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by Vivian Garzon

Cottagecore Interior Design on a Budget (Simple Ways to Transform Your Space)

Cottagecore Interior Design on a Budget (Simple Ways to Transform Your Space)

You don’t need to spend a fortune on designer furniture or perfectly curate your home to get the cottagecore interior design aesthetic. With the right fixtures, materials, and small design updates, you can bring cottagecore style into your home without breaking the bank. Whether you’re updating your kitchen, bathroom, laundry, or living spaces, here are some affordable, simple ways to get that cosy, vintage-inspired cottagecore look.

1. Swap Out Your Sink for an Instant Cottagecore Upgrade

A farmhouse sink is a staple of cottagecore kitchens and laundries, but you don’t need a full renovation to make this swap. A deep, classic sink instantly changes the feel of a space, making it both more functional and more visually in tune with cottagecore interiors.

  • A farmhouse sink is ideal for a kitchen or laundry, bringing that old-world charm while offering practicality.

  • In the bathroom, a traditional-style basin like a ceramic bathroom basin keeps the look timeless.

A farmhouse sink creates the ultimate cottagecore look. SHOP NOW.

Budget Tip: If replacing your sink isn’t an option, update the area around it instead – add a lace-trimmed curtain under the basin, display hand-poured soaps in a vintage dish, or use a thrifted jug for fresh flowers.

2. Update Your Tapware for a Vintage Feel

Modern chrome tapware doesn’t exactly scream cottagecore. A simple switch to antique-inspired finishes like brass or gold can make a world of difference.

Budget Tip: Not replacing your taps? Try adding a brass or gold soap pump, swapping your dish rack for something in warm metal tones, or even spray-painting existing fixtures in a brass finish for a quick DIY refresh.

3. Upgrade Your Cabinet Handles for an Instant Makeover

Cabinet handles are an easy, affordable way to give your kitchen, bathroom, or laundry a cottagecore-inspired refresh without replacing entire cupboards.

A brushed brass handle is incredibly on-trend with the cottagecore aesthetic. SHOP NOW. 

Budget Tip: Can’t replace your handles? Try giving existing ones a brushed brass finish with metallic wax or painting wooden handles in a soft pastel for a budget-friendly DIY update.

4. Bring in Soft, Nature-Inspired Colours

A cottagecore colour palette is all about soft neutrals, warm pastels, and earthy greens. Small updates like a fresh coat of paint or colour-coordinated accessories can completely transform a space.

  • A green basin is a stunning way to add a subtle colour pop in the bathroom.

  • Pastel linens, gingham curtains, or a soft floral print tablecloth can instantly enhance a cottagecore interior design.

A green basin paired with gold tapware effortlessly creates a cottagecore vibe in your bathroom. SHOP NOW. 

Budget Tip: Instead of repainting an entire room, try painting just the cabinets, a single accent wall, or even a wooden chair in a soft sage green or warm off-white for a more affordable update.

5. Add Open Shelving and Vintage Accessories

Cottagecore focuses on displaying beautiful, functional pieces, so open shelving is an easy way to make a space feel curated and charming.

  • In the kitchen, stack vintage dishes, mason jars, and cookbooks on open wooden shelves.

  • In the bathroom, display folded towels, a glass jar of bath salts, and a ceramic soap dish for a polished but effortless look.

6. Extend Cottagecore into the Outdoors

If you have a balcony, garden, or outdoor area, extend your cottagecore aesthetic beyond the walls of your home.

  • A vintage-inspired outdoor setting, a garden trellis, or a window box filled with herbs and wildflowers can enhance the look.

  • Small touches like wicker baskets, lanterns, and ceramic planters make outdoor areas feel cohesive.

Transform Your Home with Cottagecore on a Budget

You don’t need a massive budget to bring cottagecore interior design into your home. Whether it’s swapping tapware, upgrading cabinet handles, adding vintage-inspired accessories, or embracing soft, nature-inspired colours, the key is focusing on timeless, character-filled details.

Shop Buildmat’s kitchen, bathroom, and laundry collection and start designing a home that feels warm, inviting, and full of vintage charm.