Cottage Style Interior Design Ideas for 2026
Are you drawn to cottage style interior design? Would you like your home to feel softly layered and lived-in – filled with patterns, colours, and pieces that tell your own unique story?
In 2026, cottage interiors are evolving in a more expressive, creative direction; still rooted in tradition, but with a newfound confidence. Here, we share our favourite cottage style interior design ideas for 2026 to help you bring this cosy, relaxed look into your own home.
1) Embrace layered pattern-on-pattern schemes
Layered pattern-on-pattern schemes are set to be the next big cosy home design trend in 2026. Pattern-on-pattern schemes have always been a major part of the English cottage design tradition, but now they’re being reimagined with renewed confidence and creativity.
Why not consider mixing patterns within your window treatments? Think curtains in one design, paired with Roman blinds in another – as seen in the dining room above (curtains in Up the Garden Path Soft Cornflower and Roman blinds in Fruit Garden Peach, Smoke & Winter). If you’re feeling adventurous, you could add a decorative border in a contrasting pattern for extra visual interest.
The key to a successful layered pattern-on-pattern scheme is to avoid anything feeling too ‘matchy’; instead, aim for a look that feels as if it’s evolved over time. Also, limit your colour palette to a maximum of three colours to allow multiple patterns to harmonise.
Read our guide to combining colour and pattern to help you combine prints with confidence.
2) Add colour to your flooring and woodwork
2026 is the year to think beyond walls when it comes to colour. This year, try painting the ‘fourth wall’ (AKA the floor) and your woodwork in a bold colour, while keeping your walls soft and neutral.
Painted floorboards add instant character to your home, especially in cottages where natural wear and tear only increases their charm. Soft blues, muted greens, and gentle ochres work particularly well on floors and woodwork, especially when paired with neutral walls – helping to ground your space without overwhelming it.
Vanessa’s entrance hall is a great example of this. Its pale blue painted floor is offset by cheerful curtains in Wild Fern Ochre, creating a cottage style interior design scheme that feels welcoming and full of personality.
Need help selecting the right colour for your space? Check out our blog on choosing and using the right paint colour.
3) Bring warmth and colour into your bathroom
Bathrooms are often overlooked when it comes to cottage style interior design, but they offer endless opportunities for creativity. These spaces are traditionally white, cold, and characterless – but this year is the time to change all of that.
Consider extending the colour palette from your bedroom into your en-suite, or introducing a completely new shade. Brighter colours work particularly well in bathrooms, as they help to energise you in the morning, while still feeling cosy and comforting. Try adding some painted panelling, patterned curtains, or even a statement blind to soften the space and make it feel more inviting.
4) Reupholster and reimagine your heritage pieces
Sustainability continues to sit at the heart of how we decorate our homes – and in 2026, the appreciation for heritage furniture and antique finds is showing no signs of slowing down. Antiques help to bring warmth and soul to rustic living spaces, but they don’t always arrive in perfect condition…
This year, why not consider a reupholstery project rather than replacing your tired seating? The right fabric allows you to breathe new life into your well-loved chairs or footstools while still preserving their character. As well as being more environmentally friendly, this approach helps you to create something truly one-of-a-kind that you can cherish for years to come.
Looking to give your furniture a second lease of life but don’t know where to start? Read our tips and tricks for reupholstering your furniture.
Bring your cottage style interior to life with Vanessa Arbuthnott Fabrics
Vanessa’s range of nature-inspired fabrics are designed to be mixed and layered to your heart’s content; whether you’re using them for curtains, blinds, cushions, or upholstery. Pair these with our beautiful furniture and made-to-measure soft furnishings, and you’ll have the cosiest cottage style interior in no time!
Need help achieving the cosy cottage look in your own home? Our in-house interior design offers free virtual consultations to help you choose the right fabrics and furniture pieces for your home. Book your slot today to begin designing the cottage interior of your dreams.
FAQs
What defines cottage style interior design?
Cottage style interior design is all about warmth, character, and creating a relaxed, lived-in feel. It often features layered patterns, soft colour palettes, natural materials, and vintage or antique furniture that bring a sense of nostalgia and comfort.
How do I mix patterns without my space feeling busy?
The key to mixing patterns without your space feeling too busy is to keep your colour palette limited while varying the scale and pattern. Pair large florals with smaller geometrics or stripes, and repeat colours across the room to create harmony.
Are cottage style interiors suitable for small spaces?
Yes, cottage style interior design works beautifully in smaller rooms. Lighter colours, delicate patterns, and well-chosen soft furnishings add depth and character without overwhelming the space, creating a cosy and welcoming atmosphere.
We sell fabrics exclusively designed by Vanessa Arbuthnott, along side small, bespoke collection of Made to Measure items which includes curtains, blinds, sofas, footstools, chairs, headboards, and quilts, all handmade specially for you by master crafts people.
