Cottage chic: 6 ways to decorate your cottage on a budget

Vintage Vibe

Scour garage sales, antique shops and second-hand stores for cottage décor. When grouped together on a table or in a cabinet, a collection of pitchers, glass jars or bottles makes a statement.

Under cover

Slipcovered furniture is your friend. Either have a cover made in a durable fabric for an old sofa or chair, or buy a slipcovered couch like this one from Ikea. Slipcovers are washable so even a pale colour is practical. Consider picking up a spare cover to swap out if needed.

Flower power

Whether purchased from your favourite flower shop or picked on a walk in the woods, fresh flowers give a room instant style. Forgo a traditional vase for glass jars or other vessels for a more casual feel.

DIY decor

Personalize your cottage with DIY elements to make it feel your own. Whether you update a table with a fresh coat of paint or create some rustic artwork, each project will make your cottage feel like home.

Keep it simple

When decorating your cottage be inspired by your surroundings but don’t get carried away with a theme. The use of patterned cushions, colour and texture in this living room evoke the feeling of being by the water without being over-the-top.

Double duty

Invest in furniture that can serve more than one function and that work well in small spaces. Use a bench as a coffee table; it’s scale will suit a small space and it can be pulled up to the dining table for extra seating when hosting a dinner party. An oversized basket with a lid can serve as an end table and store blankets for those chilly cottage nights.