Cottage kitchen decorating ideas


21 pretty ways to decorate homey spaces |

(Image credit: John Lewis of Hungerford)

Whether you live in a classic country cottage and are looking for cottage kitchen ideas to complement it, or simply love the cottage look, we've rounded up the key things to consider, as well as plenty of inspiration and expert advice from kitchen designers to help plan your interior.

From layout, storage and materials to lighting, wall colors and window treatments, there are plenty of kitchen ideas to consider when creating the perfect cozy and rustic space, but perhaps the best place to start is to consider what you have. 

Cottage kitchen ideas

Cottage kitchens are prized for their original features. Whether stone flagstone floors, rustic ceiling beams or weathered inglenooks, it’s these details that give cottage kitchens their unique charm and homey feel. 

When thinking about cottage kitchen ideas, it’s important to consider how best to make these features really shine while also creating a space that is practical and welcoming.

We've plenty of ideas to help you get the look in any size kitchen, but if you want definitive design tips for the rest of your home, our cottage decorating ideas will bring you plenty of advice for a characterful home.

1. Tick the 'cottage style' boxes

(Image credit: John Lewis of Hungerford)

There are certain gorgeous elements that epitomise a cottage kitchen – think butler sinks, warm wood elements, stone flooring types, brushed gold and brass fixtures, a larder cupboard and vintage-style drawer pulls.

And then there's character and color…

This kitchen from John Lewis of Hungerford has it all, with the teal color interiors of the wall cabinets bringing personality to the space.

'Designing a cottage-style kitchen is all about selecting honest, natural materials and pairing them with simple finishes,' says Rebecca Noakes, Head of Design & Brand Creative, John Lewis of Hungerford. 'Color-wise, go for warming, natural palettes.'

2.

Add a modern update 

(Image credit: Kim Gordon Designs)

Classic cottage kitchen ideas can be given a contemporary update with unexpected additions. This stunning design by Santa Monica interior decorator Kim Gordon plays with repetition, scale, and contrasting materials – all within a cottage context.

Introducing metallic and marble elements alongside rustic wood and a pale palette keeps the look fresh.

3. Mix wood finishes

(Image credit: John Lewis of Hungerford)

The use of wood in a cottage kitchen goes beyond the cabinetry. Wall paneling ideas, like the tongue-and-groove splashback in this kitchen, bring texture and a warmer look than tiles, while still being practical. A rustic wood table also showcases the natural beauty of wood grain.

'The harmonious combination of expert craftsmanship, functionality and traditional design make cottage kitchen ideas an obvious choice when renovating your kitchen,' says Rebecca Noakes from John Lewis of Hungerford .  

'Cottage kitchens have always been fashionable, and their endless appeal lies in the warmth and character this aesthetic instantly gives to any home. To get that  cottage kitchen feel the use of natural materials is really important, think wooden elements or beautiful stone flooring.'

4. Make the most of a small space

(Image credit: Harvey Jones)

Cottage kitchens tend to be smaller in size, so you'll need to make the most of every inch of space to maximize its functionality. 

One idea is to combine a built-in banquette with dining chairs, to allow more people to gather around the kitchen table. Creating a sense of separation, with color or a pendant light above the table, will bring a sense of occasion to even the smallest eating area.

And think about appliances, too.

'Multitasking appliances such as washer-dryers are definitely worth considering. While concealed appliances that are integrated into the cabinetry will open up the space visually and create cleaner lines,' says Sally Hinks, Kitchen Designer at Harvey Jones .

'Smaller appliances such as coffee machines and microwaves can be housed in cupboards to free up valuable countertop space.'

5. Introduce bold but natural color

(Image credit: John Lewis of Hungerford)

Bold color is a great addition to Shaker kitchen ideas – but for a cottage look, the shade you choose will ideally be informed by your backyard planting or the land around you.

'This beautiful green kitchen design from John Lewis of Hungerford for @ferncottagemull , with its green painted panel walls and blue kitchen island idea is totally immersive, just like the landscape beyond the back door,' says Andréa Childs, Editor of Country Homes & Interiors magazine. 

'The accessories really work to bring in the cottage look, too. Interesting and characterful, they add layers of interest that build on the base color for a unique look.'

6. Choose a natural floorcovering

(Image credit: Fibre carpets)

While wood and stone flooring is a key component of classic cottage kitchen ideas, sometimes you want a softer look. Here, a sisal rug not only provides comfort underfoot, it also helps to define the dining area within the kitchen space.

A natural fiber such as seagrass, coir or sisal is a great cottage kitchen idea, but you'll want to choose one that can withstand any splashes and spills.

