What is cottage style?
Cottage style is an architectural style inspired by the traditional English country cottage, characterised by a picturesque, romantic appearance with steep roofs, bay windows, half-timbering and natural materials. The style became popular in the 19th century and remains recognisable in residential areas today.
Characteristics
- Steep roofs — often with tiles or thatch, sometimes with multiple roof planes
- Bay windows and extensions — creating a lively façade
- Half-timbering — decorative timber framing in the façade (not always structural)
- Natural materials — brick, timber, natural stone and thatch
- Asymmetry — a deliberately irregular layout for an organic feel
- Chimneys — prominent, often brick chimneys
Applications
- Villas — particularly in residential districts from the late 19th and early 20th century
- Country houses — rural homes in wooded settings
- Garden buildings — summerhouses and gazebos as atmospheric garden features
- Arts and Crafts movement — cottage style is closely related to this artistic movement
Difference from chalet style
Cottage style is English-oriented with brick façades and half-timbering, whereas chalet style refers to the Swiss mountain chalet with extensive timber, balconies and wide roof overhangs.
Related terms
- Architectural style
- Bay window
- Half-timbering
- Villa
- Arts and Crafts
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