What is Cottage Farmhouse Decor?

Cottage farmhouse decor is a style of interior design that combines the charm and simplicity of cottage living with the rustic and nostalgic elements of farmhouse aesthetics. It embraces a cozy and welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of a country cottage or farmhouse.

Key features of cottage farmhouse decor include:

  • Rustic Materials: Cottage farmhouse decor often incorporates natural and rustic materials such as reclaimed wood, distressed finishes, and aged metals. These materials add a sense of warmth and authenticity to the space.
  • Neutral Color Palette: Cottage farmhouse decor typically uses a neutral color palette, including shades of white, cream, beige, and light gray. These colors create a calm and serene ambiance and provide a perfect backdrop for other elements in the decor.
  • Vintage and Antique Accents: Vintage and antique accents play a significant role in cottage farmhouse decor. Items such as vintage signs, antique furniture pieces, and aged accessories add character and a sense of history to the space.
  • Cozy Textiles: Soft and cozy textiles such as linen, cotton, and burlap are commonly used in cottage farmhouse decor. These fabrics are often seen in upholstery, curtains, throw pillows, and bedding, creating a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. How to Safely Bring Age Stained Textiles Back to Life.
  • Farmhouse-Inspired Patterns: Patterns like gingham, stripes, and floral prints are frequently used in cottage farmhouse decor. These patterns add a touch of nostalgia and a playful element to the overall design.
  • Farmhouse-Inspired Lighting: Lighting fixtures with a farmhouse-style design, such as pendant lights or lanterns, are popular choices for cottage farmhouse decor. These fixtures often feature distressed or metal finishes, contributing to the space’s rustic charm.
  • Vintage Kitchenware and Accessories: Cottage farmhouse kitchens commonly display vintage kitchenware and accessories, such as enamelware, mason jars, and old-fashioned utensils. These items bring a sense of history and practicality to the space. See more in this A Tale of Two Kitchens post.

Cottage farmhouse decor aims to create a cozy and inviting environment that evokes a sense of nostalgia and simplicity. It combines elements from both cottage and farmhouse styles to create a unique and charming aesthetic.


Thrifting with the Gals

It’s the third Thursday of the month, and that means it’s time for Thrifting with the Gals. The time when the gals and I all get together to share our favorite monthly thrifted finds with you, along with a few tips and tricks in vintage home decorating.

We are excited to welcome back our guest host this month, Cindy of DIY Beautify. Wait until you see the thrifted wood pedestal that she found and made over with a glass cloche in her cottage farmhouse decor kitchen.

Thrifting with the Gals’ Blog Posts


Cottage Farmhouse Decor Ideas

Antiquing

The cottage farmhouse decor style embraces a rustic and nostalgic aesthetic, and incorporating antique pieces into the decor enhances its authenticity. When antiquing for cottage farmhouse decor, try exploring local flea markets, vintage shops, and online platforms to find vintage furniture, weathered farmhouse signs, aged pottery, and distressed wooden accents.

These timeless pieces tell stories of the past and infuse a sense of history and warmth into the cottage farmhouse ambiance. Whether it’s a weathered rocking chair, a vintage chandelier, or a collection of antique mason jars, each item brings a touch of nostalgia and a feeling of simplicity to create a cozy and inviting space.

Find more cottage farmhouse decor inspiration in these posts:

After spending a week thrifting in Maine, see more in the Antiquing 101: A Guide From the Trail post. I made one final stop at a favorite antique store of mine in Chester, Vermont, on my way home at Stone House Antique Center. Such a wonderful place to shop for cottage farmhouse decor if you are ever in this area.

Journal of Antiques Magazine in Antique Shop

Journal of Antiques & Collectibles

Walking in the door at the Stone House Antique Center, I spied a stack of the free Journal of Antiques & Collectibles. And it was my Depression Glass Cherry Blossom: Table Setting photo on the cover! How about that? I knew about this, of course, but I had yet to see it in print. It was so exciting!