'Sisal is a hugely popular choice for flooring, even more so in recent years as we’re all so much more environmentally conscious,' says Julian Downes, Managing Director of natural carpet and rug brand, Fibre . 'Our new Sisal EasyClean collection is just as hardwearing but with added protection for the inevitable spills which come with a busy family or entertaining home.'

7. Plan your layout carefully

(Image credit: Harvey Jones)

When you're planning cottage kitchen layout ideas, keep practicality in mind – especially with long galley kitchen ideas like this one.

'Think carefully about which parts of the kitchen you're going to be using most for cooking and how easily you can move between them,' suggests Sally Hinks, Kitchen Designer at Harvey Jones, who make this Arbor kitchen.

'Use the kitchen triangle method to help you position the refrigerator, sink and cooker as the core elements when mapping out your space.'

8. Focus on storage solutions

(Image credit: John Lewis of Hungerford)

Cottage kitchens can come with a number of storage challenges – uneven walls, low ceilings, quirky shapes, or simple lack of space, can all limit cupboard capacity.

'Built-in cabinetry and options that cleverly use every inch of space are your friend here,' says interiors stylist Sara Bird. 'Ideally, your kitchen storage ideas should incorporate floor-to-ceiling cupboards that maximize vertical space. You may need bespoke options, such as shelving or cubbies built around or into fireplaces, hearths and alcoves. Finally, options such as storage window seats, shelving and even under-plinth drawers will add to the conventional kitchen cabinetry.'

9. Keep it simple

(Image credit: Michelle Salz Smith/Jenni Corti)

Cottage kitchens can quickly become fussy and cluttered. If your look is more pared back than chintzy, keep things simple with slab-front cabinets, minimal handles, and a serene color palette.

Symmetry helps to keep a kitchen looking smart and put-together. Here, matching open shelves around a sink positioned in the center of the countertop bring a feeling of serenity.

10. Create a welcoming feel with a rustic timber table and chairs

(Image credit: Devol)

Cottage kitchens are so much more than places to prepare food, they really are the heart of the home and a vintage kitchen table is essential to creating that perfect social hub and homely cottage feel, as Helen Parker, creative director at Devol explains. 

'The charm of cottage kitchens is often their quirky and eclectic mix of old and new as this gives the feeling of a cozy and welcoming space. A vintage kitchen table and chairs is a must; all cottages need a spot for chatting and drinking tea and the ubiquitous jug of wild flowers.’ 

In contrast to the rustic furniture, this beautiful chandelier adds a surprising luxe element – one of many fantastic cottage lighting ideas to transform a space.

11. Maximize natural light with pale cabinets

(Image credit: Neptune)

Cottage kitchens often have low ceilings and small windows, so the key to a good design is taking every opportunity to optimise on natural light as Nerine Vacher, Kitchen Designer at Neptune , reveals.  

‘Making use of the natural light will go a long way in creating a harmonious flow in your kitchen. By including cabinetry in soft colors, like Neptune's Sage (pictured above) or Snow, you will see how light and airy the room feels, no matter how big or small.'

Our painted kitchen cabinet ideas will help you find the perfect color for your space.

12. Choose real wood Shaker-style cabinetry

(Image credit: Future Owns / Darren Chung)

As any cottage owner knows, there's rarely a straight line to be found within the property's four walls. With this in mind, bespoke cabinetry is often the best solution to getting the most out of awkward spaces. The simple, paired-back design of classic Shaker-style cabinetry will beautifully complement rustic architectural features.  

13. Showcase rustic period features

(Image credit: Unique Home Stays)

Cottage kitchens are brimming with desirable period features, so make sure your design makes the most of them. Rather than conceal rustic exposed brick or stone walls with cabinets, try opting for simple wall shelves which will allow the history of your property to shine through. 

Cabinets and a backsplash created from reclaimed timber enhance this vintage French look. While the checkerboard floor is a classic element of French country kitchen ideas.

14. Create a blank canvas for layering vintage finds

(Image credit: British Standard)

Keeping walls and cabinets white is a brilliant foundation for showcasing the vintage pieces which give cottage kitchens their unique charm, as Adrian Bergman, senior designer at British Standard by Plain English explains. 

'With a clean and light palette you can create a layered interior with an eclectic mix of furniture – think pot board dressers, farmhouse tables, Windsor chairs, open shelves and pot racks. Finish with personal knick knacks and trinkets to add a lived-in charm.' 

White kitchen ideas also have a timeless quality that work beautifully within a cottage-style kitchen.

