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The Alternative Blog

As the love for English Country home décor grows, the timeless charm of all things quintessentially British has captured many, inspiring a new wave of interior design. Romantic yet inviting, this cosy and relaxed style is here to stay. Picture layered textures, rustic wooden beams, floral patterns and vintage furniture – these idyllic elements (often referred to as #cottagecore), are taking over social media and making their way onto our wish-lists. Read on as we explore how you can bring this beloved aesthetic into your home, whether you’re dreaming of a countryside retreat or looking to add a touch of character to your modern home. 

Anywhere Herringbone Copper Bespoke Runner with a Gypsum border fabric

What Is English Country Charm?

Classic English country style evokes feelings of warmth and familiarity, placing it at the heart of timeless décor. This aesthetic blends the charm of the past with modern touches, creating spaces that feel both inviting and adaptable. Drawing inspiration from quaint cottages in the countryside and grand stately homes, it encourages a thoughtful mix of patterns, colours and textures that all tell a story. 

Popular features of this style often focus on layering sustainable fabrics such as cottons, linens, sisal and wool to add depth and comfort. Patterns are introduced through upholstery choices, like ginghams and florals, while keeping a neutral palette with subtle pops of muted colours. This style embraces the slower pace of life, often associated with rural countryside escapes, bringing a sense of calm to your home.

How Can You Echo The Popular Interior Trend In Your Home? 

Colour Palette

Soft neutral tones bring the charm of countryside living into your home, capturing the essence of post-Sunday roast lazy afternoons and early mornings spent surrounded by nature. For an instant transformation, choose a soothing palette of muted pastels, perfect for achieving that serene country retreat feeling, no matter where you are. 

Think of fresh greens and watery blues that pair beautifully with wooden furniture and vintage fabrics, reminiscent of classic English cottages. These tones create a sense of something once vibrant, now gracefully weathered over time. To truly get that blend of modern and vintage elements, extend these calming hues beyond the walls. Incorporating them into mismatched furniture and cosy rugs to create a layered, inviting space that feels effortlessly chic and welcoming. 

Neutral Design Schemes by Little Greene

Flooring

Texture, texture and more texture! Pairing original stonework or wooden features with woven textures in natural tones is a great way to embrace the foundation of English country charm. Whether you prefer a traditional style or a modern rustic look, choosing the right flooring will instantly elevate your home,  adding character and comfort in equal measure.

Sustainable natural fibres like sisal and wool not only provide soft, comforting textures underfoot, but also offer that timeless textural beauty synonymous with the classic cottage style. With their charming loop piles and herringbone weaves, they add a rustic, earthy touch to your décor, creating a seamless blend between the indoors and outdoors. They’re ideal for high-traffic areas such as living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways, offering both style and durability. 

Or for a true country cottage look, natural plant fibres like jute and seagrass are ideal as runners or bespoke rugs in the dining room or a cosy snug by the fireplace, to replicate a casual yet elegant aesthetic. Their warm, creamy biscuit or rich green jewel toned hues create the perfect foundation, and with elegant patterned or colourful borders, they’ll add a pop of personality to your space. 

Explore our ‘Make Me A Rug’ Service to discover endless possibilities and design the perfect runner or rug to complete your country-inspired home! 

Sisal Panama Donegal carpet, Everyday Favourite James Jute rug

Aged To Perfection

The classic English country style invites you to explore using antique or vintage-inspired pieces within your décor. It’s important when designing, to mix and match furniture for a truly eclectic style. To do so, dive into vintage stores for hidden treasures or select pieces that take inspiration from rich heritage styles. 

Picture grand display cabinets, inviting open shelving, upholstered chairs, cosy throw pillows and beautiful area rugs and runners – all hallmarks of a charming home in the countryside. It’s all about introducing feelings of nostalgia and storytelling, enhanced by a soothing muted colour palette and incorporating those natural textures. 

Anywhere Ca-rPET Bouclé Re-volution bespoke runner with a Tramlines Budapest border fabric

Timeless Patterns 

To create a country cottage inspired interior that instantly feels warm and cosy, it’s important to not forget about patterns. Small scale prints, chintz florals and traditional stripes inspired by the countryside, are often featured throughout a mixture of home accessories, from bed linen to throws to curtains and also our favourite – the floors. 

Oriental vintage rugs are a desirable element of this style, known for their intricate designs. While they can be pricey, you can still nod to the aesthetic by choosing colours inspired by these timeless patterns. Consider creating your own bespoke piece, using natural materials to keep in harmony with the overall aesthetic.

Although not just limited to patterned rugs, sustainable natural carpets should not be overlooked when adding pattern to your home. Their intricate weaves and patterns beautifully complement the traditional features of an English country home. Keep an eye out for lovely herringbone and bouclé weaves, perfect for creating an inviting countryside feel, exuding in texture.

Everyday Favourite Jerry Woosie Rug, Wool Herringbone Zig Zag Button Carpet
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The Edit - home style by Alternative