The cosy cottage look is coveted by many. A decorating style that offers comfort, warmth and an escape from reality, it's easier than you think to recreate the look in your own home.
While every home has its own character and charm, there are a handful of decor essentials that you'll find commonplace in every cottage – wherever you are! Here, interior designer Vanessa Arbuthnott shares her top tips to help bring an essence of luxury and nostalgic country into your own cottage today.
1. Throws
'Throws are a great addition to any cottage,' says Vanessa. 'One draped at the end of each sofa provides the key comfort factor and also makes for an easy grab when things get chilly. Throws are also a great way to add a pop of colour into the room which can easily be updated to change the look for the specific type of season.'
2. Textiles
If you want to add a feature to a classic cottage with a traditional white and cream colour scheme then you should turn to textiles. 'A quilt of many colours on top of a crisp white bed will give the cottage an instant revival especially when paired with patterned pillows. The more vintage the cottage décor the more the space feels organic and rustic,' Vanessa explains.
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The Forest & Co Soft Floral Quilt Available In Two Colours
The Forest & Co Soft Floral Quilt Available In Two Colours
3. Super soft rugs
Beautiful and warm rugs which feel soft under the feet are a must-have for cottages. Vanessa says in this case, 'the more eye catching and bold the better'. Deep pile luxury rugs will add to the cosy feel of modern cottages.
4. Feature houseplants
'Plants are ideal for creating a gentle variation in colour as well as capturing an organic and all-encompassing natural vibe,' says Vanessa. 'In cottages which are older they can actually help tackle damp in the air as well, if the right varieties are chosen.'
5. Paisley and floral patterns
If you tour any rural cottage, you will be inspired by the use of patterns especially in the form of florals and paisleys. Vanessa explains: 'These work perfect in a cottage setting as they are naturally traditional but fresh and pretty. They are great to add light in the darkest of corners and can spruce up any area in the cottage.'
Morris & Co. Pimpernel Cushion, Indigo
6. Display books
Books take on a new identity in country homes as they make for beautiful interior design accessories. 'When housed in shelving units, the books can be a great way to add in serious colour in an organised and structured way,' suggests Vanessa. 'If your books are hard cover and made up of different colours it is the perfect addition. Even better, place them in a display cabinet adjacent to your log fire for the ultimate rustic feel.'
7. Wood
Reclaimed, weathered or painted wood is always integral in cottage interior design. Vanessa explains: 'Dark natural wood is a great alternative for those who want to add depth and contrast to their home without adding any other colour. Weathered wood is also a great feature since it breaks up the white base.'
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Garden mirrors: 13 outdoor mirrors to suit every space
Dibor Large Gold Arch Window Mirror
If you're big on metallic accents inside your home, then there's no reason why you can't apply this decorating choice to your garden too. This gold-framed mirror has made our list because it's effortlessly chic and will elevate your outdoor space in an instant.
Boasting a sophisticated and contemporary style with a sleek black frame, this is a square version of the previously mentioned Fulbrook garden mirror. It features a distinctive window pane that will suit any outdoor space.
With an Art Deco-inspired design, this round outdoor mirror with sectioned panels will make a rather beautiful addition to your garden. It's made from a durable steel and glass construction and features a waterproof backing. Position near a seating area, or an outdoor kitchen or garden bar if you've got space for entertaining.
Not all garden mirrors have to be fancy. This Moroccan-inspired design features delicate curves and pointed edges, but everything else is pared-back for a minimalist look.
We love the large panes on this Fulbrook rectangular mirror from Garden Trading. Made from 100 per cent steel and with a powder-coated finish, position it on your wall to reflect the gorgeous greenery from a hedge or trailing plant.
Is this a mirror or a piece of art? Well, you get the best of both worlds with this contemporary design. It features five stylish half-circle mirrors and metal line designs, and would work perfectly in any contemporary garden.
Decorate your outside space with this rectangular mirror from Perch & Parrow. Finished in a vintage-inspired white colourway, it features an on-trend window pane design, and at £70, it's a steal!
Add a rustic feel to your space with this outdoor mirror, boasting a traditional quatrefoil grill pattern. It's perfect if you're looking for a longer mirror to fill large walls.
Outdoor mirrors can be decorative wall art too, as is proven with this utterly charming round mirror from Dunelm. In a neutral colourway, the outer iron frame extends to form a delicate depiction of the much-loved orchid flower.
Not keen on decorative styles? Keep it simple with this pared-back round outdoor mirror. It has a nature-inspired green rim and a nod to vintage design with its distressed finish.
This large arched garden mirror is frost-protected to withstand any weather. We love the black metal frame that's lightly distressed in gold leaf for a statement look.
Dunelm has got a great range of garden mirrors this year, and we've included this one on our list because it's perfect if you just want something small. The frame adds plenty of interest with an overlapping circular detail in a luxurious gold finish.
Looking like a window to a secret garden, this traditional-style garden mirror gives the illusion of an open pair of windows – ideal if you want to add depth to your outdoor space and make it appear bigger than it is.