15. Consider freestanding furniture

(Image credit: Cotswold Co.)

When space is at a premium, as it often is in cottage kitchens, it's a good idea to factor in some freestanding pieces to bring flexibility to your kitchen layout. 

Try opting for a moveable kitchen island or butchers block, or small vintage table, as pictured above, which will create extra prep space but can also be easily moved to the side of the room if you need to make space for guests.

Other small kitchen ideas might include making the most of the vertical space with tall cabinets and open shelving, and using color to enhance the sense of spaciousness.

16. Factor in plenty of storage 

(Image credit: B&Q)

'Effective small kitchen storage is another simple way to create a happy and homely kitchen. ' explains Nerine Vacher, kitchen designer at Neptune . 'Including a single piece of furniture, such as a cabinet, or larder, you can completely transform your kitchen, by creating more surface space and keeping clutter out of sight.' 

Organizing a kitchen begins with the unseen elements, such as the area under the sink or keeping utensils neatly on hooks, to bring order to your cottage kitchen ideas.

17. Add a vintage dresser to display collectibles 

(Image credit: Future / Malcolm Menzies)

An iconic, practical piece which has furnished kitchens across the centuries, a classic wooden dresser is a mainstay of the cottage kitchen. It offers the perfect space for displaying those prized brocante finds and vintage ceramics, but also lends a homely feel. Its effectiveness is all down to how you style a display cabinet to put on a show in your cottage kitchen.

'Shelves with a higgledy-piggledy array of French porcelain bowls, books and vintage glassware is the best way to create a feeling of a home that is more than just stylish, but a sign of a happy well lived life,' reveals Helen Parker, creative director at Devol .

18. Focus on a traditional range cooker

(Image credit: Future / Brent Darby )

At the heart of the home for centuries, the range cooker would not only have been used for cooking, but would have heated the entire house. With its constant radiant heat, a traditional cast iron Aga is hailed by many as the best oven for traditional home cooking, but it will create a cozy, warm welcome. In fact, there are lots of clever ways to use a range cooker that don't involve cooking.

It's the perfect spot to relax  in a rocking chair with a good book, for dogs to snuggle, or to hang the laundry to dry above on a pulley dryer. Alternatively, there are plenty of modern electrical range cookers available with the good looks of the traditional Aga but with increased control and functionality.

19. Choose a real wood kitchen worktop

(Image credit: British Standard)

The beautiful, varying grain of real timber is the perfect complement to the weathered architectural features of a cottage kitchen and should be on your list when considering kitchen countertop ideas.  

Revealing his key tips for creating a cottage kitchen, Adrian Bergman, senior designer at British Standard by Plain English , says: 

‘The beaded detail on our Stowupland doors sit perfectly in a cottage kitchen. We would suggest pairing the cupboards with a rustic wooden worktop to add warmth and texture. Choose one that weathers gracefully, Oak, or reclaimed Pitch Pine both work really well.’ The wood will require periodic oiling, but the effect is beautiful and the worktop will stand the test of time.' 

20. Introduce vintage textiles

(Image credit: David Brittain)

Whether it's chintzy florals, classic ginghams or a hint of elegant French linen, vintage textiles are guaranteed to lend a homely feel to a cottage kitchen. Cottage curtain ideas are a great place to start when looking for inspiration for a pretty, cozy home.

Curtains in a pretty fabric are a brilliant way to hide white goods and a vintage floral tablecloth will certainly create that vintage country feel. A custom-made Roman blind at a window in a nature-inspired print to bring color and pattern to a space.

21. Create a cozy feel with a warm wall color 

(Image credit: Future / Darren Chung)

Cottage kitchens are all about capturing a cosy, homely atmosphere, and wall color can have a huge impact on the look, feel and atmosphere in a space. Kitchen color ideas can create a vibrant lift or promote a calming mood, or be used to brighten up a shady room.

With its subtle natural tones and soft mottled texture, this orange limewash from Ingilby Paints brings a warm cheery feel to this cottage kitchen without being harsh on the eye. 

A natural, breathable formula, limewash is ideal for preserving original plasterwork in older cottages. 

What is a cottage style kitchen?

Cottage kitchens are prized for their original features – whether stone flagstone floors, rustic ceiling beams or weathered inglenooks – it’s these details that give cottage kitchens their unique charm and homely feel.  

For more compact spaces, then our small cottage kitchen ideas will bring you more advice and ideas to help you create a characterful cottage kitchen.

What does cottage kitchen style mean?

