Over the past year or so, the Cottagecore aesthetic became appealing to many homeowners, offering nostalgia, coziness, and the beauty of gardens even if you don’t live in a cottage. Rooted in romanticized notions of countryside life, Cottagecore celebrates the beauty of imperfection, handmade craftsmanship, and the enchantment of nature. While you may think of coziness only in the winter, spring is the time to cultivate the cozy Cottagecore aesthetic for your patio. 

Embrace Natural Materials:

In your picture of traditional cottages, you see spaces filled with natural materials such as wood, stone, and clay, reflecting a deep connection to the earth.

To apply this to your own outdoor space, incorporate natural materials through rustic wooden furniture, slate and soapstone pathways, and clay pots overflowing with lush greenery. Choose weathered finishes and organic textures to add the charming element of Cottagecore. You may opt for “imperfect” styling as you place your stone pathways through your yard and garden.

Create a Wildflower Meadow:

When you imagine a cottage in the woods, you probably see wildflower meadows with all the colors and textures, helping you enjoy and appreciate nature each time you step outside.

While it may take a bit of planning, plant a variety of native wildflowers in your garden to create a vibrant meadow-like display. Choose a mix of perennials and annuals, including cosmos, coneflowers, and black-eyed Susans, to attract pollinators and increase the natural beauty of your outdoor space. Of course, this doesn’t need to be your entire yard, but even one area can make a big difference.

Start Growing a Kitchen Garden:

In your cottage dreams, you have a bountiful kitchen garden filled with herbs, vegetables, and fruits, providing a sustainable source of fresh produce.

While your family may quickly eat through any peppers and tomato crops you grow, you can still create your kitchen garden filled with aromatic herbs, colorful heirloom vegetables, and bean vines. If you’re completely embracing rustic charm, add weathered decorations and vintage-looking signs throughout your new garden.

Construct Cozy Seating Nooks:

Now about Cottagecore’s cozy aspect: seating nooks nestled amidst lush foliage invite relaxation and contemplation, providing the perfect spot for enjoying a cup of tea or a good book, even during the summer heat.

Design inviting seating areas using weathered benches, Adirondack chairs, wrought iron bistro sets, and a firepit, if possible, for evening light. Don’t forget cozy cushions and throw blankets to encourage use throughout the season!

Embrace Lighting Magic:

Soft, ambient lighting enhances the enchanting atmosphere of Cottagecore spaces, so you’ll want to use the space even after dark, chatting with friends and family as the sunlight fades.

You’ve seen the many lighting options, and you may be a little jealous of your neighbor’s string lights. It’s time to embrace the Cottagecore coziness by illuminating your outdoor space with any of the ambient lighting options, including string lights, lanterns, and luminaries. Consider lighting the trellises of your garden so you can enjoy it even after dark!

Adding Scent to Your Cottagecore Patio:

Use all your senses by considering the scent of your Cottagecore patio. Fragrant blooms, aromatic herbs, and the smell of fresh soil help you escape the busy world and stay grounded in the present.

Plant fragrant flowers such as lavender, roses, and jasmine throughout your garden to infuse the air with scents. Create aromatic herb gardens near seating areas, where you can pluck fresh herbs for culinary creations or aromatic bouquets, and remember some herbs are natural mosquito repellants!

Is Cottagecore Right for You?

Embracing the Cottagecore aesthetic in your outdoor space allows you to create a whimsical and enchanting retreat that celebrates the beauty and simplicity of nature. Through natural materials and fresh flowers, you can transform your backyard into your personal oasis that captures the timeless allure of cottage living, without living in the woods. 

If you’re ready to see the best materials for outdoor patios and walkways, call Garden State Soapstone, Slate, and Wood Countertops to visit our showroom.