When thinking of a cottage, many envision a charming, quaint home that reminds them of fairy tale stories in a rustic or magical environment. While not all cottage-style houses are storybook type, they are cozy, inviting, and popular today. Often thought of as a second home or vacation retreat, cottage-style homes make an excellent investment for those buying their first property or those looking to downsize and simplify their lifestyle.

Today, designers and architects are establishing cottage homes that feel spacious and contain most of the features and amenities one expects in modern-style dwellings.

Most cottages are one or 1 ½ story structures with gable roofs, small porches and balconies, and expansive bay windows that bring the outdoors in along with natural light.

Natural and light colors often grace the ceilings and walls, and hardwood floors allow statement pieces to stand out. It’s not unusual for one to use bright colors on a few furniture pieces or fabrics.

Materials from nature such as wool, burlap, and linen are commonplace in cottages, as are parts of distressed or painted wood furnishings.

 

While they have a rustic feel, compared to a cabin, cottages are more sophisticated and are incredibly detailed on the exterior. Much attention is given to door arches, trimming, and unique window shapes.

The asymmetrical features of a cottage’s roofing allow it to have prominent, grand chimneys that make a statement on the interior and the exterior facing of the home.

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Credit: Pinterest

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