Cottage style is a look that is warm, homely, compact and full of character. Of course, cottage kitchens' small proportions and irregular angles can present unique challenges, too, but there’s no need to fret, as small can still be beautiful as Helen Parker, creative director at Devol explains. 

‘A cottage kitchen is small so everything you put in it should be very carefully chosen, there is no room for nasty appliances or ill-considered pots and pans,’ she reveals. ‘You don't have much space so make every vignette and surface look as beautiful as you can, spend money on choosing things that are absolutely perfect and beautiful. Never settle for "okay" in a cottage, it will end up looking mismatched and messy.’ 

Pippa is Content Editor on Homes & Gardens online contributing to Period Living and Country Homes & Interiors print issues. A graduate of Art History and formerly Style Editor at Period Living, she is passionate about architecture, creating decorating content, interior styling and writing about craft and historic homes. She enjoys searching out beautiful images and the latest trends to share with the Homes & Gardens audience. A keen gardener, when she’s not writing you’ll find her growing flowers on her village allotment for styling projects.

20 design tips for small spaces |

(Image credit: Karen Harautuneian/deVOL/Amy Neunsinger for Leanne Ford)

Small cottage kitchens are full of prized original features, from rustic wooden ceiling beams and original masonry, to quirky inglenooks and alcoves. It's these characterful features, teamed with their quaint proportions, mix of rustic wooden furniture and quirky collectables that make cottage kitchens such cozy and homely spaces. 

However, their small footprints and low ceilings can be tricky obstacles to tackle when it comes to creating the perfect cottage kitchen ideas and design. But you don't have to compromise on practicality or style just because you're dealing with small kitchen ideas. To help inspire your small cottage kitchen ideas, we've shared our top tips, from cabinet choices to wall colors, alongside some handy advice from the experts.

Small cottage kitchen ideas

Preserving the rustic charm and original character of a small cottage kitchen is key to its success. 

'The charm of small cottage kitchens is often the quirky and eclectic mix of old and new that gives the feeling of a cozy and welcoming space,' Helen Parker, creative director at deVOL , explains. 

With this in mind, we've gathered plenty of ideas for how to define your cottage decorating ideas for a practical small cottage kitchen, without having to compromise on those prized architectural features.

1. Focus on luxe countertops

(Image credit: deVOL)

Elevate your small cottage kitchen ideas by introducing high-end surfaces, colors and accessories that impart a precious, jewel-box feel to your space.

The kitchen pictured here is only 40 square foot in size, yet it is brimming with elegant style, including a backsplash and surfaces in Arabescato marble and dramatic colors mixed with characterful accessories.

By honing your kitchen countertop ideas, and making them a key part of your cottage kitchen design, you maximize their impact.

'Despite its small scale, this cottage-style kitchen has an outsize personality that makes it such a charming space. Investing in luxe materials such as marble and natural stone makes a big impact without a huge outlay when it comes to a small room like this,' says Lucy Searle, Editor in Chief of Homes & Gardens.

2. Use characterful reclaimed materials

(Image credit: Leanne Ford/photo Amy Neunsinger)

This charming cottage kitchen is a project from interior designer Leanne Ford – and showcases all her hallmarks of charm, authenticity and a touch of the unexpected.

'When I first started designing this house I thought, I don’t want to fight this house; I want to go with it. It had storybook whimsy, beautiful ivy on the brick and magical old windows that I couldn’t take away. We even kept the original blue floor tile and the same footprint as the original kitchen so the space feels like it has always been there. But then we added bright white paint and soapstone countertops from Walker Zanger to balance it out. And there you have it – a modern space that is still full of charm and soul! 

'I asked a friend to help me cut up my favorite old table to turn it into the cabinet front for the space that lived beneath the kitchen sink. This well-loved, repurposed piece added the right amount of character to the kitchen to honor its original charm and soul. 

As a final touch, Leanne focussed on her kitchen sink ideas and what this essential piece could add to the overall look of the design.

'I finished the space off with a stone farmhouse sink from Native Trails that added in clean and timeless lines that would complement the wood.'

(Image credit: Old House Adam/photo Rachel McWalters)

You may be worried that a classic retro-style refrigerator will dominate a small cottage kitchen, but this Big Chill Classic Fridge has been trimmed down by 6 inches – from a standard 36 inches to a slimline 30 inches – to fit comfortably within a smaller space.

'We were going for a cottage vibe in the kitchen and this fridge was everything we wanted. The Classic 30in is an easy replacement for most residential fridges, and it has classic finishes with an industrial modern twist,' explains Adam Miller, who can be found on TikTok at Old House Adam .

