Cottage-style is a timeless décor trend. It’s strongly influenced by nostalgia that revolves around the ideals of a simple life in the country. Its appeal lures even those (or especially those) who live in more urban areas. Its popularity has been revived over the past few years as so many of us seek serenity and comfort over show-home worthy perfection in our homes. Here are some tips to help you relax with cottage-style all year-round.
Tips to Help You Relax with Cottage-Style All Year-Round
The key to evoking the coziness synonymous with cottage-style is creating a warm and inviting ambience. From a décor standpoint this means comfortable furnishings, serene colours and materials that are in harmony with nature with a nod to historical inspiration. The look is timeless and doesn’t have to evoke a particular season. If you start with a colour palette that feels peaceful to YOU and key furnishings as a foundation, seasonal changes can easily be accommodated. For instance, switching out linens and jute for faux fur and wool knits!
Warm, muted colours, such as nature inspired greens, tan and clay tones, are favourable for the cottage-style look. For example, Gloucester Sage HC-100, Wind Chime AF-465, White Sand OC-10 and Venetian Portico AF-185 are some of my favourite options. If white paint colours are your idea of coziness, surround yourself with more natural off-whites like Cloud White, Paper Mache and Linen White. Avoid the high contrast of stark black and white. Instead, look to charcoal, navy or deep warm greens to pair.
To enhance the cottage-style, layer in an abundance of texture with natural wood, stone and woven textiles. For example, rugs and baskets, embroidered cushion covers and cottage inspired fabric patterns such as ticking and chintz. Displaying decorative elements such as vintage dishware, pottery or glass is another simple way to add authentic touches to enhance the cottage-style look in your home.
Looking to give your home a cottage-style inspired makeover? Consider hiring a professional painting contractor who can achieve a flawless finish on every one of your homes’ surfaces, inside and out. Hiring a professional will help you achieve beautiful results and has the added benefit of supporting small businesses in your community.
By Sharon Grech, Benjamin Moore Colour and Design Expert and regular guest on CityTV’s Cityline.
Benjamin Moore’s vision is to inspire and transform our homes, our communities, and our lives one brushstroke at a time.
