What Is a Cottage Garden Design? Exploring Cottage Gardening & Shed Ideas

For those looking for some stunning cottage gardening and farmhouse ideas from the team here at Shedstore, the good news is you have landed in the right place. A traditional cottage garden design is one of the country garden ideas of the moment, not least of all because of its charm and versatility. They are all about combining form and function in a way that is sure to make you smile so that you never have to settle for anything less than a homely charm.

A cottage garden is a lovely space that is all about the charm of the old country. A cottage garden is relaxed and informal with a mix of colourful, densely planted flowers, herbs, vegetables and cottage garden plants. These include perennial flowers, climbers and edibles, all contributing to a cottage garden’s abundance and natural beauty. Climbing roses, lavender and meandering paths are all part of the charm!

Cottage gardening is all about creating the kind of garden where beauty isn’t forced, it just happens naturally, like a painting that comes to life without trying too hard. It’s a combination of vibrant, blooming flowers, handy edible plants and intricate little details that bring it all together. If you’ve ever imagined a garden that feels like a warm hug, this is probably it.

This style is less about perfectly clipped hedges and more about letting plants grow on their own. Think meandering pathways, colourful floral borders, and a mix of textures and scents that invite you to linger. It’s whimsical but purposeful, blending the practical with the beautiful. You might see roses climbing up trellis alongside rows of herbs and vegetables. This is all part of the practical charm of cottage gardening.

We cover many of these later in the article, but here in a snapshot are some of the main elements to consider when designing your own cottage garden:

• Climbing plants - like clematis, honeysuckle, morning glory, roses and wisteria, etc, add height, fragrance, colour and interest in your garden, perhaps at the side of meandering paths. Train these over trellises, arbours and fences to create a living wall of lush foliage and oxygen-rich air
• Fragrant flowers – we love adding fragrant flowers to a cottage garden. Favourites include perennials like roses, lavender and honeysuckle. Annuals such as geraniums, marigolds, sweet peas and zinnias are also popular additions. These fragrant blooms heighten the outdoor sensory experience and attract pollinators including bees and butterflies
• Garden ornaments – for quaintness, eccentricity, personality and charm consider adding garden ornaments like dwarves, statues, bird baths and sundials. Decorative elements like these bring a smile and enhance the enjoyment and appeal of your cottage garden and are popular with all ages
• Mix of plants – it will feature a variety of plants, flowers, shrubs, trees and vegetables. This diverse mix creates a landscape, which changes and reflects the seasons
• Natural planting – although traditional cottage gardens tend to be more formal, it is best to plant in drifts or groups rather than formal rows. This engenders a more organic look and encourages biodiversity

Next up on our guide are cottage garden design ideas that cover the specific types of cottage gardens (yes there is more than one!) We reveal the options that come in a variety of different shapes and sizes so you can take your pick.

These gardens celebrate the classic charm and nostalgia of the British countryside. They draw inspiration from the early 20th century to the current era. Embracing traditional means choosing a relaxed, "timeless style" which tends to focus on lush but informal planting as well as classic garden features. Any self-respecting traditional cottage garden will include elements such as meandering paths, well-established shrubs, and traditional garden structures (such as arbours, trellises and wooden benches). 

Other traditional features to include in your cottage garden are:

• Stone pathways – as durable as they are charming, integrating stone connects with nature and adds an authentic country feel
• Traditional wooden arbours – both classic and sturdy, these provide a picturesque entrance for a section of your garden
• Vintage-style birdbaths – these are charming and functional, they embrace a traditional garden appeal
• Wooden planters – entirely natural, they provide a traditional and timeless look as well as a place for plants to thrive
• Wrought iron garden furniture – as classic as it is elegant, this adds everyday functional use with a touch of sophistication

With these classic elements, you will create an inviting garden that could appeal as if it is a traditional country retreat, even in the middle of a busy urban area.

The next of our cottage garden design ideas is modern cottage gardens. What is modern? Well, this is the period stretching from the 1990s to the present day. Modern cottage garden design ideas embrace clean and streamlined looks that have a focus on functionality but also minimalism.

Modern cottage gardens embrace geometric shapes, and the use of contemporary materials (e.g. composite decking, steel and toughened glass panels). To this, you can add extra features such as sleek modern garden furniture and modern-looking planters.