Where should a refrigerator be placed? That depends on the size and your small kitchen layout ideas, but it's wise to keep to the classic kitchen triangle format of sink, stove and refrigerator if possible.

Adam also converted vintage desk into a small kitchen island for characterful cottage style.

'I put off turning an oak desk into the kitchen island for months, but after a trip to the lumber yard, we picked out this beautiful white oak that matched the table perfectly,' he says. 'I routed a shelf to match the desktop, and only joined it with biscuits, dowel rods, and wood glue. We added the shelf and the feet, added the matching stain and voila!'

4. Install a pot filler

(Image credit: deVOL)

It may seem counter-intuitive to need an additional faucet in a small cottage kitchen – after all, you don't have to walk many steps to reach the sink and fill up a pan from the tap there.  

In fact, having a pot filler tap is a great idea in a small cottage kitchen, as it prevents the to-and-fro traffic across the space that can cause difficulties when there's more than one person in the room. A pot filler is also the one kitchen feature that can increase your home's value most.

Other small-space ideas include incorporating slim, open shelving instead of boxy wall cupboards and integrated appliances concealed behind solid painted doors for a streamlined, unfussy look that only serves to emphasize the small cottage kitchen charm.

5. Fit a shelf above a window

(Image credit: Karen Harautuneian/Hub of the House Studio )

Making the most of vertical space is key in a tiny kitchen – and it's a great way when to add the homey comfort that's associated with small cottage kitchen ideas. What do you put on a small kitchen window? Why not consider a shelf?

This kitchen is designed by Karen Harautuneian, Founder of Hub of the House Studio  and co-founder of Hart & Toth Cabinet Co .

She has used the go-to-trick of a designer working on small white kitchen ideas, by opting for white walls, ceiling and cabinetry to maximize the sense of light and space.

But she has also thought about practicalities and the best ways of organizing a small kitchen in order to make the most of every inch. A shelf above the window can be used for items you want to reach easily but don't want cluttering up your countertop.

There's still room to get creative with the details that make a difference.

'When I design a small cottage-style kitchen, I love repurposing vintage sash pulls as cabinet hardware and using a rich wood floor to contrast the often white cabinetry,' Karen says.

6. Don't be scared to go dark

(Image credit: John Lewis of Hungerford)

Dark kitchen cabinet ideas, especially gray kitchen ideas, may seem out of step in a small cottage kitchen – perhaps too dramatic for a smaller space. In fact, dark gray is regarded by designers as one of the best kitchen cabinet colors for the sense of elegance, depth and luxury it can bring to a scheme.

There is also a feeling that it's better to embrace the lack of light in a small room, rather than trying to fight it.

'If you have a dark room, rather than battling to make the space feel lighter and brighter, opt for deep, rich colors to create a cocooning atmosphere,' suggests renowned interior designer, Nina Campbell .

7. Create an airy feel with base cabinetry only

(Image credit: Devol)

'Small cottage kitchens usually have low ceilings, so keeping clutter to a minimum is key to them feeling spacious and easy to work in,' continues Helen Parker. 

One way to achieve this is to factor in lots of base cabinetry storage (pictured in this deVOL Real Shaker kitchen), as this will allow you to keep the walls open and bright plus will allow characterful masonry and beams to take the lead.

8. Choose Shaker-style cabinets for a timeless feel

(Image credit: Future / Kasia Fiszer)

Taking its name from the Shakers – a Christian sect that settled in America in the late 18th century – Shaker design championed simplicity, honesty and quality. Extremely popular today, Shaker-style kitchen design with its simple straight lines and framed doors will complement any kitchen, no matter how small. 

Shaker kitchen ideas work well in a small cottage kitchen, both for their timeless look and because the wooden cabinets can be designed to fit even the most awkward space.

'Taking its cue from nature, a light sage color, as pictured in this kitchen, will complement the rural surroundings of a small cottage kitchen and the warm tones of natural timber,' says interiors stylist, Sara Bird.

(Image credit: Sustainable Kitchens )

Small cottage kitchens have beautiful original features, but these can cause design issues. Calling in a professional kitchen designer who can create bespoke design solutions for your space is a great place to start. 

Talking about this Cotswold Chapel kitchen by Sustainable Kitchens , co-founder Sam Shaw explains how 'part of the brief was to preserve the room's rustic charm, so we embraced the original features by fitting an Aga and extractor into the cove.

The Aga gives a homely cottage feel, while disguising the extractor allows for a clean streamlined look which is important in small spaces.

