How to Create Your Perfect Cottage-Style Kitchen

Cottage kitchens (also known as country-style or farmhouse kitchens) have been enjoying a rise in popularity in Australian homes, and we think it’s a trend that is well and truly here to stay. The appeal of a cottage or farmhouse-inspired kitchen is easy to see — words such as ‘warm’, ‘welcoming’ and ‘charming’ immediately come to mind, plus this style allows for colour, texture and beautiful, personalised styling.

If a cottage kitchen design appeals to you, read on as we share our best cottage kitchen ideas for creating this look in your home.

Chic Cottage Kitchen Colour Palette

Cottage kitchen colour scheme with neutral tones

Establishing your colour palette at the beginning of the design process is essential for a country-style or cottage kitchen. Neutral tones are a classic choice, but what sets this style apart from others, such as the Hamptons look, is that you can play with colour. An all-white cottage kitchen is always beautiful, but we recommend considering other shades such as greys, blues and greens for a contemporary take that will remain timeless. These cottage kitchen colour schemes work particularly well in both small cottage kitchens and larger family spaces.

Select Decorative Cabinetry for Your Farmhouse Kitchen

Bring country charm into your home with decorative door panels- a hallmark of farmhouse and cottage kitchen cabinets. We love a Shaker-style or panelled door used throughout your kitchen for a statement that will turn heads, and luckily, we have several options to choose from within the Kinsman range! If you love a shaker profile, then either our Somersby or Camden are wonderful options, while our Avalon and Avoca doors, with their panel detailing, are also worth considering. You may even like to mix and match throughout your design for a bold, rustic cottage kitchen look.

Showpiece Handles for a Rustic Cottage Kitchen Feel

Never underestimate the impact the right handle can make on your overall cottage kitchen design! Handles are a crucial element in a rustic or country kitchen, adding another layer of detail to your room. There are many options to choose from, and we recommend considering a detailed knob or cup handle or a simple yet elegant bar handle. Pay attention to the finish and colour, too — chrome is a classic option, but we also love matte brass or black for a modern cottage kitchen take.

Consider Your Benchtops and Cottage Kitchen Island

cottage kitchen island with marble benchtop

A kitchen island is a perfect addition to a country-cottage kitchen, creating a stylish and functional gathering space for family and guests. Extend your countertop across the island to form a seating and casual dining area. Marble or timber-look benchtops will complement your joinery and hardware choices for a kitchen that celebrates true farmhouse and French country kitchen style.

Standout Appliances and Accessories

farmhouse sink in a French country cottage kitchen

Including a large farmhouse sink teamed with an ornate tap instantly evokes the charm of a country or cottage-inspired kitchen. So too do standout appliances such as a freestanding cooker; however, if this isn’t something you wish to include in your design, we recommend integrating appliances behind your cabinetry if you’re worried they’ll stand out too much. Statement pendant lighting and stools at your island bench will bring your cottage kitchen design together.

Enjoy Styling Your Cottage Kitchen!

More is more when it comes to styling your country or cottage-inspired kitchen! Have fun and play with colour, texture and shapes. Embrace a relaxed style and put things on display to be admired and enjoyed — from fresh florals, linens, fresh produce, rattan bags, cookware and mismatched vintage crockery, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re designing a small cottage kitchen or a larger farmhouse-style space, styling is where the personality really shines through.