It’s a great publication to learn more about cottage farmhouse decor, too!

Blue and White Small Cottage Farmhouse Decor

Blue and white are classic color combinations, and a favorite of mine pairs well with the popular neutral color palette of farmhouse. Where farmhouse decor and styles embrace neutral colors, the cottage style likes to add a pop of color to mix and match with the charm of the farmhouse design.

Here are great examples of blue and white antique collections that are trending in cottage farmhouse decor.

Blue and White Cake Stand

This small blue and white cake stand, which is trending in blue and white cottage farmhouse decor, was the piece I brought home from the antique store with me.

I don’t believe it is antique, but according to one expert at the shop, it is an example of a “high-quality modern reproduction of quality historic items.” It was sold by a high-end Italian company/website that is now shut down. This fine porcelain piece is now retired and no longer made, which does make it a rare find. Some suggest it dates to the mid-to-late 20th century.

I like it simply because I think it’s beautiful and unique.

You may also be inspired by the Thrifting Trends: Hottest Sorted Collections post.

Vintage Crocks in Cottage Farmhouse Decor

Another really popular cottage farmhouse decor piece is vintage crocks. Vintage crocks are ceramic or stoneware containers that were commonly used for food storage, fermentation, and preservation in the past. They have a rustic and old-fashioned charm and are often characterized by their thick walls, wide mouths, and handles. Vintage crocks can vary in size and shape, and they are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts for their historical value and decorative appeal. They are commonly used as decorative pieces, flower pots, or even as functional kitchen utensils in some cases.

Vintage crocks can be rather expensive, but occasionally, you can find one with a crack or chip in it. These vintage crocks are usually marked down. If I can find one under $75, I will usually snag it, like this one that I found here.

This one had a crack in it, and a hole was broken out at the bottom so the water from a plant could drain through it. But this only adds to the character and charm of cottage farmhouse decor, in my opinion, and the crock was very secure.

When I got home, I added a few supermarket bundles of colorful tulips to this vintage crock for a beautiful spring cottage farmhouse decor centerpiece. And for every day of April showers:

17 Simple Tulips Arrangements for Spring

You may also enjoy these vintage crock ideas in cottage farmhouse decor:

Antique crockery on porch with spring pink flower bouquet.
Back Porch Spring Ideas: Vintage Inspired

Strawberry Collection Box

We can’t forget our outdoor spaces, too, especially with spring upon us.

This small, four-compartment strawberry collecting box was too cute to pass up. As soon as it’s warm enough, I can’t wait to display it on our porch with pansies in each compartment.

An old berry collection box is a vintage container used for collecting and transporting berries during harvest. These boxes were commonly used in agricultural settings, particularly in berry farms, to gather and transport freshly picked berries from the fields to the market. The boxes are typically made of wood and feature a slatted design that allows air circulation to keep the berries fresh. They often have handles or handholds for easy carrying and may have a hinged or removable lid to protect the berries during transportation.

Old berry collection boxes are now sought after as decorative items or repurposed for storage or display purposes in rustic and farmhouse-themed interiors. They evoke a sense of nostalgia and add a touch of vintage charm to spaces.

The berry box’s neutral color palette will beautifully complement colorful flowers with our cottage farmhouse decor style.

Demijohns

Demijohns are large glass containers used for storing and fermenting liquids, particularly wine and spirits. They are typically made of thick, heavy glass and have a bulbous shape with a narrow neck and a wide mouth. The word “demijohn” is derived from the French word “dame-jeanne,” which means “Lady Jane.” Demijohns can range in size from a few liters to several gallons, and they often have a wicker or straw cover and handles for easy handling.

Demijohns are sometimes used for decorative purposes, as their unique shape and vintage appeal can add a rustic and nostalgic touch to home decor.

Demijohns are another cottage farmhouse decor piece that I have recently started to collect. They can be pricey, so when I find one that is affordable, I grab it. Like this smaller-sized demijohn, which I added to my collection on our living room side and coffee tables, demijohns add such beautiful texture to any room design.

