Small House Cottage Decor Ideas

Cypress wood walls, rocking chairs, and muted colors enhance the homey feel.

Credit: Jean Allsopp, Writer: Anna Lee Gresham

Play up the coziness of your cottage with these color, pattern, and design hints.

Shabby-Chic Living Room

Lacy curtains, fresh florals, and plenty of monogrammed pillows are just a few of the feminine touches that give this room its calming and sweet mood. Pieces scored at thrift stores and flea markets were refreshed with paint, then artfully applied to achieve the shabby-chic distressed look.

Patterned Floors

This pleasant kitchen has painted floors in a checkerboard pattern to add some interest under your feet. Playful flooring is an unexpected way to have some fun with your design scheme.

Credit: Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn, Writer: Perry Del Favero

This pleasant kitchen has painted floors in a checkerboard pattern to add some interest under your feet. Playful flooring is an unexpected way to have some fun with your design scheme.

Beach Hues

Nothing is more classically coastal than a blue-and-white color palette. The bright white provides the perfect base for deep blue accents, resulting in a crisp combo that's always right on trend. On the coast, throw open glass French doors to infuse your space with the salty breeze.

White Backdrop

The added extras in this crisp white subway-tiled bath are what make it worth a second look. The apple green accents on the towels and bathmat bring the whole look together and prove that style doesn't have to come at an extravagant cost.

Nautical Living Room

Shake things up in your living room by choosing mismatched pieces that are united by a common theme. In this case, it's sea blues and nautical decorative elements.

Tropical Kitchen

Kitchen lacking energy? Throw caution to the wind and utilize a favorite color—or three! This tropical trio of colors is inspired by the setting and reflects the owner's favorite flowers found right outside.

Credit: Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn, Writer: Perry Del Favero

Sea-Inspired Kitchen

This kitchen's stainless steel appliances and dark surfaces are expertly balanced by the pale blue cabinetry and sea-inspired backsplash. The iridescent tiles in various cerulean shades catch the light beautifully and led to a similar scheme for the rest of the house.

Mixed Accessories

Pump up the excitement in your den with a quirky print and lighthearted decorative touches. As long as you continue with neutrals and natural elements, the effect will still be relaxed. The accessories, such as the glass bottles and balls lining the shelf, have a just-washed-up-on-the-shore feel.

Casual Living

Informal and low-maintenance, linen slipcovers like these chocolate brown and striped versions are a great choice for a family-friendly home. You'll rest easy knowing your furnishings are fully washable and get the added benefit of their beautifully relaxed look.

Credit: David Tsay, Writer: Perry Del Favero

Grand Lighting

Make a statement with your lighting like these homeowners did with this 36-inch capiz shell orb over their low-key dining room table. Not only does it cast a warm glow over diners, but also it can be spotted from the shore and gives this beach bungalow a one-of-a-kind look.

Cozy Corner

This custom sectional piece in a soothing moss green hue fits snugly into a window-filled corner of this room. A stylish large-scale pattern like this traditional damask lends a feeling of warmth to any room.

Detailed Cottage Kitchen

The charm of this lakeside cottage kitchen lies in its attention to detail. The previously linoleum-covered floors were ripped up in favor of this rich blue color, echoed again in a vase of hydrangeas. An ultramodern light fixture paired with the old-school movie poster is a refreshing mix of old and new.

Crafty Living Room

The two artistic homeowners think of themselves more as curators of this creative cottage—their home away from home during the summer months. The living room displays just a couple of their ordinary objects turned into art, like this couch covered in doodles and coffee table carved by hand from a felled tree.

Credit: Kim Cornelison, Writer: Perry Del Favero

Rustic Island Kitchen

This kitchen gets its distinctive look primarily from its location, at the base of a windmill tower on an old sugarcane plantation in the Caribbean. Recreate a similar island effect with natural wood pieces, lush vegetation, and bold floral accents in tropical shades of red, blue, and green.

Credit: Annie Schlechter, Writer: Perry Del Favero

Bunking It

Compromise with the kids by creating an upscale bunkroom with the sophisticated colors and prints you love combined with the fun beds they'll love. This modern update on the classic bunk bed style is more sculptural, yet sturdy and compact with plenty of room for sleepovers.

