Oh those English cottage rooms with layers of lovely patterns get me every.time. When we visited the Cotswolds in summer last year, I fell even more in love with that quintessential English cottage charm and I started dreaming up a new design that brings in all those layers of beauty.
English Cottage Room
Though I am sourcing the elements for the new look yet-and there are many more elements in designing a room- there are 7 things I am planning on incorporating. Sharing a bit of inspiration today for Friday Favorites along with some elements to get the look.
Wallpaper
Wallpaper is key for the look I am going for. I love the patterns and pretty that a charming wallpaper brings. From florals to toile to tickings stripes- I don’t think you can go wrong. I am leaning in the direction of a lovely vining floral look for the backdrop. You can see 7 inspirations for wallpaper HERE
Get the Look:
Floral Fabrics
Whether it is an upholstered piece like a headboard or a chair and ottoman, pillows or layers on the bed. I love floral fabrics on repeat for an English cottage look and am planning on incorporating some of those romantic blooms.
Get the Look:
Ticking Stripes and Checks
Along with the florals- bring on those ticking stripes and checks. You might remember my Charles Faudree inspired sofa from waaaay back when I first started blogging. And I love those bold and beautiful chunky checks even now. I am planning on bringing stripes and checks back in the design.
Get the Look:
Chippy Paint and Raw wood
Because both are key in getting that rustic well loved patina. Think painted wicker, raw wood tables and dressers and even simple pieces like stools. That raw or painted element brings in another layer and a whole lot of charm.
Antiques like Artwork and Books
Old oil paintings. Florals in gilded frames. Landscapes. And pieces like old leather books in a cupboard or stacked on a table. Adding vintage art and old books to a room instantly makes it feel collected and like it has come together over time.
Get the Look:
Transferware
How could not have some beautiful transferware included in an English cottage design? Plates on the wall, transferware in a cupboard, a transferware vase filled with fresh flowers on the table. I am a huge fan of old transferware and have collected several colors and patterns- I tend to lean towards blue and white when thinking of English cottage look I am going for but will see how it all comes together.
Get the Look:
Vintage Rug
A needlepoint, Aubusson or even old hooked rug on the floor brings in a beautiful layer underfoot. It doesn’t have to be vintage- vintage style works perfectly.
Get the Look:
English cottage design is all about layers- a comfy place to sit, patterns and pretty on repeat, old well loved and worn finishes, collections on display and lots of romantic charm. I have found a couple of pieces for the look so far and will share how it comes together soon.
What is your favorite elements of old English cottage designs?
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I love blue and white. I just inher some linen samplers does this fit in with English style?
Well, you certainly have my heart with this post…english country style is my favorite for the rooms are lived in, loved in, comfortable without being stuffy. Needlepoint is my love, chintz, floral wallpaper…curated furniture that has been passed down through family . This is the essence of home and fine design for me!
I love English country style and it’s the look I strive for. It will be so great to have your ideas and examples. You are so talented!
xo,
Karen B.
I love the shabby floral’s especially if something is faded. Then add in ticking and I’m overjoyed. I am usually not a fan of wallpaper but I really like the bird and vines. I fear getting bored with it, but I think that one would be livable long term. I can’t wait to see what you come up with.