“Cottagecore can be described as a movement that evokes an idealized vision of nature and country life,” interior designer Jennifer Hunter explains. We turned to Hunter and other experts to ask what it is about cottagecore that feels so everlasting and the elements of the style that are a must-have this spring season. “Aesthetically, it embraces the English countryside style with floral themes and decorative textiles,” Libs Lewis of Domestic Science explains. “Romantic and nostalgic, it is all about making your space a cozy home.” “Cottagecore is all about taking a step back from our bustling lives, slowing down, and feeling nostalgia for simpler times,” Eli Manekin of Loop Living shares with us. “Growing houseplants has a very similar effect, demanding us to be present and connect with nature on a daily basis, so it’s only natural that these would go hand in hand. Manekin notes that outdoor gardens are all the rage on Pinterest and Tiktok when it comes to cottagecore design, but houseplants can definitely play a role in defining your space as well. If you’re worried that too many floral patterns will veer you straight into granny territory, don’t be alarmed. You can maintain a modern aesthetic when selecting florals by choosing lighter, crisper prints, according to Hunter, so the patterns feel fresh and non-fussy. “It’s all about bringing the outdoors in, so nature-inspired wallpaper and curtains are a must,” Lewis agrees. “Vintage trinkets and a rustic farmhouse dining table will create a rural vibe to your space, while checked lampshades and frill cushions will add comfort and style. “Since cottagecore has a bit of a maximalist aesthetic to it that reads tastefully cluttered, I love trailing vines for this aesthetic,” Manekin suggests. “Other plants that would work well are flowering house plants like peace lilies and Christmas cactuses, as these feel more like an indoor garden." Unlike certain decor styles, cottagecore is pretty forgiving, so remember to have fun with it. “It’s fine for a room to be a bit cluttered and eclectic, so I wouldn’t overthink too much," Manekin continues. “Utilize window sills, ceilings, and walls, and choose plants that would look good in a garden. You can also use vintage vessels for your plants, just make sure they have proper drainage.” Manekin agrees, noting that certain plants and flowers are the perfect way to bring color into your cottagecore space. “If you’re up for a challenge, I’d recommend orchids,” she says. “They might be harder to care for, but they are the most spring-vibe houseplant there is.” “My favorite space to incorporate cottagecore is a kitchen through the use of reclaimed beams, handmade tiles, and even a mini herb garden,” she says. “Cottage-core tends to favor natural and sustainable decor, so raw materials such as rattan, jute, or wood work well,” Lewis notes. “Fresh or dried flowers will finish the look.” As people are always trying to get cozy at home, cottagecore style can help achieve just that feeling. “The cottagecore aesthetic brings a comforting sense of nostalgia to your space,” Lewis says. “I see it evolving to incorporate more vintage homewares and handcrafted elements that are more sustainable and kind to the planet.”
