This popular look incorporates layers of patterns in garden-fresh colors for a cozy, nostalgic, happy home.
Carson Downing
A Brief History of Cottagecore Decorating
The cottagecore aesthetic evolved fromtraditional cottage designs.
But COVID-19 re-energized that particular trend because we were forced to slow down, she says.
Credit:Carson Downing
We made room for the time that it took to do something, says Carpenter.
Thats whats at the core of cottagecore: a kinder, slower, gentler pace of life.
Cottagecore developed and gained popularity alongside (but opposite from) sleek,minimalist styles like Japandi.
Credit:Carson Downing
Whenever theres a trend, theres a countertrend, says Carpenter.
Where Japandi and Scandi aesthetics are neutral and clean-lined, cottagecore is maximalist.
It embraces a mix of patterns, textures, oversized pieces, and bold colors.
Credit:Dana Gallagher / Interior Designer: Heidi Lachapelle Interiors
But this maximalism isdriven by nostalgia.
It closely ties withgrandmillennial styleor granny chic, says Carpenter.
Florals, warm woods, and colors, for example, are right at home in the cottagecore aesthetic.
Credit:Greg Scheidemann
Elements of Cottagecore Style
Like all maximalist styles, more is more.
But with cottagecore, the abundance is intentional, in more ways than one.
Cottagecore is also about balancing functionality and style.
Credit: John Bessler
Decor should withstand and be part of the activity of a home; rooms aren’t just for show.
Its not supposed to be precious, says Carpenter.
Its not a room we dont go in but just point and say, Isnt that stunning in there?
Credit:Jay Wilde
Its really about being able to live with it.
Cottagecore demands both form and function, things that are not only useful but also beautiful.
Below, Carpenter shares nine elements of cottagecore style that capture the cozy, thoughtful aesthetic.
Credit:Jay Wilde
But before you begin, Carpenter has some advice.
Be mindful of color and the way color works together, she says.
She saysstarting with a color palettecan help achieve that.
Credit: Jeff Herr
Greg Scheidemann
1.
Layer Textures and Patterns
Carpenter says incorporatingmultiple textures, patterns, and printsis critical to cottagecores maximalist foundation.
Carpenter says show-stopping floral murals also add appeal to accent walls.
Credit:Jay Wilde
Jay Wilde
3.
Hang Wallpaper
Ditching paint for wallpaper is an easy way to craft a cottagecore room, says Carpenter.
Wallpaper complements cottagecores nostalgic foundation, and it’s a great product for layering maximalist colors and patterns.
Credit: Brian McWeeney
Carpenter recommends styles with a carved wood frame harkening back to that grandmillennial kind of feeling.
Embrace Color
Early cottagecore was aboutsofter pastels and lighter color palettes.
She notes that these rich, earthyjewel toneswork especially well when paired with wood.
Credit: Victoria Pearson
Carpenter says color is integral to achieving a cottagecore kitchen, too; use it on appliances and cabinetry.
Carpenter highlights accents like scalloping along chair edges, shapely profiles, and linear textures like plisse.
She also notes the re-emergence of decadent burl wood.
Credit: Nathan Schroder
Look for Handmade Details
Were seeing a lot more hand-detailingbringing in texture, says Carpenter.
This includes beading, embellished textiles, and even embroidered wallpaper.
More broadly, incorporate handmade products that showcase attention to detail and craftsmanship.
These one-of-a-kind elements add to the comfy, personalized style of cottagecore.
