Cottage style kitchens: what do they look like? When are they the ideal choice?

Cottage style kitchens evoke the charm of traditional country houses and combine simplicity and functionality, giving the room in which food is prepared a warm and cosy atmosphere.

This particular style is distinguished by its rustic and authentic character, which is ideal for those who want to create a space in their home with a homely and relaxing feel.

What are the characteristics of cottage style kitchens?

In cottage style kitchens, the predominant use of wood, which is often left in its natural shade or painted in soft colours, contributes to a feeling of warmth and cosiness.

In fact, the natural tones of wood are generally brought out through the combination with elements in pastel colours. Among the most commonly used colours are sage green, powder blue or cream. Such shades blend harmoniously with the warm wood tones and lighten the atmosphere of the kitchen, making it brighter and more romantic.

Cottage style kitchens can be designed using different configurations. This versatility makes them suitable for both small and large spaces. Although the number and arrangement of the different kitchen components can vary according to the specific needs of the client, the basic equipment usually includes cabinets with panel doors, visible shelves where dishes and decorative jars can be displayed, and large solid wood tables, which serve as a central point for conviviality and practicality.

Elements that emphasise the link with country life complete the room’s furnishings. Good examples of this are ceramic tiles, stone or parquet floors and certain decorative details such as checked curtains or wicker baskets.

What materials are most commonly used in a cottage-style kitchen?

In cottage style kitchens, materials play a key role in creating an ambience that is both cosy and authentic. Solid wood is the undisputed protagonist of this room and is used for both furniture and worktops.

Among the woods most frequently used in English cottage style kitchens are oak, which is light and elegant, pine, versatile and aromatic, and ash, warm and robust.

In the cottage style, one can choose to leave the wooden elements natural or offer them in a painted version. If you opt for the latter, light, pastel colours and light finishes are usually used, which allow the grain of the panels to show through and convey a feeling of simplicity.

A must-have element in an authentic cottage-style kitchen is natural stone. Good examples of stones that can be integrated in this style are granite, slate and marble. These materials are frequently used for counter tops, but can also be used for masonry elements, sinks or cladding.

Those who like a more rustic style can also insert ceramic elements. In addition to covering the splashback area, tiles can also be used to create decorations in strategic areas of the kitchen or to add a touch of originality. It goes without saying that, in this way, you obtain beautiful custom-made kitchens .

Finally, to complete cottage style kitchens, the importance of choosing the right home textiles should not be underestimated. Fabrics made of natural yarns, such as cotton and linen, are best, and are used for curtains, cushions, tablecloths and tea towels. With their simple appearance and essential decorations, these textiles help to reinforce the warm and genuine atmosphere that is typical of the country house style.

What are the most common designs and layouts for cottage style kitchens?

We have already mentioned that cottage style kitchens lend themselves to different design configurations and layouts. One of the most common layouts is the linear kitchen. This layout is the most natural choice when furnishing smaller rooms or when you prefer the room to maintain a simple, uncluttered aesthetic.

Another common option is the corner cottage kitchen, which is perfect for making the most of every point in the room. This layout also offers a large work surface and more storage space, making it a perfect solution for combining practicality and aesthetics.

In larger kitchens, you can opt for the installation of a central island. Depending on how you decide to organise the space in the room, the island can serve as an additional work surface, a dedicated area for preparing meals or a convivial space.

Since cottage style kitchens are meant to be lived in and are at the centre of family life, it is essential to provide plenty of storage space to keep the room tidy and functional. A further tip in this regard? You might consider placing a large solid wood table in the room, around which family and friends can gather comfortably.

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