Episode Summary This episode of Seated with Furniture Row unpacks the heart of cottagecore, from fairy-tale cottages and heirloom china to wicker benches. Barb and Jessa explore why this cozy, layered aesthetic is having a moment, how to infuse charm into any space (big or small), and which Furniture Row finds can bring instant storybook magic to your home. Whether you're after whimsical maximalism or minimalist warmth, they’ve got ideas that will inspire your next cozy corner. What you’ll learn (with timestamps)

• 00:00 — Why Cottagecore now? A cozy rebellion against hustle culture and a return to slower living
• 02:00 — The cottage image quiz: Movie and pop-culture cottages we can’t stop dreaming about
• 05:00 — What “cottage” really means: Small, rural, cozy—and why it’s less about square footage and more about feeling
• 08:00 — Cottagecore for any home: How even large or builder-grade houses can feel charming and lived-in
• 09:45 — Shelf life: Open shelving, flour jars, garlic braids, and displayed tools that tell your story
• 14:50 — Light it right: Bookcase lamps, battery bulbs, and lighting tricks for cottage warmth
• 16:45 — Heirloom hacks: From quilts to china cabinets to iceboxes—how to make them feel current
• 21:30 — Create a café corner: How a cozy coffee shop vibe can work in your own kitchen nook
• 25:45 — Hygge, year-round: Embracing seasonal rituals like bowls of fruit, fresh flowers, and little comforts
• 29:10 — Cottagecore vs. Farmhouse vs. Shabby Chic: Key differences in aesthetic, mood, and effort
• 35:30 — The bench manifesto: Why every cottagecore home needs one (or three)
• 42:30 — DIY ideas that work: Glass-door lining, wallpapered cabinet backs, and styled cake stands
• 49:50 — The final word on pattern and palette: How to layer plaid, florals, and paisleys by scale
• 53:30 — It’s all about story: Cottagecore isn’t curated overnight—it’s built piece by piece, moment by moment

Quick tips

• Start with one anchor: a bench, tufted headboard, or distressed cabinet to set the tone.
• Shelf tips: Layer storied tools (cutting boards, mortar and pestle, jars of dry goods) on open shelves to “show the life you live”.
• Add a tiny lamp to shelves or counters; use battery bulbs to avoid cords and outlets.
• Mix old and new: modern carts with antiques, brand-new finds with patina finishes.
• Pattern-mix by scale: pair larger plaids with small florals or fine motifs for balanced cozy.

Featured hosts

• Barb Chandler — Interior Designer, Furniture Row
• Jessa Murphy — Marketing Director, Furniture Row

Calls to action

• Follow and rate Seated with Furniture Row to help others find the show.
• Explore cottage furniture and accents at Furniture Row, and learn more about cottage style on our blog!
• Visit Furniture Row showroom near you to explore benches, tufted beds, spindle chairs, distressed storage, wicker baskets, and more.