You may see more of how I decorated with demijohns in the Vintage Turkish Rugs: Elevate Your Living Room Design post. I was originally inspired by my friend Kelly’s demijohn collection in her Vintage Wicker Demijohn Decor Ideas (& Where to Buy Them) post.

I also added a wooden bowl of small blue and white trophy bowling balls, which I recently found at a Maine antique shop. See more in the Antiquing 101: A Guide From the Trail post.

You can see how I decorated with demijohns over the holidays, too, in this Firelight, Evergreens, and Snow: The Christmas Bottle Project of Swedish Homes post.

Save 15% off my favorite vintage rugs from Revival by shopping my storefront here.

Vintage Balancing Toy

A vintage balancing toy is a nostalgic and whimsical plaything that dates back to the early 20th century. These toys typically consist of a weighted base with a thin rod attached to it, supporting a figurine or object on one end. When gently pushed or moved, the toy balances, defying gravity and delighting both children and adults alike. Vintage balancing toys are often crafted from wood or metal, showcasing intricate details and craftsmanship that add to their charm and collectability.

These vintage balancing toys can be a challenge to find in second-hand shops, but I have found them rather easily online on eBay and Etsy. I fell in love with these gems when one of my readers sent me one as a gift. Read all about it in The Story of A Bernese Mountain Dog & The Gift of a Whale post.

I saw this colorful parrot balancing toy while antiquing. It would be the ideal pop of color in a neutral cottage farmhouse decor palette.

As you can see here, Country Home Magazine loves them, too.

You may enjoy learning more about our recent feature in Country Sampler Magazine in the Magazine Photo Shoot: Country Sampler post.

Mountain Water Color

This mountainous watercolor painting was a find at just $30, and I liked the frame as well. I seldom find a painting or picture where I like both the picture and the frame. And the colors matched beautifully with our new wallpaper in our cottage farmhouse decor-styled master bedroom, which you may see more of in the 3 Wallpaper Bedroom Designs Emblematic of a Cozy Vermont Inn post.

Cottage Farmhouse Decor Lighting

Inspired by the cozy, welcoming ambiance of traditional cottages and farmhouses, this style of lighting combines elements of vintage and industrial design. Common features include weathered finishes, exposed bulbs, and simple yet elegant shapes. Whether it’s a pendant light hanging above a farmhouse dining table or a wall sconce illuminating a cozy reading nook, cottage farmhouse lighting adds warmth and character to any space. It effortlessly blends the old with the new, creating a nostalgic and inviting atmosphere that is both functional and visually appealing.

This vintage oil lamp turned into an electric lamp with a soft brown lampshade, which I picked up for just $15. Its soft lighting is cozy and warms the shelf of our built-in bookcases in the living room. You may see more of the built-in shelving in this Fireplace Built-ins: Vintage Neutral Design post.

You may also be inspired by the Unique Flowers Vase: How to Repurpose an Oil Lamp post.

Find more bookshelf and built-in styling ideas here.

Modern Cottage Farmhouse Decor

If you like the look of cottage farmhouse decor but aren’t quite into antiques, modern cottage farmhouse decor may be more your style.

Modern cottage farmhouse decor is a popular interior design style that combines the rustic charm of farmhouse aesthetics with contemporary elements. It embraces a cozy and lived-in feel, incorporating natural materials, neutral color palettes, and vintage-inspired accents. This style often features reclaimed wood, distressed finishes, and vintage furniture pieces, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Modern cottage farmhouse decor also incorporates modern touches such as clean lines, minimalism, and industrial elements, blending the old and the new for a fresh and timeless look.