10. Consider glazed wall cabinets 

(Image credit: British Standard by Plain English)

In small cottage kitchens, space is at a premium, so it's important to factor in lots of storage.

'Use glazed wall cupboards so they feel less imposing,' suggests Adrian Bergman, senior designer at British Standard by Plain English kitchens. 'Paint the interior of glazed wall cupboards a different color to draw the eye through to the back.' 

11. Paint wall cabinets to match the walls

(Image credit: Sustainable Kitchens)

If you decide to go for glazed wall cabinets, one trick to making small cottage kitchens feel larger is to paint the outsides of the cabinets in the same color as the walls, as co-founder of Sustainable Kitchens Sam Shaw explains. 

'This kitchen was to suit a family of six so needed to incorporate plenty of storage, we disguised extra storage by painting wall cabinets the same shade as the wall to blend in using the high ceilings efficiently. '

Choosing your kitchen color ideas and the best colors and finishes for your painted kitchen cabinet ideas is a key part of the design process.

The kitchen is painted in Chappell Green from Farrow & Ball , which is a brilliant color for complementing the warm honeyed tones of natural wood and stone in small cottages. Painting the doors, door frames and skirting in the same color, too, will help the space feel larger and more unified, even when using a darker shade.

12. Opt for warm neutrals to create the illusion of space

(Image credit: Devol)

Painting walls and cabinets in a neutral shade is a go-to solution for keeping spaces feeling light and bright. 

'For many years, grays and cooler tones have been popular, but to make spaces feel truly homey, as a small cottage kitchen should, it's worth considering warmer neutrals,' says Homes & Gardens Editor in Chief, Lucy Searle.

This Real Shaker kitchen from deVOL is kept warm and welcoming with cabinetry painted in its creamy Linen shade, while tall wall cabinets and white Carrara marble worktop also help to keep things looking bright and streamlined.  

13. Bring cottage charm with natural wood cabinetry

(Image credit: Colin Poole)

Real wood cabinetry will stand the test of time, and, when left with a natural finish showcasing the beautiful timber grain, it will also create a charming rustic feel perfectly suited to a rural cottage, as this small cottage kitchen proves. 

Whatever wood cabinet ideas you choose, your units will need care and maintenance to keep them looking their best, but it's certainly worth it. 

14. Make your worktops deeper

(Image credit: British Standard)

Another key thing to consider when designing a small cottage kitchen where space is tight is to 'increase the depth of the worktop to make up for limited wall space,' suggests Adrian Bergman, senior designer at British Standard by Plain English. 

'Smaller appliances can clutter the worktop so this is an easy fix to counter this. Be careful not to go too deep as you may find it difficult to access your wall cupboards. '

15. Add in a moveable kitchen island

(Image credit: Future / Malcolm Menzies)

Whether it's a butcher's block, vintage metal trolley on casters, or an old wooden table, a moveable piece of furniture will give an extra surface for prepping. What's more, portable kitchen island ideas like this will give flexibility to the layout of a small space as it can simply be repositioned when extra space is needed. 

Search flea markets for intriguing vintage pieces in natural materials with time-worn patinas which will complement the features of a rustic cottage.

16. Create impact by painting cabinets in a vibrant color

(Image credit: Plankbridge)

If you're lucky enough to have lots of natural light in your small cottage kitchen, such as in this Plankbridge shepherd's hut kitchen, then you can afford to be color confident with cabinetry. This vibrant green brings a playful touch to a classic shaker design.

You could also take this approach to farmhouse kitchen island ideas, painting them a bright color to create a focal point.

17. Install some wall hooks

(Image credit: Future / Kasia Fiszer)

There are certain tricks that designers use to keep order when they are organizing a kitchen.

Wall hooks will keep surfaces clutter-free and helpful for hanging pans, kitchen essentials and textiles when base cabinet space is limited. However they also help create that homey feel that we all love about a small cottage kitchen, opting for vintage wall hooks will help create that sort after mix of old and new. 

18. Choose a paint color to complement original features

(Image credit: Little Greene)

When it comes to choosing a color for a small cottage kitchen Ruth Mottershead, creative director of Little Greene advises:  'It’s important to consider the colors that already exist within the space, be that furniture, flooring or furnishings, these elements should be included as colors within your palette to draw out the style you wish to follow. Are there architectural features or areas of interest to draw attention to? Color is a fantastic way to highlight these features or brighten gloomy corners.

Remember, cottage lighting ideas are also key to creating a welcoming but well illuminated space.

