If you dream of retreating to the countryside this summer, you’re in the right place. Even if you don’t actually live in a cottage, there are many ways to turn your home into a country retreat.
These summer decorating ideas are worthy of a spread in Architectural Digest but won’t break the bank.
Looking for some ways to transform your home? Let’s dive into some of my favorite cottage-style decorating ideas.
Summer Cottage Style Decor
1. Vintage Vases
Source: @goldenboysandme
One of the best ways to bring some cottage-style summer flair into your space is to invest in vintage vases. Scatter these around your home filled with fresh blooms from your garden or local market.
You can find great options at thrift stores or start your collection with an adorable gumboot vase.
2. Cottage-Style Blooms
Source: @mandyscottagelife
Transform your home into a summer cottage with the right florals. Choose delicate wildflowers that you could find in your own backyard, such as cow parsley, lavender, and sunflowers. Arrange them in your collection of vintage vases for a charming touch.
3. Vintage Statement Drawers
Source: @cassimagiroto
Head to your local thrift store to find a stunning set of vintage statement drawers. Perfect for a bedroom or lounge, these can be used as side tables or functional storage. If you can’t find a piece with the perfect vintage look, a can of blue chalk paint can do wonders.
4. Gingham Kitchen Curtain
Source: @mimi.in.wales
Add a touch of whimsy to your kitchen with a short gingham check curtain. This classic pattern is perfect for evoking the feel of a summer countryside retreat.
5. Corner Entryway
Source: @adoredhouse
Set the tone for your home the moment you enter with a beautiful corner entryway. A coat rack, vintage mirror, floating shelf, and simple wooden chair can create a welcoming and stylish space.
6. Vintage Fruit Bowl
Source: @arteperpiacere
A quick and cost-effective way to bring a cottage feel to your kitchen is with a vintage fruit bowl. Keep it stocked with your favorite summer fruits for an easy, aesthetic upgrade.
7. Handmade Sack Cloth Cushions
Source: @sweetcottagecharm
Make your own sack cloth cushions for a cost-effective and charming cottage décor idea. Choose motifs like bees, sunflowers, or fruits for a seasonal touch. This project is beginner-friendly and adds a personal touch to your home.
8. Wooden Statement Pieces
Source: @thevintagebreadbox
Thrifted wooden statement pieces are perfect for creating a cottage atmosphere. Look for items with a bit of wear and tear, like vintage wooden rocking horses, to add character and charm to any room.
9. Baskets of Dried Lavender
Source: @designthusiasm
Lavender is a classic cottage floral choice. Add baskets of dried lavender to your living spaces for a fragrant and beautiful decoration. Real or fake, lavender brings a touch of the countryside indoors.
10. Floral Wreaths as Interior Decor
Source: @holcombedreaminteriors
Don’t limit floral wreaths to your front door. Bring them inside to add a touch of farm-style charm to your kitchen or living room.
11. Old-Style Candle Lanterns
Source: @taranchap
Old lanterns with burnt-down candles are quintessential cottage décor. Place them wherever you want to add a warm, cozy glow in the evenings.
12. Update Your Coffee Corner
Source: @mackenziechilds
Refresh your coffee corner with some cottage-style touches. Use vintage dishware to create a cozy nook that makes your morning coffee feel like a retreat.
13. Wicker Basket Table Setting
Source: @camelotartcreations
A wicker basket filled with table setting dishes and a bouquet of wildflowers can instantly add summer vibes to your dining table. Add a few lemons for an extra pop of color.
14. Vintage Framed Pictures or Signs
Source: @real_honeybrook
Pick up some old wooden frames, age them with sandpaper or paint, and fill them with vintage-style imagery to create a nostalgic cottage feel.
15. Tiered Wooden Table Settings
Source: @jadesreclaimedlove
A tiered wooden stand filled with matching whiteware is perfect for a cottage-style dining table. It adds height and interest to your table setting.
16. China Bowls
Source: @queenbeinta
Old blue and white China bowls are a staple of cottage décor. They’re not only decorative but also useful for serving food.
17. Simple Glass Vases
Source: @exquisitelyunremarkable
Simple glass vases with sprigs of wildflowers add a touch of elegance and simplicity to your home. They’re perfect for side tables or mantels.
18. Vintage Mantel Setting
Source: @peppermintsandcherries
Dress your fireplace mantel with vintage or aged pieces to create a charming focal point. Start with a central piece and build around it with foliage and small decor items.
19. Brushed Green Glass
Source: @imaxcorp
Brushed green glass bottles are ideal for adding a summery, seaside vibe to your home. They make great vases or standalone decor items.
20. Terra Cotta Pots
Source: @sydnieraedrummond
Terra cotta pots filled with greenery are a wonderful way to bring the outdoors inside. They’re affordable, sturdy, and add a rustic charm to any space.
21. Natural Front Door Wreath
Source: @favolaincantata1997
Create a natural front door wreath with a branch frame and fake blossoms. This simple DIY project adds a welcoming touch to your home.
22. Sunflower Table Runner
Source: @littlegreyfarmhouse
A sunflower table runner with mason jars can brighten up any kitchen, living room, or dining room. Use chalk-style spray paint to whiten old mason jars for a cohesive look.
23. Wicker Front Door Décor
Source: @cottageintheoaks
Announce your home’s style to guests with a unique wicker basket door decor. It’s easy to put together and adds instant cottage vibes.
24. Sea Creature Tic Tac Toe
Source: @taylorsweetrevenge
Combine simple games and vintage vibes with a sea creature tic tac toe set. It’s a delightful piece of decor for a coffee table or side table.
25. Ceramic Knobs as Coat Hangers
Source: @a_flann
Repurpose old ceramic cabinet knobs as coat hangers. Screw them into your wall and hang vintage fabric squares for a functional and decorative piece.
26. Cottage-Style Bedding
Source: @theoldhouseonmain
Create a cozy cottage-style bed with natural textures like wool and raw cotton. Accented floral pillows and knit throws add the perfect touch.
27. Thrifted Basket Wall
Source: @theblackbeecottage
Mount thrifted wicker baskets on your wall in a scattered grid formation for ultimate cottage kitchen vibes. It’s a great way to save space while adding charm.
28. Coffee Table Setting
Source: @farmncozy
Create a cottage-style coffee table setting with a round wicker basket filled with knick-knacks. Add a natural fabric table runner to tie it all together.
29. Add Trays to Beds
Source: @cooneynest
Keep trays on your beds to store important objects and create a decorative piece that’s also functional. Candles, vases, and books are great options to place on these trays.
These simple and budget-friendly decor ideas will transform your home into a cozy summer cottage retreat. Enjoy the process of creating a space that reflects the charm and tranquility of countryside living.