Interior Fun

What Is the Difference Between Farmhouse and Cottage Style

Often, farmhouse and cottage style are thrown into the same decorating category. This is because both styles focus on comfortable furniture and a cozy feeling. However, it is important to note that there are several differences between farmhouse and cottage decorating styles.



Farmhouse Vs Cottage Style

When it comes to style, there are two main types of homes that most people are familiar with- the farmhouse and the cottage. As you might expect, these two styles vary in a number of ways, but one thing they both have in common is that they’re both charming and comfortable. A farmhouse typically has more character than a cottage, and is often larger and more imposing. Cottages, on the other hand, can be much smaller and more intimate, perfect for those who want to live close to nature but not in too much of a rural setting.

Origins of Farmhouse Style

Farmhouse style is a term used to describe a type of architecture that began to appear in the United States and Canada in the early 1800s. This style was popularized by the Pennsylvania Dutch, who built simple, practical homes that could withstand the rigors of farm life. Farmhouse style homes are typically one or one-and-a-half stories tall, with a gable roof and clapboard siding.

Characteristics of Farmhouse Style

Farmhouse style is a rustic and cozy architectural style that is often used in rural areas. It features simple, vernacular design elements such as gables, rooflines, and door and window trim. The style is often associated with the use of natural materials such as stone, wood, and metal. Farmhouse style homes are typically warm and inviting, and provide a sense of comfort and relaxation.

Pros and Cons of Farmhouse Style

There are pros and cons to farmhouse style. On the one hand, this style can be charming and cozy, with its rustic details and simple aesthetic. On the other hand, it can feel a bit dated and overdone. Additionally, farmhouse style often incorporates a lot of natural materials like wood and stone, which can be expensive to replicate.

Origins of Cottage Style

Origins of Cottage Style can be traced back to the early 1800s when the British began to build small, one-story homes known as cottages. These homes were often used as vacation homes, and featured steeply pitched roofs, gables, and large windows. The style soon spread to the United States, where it became popular for summer homes and vacation rentals. Today, cottage style is still popular for its cozy, casual feel.

Characteristics of Cottage Style

Cottage style is a type of architecture that became popular in the early 20th century. It features simple, vernacular designs with steeply pitched roofs, gables, and often clapboard or shingle siding. The style is often associated with rural areas, and many cottages feature wrap-around porches or decks.

Pros and Cons of Cottage Style

One advantage to living in a cottage is the intimate feeling of community one experiences with neighbors. There is also a sense of being close to nature since most cottages are located near forests, lakes, or other natural areas. Cottage style homes are often more affordable than traditional single-family homes, and they can be easier to maintain.

However, there are some drawbacks to living in a cottage as it can be difficult to heat or cool, it can be cramped if not well designed, and it can be difficult to find furnishings and decor that match the style.

Types of Farmhouse Style

Farmhouse is an umbrella term that is used to describe many different decorating styles, including modern farmhouse decorating. Farmhouse styles take the relaxation of country decor and combines it with chic elements found in modern decorating schemes to create a look that has been dubbed modern farmhouse. Modern farmhouse is one of many examples of the variations of this style. Cottage styled decorating is not quite as flexible.

French Farmhouse

French Farmhouse Decor from julieblanner.com

This is a very classic farmhouse look that’s been around for ages! It features white walls with dark wooden beams running throughout the house. French farmhouse decor has an old-fashioned feel to it but still looks modern at the same time.

Industrial Farmhouse

If you’re looking for something more industrial then this might just be your style. Industrial farmhouse are known for their bright red barns and rusty metal roofs. The inside of these houses features exposed brick or concrete floors which can give off a cool vibe.

Rustic Farmhouse

The rustic farmhouse chic decor is all about being comfortable, cozy, and warm. These types of homes have lots of wood in them so they tend to get hot during the summer months. They also usually don’t have any central heating meaning that they rely on fireplaces instead. If you want to live somewhere where there isn’t much going on then this could be perfect for you.

Country Farmhouse

Country Farmhouse Decor from onekindesign.com

A country farmhouse is similar to a traditional farmhouse except it tends to be smaller than most other farmhouses. Country farmhouses often come with porches and wrap-around verandas too. The country chic decor used many different colors when decorating such as yellow, green, blue, brown, and even black.

Types of Cottage Style

Cottages come in many different styles. Some are very rustic, some are very modern, and others are somewhere in between. But there are some common characteristics that define each style. Here we list 4 of our favorites.

French Cottage Style

French cottage decor from homestolove.com.au

Cottages are small, quaint little buildings that were originally built by farmers back in the day. Today cottages are becoming increasingly popular because they offer great value for money. Many people choose to buy one if they need extra space for themselves or their family.

Dutch Cottage Style

These tiny dwellings are designed like Dutch windmills. They typically have two stories and a gable roof. There will always be some sort of chimney sticking out from the top of the building. Inside, you’ll see plenty of windows and doors.

