If you’re fantasizing about a dream cottage house, you might be interested in the variety of styles, shapes and sizes cottages come in. While there are many more options than you might think, all cottage style homes feature some of the same key elements.
Here is a short guide to the defining characteristics of cottage house plans:
Architectural elements
Cottage houses come in a wide variety of styles based on era and region-specific traditions. However, even modern cottage homes share some of the same key similarities. Some examples of exterior architectural elements include:
- Thatched & gabled roofs.
- Half-timbered walls.
- Stucco.
- Bay windows.
- Stacked chimneys.
Size
Property size is crucial to defining a cottage house. The homes themselves tend to be lower square footage than other styles, making the house a cozy dwelling nestled within the natural landscape.
While modern and contemporary cottage homes boast more square feet than their traditional counterparts, the house plans and decor remain quaint and charming to maintain the cozy aesthetic.
Gardens
No cottage house plan would be complete without a garden. Traditional English cottages are one of the best examples of this defining feature, so much so that English cottage gardens make up their own style of landscaping design.
Cottage home gardens should be abundant and overgrown landscapes full of a mix of flowering and edible plants. Meandering stone or gravel pathways often lead from a small gate to the front door. Climbing roses and other flowering vines cover fences, arbors and even the home’s facade to further integrate the structure into the natural surroundings.
Cottage house plans are perfect for homeowners seeking a cozy escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. With these key elements in mind, you’ll be able to better recognize a cottage home and incorporate aspects of their house plans into your own living space.
About the Author
Debbie Caldwell
When you first meet Debbie Harris-Caldwell, you are immediately drawn to her charming Welsh accent and the twinkle in her eye. The well-traveled transplant from Wales is quick to set you at ease and time spent with her promises to be time well spent.
Debbie has been a real estate agent for 40 years and takes great pride in her customer service skills. "I make myself available to my customers when they need me, whether it's on a Sunday Evening or after their long day at work. I make my schedule fit theirs. I also keep my customers updated on everything happening with their listings or purchase, I am their conduit for information." She has built a business following her key principles of clear communication, attention to detail, client advocacy, and comprehensive knowledge of the area. Debbie comes to every new transaction with positive energy, determination, a strong understanding of the currents driving the market, and the expertise that comes from a lifetime of experience. She knows the importance of marketing and whether a home is for sale for $200,000 or for $2 million, she always has professional photography done and creates a listing presentation that best shows off her customer's home.