Welcoming Breakfast Nook

This welcoming breakfast nook has a built-in bench with cabinets underneath for extra storage. Pile it high with pillows for a snug spot to watch the water. The woven hanging lamp and pretty patterns offer texture and interest to this small space.

Azure Accents

Without the pops of cobalt blue, this smart seating area's neutral tones would feel a little washed out. Fun patterned pillows with drapery and flowers to match don't take the focus off the main event, the wraparound water view from the windows.

Mixed Patterns

This teeny bedroom leaves just enough room for the bed and bench, but it seems so much larger thanks to its diverse mix of patterns and prints. You can put stripes with spots—and add much-needed dimension—as long as you simplify your palette.

Special Collection

This homeowner filled her living room with unexpected treasures, like wood and building fragments, found objects, and natural elements with lots of great texture. When decorating, pile on the things you love and edit away later for the best results.

Credit: Roger Davies, Writer: Perry Del Favero

Well Traveled

An art collection that includes cultural and nature-inspired pieces from across the globe transforms this simple seating area into a sophisticated hideaway. Include items from your travels in your home, and you'll always have a story to tell.

Serene Living Space

An extra-large cushioned space for lounging adds a quiet elegance to this simplistic living area. Organic extras such as the driftwood coffee table and decorative beach stones have a natural coastal charm.

Simplistic Master Bedroom

A lack of knickknacks, soft neutrals, and multiple mirrored surfaces make this tranquil master bedroom seem larger than its actual size. A hazy gray wall color is a chic alternative to bright white.

Flowy Attic Bedroom

The dramatic high ceilings and mahogany floors in this sparse attic room are timeless. Sheer netting around the bed is a romantic detail that also comes in handy when you leave the windows open on summer nights.

Credit: Sophie Munro, Writer: Perry Del Favero

Precious Prints

Achieve an easygoing vibe in any room with an assortment of fabrics, colors, and patterns. Sweet prints like polka dots and gingham look mellow and fun on woven white chairs like these. Wicker furniture looks great painted or natural and is easily moved around for when you want to mix up your look.

Clearly Coastal

This sea-hued dining room strikes the ideal balance between formal and relaxed, with its fanciful chandelier and soft chintz slipcovers. Shells, sea stars, and a playful mermaid ensure that you won't forget you're at the beach.

Working Kitchen

When you know you're going to be working overtime in the kitchen, simplify the design and let efficiency be your guide. A colorful mixer and a bright dish towel add cheerful color to this neutral space. Such details as twin sconces lend charm.

Credit: Tria Giovan, Writer: Perry Del Favero

Graphic Dining Room

Floor-to-ceiling window treatments in a graphic print make a statement and frame the view, drawing the focus to the world outside. After all, the beautiful scenery is probably the main reason you live on the coast.

Credit: Tria Giovan, Writer: Perry Del Favero

Mixed Patterns

What might seem like a pattern overdose comes together beautifully when you use a single color. Pick a shade you truly can't get enough of, and the rest will be smooth sailing.

Painted Floors

Painted floors only look better with age, and you'll especially love them in a bold color. Kelly green is an ideal counterpoint to wood accents.

Marine Inspired Bedroom

Pay homage to the sea with a bedroom awash with calming blues and ocean accessories such as this mirror framed in oyster shells. A dark wood bed and crisp white chandelier add elegance to the space.

Colorfully Fun Living Room

Invigorate your living area with a serious splash of color and fun details such as these iron lamps. The decor lets guests know to get ready for a good time, but it's the comfy couch that gets them to stay awhile.

Personalized Breakfast Nook

When decorating a room, remember to stay true to yourself. Let your personality shine through with casual touches such as laid-back wicker chairs and homemade artwork to keep the look from getting too fussy.

Credit: Dominique Vorillon, Writer: Perry Del Favero

A Color Story

When using a single color, stick with white walls and ceilings to keep from overdoing it. Vary the patterns and hues as well to prevent the look from being too monochromatic.

Credit: Roger Davies, Writer: Perry Del Favero

When using a single color, stick with white walls and ceilings to keep from overdoing it. Vary the patterns and hues as well to prevent the look from being too monochromatic.