English Cottage Style

These cute little homes are found mostly in England. They’re made up of three main parts: the front door, the living room, and kitchen area, and finally the bedroom. Most English cottages have four rooms including the bathroom. Some may only include three though.

Spanish Cottage Style

Spanish cottages are generally quite large compared to those in other countries. They’re normally located near beaches and rivers. Spanish cottages are traditionally painted white although nowadays they can vary in color depending on what region they’re in.

What Defines a Farmhouse Style Home?

Because of the soft colors, beautiful details and vintage touches, cottage style is seen as more feminine than other styles, including farmhouse. Where a cottage styled home will have more floral details, farmhouse styles will not.

For example, Farmhouse homes often feature:

Accent Pieces

The accent pieces used while decorating the home can easily make it identifiable as one style or the other. For example, these accents are commonly used in farmhouse decorating schemes:

  • Wire baskets instead of woven
  • Pieces of a darker colored wood
  • Crafty projects
  • Repurposed barn wood
  • Vintage and metal pieces

Accent pieces in homes with this decorating style often add to both the charm and the functionality of the home. This style is all about functionality, and accent pieces should add to that.

Barn Doors and Wood

Barn doors are a trend in the farmhouse decorating circle that took on quick, and they have yet to leave. These doors are only found in homes with this style and will not be seen in cottage styled homes. Likewise, wood that resembles a barn door is often used as an accent piece in farmhouse homes. It can be seen used in picture frames, doors, as shelves and more. This trend is not seen in other decorating styles.

Other Key Elements

Other key elements that are seen in farmhouse decorating schemes and not cottage styled homes include:

  • Exposed wood beams in the ceiling
  • Metal pots and pans (such as copper)
  • Oversized, comfortable furniture
  • Less decorations
  • More sentimental pieces on display and in use
  • Items of furniture or accents that have a back story

Cottage styled decor and farmhouse decor are similar in many aspects. For example, both styles make use of natural elements. These differences between the two can help you determine which style is right for your home.

How to Decorate Country Style

Decorating your home in a country style is a great way to add character and feel of rustic romance to your space. There are many different ways to accomplish this look, and the best way to find what works for you is by experimenting.

Choose Your Style

Country style is one of the most popular styles in home decorating. It is comfortable, homey, and often features a mix of antique and rustic furnishings. There are many ways to achieve a country look in your home, but the key is to choose your style and stick with it.

One popular country style is French Country. This look features distressed furniture, muted colors, and plenty of natural textures like wicker and burlap. If you want a more traditional country style, go for British Country. This look often features dark wood furniture with floral upholstery and patterned rugs.

If you’re not sure what style of country you want, start by looking at photos online or in magazines. Once you’ve decided on a style, buy or borrow some furniture and accessories that fit that theme.

Colors

When it comes to decorating your home country style, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is what colors to use. You want to choose colors that will create a warm and inviting feeling, making your home feel like a cozy refuge from the world.

Some good options include earth tones like browns, greens, and oranges, or soft shades like pink, lavender, and light blue. If you’re looking for something a little more festive, bright reds and yellows can also work well in a country setting.

Just be sure to avoid using too many strong colors at once, or your home may end up looking too busy or cluttered. By choosing colors that reflect the natural beauty of the countryside, you can create a warm and inviting space that feels like home.

Furniture

Country style furniture is a great way to decorate your home without having to spend a lot of money. You can use furniture that is comfortable and practical, and doesn’t have to be expensive. One of the best things about country style furniture is that it can be used in any room in your home.

Accessories

Adding accessories is a great way to complete the look of your country style home. There are many different types of accessories that you can add, so it’s important to choose ones that will match the overall aesthetic of your home. If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few ideas:

First, consider adding some decorative pillows to your furniture. You can find pillows in all sorts of different designs and fabrics, so they’re perfect for adding a touch of personality to your space.

Another great option is artwork. You can find prints and paintings that depict pastoral scenes or farming landscapes, which will help to create a more rustic feel in your home.

Finally, don’t forget about lighting! A few well-placed lamps can really help to set the mood in a room and create an inviting atmosphere.

Wall Decor

Country style is all about comfort and function. A room decorated country style should be cozy and inviting, with a warm and rustic feel. One of the easiest ways to achieve this look is by using wall decor to set the mood and style of the room.

There are many different types of wall decor that can be used to create a country style room. One of the most popular options is vintage or antique signs. These signs can be used to add personality and character to a space, and they come in a variety of styles and designs. Another popular option is farmhouse art. This type of art features rustic images and designs, and it can help to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in a room.

In addition to traditional wall art, there are also many other types of decor that can be used to create a country style space.

Flooring

When it comes time to choose flooring for a country-style home, it’s important to select something that will complement the room’s look and feel. In many cases, hardwood floors are a good option, since they can create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

If hardwood isn’t practical or affordable, consider using a natural fiber rug or carpeting. This will help to add some texture and depth to the room. Be sure to choose flooring that is in keeping with the overall style of the home, whether it’s rustic or traditional. By taking this into account, you’ll be able to create a space that is both beautiful and functional.

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