Other popular modern cottage garden features include:

• Concrete garden paths – these will be clean and linear. Built with durability, these add to the modern look but also are highly functional in day-to-day use
• Geometric planters – add these to create a perfect modern twist on traditional garden planters
• Solar garden lighting – FREE energy, but also stylish, solar lighting is contemporary but also brings an eco-friendly glow to your garden
• Metal garden sculptures – search for minimalist and striking sculptures. This adds a modern aesthetic to your garden
• Modular garden furniture – these are “all the rage” for modern outdoor living and are both aesthetically pleasing as well as practical for everyday use

With these elements, you can create a space that is both functional and stylish, offering a modern twist on the classic cottage garden aesthetic.

The next of our cottage garden design ideas are rustic cottage gardens. These embrace an exquisite timeless charm, which most closely relates to the 1880s to 1930s era. Choose rustic for informality and enjoy dense planting with a mixture of vibrant flowers, herbs and vegetables.

Rustic cottage gardens often include elements such as winding paths, climbing roses, and traditional garden structures (such as arbours, gazebos, pergolas, summer houses, etc.) Add features such as trellises and garden benches to complete the rustic look.

Now you have all the elements, you can have a space that is functional and blends in with the garden. This is perfect when you want to feel at home.

Modern vs traditional and rustic cottage gardens are easy to compare. Traditional vs rustic is much harder though, due to the similarities. Both traditional and rustic cottage garden types are loved for their nostalgic charm and natural beauty, but there are differences between traditional and rustic. Both have history and nature at their core, but they approach design and style in different ways.

To help you understand the differences we have outlined the main differences in the table below:

Customising and bespoking your cottage garden will make it special. Whether it is by adding stylish wheelie bin storage, a custom door or a unique nameplate, personal touches make a real difference. You will need to tweak your approach depending on your cottage garden style:

1. Traditional country gardens – consider adding a classic outdoor clock with an intricate nameplate as just two customisation suggestions
2. Modern cottage gardens - sleek, and minimalist designs as well as customisation with modern materials are in order. Consider using brushed metal or glass to provide a clean and cohesive look
3. Rustic cottage gardens – consider adding rustic wood finishes and vintage style details. These will blend in with the natural weathered look of the rustic style

Custom features suiting all themes include adding bespoke storage, decking or outdoor seating. These will enhance garden functionality and therefore use. Whatever your style preference, try some of these customisations to create a garden that meets your needs.

Below we explore exterior design options for the three cottage garden types in focus:

1. Traditional cottage gardens - for a classic look, choose old charm and elegance. Rich, warm colours in matte finishes will enhance the garden’s classic feel. Deep slate greys, earthy browns and soft muted greens will create a peaceful and inviting space
2. Modern cottage gardens - these contemporary exteriors are all sleek and clean and minimal design with a little added charm. Choose modern colours including cool greys, clean whites, and subtle greens to create a clean and uncluttered look. Powder-coated metal, glass panels and concrete will provide the final modern touches you need
3. Rustic cottage gardens - these need rough and natural and use earthy tones and organic materials. Opt for weathered greys, warm ochres and natural greens that feel timeless and cosy. Reclaimed wood, aged metal and stone will complete the rustic look

So, now we have explored each cottage garden design it is good for us to provide cottage shed ideas from the Shedstore range. Detailed below is one shed from each design which meets the cottage garden aesthetic. Whether you are drawn to traditional charm, modern elegance or rustic authenticity, these sheds will bring something to everyone.

Above we have reviewed the cottage garden style, which is timeless and works with any garden space, from traditional to modern. Whether you are wondering “What is a cottage garden?” or looking for cottage shed ideas, we have provided answers above. We also recommend as well as our sheds, adding in scented flowers, climbing plants and cottage garden shrubs to create a warm and lush garden space. 

Consider natural planting, old-fashioned roses, sweet peas and purple flowers to become immersed. A picket fence or rustic raised beds will add structure and allow for native plants and vegetables to grow. From using vertical space with climbing plants to wood chips for mulch, every detail counts in your cottage garden look. For a full garden design remember to prepare the soil and choose easy-to-grow plants and your cottage garden will thrive all year round. Look at all the garden styles and design inspiration above to turn your garden into your cottage garden haven.

For all your cottage garden needs use our contact form to get expert advice and inspiration. Whether you are looking to explore cottage shed ideas or need guidance on cottage gardening our Shedstore team is here to help.

Let us help you create the ideal cottage-style garden with the best plants, shrubs, and design elements for your own cottage garden.