19. Add a pulley dryer

(Image credit: Future / Jody Stewart)

When space is limited, it's important to utilise every inch. Hanging a pulley dryer from the ceiling is a great way to get laundry drying up and out of the way, whether you are installing it in your small cottage kitchen or organizing a laundry room.

Add hooks to your laundry rack and it can also double up as a place to hang pots and utensils, in fact, anything! A common sight before the days of washing dryers, a pulley maid will give your small cottage kitchen a homey, vintage feel. 

20. Add in high shelves to display collectables 

(Image credit: Future / Jody Stewart)

In small cottage kitchens you have to make use of every nook and cranny. Often the focal point of a small cottage kitchen, above the Aga is a brilliant place to add in a wall shelf and showcase those cherished ceramics that make your space feel so quaint and homely.  

When you're styling a shelf like this, which is more about display than storage, be sure to created a balanced vignette of favorite items.

What kitchen layout is popular in small homes?

The layout of your kitchen will depend on the space available to you. Galley kitchen ideas are the best option for narrow and long spaces. L-shaped kitchens give a sense of flow, and may allow space for a dining area at one end of the space. Or you may find that a freestanding kitchen, which allows flexibility to move furniture and flex it to fit your space, offers you the greatest freedom for the kitchen layout in a small home.

Pippa is Content Editor on Homes & Gardens online contributing to Period Living and Country Homes & Interiors print issues. A graduate of Art History and formerly Style Editor at Period Living, she is passionate about architecture, creating decorating content, interior styling and writing about craft and historic homes. She enjoys searching out beautiful images and the latest trends to share with the Homes & Gardens audience. A keen gardener, when she’s not writing you’ll find her growing flowers on her village allotment for styling projects.

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Setus Design

log home with reed roof
Photo of large rustic straight kitchen with dining table, sink sink, glass fronts, gray fronts, granite countertops, white splashback, ceramic tile splashback, black appliances, light parquet flooring , beige floor, gray countertop and ceiling made of clapboard without an island in a private house

hallway.
Original design example of a medium sized straight modern kitchen with dining table, porcelain stoneware floors, gray floors, sink sink, flat cabinets, laminate worktops, green splashback, ceramic tile splashback, black appliances, brown worktops and wood tone cabinets medium tone without an island in a private house

Country house in Yasnaya Polyana (Belarus)

Domani Interior Solutions Center

Inspiration for home comfort: medium-sized direct kitchen in a modern style with a dining table, a monolithic sink, flat fronts, black facades, black backsplash, black appliances, porcelain stoneware floors, gray floors and black countertops without an island in a private house

Chalet-style house

Natasha Pushkina

Kitchen. View from the working area.
Homely inspiration: shabby chic corner kitchen with overhead sink, raised infill cabinets, green cabinets, peninsula, brown flooring, beige worktops, dining table, colorful splashback and black appliances in a private residence

Apartment in Sestroretsk

Remodel

Stylish design: U-shaped kitchen-living room in a modern style with a mortise sink, gray facades, a gray backsplash and a backsplash made of ceramic tiles without an island in a private house - the latest trend

House in Solnechny

Natalya Solovieva / Interioto

Photographing a house in Solnechny for a real estate agency
Design idea: a medium-sized, bright modern kitchen with a dining table, flat cabinets, white cabinets, glass splashback, appliances under furniture facade, porcelain stoneware floor and an island in a private house

House in Pirogovo

Anastasia Muravyova

Design idea: corner kitchen in the neoclassical (modern classic) style with a sink sink, recessed panel facades, white facades, beige floor and gray worktop in a private house

Kitchen

goro_da

The main view of the kitchen.
Photo of a modern freestanding u-shaped kitchen with a sink sink, raised infill cabinets, gray cabinets, sintered quartz countertops, white splashback, sintered quartz splashback, porcelain stoneware flooring, island, white flooring, white countertops and multi-level ceiling in a private house

Dark Forest: a country house in the Moscow region

Point of Design

Dining group, Bontempi. Kitchen set, Scavolini. Pendant lamps, Tom Dixon.
Design idea for a large modern u-shaped kitchen with a dining table, flat cabinets, gray cabinets, white backsplash, stainless steel appliances, gray floors and white worktops without an island in a private home

Nostalgia for Italy

Levina Ekaterina and Vavilova Anastasia

Design idea for a mid-sized country-style straight kitchen with dining table, semi-recessed sink (with front edge), recessed panel fronts, any color fronts, tile worktop, gray backsplash, ceramic tile backsplash, black appliances, terracotta flooring, brown floors, gray countertops and any ceiling without an island in a private home

75 photos, planning, choice of style

The kitchen is an important place for every person. They devote a lot of time to the arrangement, trying to make this place not only comfortable, but also beautiful. Equipping it in an apartment, a person is limited to a small space, a certain layout. The process must be carried out as quickly as possible, because the neighbors are categorically against any noise. The design of the kitchen in a country house can be anything, nothing limits a person. He embodies all his fantasies, but it is necessary to take into account the features.

