cottage style vs farmhouse style: A Complete Guide
cottage style and farmhouse style are two of the most popular interior design styles, and they are often compared because of their surface-level similarities. However, they differ significantly in philosophy, materials, and execution. cottage style is known for charming, lived-in spaces with floral patterns, soft colors, vintage finds, and comfortable casual elegance, while farmhouse style embraces warm, welcoming spaces with shiplap walls, rustic wood, vintage accessories, and comfortable country charm. Understanding the differences between these two styles will help you choose the right direction for your home, or even combine elements from both to create a personalized space.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Cottage | Farmhouse |
|---|---|---|
| Color Palette | Soft Pink, Cream, Sage Green, Butter Yellow | White, Cream, Gray, Sage Green |
| Key Materials | Painted Wood, Chintz, Linen, Wicker | Reclaimed Wood, Shiplap, Wrought Iron, Linen |
| Design Era | English countryside tradition | Traditional American rural |
| Best Room Types | Living Room, Bedroom, Kitchen | Kitchen, Living Room, Bedroom |
| Budget Range | Budget-friendly - charming vintage finds | Budget-friendly - thrifted finds and natural materials |
| Maintenance | Medium - vintage pieces need maintenance | Medium - natural materials need care |
| Space Size | Small to medium - charming intimate spaces | Medium to large - open kitchens and living areas |
Color Palette
Soft Pink, Cream, Sage Green, Butter Yellow
White, Cream, Gray, Sage Green
Key Materials
Painted Wood, Chintz, Linen, Wicker
Reclaimed Wood, Shiplap, Wrought Iron, Linen
Design Era
English countryside tradition
Traditional American rural
Best Room Types
Living Room, Bedroom, Kitchen
Kitchen, Living Room, Bedroom
Budget Range
Budget-friendly - charming vintage finds
Budget-friendly - thrifted finds and natural materials
Maintenance
Medium - vintage pieces need maintenance
Medium - natural materials need care
Space Size
Small to medium - charming intimate spaces
Medium to large - open kitchens and living areas
Key Differences
Cottage is soft, romantic, and garden-inspired; farmhouse is casual, utilitarian, and barn-inspired
In terms of cottage is soft, romantic, and garden-inspired; farmhouse is casual, utilitarian, and barn-inspired, cottage style is defined by charming, lived-in spaces with floral patterns, soft colors, vintage finds, and comfortable casual elegance.
In terms of cottage is soft, romantic, and garden-inspired; farmhouse is casual, utilitarian, and barn-inspired, farmhouse style is defined by warm, welcoming spaces with shiplap walls, rustic wood, vintage accessories, and comfortable country charm.
Cottage uses pastel colors and floral patterns; farmhouse uses neutral whites and muted earth tones
cottage style typically uses Soft Pink, Cream, Sage Green, creating a thoughtfully curated atmosphere.
farmhouse style typically uses White, Cream, Gray, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Cottage furniture is painted, curved, and dainty; farmhouse furniture is sturdy, simple, and often reclaimed
cottage style furniture features distinctive shapes and quality craftsmanship that define the style.
farmhouse style furniture features sturdy wooden construction, distressed finishes, and heirloom character.
Cottage layers chintz, ruffles, and lace; farmhouse features burlap, gingham, and ticking stripe
In terms of cottage layers chintz, ruffles, and lace; farmhouse features burlap, gingham, and ticking stripe, cottage style is defined by charming, lived-in spaces with floral patterns, soft colors, vintage finds, and comfortable casual elegance.
In terms of cottage layers chintz, ruffles, and lace; farmhouse features burlap, gingham, and ticking stripe, farmhouse style is defined by warm, welcoming spaces with shiplap walls, rustic wood, vintage accessories, and comfortable country charm.
What They Share
When to Choose Each Style
Choose Cottage If...
- Choose Cottage when you want a romantic, garden-inspired space with soft florals, pastels, and a charming, whimsical feel
- You want a charming, romantic space with vintage character
- You love floral patterns, soft pastels, and feminine touches
- You prefer intimate, cozy rooms over expansive open plans
Choose Farmhouse If...
- Choose Farmhouse when you prefer a simpler, more rustic country aesthetic with neutral tones and practical, sturdy furnishings
- You want a warm, welcoming home with rustic character
- You love vintage finds and repurposed materials
- You value comfort and casual elegance above formality
Room-by-Room Comparison
Living Room
Overstuffed floral sofa, painted white furniture, vintage finds, and soft pastel accents with lace curtains.
A slipcovered sofa, reclaimed wood coffee table, shiplap accent wall, and a cozy woven area rug.
Bedroom
A painted iron bed frame, floral quilt, lace-trimmed pillows, and vintage bedside tables with fresh flowers.
A reclaimed wood bed frame, quilted coverlet, mason jar lamp on a vintage nightstand, and shiplap walls.
Kitchen
Pastel painted cabinets, open shelving with vintage dishware, a classic butler sink, and floral curtains.
White shaker cabinets, butcher block countertops, an apron-front sink, and open shelving with mason jars.
Bathroom
Beadboard wainscoting, a vintage-style vanity, floral shower curtain, and porcelain accessories.
A clawfoot tub, shiplap walls, a vintage vanity with a vessel sink, and wrought iron towel hooks.
Dining Room
A painted farmhouse table, mismatched pastel chairs, a floral tablecloth, and china cabinet display.
A large reclaimed wood table, ladder-back chairs, a wrought iron chandelier, and a burlap runner.
Frequently Asked Questions
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