Bring the Outside In

Borrow some beauty tips from Mother Nature with organic accents that really warm up a room, like these clamshell-shaped bowls, the driftwood coffee table, and fresh flowers!

Sleek and Simple Kitchen

White cabinetry and tile give this kitchen a light and airy look as timeless as the sea. It won't seem overly sterile if you include lively vintage accents, such as a farmhouse sink and retro metal barstools.

Natural Palette

Layering patterns and textures is a breeze with blue, green, and brown tones. They look great together in nature's seascapes and using them indoors brings the outside in.

Credit: Grey Crawford, Writer: Perry Del Favero

Layering patterns and textures is a breeze with blue, green, and brown tones. They look great together in nature's seascapes and using them indoors brings the outside in.

Fun and Functional Kitchen

Cooking a meal can be a social event with a bit of creative kitchen planning. This prep sink is centrally located, so the conversation doesn't ever have to stop.

Green Color Scheme

A clean colorless background allows you to have a little fun with your cabinetry. This cool Key lime hue really pops and is as refreshing as it is sweet.

Light and Airy Kitchen

Open shelving puts your kitchen accessories on display, but keep them in the same color family for a major style boost. A painted island adds a splash of color.

Kitchen Flair

Open shelving adds clever storage to a small space without making it feel crowded. A flirty light fixture gives this kitchen a twist of unexpected fun.

Inviting Living Room

Give your home a lived-in look for a welcoming feel using kid-friendly seating, covering your tabletops with books and curios, and letting in some sunshine.

Credit: Dominique Vorillon, Writer: Perry Del Favero

Give your home a lived-in look for a welcoming feel using kid-friendly seating, covering your tabletops with books and curios, and letting in some sunshine.

Coastal Pastels

Soothing pastels have a universal appeal, especially in a coastal setting where relaxation is key. Colors that reflect the beach are a natural fit with these decorative coral accents and parading sea star pillows.

Credit: Richard Leo Johnson, Writer: Perry Del Favero

Family Gathering

With its vintage brass fixture and banquette seating, the dining area exudes nautical style. A perfectly stylish spot for family dinners and homework.

Eclectic Bath

Take a bathroom from basic to basically your favorite room in the house! Surprise additions, like this shell-patterned chaise and vintage dresser-turned-vanity, insert a little luxury into your morning routine.

Mutifunctional Kitchen Island

Get creative and save some much-needed space in the kitchen. This sizeable walnut-topped island does double duty as a TV stand, thanks to a handy nook on the end.

Casual White Nook

Leave the color to the landscape having a primarily white interior. The funky oyster-shell chandelier has the right amount of attitude to make sure this dining room doesn't look washed out.

Affordable Bathroom Makeover

Itching for a renovation, but don't have lots of cash? The simple addition of whimsical wallpaper on the ceiling and walls diverts the focus from the retro peach tile and breathes new life into the room.

Accessorized Bedroom

Fill your home with pieces you love, like this room's delightful bamboo light fixture. The owner collects them and they're displayed throughout the house, proving you can't ever have too much of a really good thing.

Patterns with Panache

The quirky combinations in this chic dining room, like a Persian rug paired with chocolate and cream paisley curtains, only work because they're allowed to stand out. Meek prints need not apply!

Stylish Surf

A John Severson watercolor painting of Waikiki Beach hangs above the built-in bed to bring the coast in to the master bedroom.

Beachy White Bedroom

White beachy bedroom with wood white-washed closet doors and small side tables and chairs

Credit: Richard Leo Johnson, Writer: Perry Del Favero

An ivory bedroom lends serenity to your sanctuary. Kick it up a notch with details the eye just can't miss, like this rustic door repurposed as a headboard.

Richard Leo Johnson, Writer: Perry Del Favero

A blue and green water color painting is the focus of this simple white bathroom with a claw-footed tub, white slipcovered vanity seat, and small green stool

Credit: Richard Leo Johnson, Writer: Perry Del Favero

Minimizing distractions in your decor puts a spotlight on the key elements. In this case, the focus goes straight to the classic claw-foot tub and vibrant painting.

