draperies, will give you an English feel.

6. Welcome nature into your home. Bunches of flowers add freshness to the room. If you have a portico or balcony then fill it up with various plants; make this area your green patch. Keep a few low-maintenance flowering plants like roses and daisies to add colour.

References

• Cottage Home Decorating: Cottage Style Decorating
• Cottage Style Decorating: Learn How to Decorate With Cottage Style

Resources

• Article Dashboard: The Appeal of English Cottage Style Furniture