Best traditional decor Tips for a British cottage

When the typical British cottage is featured in books and magazines, it is usually a small but pretty home (often thatched) with an attractive front garden full of summer flowers.

The British cottage portrays a feeling of cosiness – when decorating such a home forget minimalism, it will not work here!  Warmth is necessary for the overall effect and this can be applied not only to the colours used but some of the main features of the room.

Cosy decor

 Wood is a very popular feature in the British cottage and this can be used as panelling on the walls or for wooden flooring and is essential for furniture – no chrome or stainless steel please!  Chairs and tables made of real wood (no MDF) with a good patina is a reminder of the old-fashioned nature of the typical British cottage, and it is also perfect for kitchen units.  Avoid at all costs the modern kitchen units, as these just will not look right in a cottage that is perhaps several hundred years old.  When it comes to furniture, be aware that it is not essential to have everything matching.  An eclectic style could work very well – the important thing is to fill the home with quality pieces.  Some great looking and quite inexpensive items that are suitable can be picked up at local auctions.

A must for a British cottage is an open fire or a multi-fuel stove.  This creates a feeling of warmth and cosiness that just cannot be achieved with central heating or a gas fire.

Cottage colour schemes

 The good news is that there is plenty of choice when it comes to a colour scheme.  In a kitchen, blues and yellows are always a good choice as it adds brightness to the room.  When it comes to fabrics for items such as curtains, cushion covers, throws and tablecloths it is a good idea to think floral.  Vintage fabrics can give a very authentic feel to the cottage look.  Keep fabrics the same in one room rather than opting for a range of different designs.  While some people may be tempted to make everything in the room floral, from the wallpaper to the pictures on the walls, the cottage look can be achieved easily without going overboard in that respect.

A warm block colour for the walls is a good idea but take care not to go too dark.  In a small room this will simply make it seem smaller.  If the room is very small then it is fine to go with a colour such as warm beige or a soft pink then pick up warmer details in the accessories in the room.

Adding features

 Most cottages will have plenty of original features that it is a good idea to make the most of but there are a few which can be added in easily.  Window dressings are not just about curtains and blinds these days.  Plantation shutters are now a popular option and a quick look on Plantation Shutters will demonstrate the range of styles that are on offer.

It is also a good idea to make use of the space available to display personal items.  While clutter is never good, in a cottage it is usual to keep a few ornaments and knick-knacks around the home.  The good news is that many cottages come with alcoves and corners where shelves can be added for easy display of such items.