14 Charming Cottage Exteriors Full of Character

COTTAGE INSPIRATION / EXTERIORS

Each of these 14 charming cottage exteriors has little details worth saving, from pretty garden paths to sweeping storybook roofs.

Key Points

There isn't one single look that makes a cottage charming.
Every exterior has a feature that makes it unique, whether it is the roofline, front entrance, or garden.
Save the details you love, even if you're simply browsing for inspiration.

Something about the charm of an attractive small cottage draws you into wishing to walk through its doors and take a peek inside.

Especially for those with unique or artistic roof lines, interesting garden arrangements and vintage architectural characteristics... these are some very hard to deny.

Each of these 14 cute cottage exterior photos has something that is slightly different from all of the others; You may find your self "falling in love" with a style you've never had much interest in previously.

In This Article

The Basics
The List
Key Takeaways
FAQs

THE BASICS

What Makes A Cottage Have That "Storybook" Look

First, you should begin your design process with the roof. The pitch of the roof lines, the curves of the roof (gables), and the use of thatch as a material for the roof, create the distinct appearance of storybook homes. Storybook homes are generally built in an irregular shape, and they typically feature several sections (roof lines) that extend away from the central part of the home. These extensions create a highly asymmetric view of the home.

That "storybook" feel is also created by numerous small details. For example, arched doorways, multiple-pane small windows, large brick chimneys, and exterior wall construction from various types of materials (e.g., stone, plaster, wood, etc.). These details will contribute to creating a sense that your cottage has existed at its current location for many generations.

Lastly, don't forget to include the landscape design in front of the cottage. Paths winding through gardens, climbing plants on the walls, and flower beds directly adjacent to the cottage will contribute to the 'old world' cottage look.

If you enjoy those winding paths and abundant planting, these cottagecore garden ideas have plenty more inspiration.

As you look at each of the 14 cottage photos, try to notice how every aspect of the image works together with all of the other parts. You might actually do this without being aware of it when you determine what style of design would appeal to you.

A QUICK CLUE

Can you pick out ONE favourite detail from each cottage?

Start with the roof, the front door, or the garden. You may find yourself drawn to an architectural style before you know its name.

THE LIST

14 Charming Cottage Exteriors Full of Character

Now for the fun part! Take a look at these 14 charming cottages and all the little details that make each one special. You might have a hard time choosing a favourite!

COTTAGE 1

1. The White Lakeside Cottage

I think the front porch will likely be my initial destination when visiting this cottage. It extends along the side of the white cottage, has a view of the water and offers ample space to find relief from the sun.

The exterior is given a clean look with the silver metal roof, which does not distract from the scenic surroundings.

Here's What to Notice:

Take a look at how the porch connects the house to the outdoors. If you are drawn to clean, bright, and simple cottage-style exterior designs, then the pairing of white siding with a silver roof is one that you may want to consider for future reference.

The Move: The wide spacing of the porch posts will give the large seating area an open look and feel, instead of being closed off.

For more ideas around welcoming outdoor spaces, take a look at these front porch decorating ideas.

COTTAGE 2

2. The Ivy-Covered Garden Cottage

The small cottage can be found by looking into the garden. The cottage has windows with black frames and ivy growing over them. There is also a small path that goes through the garden.

I find the somewhat concealed entry point to be one of the most attractive aspects of the entire picture.

Here's What to Notice:

Take another look at how the dark colored windows contrast with the bright green foliage. The windows create an accent to the cottage without drawing focus off of the garden.

The Move: The path curves instead of leading directly to the door, so you don’t see everything at once.

COTTAGE 3

3. The Blue-Clad Country Cottage

I think the blue-gray color on the walls is a nice alternative to what you typically see on most white cottages. The bricks that are laid around the base of the home soften the color of the siding. I also believe that the small tiled porch roof helps direct viewers' attention to the front entrance.

Even the vintage car parked outside looks as though it belongs there.

Here's What to Notice:

If you prefer a more subtle look for your home's exterior, keep in mind the combination of blue-gray siding and warm brick. Also take note of the small roof over the front door.

The Move: The white planters pick up the color of the trim while keeping the entrance looking clean.

COTTAGE 4

4. The Brick-and-Plaster Country House

This home appears to have been expanded and altered throughout time. The home is constructed with creamy plastered walls, areas of warm brick, tall chimneys, and multiple roof lines pointing in many directions.

The exterior has many things going on, which is one reason why it looks interesting.

