Discover the Allure of English Cottages
Are you dreaming of escaping the hustle and bustle of city life for a cozy retreat in the countryside? If so, English cottages may be just what you need. These traditional countryside dwellings exude charm and comfort, making them the perfect place to unwind and feel at home.
What Makes English Cottages Special?
An English cottage is more than just a house – it’s a lifestyle. With its quaint details and cozy floor plan, an English cottage offers a sense of peace and relaxation that is hard to find in a bustling city. From thatched roofs to stone walls, these cottages have a timeless appeal that never goes out of style.
Characteristics of English Cottages
While each English cottage is unique in its own way, most share some common characteristics. Here are a few features you might find in an English cottage:
- Thatched roofs
- Stone, brick, and wood construction
- Cozy floor plans
- Charming details like dormers and gables
Explore Charming English Cottages
Let’s take a tour of some beautiful English cottages that will inspire you to embrace the cottage lifestyle:
False-Thatched Roof
Imagine a family of ducks marching across the roof of a cottage in Norfolk, England. This charming cottage features a faux thatched roof, steeply pitched with curved dormers and gables. Surrounding the cottage are flags, climbing roses, and a perfectly trimmed hedge that make it a truly iconic countryside retreat.
English Country Garden
Step into Irene’s Cotswold manor house in England, where a romantic garden and courtyard await. Built in 1570, this ancient manor is a true delight for the senses. From tomatoes and peas to vibrant flowers like white viburnums, Irene’s lush garden is the epitome of English charm.
Bwthyn Swynol
Travel to Wales and discover a well-maintained B&B that exudes quintessential British charm. With its stone exterior, arched doorways, and climbing vines, this cottage provides a cozy retreat for travelers looking to experience life like a local.
Older-Looking English Cottage
Nat Woods’s farmhouse/cottage in Hampshire, England, may look like a rustic gem from the past, but it was actually built in 1993. Nat’s dedication to adding period architectural elements and cozy furnishings gives her home a charming and inviting appeal.
By the Sea
Experience Laura’s ongoing renovation of a 1920s cottage on the coast of Devon, England. With plans to give her landscape a “New England kind of vibe,” Laura’s home combines classic English charm with a touch of modern elegance.
Savoring the English Countryside
Join Kyle Campbell as she explores the enchanting villages and gardens of England. Captivated by the country lifestyle, Kyle finds inspiration in the thatched wood, stone construction, and climbing roses of English cottages.
Uncover the History of English Cottages
English cottages have a rich history that dates back to the late 1700s. Inspired by the Picturesque architectural movement, these rustic dwellings were often built in rural areas using local materials and resources. Gothic and Tudor architectural elements were commonly incorporated, adding a touch of medieval charm to these cozy homes.
The Influence of Voysey
In the early 20th century, the designs of Charles Francis Annesley Voysey popularized Tudor cottage aesthetics. Drawing inspiration from the Cotswold homes of the 1700s, Voysey’s stucco-on-wood framing designs became iconic in English architecture.
Dive into Different Types of English Cottages
From thatched cottages to half-timbered retreats, English cottages come in a variety of styles that are sure to captivate your imagination. Whether you prefer the quaint charm of a Yorkshire Dales cottage or the coastal allure of a fisherman’s retreat, there’s a cottage style to suit every taste.
How Much Do English Cottages Cost?
If you’re considering building your own English cottage, you may be wondering about the cost. Typically, a standard cottage with traditional materials and specifications may range from $175,000 to $350,000. For a custom cottage with premium materials, prices can vary from $150 to $250 per square foot. Prefab cottages with standard specifications may be more affordable, costing between $125 to $175 per square foot.
Whether you’re looking to escape the city for a weekend retreat or make a permanent move to the countryside, English cottages offer a charming and cozy way of life that is hard to resist. So why not embrace the cottage lifestyle and discover the allure of these timeless homes for yourself?
