How to nail the cozy cottage kitchen aesthetic in any home, according to interior designers who know and love the look

When you're searching for charming kitchen inspiration, you've probably come across the cozy cottage kitchen aesthetic. Filled with rustic charm, a collected feel, and unique appeal, it's no surprise it's one of the most coveted kitchen aesthetics.

One of the most timeless design styles, cottage kitchen ideas are about adding a charming and somewhat collected feel to your scheme. While living in an actual cottage makes creating a kitchen of the aesthetic much easier, several design cues can be introduced to kitchen ideas in all styles of homes.

So, how can you add the cozy cottage kitchen aesthetic to your home? Take a look at these five spaces that prove cottage style has a place in any kitchen – and find out exactly how the designers created them.

How to nail the cozy cottage kitchen aesthetic in any home

Creating a cozy kitchen is key to ensuring your space is one you enjoy spending time in – and not just for cooking. The cozy cottage kitchen aesthetic blends homey appeal with characterful schemes – and these spaces prove it.

1. An unfitted cozy cottage kitchen

Unfitted kitchens are trending right now, and for good reason. They add a seriously eclectic vibe while also giving the option to create a bespoke design that fits all the awkward corners of your kitchen – something that's very typical of cottage kitchens. And this scheme proves just how aesthetic this style of kitchen can look.

'We designed an unfitted kitchen along the back wall of this small stables in the grounds of the main house. Antique finds like the glass-fronted cabinet, as well as natural materials, can help bring a touch of this traditional design aesthetic into a home,' says interior designer Anna Haines, who created this cozy cottage kitchen.

The smaller details are also crucial to create a cottage feel in your kitchen. 'A butler's sink is both utilitarian and characterful, and plays nicely into giving a space a lived-in feel, as does a skirted cabinet or sink front, which adds softness and charm,’ she adds.

2. A quirky corner sink in a cottage style kitchen

Your kitchen doesn't need to look like it's come straight out of a quirky cottage to embrace the style. Think about the features that feel core to the aesthetic, and how you can introduce them into your scheme.

'For me, the appeal of cottage style is that it is less formal and precious. My goals for introducing cottage style to a design are making the space functional, laid back, and most certainly charming and playful,' says Katherine Quigley, design director at Chenault James Interiors.

'Here I embraced the quirks of a small space to include a corner sink and utilized butcher's block countertops and open shelving for a casual feel that blends form and function. My must-haves for cottage style are vintage accessories like this brass and ceramic hand-towel rod and adding foliage for easy color and texture,' she explains.

3. A cottage kitchen that embraces homey comforts

The coziness of cottage kitchens can come from many features. Perhaps it's low ceilings, warm wood textures, or additional soft textures introduced around the space. And whatever the style or size of your kitchen, some of these things can easily be brought in.

In this cottage kitchen designed by Benji Lewis, the ceiling became the focus to create a cozier feel. 'An old fashioned ceiling mounted clothes maid is integral for creating an idyllic cozy cottage look. A couple of pillowcases and some tea towels neatly arranged can even be left on the rack when visitors come over,' he says.

As well as these more decorative details, other more permanent features are core to creating the cozy cottage feel in this space. 'The traditional range cooker is a lovely thing – perfect for leaning against on a chilly evening as well as cooking,' Benji adds.

4. A cozy blend of old and new in a more spacious cottage kitchen

You might be wondering if this cozier style can be introduced to a larger, perhaps more fitted-style kitchen, and it absolutely can. 'Creating a cozy kitchen aesthetic is all about the details,' says Stephanie Perez O’Boyle, founder and principal at Stephanie Perez Studio.

'A mix of old and new, layering warm, natural materials, and introducing color and unique pieces will help to bring this feeling alive. In this kitchen, we contrasted all-white cabinetry with a wood farmhouse table for an island and bold colors like the green marble floors,' she explains.

Decorating with vintage and antique pieces was key to creating that eclectic, layered element so typical of cottage-style kitchens. 'Heirloom, antique pieces that tell a story are a must-have when trying to create a lived-in feeling, so the blue breakfast table was a perfect way to balance out the space,' she adds.

'I left it in its original condition and you’ll see many nicks and patina that add to its charm. We also created a dining nook with a custom banquette and scalloped skirt, which instantly creates a whimsical and inviting corner in the space.'

5. A cottage kitchen with a dining table at the center

One common theme you'll see in cottage kitchens is that they often have a beautiful farmhouse table at the center, rather than a kitchen island. This instantly makes the kitchen the heart of the home – the place where the whole family gathers and spends time together, instantly adding that cozy feel.

While it might not be the most functional option to forgo an island for a table in some kitchens, you can still create the aesthetic. Instead of luxurious stone kitchen countertop ideas, opt for a wooden or butcher's block style finish instead.

Equally, if you have the space, having an island and a dining table gives you the best of both worlds. There are also lots of kitchen island seating ideas that blend a classic island with a more traditional dining table.

With a few thoughtful design decisions and decorative additions, you really can create the cozy cottage aesthetic in any space. Whether you accessorize with vintage decor or add cottage-style appliances, there's something here to inspire every scheme.