11 things in your cottage that interior designers would throw out today

The charm of a cottage lies in its quaint, cozy appeal, often filled with nostalgic elements that tell a story of the past. However, as design trends evolve, certain items that were once considered staples of cottage decor are now seen as outdated or impractical. Modern interior designers are increasingly advocating for spaces that not only look good but also function efficiently and feel inviting.

In this article, we explore eleven things commonly found in cottages that interior designers would likely recommend tossing out today. By understanding and updating these elements, homeowners can breathe new life into their cottages, making them both stylish and comfortable. Let's delve into what might be holding your charming retreat back from its full potential.

Gone are the days when heavy, dark drapes were the norm in cottage interiors. While they might have been practical for insulation, today's design trends favor lighter, airier spaces. Heavy curtains can make a room feel smaller and more closed off, which is the opposite of the open, inviting atmosphere that most people now desire.

Designers suggest replacing these with sheer curtains or light-filtering shades that allow natural light to pour in. This change not only brightens up the room but also highlights architectural features and makes the space feel larger and more connected to the outdoors.

Oversized leather recliners were once synonymous with ultimate comfort, but their bulky frames can overwhelm a small cottage space. These chairs often measure between 40 to 50 inches in width, taking up valuable floor space and disrupting the flow of the room.

Interior designers recommend opting for slimmer, more streamlined seating options that maintain comfort without sacrificing style. Consider a pair of smaller armchairs with a modern silhouette or a compact, fabric-covered loveseat to maintain a cozy yet sophisticated look.

While knotty pine has a nostalgic charm, an overabundance can make a space feel dated and monotonous. This wood, with its distinctive knots and warm orange hue, was once a favorite for creating a rustic look but now often appears heavy and overwhelming.

To refresh your space, consider painting some of the woodwork white or a soft pastel to create contrast and brightness. Alternatively, incorporate different materials and finishes, such as painted drywall or light-stained wood, to balance the natural warmth of knotty pine.

Floral slipcovers and perfectly matched fabrics were once seen as a way to add charm and coherence to a cottage interior. However, these can now appear overly fussy and outdated, reminiscent of decades past.

Designers suggest mixing patterns and textures for a more eclectic and contemporary look. Consider pairing a solid-colored sofa with patterned throw pillows or a subtly striped rug to add depth and interest without overwhelming the space.

Large, cumbersome entertainment centers that house bulky television sets and outdated stereo systems are quickly becoming relics of the past. These pieces can dominate a room, making it feel cluttered and less functional.

Today, sleek, wall-mounted TVs and compact media consoles are preferred for their ability to save space and reduce visual clutter. Consider investing in built-in shelving or units with clean lines to integrate technology seamlessly into your cottage decor.

Once a popular choice for adding a touch of nature indoors, dried flower arrangements and faux ivy now often come across as dusty and stale. These items can detract from the freshness and vibrancy of a space, especially if not well-maintained.

Replace them with fresh flowers or live plants, which not only bring color and life into the room but also improve air quality. Opt for low-maintenance plants like succulents or ferns if you’re concerned about upkeep.

Cottages often become repositories for collections of knick-knacks and memorabilia, leading to cluttered surfaces and a chaotic appearance. While these items may hold sentimental value, they can overwhelm a space and detract from its overall aesthetic.

Interior designers recommend curating and displaying a select few meaningful pieces, rotating them seasonally to keep the decor fresh. This approach maintains a personal touch while allowing the space to breathe and shine.

High-gloss finishes and orange-toned varnishes on wood furniture can make a space feel dated and overly formal. These finishes were once popular for their durability and shine but now often clash with contemporary design sensibilities.

Consider refinishing pieces with a matte or natural finish to update their look. A light sanding and a coat of clear wax or a soft, neutral stain can transform furniture, making it more versatile and in line with current trends.

A brown-on-brown color palette can make a cottage feel dark and monochromatic, lacking the vibrancy needed to create an inviting space. While neutrals are versatile, too much brown can appear dull and uninspired.

Designers suggest introducing a mix of colors and textures to break up the monotony. Incorporate bright throws, patterned rugs, and colorful cushions to add visual interest and a sense of warmth and personality to the space.

Signs with sayings like 'Home Sweet Home' or 'Gone Fishing' have long been a staple of cottage decor, but they can now seem cliché and distracting. These slogans often add unnecessary visual clutter and can detract from a more sophisticated design aesthetic.

Instead, consider using artwork or prints that reflect personal interests or the natural surroundings of the cottage. This approach provides a more subtle and meaningful way to personalize the space without resorting to overused themes.

Valances, swags, and pelmets were once popular for adding a formal touch to window treatments, but they can now appear dated and fussy. These elements often obscure the window, blocking light and making the space feel heavier.

Modern designers recommend opting for simple, streamlined window treatments like roller shades, Roman blinds, or floor-length drapes hung high to create the illusion of taller windows. This change enhances the natural light and gives the room a fresh, open feel.