A lot of time is devoted to the arrangement of the kitchen

Creating a kitchen in a country house, you can give free rein to your imagination

Equipping the kitchen in a country house, it is necessary to take into account some features

Contents

What affects the interior?

Appearance must be thought out in advance. There are 3 factors that have a significant impact on it.

  1. Wishes of people. Consider the lifestyle of each person, their preferences. Pets play a huge role.
  2. A certain style. Take into account the entire room and the direction of the kitchen separately. Part of the design is different than the whole room.
  3. Size. If you have a large room, from 30 square meters, then it is advisable to combine with the dining room. If small, then save space for the dining room. The main thing is to make it convenient to cook: correctly position the sink, stove and refrigerator - the “working triangle”.

Kitchen design needs to be thought out in advance

Consider some factors when equipping the kitchen

With a small room, do not save too much space. Remember that you need to move freely on it, make it as comfortable as possible. A kitchen island can save space, accommodating a stove, a sink, a main surface and various small cabinets at once.

The kitchen should be free and comfortable

To make the kitchen comfortable and beautiful, you can hire a designer

Use functional furniture to save space

See alsoKitchen design features in Khrushchev

A country house has a huge advantage over an apartment - a wide choice of layouts. Each has its own characteristics that you should definitely know.

Pay attention to the open space layout. When choosing it, think in advance how you will delimit the functional areas. Bar counters or islands with a sink and stove are ideal for a country cottage. It looks very nice, and it will be comfortable to cook.

Kitchen zoning is an important milestone

If the room is large enough, you can make a seating area

Bar counters fit perfectly into the interior of kitchens

See also Kitchens with gas boiler: design

Choice of style

Kitchens are very different. Freedom of choice complicates the task of the owners in the design of housing. Remember that each direction has its own nuances, so the choice is limited. The interior of the kitchen of a country house can be in the following styles.

Orientation

Features

Classic

It is often chosen to decorate the entire home, so the kitchen will go well with other rooms, including the dining room. Choose natural materials for decoration: wood, stone and others.

Country

It is more and more popular in our country. Rural orientation is ideal for a country cottage. Only the necessary furniture, kitchen equipment is used, accessories and accents of the rural direction are necessarily added.

Rustic

A relatively new species, which is considered the most natural. The wood is used in its raw form, a lot of stone and rough surfaces. Rustic is as close to country as possible, but more suitable for nature and hunting lovers. Not used: luxurious utensils, bright colors, ornaments.

Provence

One of the coziest views. It is often chosen to create comfortable family housing. Suitable for large and bright rooms. Used: light colors, textile elements, a small amount of kitchen equipment is needed and so on.

Minimalism

Allows you to create a comfortable space using only the necessary pieces of furniture. Use multi-level lighting, a lot of white, diluting it with black and gray, minimal decor on windows and walls.

Beams are suitable for kitchen interiors. They are suitable for any orientation, only before they need to be decorated.

Choose your style according to your personal preference

Classic style is the most popular choice

See alsoItalian style kitchen interior

Rustic kitchen

Has another name - country. It is ideal for a wooden structure, because it is a stylization of the traditions of various peoples. In this form, many kitchen islands are even sold to create an interior and divide a room into several zones.

Important! Country has several variations at once. If you decide to combine with the living room, decorate the entire room in this style so that there is no dissonance.

Use natural materials for kitchen decoration

Country style design is more suitable for wooden houses

Recently, it has become fashionable to design a kitchen in a country house in the American country style. To do this, follow the following rules:

Use as little embellishment as possible

Country style is perfect for the kitchen in a country house

Natural wood recommended for country style

If you have a lot of windows, arrange in the Russian direction. It resembles country music with a lot of wood and textiles. The colors used are bright red and white. You need to be careful with white, because you will cook food, and it is very easy to get dirty during this process. Black blotches will not interfere, but it should not be much. You can add folk Russian style items, like a samovar or earthenware and other kitchen equipment.

It's easy to create a country style design

When using white color in the interior of the kitchen, try to be careful, the walls can easily get dirty

What are the details to consider?

You have learned almost everything you need to decorate the interior of the kitchen. It remains only to learn about the nuances of design: