Home Trends: Next Gen and Cottage Core in 2025

by BHGRE Beyond

As we move into 2025, younger generations are shaping home design in new and exciting ways, embracing the cottagecore aesthetic with a modern twist. For those unfamiliar, cottagecore is all about bringing the charm of a simpler, rural life into modern homes. It celebrates cozy, nature-inspired living spaces, DIY projects, and upcycled furniture that make every space feel warm, personal, and connected to the earth. However, today’s younger homeowners are adding their own unique flair to this nostalgic trend, blending the whimsical, pastoral feel of cottagecore with contemporary design influences.

For this “Next Gen,” it’s not about fitting into a mold. It’s about creating a home that’s brimming with individuality, where handcrafted decor, natural textures, and reimagined vintage furniture take center stage. Let’s dive into the key elements that define this trend and how the next generation is making it their own.

What Is Cottagecore?

At its heart, cottagecore is a celebration of rural life, focusing on comfort, simplicity, and a connection to nature. Think quaint cottages with wooden beams, gardens overflowing with wildflowers, and kitchens filled with handmade pottery. It’s about stepping back from the fast-paced, technology-driven world and embracing a slower, more mindful way of living. For the next generation, however, cottagecore is not just about romanticizing the past. It’s about combining this nostalgic aesthetic with the practicality and style of today’s design preferences.

Key Features of Cottagecore for 2025

Here are the defining elements of how cottagecore is being embraced and reimagined by the next generation:

DIY Projects and Upcycled Furniture Today’s young homeowners are all about DIY. From restoring old dressers to building their own bookshelves, they’re finding joy in crafting their spaces themselves. Cottagecore celebrates this hands-on approach to home decor, often featuring upcycled or thrifted furniture that’s given new life. Whether it’s a vintage table from a flea market or a chair inherited from family, each piece tells a story.
Natural, Earthy Materials One of the main appeals of cottagecore is its connection to nature, which is reflected in the materials used. Expect to see a lot of natural wood, stone, linen, and wool in these homes. Soft, cozy textiles and rustic finishes create a warm, welcoming vibe that makes the home feel like a retreat from the outside world.
Mid-Century Modern Meets Cottagecore The next generation isn’t afraid to blend styles, and one of the most exciting developments in cottagecore is how it’s being mixed with mid-century modern elements. Sleek, clean lines from the mid-century era pair surprisingly well with the organic, homey elements of cottagecore, creating a look that’s both nostalgic and fresh. Imagine a minimalist mid-century chair paired with a crocheted throw or modern lighting fixtures illuminating a space filled with vintage-inspired decor.
Floral Patterns and Nature-Inspired Decor Floral patterns are a hallmark of cottagecore, but they’re being used in subtle and sophisticated ways in 2025. Instead of overwhelming a room with floral wallpaper, the next generation is opting for smaller touches — like floral accent pillows, nature-inspired art, and botanical prints. The result is a space that feels fresh and calming, with just enough visual interest to bring the outdoors in.
Muted Pastel Colors The color palette in cottagecore homes tends to lean toward soft, muted tones that evoke the tranquility of the countryside. Think sage greens, dusty blues, soft pinks, and buttery yellows — colors that feel both timeless and soothing. These tones are often complemented by natural wood, whitewashed walls, or exposed brick to create a harmonious balance between cozy and contemporary.

Why the Next Generation Loves Cottagecore

Cottagecore resonates with younger homeowners for several reasons. First, it’s a style that feels personal and allows for a great deal of creativity. The DIY culture that underpins cottagecore gives people the chance to put their own stamp on their space — whether that’s through upcycled furniture, homemade decor, or gardening.

Additionally, in a world that often feels overwhelming and fast-paced, cottagecore provides a sense of calm and escape. It’s about slowing down and finding joy in simple things, like baking bread, tending to houseplants, or enjoying a sunny spot in the garden. This connection to nature and focus on mindfulness speaks directly to the values of the next generation, who are increasingly interested in sustainability, wellness, and balance in their lives.

How to Bring Cottagecore Into Your Home

If you’re ready to embrace the cottagecore trend, here’s how to get started:

Get Creative with DIY Projects: Don’t be afraid to roll up your sleeves and create your own decor. From refinishing an old dresser to crafting your own plant pots, the DIY spirit is central to cottagecore.
Mix Vintage with Modern: Combine mid-century modern furniture with rustic decor to create a look that’s both timeless and fresh. Think clean lines mixed with cozy textiles or modern lighting paired with vintage wood furniture.
Incorporate Natural Materials: Use earthy materials like wood, stone, and linen to ground your space and create a connection to nature.
Opt for Subtle Florals and Pastels: Choose a muted color palette and incorporate florals through small touches like pillows, quilts, and artwork to keep the look soft and serene.

Are you dreaming of finding the perfect home to bring your cottagecore vision to life? Start your home search today, or connect with one of our experienced agents to explore homes that suit your unique style.

Cottagecore’s Influence on Home Buying in 2025

The cottagecore aesthetic is also influencing homebuying trends in 2025. Younger generations are no longer interested in cookie-cutter homes that lack personality. Instead, they’re seeking spaces that allow for creativity and customization, whether it’s a fixer-upper with potential or a home with unique architectural features that complement their DIY ambitions.

Homes with large gardens, cozy interiors, and spaces with character (like exposed beams, stone fireplaces, or vintage details) are particularly appealing to those embracing cottagecore. These buyers are looking for properties where they can create their own slice of rustic paradise, combining the charm of the countryside with modern-day conveniences.

If you’re in the market for a home that aligns with your cottagecore dreams, our expert real estate team can help you find the perfect space to make your vision a reality.