True Blue

Credit: Annie Schlechter, Writer: Steele Marcoux and Lydia Somerville

Fluffy pillows covered in lively John Robshaw prints and a Lee Jofa ikat bring softness to this breakfast room's strong, industrial furniture.

Natural Seaside

Credit: Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn, Writer: Susan Stiles Dowell

Poplar tongue-and-groove boards, heart-pine flooring, and a beeswax-polished pine mantel lend a warm, welcoming glow to this seaside living area. A mostly natural palette, with crisp off-white trim, gets pops of color from bright turquoise and yellow accents in the pillows.

Plenty of Prints

Credit: Annie Schlechter, Writer: Steele Marcoux and Lydia Somerville

In a classic coastal blue-and-white palette, the dining room features a credenza with the weathered texture of driftwood. The accompanying splatter-print chairs from Hickory Chair add a graphic touch.

Organic Vibe

Credit: Lisa Romerein, Writer; Rachel Bertone

This simple platform bed feels welcoming covered with cozy organic linens. The natural feel is enhanced by a tree trunk bedside table, lots of natural light streaming through large windows, and a door that leads to the back patio.

Lots of Light

Credit: Tria Giovan, Writer: Rachel Bertone

Wall-to-wall windows allow for enjoyment of gorgeous ocean views. Simple bamboo furniture adds a touch of warmth to the predominantly all-white space.

Complementing Blues

Credit: Annie Schlechter, Writer: Steele Marcoux and Lydia Somerville

Be daring with bold prints and colors. In this den, shades of blue harmonize without being matchy-matchy. A 19th century grotto chair (on the left) shares the stage with a 1930s Frances Elkins Loop Chair.

Swanky Space

Credit: Jeff McNamara, Writer: Suzanne Gannon

The modern, chic kitchen features walnut shelves instead of the old upper cabinets that made the room feel smaller. A large white lantern is a whimsical touch.

Breathing Room

Credit: Jeff McNamara, Writer: Suzanne Gannon

For this small, cramped house, the homeowners' added a vaulted Carolina pine ceiling, glass doors, and large windows to let in light and to allow the small home to breathe.

Antique Appeal

Credit: Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn, Writer: Susan Stiles Dowell

Vaulted ceilings give this simple bath an elongated, light, airy feel. The claw-foot tub and vintage desk lend old-school charm.

Fun with Color

Credit: Timothy Street-Porter, Writer: Rachel Bertone

Have a good time with your favorite hues. Painting these kitchen cabinets white would have made them look too sterile. This light shade of green adds just enough color—it doesn't overpower yet still makes a statement.

White Simplicity

Credit: Timothy Street-Porter, Writer: Rachel Bertone

Sometimes simple is better. The monochromatic bath features a beautiful footed tub, along with a waterproof woven-vinyl floor.

Vertical Charm

Credit: Lisa Romerein, Writer: Brett Bralley

Floor-to-ceiling built-in shelves let the nesting process reach new heights. Nautical fishing floats in emerald hues pop when placed next to antique-finished basins and pottery.

Bright and White

Bright and White Living Room

Credit: Timothy Street-Porter, Writer: Rachel Bertone

White-paneled walls accented with plush, neutral furniture create an inviting and cozy feel in this living room. Large windows let in natural light to complete the simplicity of the space.

Clean and Simple

Credit: Timothy Street-Porter, Writer: Rachel Bertone

A clean, white bedroom feels fresh for guests and the gorgeous sea view outside can take center stage.

Repurposed Space

Credit: Richard Leo Johnson, Writer: Rachel Bertone

This bright bedroom was actually created by enclosing a part of the homeowners' wraparound porch. Abundant windows and a sloped ceiling embrace the beachy, outdoor feel.

Graphic Floors

Credit: William Abranowicz, Writer: Steele Thomas Marcoux

A bold black-and-white faux bois treatment on this kitchen floor looks almost too pretty to walk on. The hand-painted pattern takes the traditional wood floors from standard to striking. On the mahogany countertops, a clear coat of varnish lends a nautical look.

