Design Trend – Cottagecore

  • 3 minutes
  • 4 February 2021

For this month’s design trend, we explore Cottagecore and how to embrace this aesthetic to enjoy a more simplistic lifestyle.

TrendWall_Vic_Harry & Tash

What is Cottagecore?

Have you seen the Cottagecore craze on TikTok and Instagram? If not, don’t worry, we have you covered. Simply put, Cottagecore is a romanticised take on a paired back lifestyle without the modern-day distractions of technology. Think English country gardens, wildflowers, handcrafted or vintage furniture and home-baked bread.

According to Huffpost‘Cottagecore — also known as farmcore or countrycore — is an aesthetic above all, like what grunge was in the ’90s. Cottagecore is centered around what you would imagine living in a cottage in the countryside would be like — gardening, greenery, floral prints, flowy dresses, and animals. You want to feel like you would fit in on a farm.’ 

Cottagecore Design Trend - Australian cottage with lavender garden

4 Ways to bring a little Cottagecore to your home

Whether you choose to fully embrace the Cottagecore aesthetic or adopt a few small changes, you will undoubtedly enjoy the benefits of getting back to nature.

Did you know a 2019 study of 20,000 people found that just two hours per week in a green space can improve health and psychological well-being? 

1. Plant a herb garden

A herb garden is a great way to begin nurturing your green thumb as it’s inexpensive and you can see the results of your efforts within a few days. It’s also a great way to get kids involved; they love seeing their herbs or vegetables grow, as well as a fantastic way to teach a more sustainable lifestyle.

2.  Utilise natural elements

If you’re feeling nostalgic and want to create a Cottagecore oasis, why not incorporate natural stone into your garden? Whether you use stone pavers to create a private retreat where you can sit and sip your tea surrounded by nature or build a sandstone garden bed, undoubtedly the unique stone texture will create a natural and authentic look and feel.

SlimWall Farrugia_Cottagecore Design Trend

Stone options could include:

  • Sandstone 
  • Limestone
  • Dry stacked stone walls
  • Cobblestones

3. Update your garden

If you’re lucky enough to have a garden, or space to create a garden, an easy way to embrace the English cottage look and feel is with wildflowers. Depending on where you are in Australia will depend on which flowers will be right for you. Still, Australia has some fantastic wildflowers, including Kangaroo Paw, Bottle Brush, Clustered Finger-flower and Banksia’s to name a few. However, if wildflowers aren’t for you other options to create a country feel could be a terraced garden, rose wall or rose archway, or flower borders to frame a winding garden path.

4. Repurposed furniture

Cottagecore Design Trend - Garden Inspiration.

Another great way to incorporate the Cottagecore aesthetic in your home is with repurposed furniture, vintage pottery and antiques. Think long wooden tables with mismatched chairs, gingham tablecloths, vintage tea sets and vases filled with wildflowers! Plus, floral curtains or cushions will give a cosy, homey feeling and leave no doubt about your love of this latest design trend.

In summary, regardless of the Cottagecore style you choose, remember to relax, unwind and enjoy!