  • Neutral Color Palette: Use a neutral color palette as the base for your modern cottage farmhouse decor. Opt for shades of white, beige, gray, and soft pastels to create a light and airy atmosphere.
  • Reclaimed Wood: Incorporate reclaimed wood elements into your decor, such as exposed beams, wooden floors, or a reclaimed wood accent wall. This adds a rustic and authentic farmhouse touch to your space.
  • Vintage Furniture: Look for vintage furniture pieces with distressed finishes and antique details. Mix and match different styles and eras to create an eclectic and charming look.
  • Farmhouse Sink: Install a farmhouse sink in your kitchen or bathroom to instantly evoke a farmhouse vibe. The deep basin and apron front add a touch of nostalgia and practicality to your space.
  • Open Shelving: Replace upper cabinets with open shelves in your kitchen to showcase your collection of vintage dishes, mason jars, and cookbooks. This not only adds a farmhouse feel but also creates a more open, spacious, and contemporary look.
  • Natural Elements: To add a touch of nature to your modern cottage farmhouse decor, bring in natural elements like potted plants, fresh flowers, and woven baskets. These elements add texture and life to the space.
  • Minimalist Approach: Embrace a minimalist approach by decluttering and keeping the decor simple. This allows the rustic and vintage pieces to stand out and creates a clean and organized look.
  • Personal Touches: Incorporate personal touches such as family photos, heirlooms, or DIY projects to make your modern cottage farmhouse decor feel more personalized and unique to you.

There are no strict rules when it comes to modern cottage farmhouse decor. Feel free to mix and match elements that resonate with your style and create a space that is cozy, inviting, and reflects your personality.

What I’m Crushing On in Cottage Farmhouse Decor

Candles

Embrace the fresh scents and warm glow of summer with Kanda Candles’ new Summer Candle Collection!

New Summer Cottage Farmhouse Candle Collection

Spring

On Tuesday, we saw the first signs of spring here in Vermont. It felt so good! It was our first full day outdoors, starting with a three-mile hike with our Berner, Ella. Then, I stained a mailbox that my husband had replaced, that the snow plow had bulldozed over this past winter.

We saw our first Daffadolis sprout along with the dandelions, and the grass started to turn green, just like that. Much-needed welcome signs. We still have a couple more weeks to go before our evenings are above freezing, and we can officially de-winterize our new Panoramic RV, which I can’t wait to do. See more in our new blog series, Antiquing Road Trips & RV Decor Series

Thanks so much for joining us for Thrifting with the Gals today; I hope you will become a regular here at Dabbling & Decorating.

Gratefully Vintage

If you have any thoughts, comments, or suggestions, I’d love to hear from you. Please share in the comments below. And be sure to share this blog post link with your friends who are also vintage enthusiasts.

Do you have a flair for all things vintage, too? I would love to see and feature you in our Reader’s Showcase Series. A place for you to share and be recognized for your talents and passion for all things thrifting, vintage, and antique decor-related inspired by your time here with Dabbling & Decorating. Email me at annck@dabblinganddecorating.com

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12 Comments

  1. Kristin | White Arrows Home says:

    I love seeing how you use your amazing finds! And how fun to come across your photo on the cover of the magazine!! What a feeling! And congrats!

  2. Wow! You really found a lot of great things! That blue and white cake stand is a real beauty, and I love the floral design on the crock. Berry baskets and carriers are always such a fun find and yours will be great on the porch with flowers!

  3. RACHEL HARPER says:

    Ann,
    I love all the blue and white. So many great finds and ideas.

  4. Such a great article, Ann, featuring so many pieces I love to collect! Your blue and white pieces have always been a favorite of mine and that cake stand is stunning! Thanks for having me as a guest this month on TWTG!

  5. Lora Bloomquist says:

    Fun to see some of your recent finds, Ann! I always like the look of those wicker demijohns, but can’t say I’ve ever seen them in my area. Great design points for cottage decor, too!

    1. Thanks Lora. It’s hard to find them at an affordable price so when I do I like to grab them now. Nothing like all your find this week though, haha!

  6. This is such a great post, Ann! I love all the tips and ideas. I am so into the cottage style right now and keep finding myself drawn to the blue decor, so I loved this!!! Happy Thrifting with the Gals day! xo- Robyn