Subtle Style

Credit: Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn, Writer: Rachel Bertone

A simple pattern combined with soft shades of blue delivers an inviting and comfortable bedroom. Small pops of yellow on the lampshades break up the monochromatic palette.

Pebbled Floor

Credit: Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn, Writer: Rachel Bertone

The homeowners covered this bath floor with river rocks for a natural twist on traditional flooring. Radiant heating underneath keeps toes toasty-warm.

Oriental Flair

Credit: Tria Giovan, Writer: Rachel Bertone

The homeowners incorporated an ornate Asian rug into the dining room to add international flair to this seaside space. It warms the room and brings a traditional element into the cottage home. Large windows open the space and welcome views, sunlight, and coastal breezes.

Mother Nature

Credit: Tria Giovan, Writer: Rachel Bertone

Inject some earthiness into your home by bringing in outside elements. This living room combines sophisticated and sleek furniture with natural wood accents and a statement plant to give it a casual, welcoming feel.

Room for Two

Credit: Tria Giovan, Writer: Rachel Bertone

No more fighting over bath time! Double fixtures strategically placed over the farmhouse sink make sharing easier, and a large, bold mirror balances the oversize fixture.

Classic Charm

Credit: Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn, Writer: Susan Stiles Dowell

Open shelves, a vaulted ceiling, and reclaimed heart-pine countertops give this kitchen a welcoming, vintage feel. The wooden flag hanging above the window adds an Americana vibe to the coastal space.

Functional Style

Credit: Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn, Writer: Rachel Bertone

A large, galley-style kitchen is a perfect fit for a modern beach cottage. The planked wood siding, marine-chic pendant lights, and light blue cabinets enhance the coastal style.

Classic Twist

Credit: Tria Giovan, Writer: Rachel Bertone

For unique seating, turn a vintage iron bed into a comfortable porch sofa. Dressed simply with a coverlet, it feels pretty and relaxed. It's also the perfect spot for an afternoon nap!

Peaceful Place

Credit: Tria Giovan, Writer: Rachel Bertone

A small, simple, all-white kitchen gets some personality with a Dutch door and a playful patterned rug.

Relaxing Retreat

Credit: Timothy Street-Porter, Writer: Rachel Bertone

A calming sunroom is the perfect place to chill out—especially when it looks out to the coast. Natural textures like sea grass, leather, and lacquered wood keeps a colorless room from going flat.

Bold Tranquility

Credit: Peter Murdock, Writer: Steele Thomas Marcoux

A bright blue sofa with fun, patterned pillows breaks up the all-white palette of this beachside living room, while a circular woven rug adds texture and interest.

Easy Comfort

Cypress wood walls, rocking chairs, and muted colors enhance the homey feel.

Credit: Jean Allsopp, Writer: Anna Lee Gresham

A mix of casual upholstered furniture and antiques make this room inviting without looking overly rustic. Cypress wood walls, rocking chairs, and muted colors enhance the homey feel.

Mixed-up Palette

Credit: Peter Murdock, Writer: Steele Thomas Marcoux

While we all like to look to the color wheel for those perfect combinations, don't be afraid to branch out and experiment with new, unusual palettes. This playful dining room features bright blues, yellow, and coral. Limit the punchiest color to pillows or accessories for an unexpected pop.

Sleek Comfort

Credit: Peter Murdock, Writer: Steele Thomas Marcoux

A nautical-themed guest room with a simple blue-and-brown palette exudes seaside style. For a modern twist, the homeowners decided to use extra-long twin beds with one-of-a-kind designer footboards.

Playful Prep

Credit: William Abranowicz, Writer: Steele Thomas Marcoux

A classic tartan-patterned sofa in a palette of black, red, white, turquoise, and a touch of yellow gets a daring contrast with a playful pillow featuring cartoon character Popeye. The pop culture reference puts a lighthearted spin on the otherwise serious living room.

Stepping Up

Credit: J. Savage Gibson

Use colors in unexpected places, such as floors, for a fun twist in a more traditional space. These homeowners opted for leafy green in the kitchen when a stain couldn't be matched to the rest of the house.

