The cottagecore aesthetic continues to gain momentum among UK homeowners seeking comfort and authenticity in their living spaces.
Romanticising simple, rural and sustainable living, the trend has flourished on platforms such as Instagram and TikTok. It centres on natural materials, soft textures and vintage details, reflecting a growing appetite for more intentional lifestyles.
New data from Traditional Beams underlines the trend’s popularity. Searches for “cottagecore design” have risen by 100% since October 2025, while “cottagecore” now receives 12,100 monthly Google searches.
The increase signals a broader desire for calmer, more thoughtful homes amid modern pressures.
Interior designer Katie Malik, who established her own studio in 2014, says the aesthetic is accessible and does not require expensive renovations. Malik’s studio focuses on creating warm, bespoke spaces.
Malik shares practical guidance for homeowners looking to introduce cottagecore elements without overspending.
“Cottagecore is about adding warmth and texture to your home, but a big mistake people make is trying to combine a lot of materials all at once; wood, rattan, florals, stone and so on.”
“Pick one material that you love and build your living room around it. For most homes, that’s usually wood, looking at things like shelves, a wooden table and beams above the fireplace. Once you’ve picked your hero material, you can keep everything else fairly simple.”
“Nothing screams cottagecore and comfort than exposed timber, but it needs to suit the room and aesthetic.”
“Go for lighter tones, softer finishes and the right scale. If you have a newer home, beams can be a subtle way to add character, rather than trying to pretend that it’s a quaint, old cottage.”
“Cottagecore isn’t about spending a lot and buying expensive furniture, but it’s more about how the space feels. Soft furnishings are the quickest and cheapest way to add cottagecore to your home. Some examples might be to incorporate a textured throw, a simple wool rug for the floor, cushions in muted and neutral tones. These are some basic ideas to incorporate cosyness and cottagecore.”
“If you want to start simple and build it up, start with the lighting. Cottagecore should be warm and gentle, but most homes in the UK are lit bright, a bit like a supermarket.”
“Swap some of your bulbs for warmer bulbs, so they’re not bright white. If you’re someone that uses the ‘big light’ in the living room, invest in a table lamp or reading light, so the room is a bit dimmer too. Honestly, the lighting makes all the difference!”
“You don’t need to fully redecorate your home to incorporate ‘cottagecore’. A few vintage-style pieces here and there will completely change the aesthetic of the room, making it feel more lived-in and authentic.”
“Some examples of types of furniture to incorporate may include vintage prints, ceramics, a second-hand mirror or even a cute little wooden stool. Facebook Marketplace is a goldmine for cheap bits like this!”
Malik adds: “Ultimately, cottagecore is about slowing down and being more intentional with your space. Sustainable mindset is really at the heart of what makes cottagecore feel so authentic and meaningful. You’re not just decorating, you’re creating a home that reflects a gentler, more thoughtful way of living.”
While some reports suggest the style may evolve or face competition from related trends in 2026, its emphasis on comfort, sustainability and nostalgia continues to resonate with British homeowners seeking a peaceful retreat.