How to Decorate Your House Like an Old Irish Cottage

One thing that strikes many people as unexpected when they visit Ireland is just how cozy the homes are. They feel so inviting and warm and a place where you just want to relax with a hot cup of tea and some soothing music.

It’s no surprise that they are made to be this way considering the raw, wet climate. Coming into a house with a fire going and the natural colors is so inviting and feels very relaxing. If you are looking to decorate a new house or just looking to refurbish what you already have, then doing it in an Irish cottage style may be just the ticket.

What are the key elements to make your house feel like an old Irish cottage? In this article, we will give you some tips so you can achieve this cozy and warm style for your own home.

Photo credit: Michel van der Vegt 

Sometimes it’s the little things that make a big difference in decorating in an Irish cottage style. For instance, Celtic wall décor is something that is indispensable in the decorating style.

The patterns are very important in Irish culture so no home is complete without a Celtic cross or the Irish rose.

Windows will be brightened up and make a great talking point when you add some stained glass with Celtic patterns. The colors will help to take some of the rough edges away from the more natural elements that you will have throughout the house.

When you think about a cozy Irish cottage you have to remember why it is that way. The people that built them used what was nearby so you find a lot of natural elements like wood and stone.

You don’t need to have your home made out of stone but if you add some stone to the interior it will go a long way to creating the mood you are going for. Likewise with wood. Have hardwood floors in a farmhouse style with a bit of distress to add some effect. Then, make a stone hearth for a fireplace and you will have something very akin to an Irish cottage if you were to stop right there.

But, when you add things like a solid wood farmhouse dining room table and wooden railings for the stairway then it adds even more to the effect.

The Irish are known for their exquisite patterns of their textiles. Think about Irish sweaters and you immediately know that you need to add some textiles to your home.

Use some throw blankets and pillows on the furniture in colors like ivory with some slate blue and slate grey and it will immediately add the right ambience to the space.

Curtains with running knots or a Celtic knot will be subtle yet add a real depth of style to the room. Accentuate those patterns with some table cloths of linen with the same type of pattern.

Published in: Decoration | Author: Lynn