Western Inspiration

Credit: Lisa Romerein, Writer: Steele Thomas Marcoux

For a cowboy-inspired look, the homeowners incorporated plush furnishings with soft textures such as vintage grain sacks, corduroy, leather, and cowhide into their living room. A suzani pillow and ikat-upholstered spindle chair add a global touch.

Fresh Spin

Credit: William Abranowicz, Writer: Steele Thomas Marcoux

For a modern twist on Colonial classics, the designer chose a large, bright blue braided rug and seat covers based on minimalist paintings. English and early-American antiques, such as the dining table and chairs, contrast with the contemporary painted ceiling that brightens the room.

All-American Kitchen

Credit: Tria Giovan, Writer: Rachel Bertone

Authentic blue tile provides the perfect backsplash for this classic colonial kitchen. Honed stone countertops and a butcher-block island give the space personality and warmth.

Charming Touch

Credit: Richard Leo Johnson, Writer: Rachel Bertone

Small details can make a big impact! The pretty detailing, soft blue color, and conch shell knob of the screened pantry door add casual, beach cottage style to the kitchen.

Cozy Vintage

Credit: Peter Murdock, Writer: Steele Thomas Marcoux

In the master bedroom, the homeowners decided to forgo a period furniture guide, and instead chose pieces they liked. The Victorian-style bed adds personality, while the swing-arm sconces inside the bedposts make for easy-to-reach reading light.

Sea Breeze Bath

Sea Breeze Bathroom

Credit: William Abranowicz, Writer: Rachel Bertone

With an extra-tall tub, nautical accents, and a wooden windmill above, you'll feel like you're sailing on the deep blue in this whimsical bath.

Coastal View

Credit: Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn, Writer: Susan Stiles Dowell

In the natural-hued dining room, French doors open to a screened porch with stunning water views. Sophisticated chair covers add to the simple elegance of the space.

Neutral Escape

Credit: Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn, Writer: Susan Stiles Dowell

A soothing all-natural color scheme and handy reading lights above the beds create a tranquil guest room.

Natural Navy

Credit: Tria Giovan, Writer: Rachel Bertone

It doesn't get more coastal than a navy-and-white pairing. Don't be afraid to enhance the combination with a mixture of graphic prints, like the striped chair cushions and patterned rug in this dining room.

Custom Creation

Credit: Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn, Writer: Rachel Bertone

Floor-to-floor cabinets maximize storage in the contemporary kitchen, while a custom green-and-blue tile backsplash provides personality. The all-white walls, cabinets, and marble countertops make the space feel clean and sleek.

Exotic Flair

Credit: Deborah Whitlaw Llewellyn, Writer: Rachel Bertone

Add worldly style to any space with exotic accents such as patterned pillows, rugs, and raw materials. The painted white brick in this living space created a clean backdrop so the cultural accents stand out.

Vintage Touch

Credit: Lisa Romerein, Writer: Steele Thomas Marcoux

A pair of 1950s rope-and-wood chairs from Harbinger gives a playful vibe to the otherwise all-white kitchen. They also provide stylish extra seating for guests.

Beachy Casual

Credit: Jean Allsopp, Writer: Rachel Bertone

Dark, paneled walls combined with bright, white brick and a hodge-podge of colorful furniture gives this Maine living room a sit-down, stay-a-while feel. Playful nautical accessories amp up the seaside vibe.

Storybook Bedroom

Credit: William Abranowicz, Writer: Steele Thomas Marcoux

A bright, playful gingham canopy covers a unique bed frame adorned with a deer painted on the headboard. We love the charming original shiplap walls and ceilings in this bedroom, as well as the wall-to-wall sea grass flooring for extra texture.

Perfect Balance

Credit: Peter Murdock, Writer: Steele Thomas Marcoux

Light wicker furniture and a soft blue wing chair from Mitchell Gold and Bob Williams help to balance the look of the heavier wood in this sea-inspired living room.

Cool and Calm

Credit: Dominique Vorillon Writer: Rachel Bertone

The driftwood coffee table is a bold focal point that references the natural environment outside. Neutral colors with accents of cool blues and green create a calming coastal atmosphere.

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Small House Cottage Decor Ideas

Source: https://www.southernliving.com/home/decor/comfy-cottage-rooms