Here's What to Notice:

The transition from plaster to brick creates an interesting contrast on the exterior. Using two materials also breaks up the larger house.

The Move: The narrow walkway gives this fairly large home a more intimate entrance.

READ ALSO: Front Porch Decorating Ideas

COTTAGE 5

5. The Curved-Thatched Cottage

It's hard to look anywhere but the roof!

The upstairs window is framed by a curved thatched roof that gives the white cottage a unique and charming form. The unadorned exterior walls allow the roof to be the focal point of the building, and the pink flowers provide some color to the facade.

Here's What to Notice:

Look closely at the rounded shapes that are above the window. If you appreciate traditional cottages, then you will find this type of roof to be one that is worth remembering.

The Move: The warm-colored window frames appear softer than they would if they were dark, giving the cottage a different look.

COTTAGE 6

6. The Timber-Porch Cottage

This small wooden porch brings a lot of personality to this cottage. The raw wood around the front door stands out against the neutral walls and warm roof tiles, while the rest of the exterior stays simple.

I also appreciate how the entry point appears to have some uniqueness to it without being overdone.

Here's What to Notice:

The contrast of the natural wood with the light-colored walls is an elegant detail for anyone who would like to use natural materials in their cottage.

The Move: The porch roof extends beyond the doorway, making the entrance feel sheltered and tucked away.

COTTAGE 7

7. The Stone Cottage Beyond the Garden Gate

The garden is half the charm of this cottage.

A pair of weather-beaten wooden gates are positioned at the entrance of a stone-paved walkway that is bordered on both sides by a pond and several layers of plants. Instead of being able to see the entire house as soon as you enter, you will be able to see a small part of it in the distance.

It almost feels like you've discovered someone's secret little hideaway.

Here's What to Notice:

Follow the path from the gate toward the cottage. There are many things to see as you go down this path, and the garden will make the walk to the front door feel like an important aspect of your visit.

The Move: The still pond creates a quiet, restful space amid the abundant green vegetation around it.

COTTAGE 8

8. The Sage-Green Autumn Cottage

There is a sweetness about this sage-green cottage with its white trim and arched front door.

Even if there were no seasonal decorations, the arch-shaped door would be my favorite feature of the house. The picket fence is an inviting way to enter the garden, and the pumpkins add a feeling of warmth and comfort during the fall.

Here's What to Notice:

Look at how well the sage-green siding complements the white window trim. This otherwise plain exterior has some character because of the arched entrance.

The Move: A low-profile wooden fence borders the property so you can still see the home from outside.

If it’s the doorway that catches your eye, you might also enjoy these front door entrance ideas.

COTTAGE 9

9. The White Cottage with Black Shutters

With its white walls and black shutters, this cottage has a fresh, traditional appearance. However, the use of hydrangeas gives the entire house a softer feel.

The flowers are growing right next to the house, and there is a bicycle sitting out front, which gives the entire area a sense of being lived-in as opposed to being arranged specifically to take a picture.

Here's What to Notice:

The flowers against the black shutters are an excellent illustration of how landscaping can help to create a softer appearance for a high contrast exterior.

The Move: The bicycle adds a casual, everyday detail that makes the cottage feel lived in.

READ ALSO: Front Door Entrance Ideas

COTTAGE 10

10. The Tiny Thatched Cottage

I think this small cottage's chimney is a bit too high for the roof, but in the best possible way.

The little thatched roof, the single small window, the wooden fence and the very narrow path contribute to its secluded feel. This is a type of cottage that would make you want to see what is on the other side of the front door.

Here's What to Notice:

The small cottage has a very unique feature: the high chimney on top of a low-lying roof. This is a very interesting combination that makes the cottage stand out.

The Move: The narrow path and fence give you only a glimpse of what lies beyond, adding to the secluded feeling.

COTTAGE 11

11. The Curved-Gable Storybook Cottage

That tall, sweeping gable looks like something straight out of a fairytale.

A second unique roofline extends to the side from the same location as the first. Together with the stonework, these unusual shapes give the cottage an old-world feel.

Here's What to Notice:

These two architectural elements (the curved gable and the arched doorway) create a very attractive combination. In fact, if you remove one element from the design, it will lose some of its appeal.

The Move: The doorway and roofline are completely visible, allowing the unusual architecture to stand out.

For another home with unusual curves and a storybook feel, have a look at this picturesque cob home.

COTTAGE 12

12. The Whimsical Sweeping-Roof Cottage

I find myself drawn back to the curve of the red-colored roof that wraps around the second-story bay window.

