Cottagecore in Interior Design
This is a writing sample from Scripted writer Jo Ellis
Nowadays, many people are looking to bring the outdoors inside for a more calming and naturalistic aesthetic. That's where cottagecore comes in. Cottagecore is an interior design trend that emphasizes comfort, nostalgia, and simplicity with vintage-inspired pieces and muted colors. It's all about creating a cozy atmosphere that evokes rustic charm while still being modern and stylish. Whether adding French country accents or bringing nature indoors with botanical prints, there are countless ways to incorporate this trend into your decorating scheme.
What are the Principles of Cottagecore?
In our high-tech world, where virtual interactions often overshadow physical ones, cottagecore reminds us of the inherent human need for tangible experiences and a connection to the earth. It promotes practices such as growing one's food, embracing slow fashion, and reducing waste through upcycling and repurposing. Cottagecore enthusiasts strive to live in harmony with the earth, recognizing the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of preserving the natural world for future generations.
Cottagecore Influences
Cottagecore emerged as a fashion and design trend in the late 2010s. However, its influences stem from bygone centuries.
Marie Antoinette's Hameau Phase
During her time as the Queen of France in the late 18th century, a small village called the Hameau de la Reine, also known as the Queen's Hamlet, was built for Marie Antoinette. The hamlet was designed to look like a countryside village and provided a casual retreat for the Queen.
The Hameau de la Reine featured cottages adorned with thatched roofs, natural materials, and rustic furnishings. These design elements aimed to create an atmosphere that celebrated the beauty of the countryside and evoked a sense of serenity.
Pastoral Literature
Originating in ancient Greece and blossoming under the pens of Roman poets like Virgil, pastoral literature immersed readers in idyllic portrayals of peaceful landscapes, harmonious interactions with nature, and virtuous characters.
Through conventions like the presence of wise shepherds, enchanting songs and poetry, and the depiction of an idealized natural environment, pastoral literature painted the vision of an unspoiled existence in the countryside.
English Renaissance Pastoral Poetry
Another significant influence is English Renaissance pastoral poetry. During the 16th and 17th centuries, pastoral poetry flourished in England, with poets like Edmund Spenser and Christopher Marlowe exploring themes of rural life, nature, and love in their works.
This genre of poetry idealized the countryside, presenting an idyllic and romanticized vision of lush meadows and peaceful landscapes.
How to Incorporate Cottagecore Into Your Decor
In terms of interior design, cottagecore builds on earlier trends like shabby chic, vintage, and traditional country. It draws inspiration from aesthetic elements such as floral prints, soft pastels, cozy textures, and natural materials often found in a countryside cottage.
You can incorporate cottagecore with:
- Natural Materials: Opt for furniture and decor from raw materials such as wood, rattan, wicker, and linen. Look for vintage or antique pieces with a rustic charm. Consider incorporating woven baskets, macramé wall hangings, and handmade ceramics to add a touch of artisanal beauty.
- Floral Prints and Patterns: Add a touch of cottagecore charm with floral prints and patterns. Incorporate floral wallpapers, throw pillows with botanical motifs, or curtains adorned with delicate flowers. Look for vintage floral fabrics to repurpose into tablecloths, cushion covers, or even wall art.
- Cozy Reading Nooks: Create a cozy reading nook by arranging a plush armchair or a vintage rocking chair near a window. Adorn the space with soft cushions, a chunky knit throw blanket, and a small side table for a cup of tea or a stack of books. Surround the area with potted plants to bring a touch of nature indoors.
- Vintage Trinkets and Collectibles: Display vintage trinkets and collectibles that evoke a sense of nostalgia and charm. Look for antique teacups, delicate porcelain figurines, vintage books, or old-fashioned clocks. These small touches add character and tell stories of the past, contributing to the cottagecore ambiance.
- Indoor Herb Garden: Bring the joy of gardening indoors by creating a charming herb garden on your windowsill or a dedicated corner. You can plant aromatic herbs like lavender, rosemary, and mint in vintage pots or repurposed containers. Not only will this add a refreshing touch to your space, but you'll also have fresh herbs at your fingertips for culinary adventures.
- Soft Lighting: Create a warm, intimate ambiance with soft, diffused lighting. Opt for string lights, vintage-inspired chandeliers, or fairy lights to add a magical touch. Consider using candle lanterns or vintage candlesticks for a cozy and romantic atmosphere.
- Nature-Inspired Art: Incorporate art pieces that celebrate the beauty of nature and evoke a sense of tranquility. Choose landscapes, botanical illustrations, or paintings of wildlife.
Cottagecore is a trend in interior design that celebrates the beauty of the countryside and evokes a sense of serenity. It draws inspiration from elements such as floral prints, soft pastels, cozy textures, natural materials, and nature-inspired art. Whether you're looking to create an inviting reading nook or bring some rustic charm into your home decor with macramé wall hangings or antique teacups, cottagecore can help make it happen.
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