This cottage with its pointed gables and surprising curves is a very whimsical-looking cottage. Although there are many interesting things going on in the garden, the roof of the cottage is certainly the center of attention.

Here's What to Notice:

The way the bay window is built into the roof line to change its form is a perfect example of a window being designed to be part of the architecture, not just something that sits below the roof line.

The Move: The bright red roof tiles contrast sharply with the dark green background.

COTTAGE 13

13. The Woodland Stone Cottage

Those winding stone steps make the entrance feel like part of the charm.

A walkway leads to a small cottage made of rough, pale stone, with dark-framed windows, a pointed gable, and an arched entrance.

I can see myself finding a small spot like that as I am walking in the forest.

Here's What to Notice:

Proceed to the door, and observe how the dark frame around the window emphasizes the texture of the stone.

The Move: Planting beside the steps keeps the entrance from looking overly landscaped.

COTTAGE 14

14. The Old-World Chimney Cottage

The tall brick chimneys are the first thing I notice. They rise above the rooflines and give the house a classic look.

Below, there is an entrance to a quiet area that is built into the stone wall and has many plants with flowers on each side of the walk.

It is that type of cottage where you will always find a different detail when viewing it.

Here's What to Notice:

The varying height of the chimneys and the different angles of the roofs combine to provide the exterior with a somewhat irregular, old world appearance.

The Move: The doorway is surprisingly understated. You almost have to look for it among the stonework, which makes it even more appealing.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The Little Details Make These Cottages Special

Some cottages catch your eye right away. Others stay with you because of a garden gate, small porch, or old stone path.

And you might be surprised by which one stays in your mind.

As you gather ideas, save your favourite images and look at them together. You might find you love a certain detail more than any single house.

And if you love the look inside as much as outside, these English cottage decorating ideas are worth saving, too.

Here are a few details worth paying attention to:

Rooflines with character. Sweeping thatch and steep gables are hard to miss.
Entrances that draw your interest. An arched door, covered porch, or winding path can make the approach feel special.
Materials which appear visually appealing with time. Rough stone, weathered brick, and wood add warmth and texture.
Gardens that help soften the appearance of the house. Ivy, flower beds, and vines make even larger cottages feel welcoming.
A slight contrast. Dark frames against pale stone or blue-grey siding above brick can be just as charming as traditional colour combinations.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes a Cottage Exterior Feel Charming?

A lot of cottage charm comes from the little details.

A unique roofline, an inviting front entrance, traditional-style windows, or a lovely garden can give each cottage its own personality.

A house may be special when it has even a curved path or an unusual entrance.

Do Storybook Cottages Always Have Thatched Roofs?

No, not at all.

Thatched roofs are one way to create a storybook look, but cottages with stone, brick, or timber details can have that same whimsical feel without them.

Curved roofs, arches for door openings, and non-traditional windows will add to the fairytale-like appearance of your home.

What is the distinction between a storybook cottage and an English country cottage?

A fairy-tale cottage often has an enchanting look, with exaggerated rooflines, curved features, and/or unique forms which give the impression of belonging in a fairy tale.

An English country cottage is a more general type of traditional home found in rural areas of England. These homes can be built using either stone or brick, typically have pitched roofs, and contain gardens that are full of flowers.

The two styles can overlap, but not every English country cottage has that exaggerated storybook look.

If you love that traditional countryside look, these cottagecore decorating ideas are worth a look, too.

Can You Enjoy Cottage Design Ideas Without Owning a House?

Of course!

You can collect inspiration simply because you love looking at beautiful homes.

Save the roof shapes, colors, garden plants, and entrances that catch your eye. Over time, you may start noticing the same details in many of your favorite photos.

And who knows? You might find a few ideas you'd love to use someday.

You don't need to pick just one favorite. Stick with the cottages that seem to draw you back over and over again, and let yourself appreciate each and every small detail about them.

Which of the three cottages did you find most attractive initially? The smallest, thatched-roof cottage; the cottage with the large, curved roof; or the cottage tucked away on the other side of the garden gate?

UP NEXT: 15 Enchanting Cottage Core Garden Ideas to Transform Your Outdoor Space

Author: Everything Abode

Welcome to Everything Abode, your daily inspiration for every activity at home! Our goal is to inspire you to live an elegant and chic lifestyle from the comfort of your home. We'll help you express yourself through authentic style, aesthetic beauty, and stylish home decor.

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