Who wouldn't want a place to escape the stress, the hustle and bustle of work and people who always want something? Well, I have a great tip for you: a cottage in the countryside! Picture this: you listen to the forest rustling at night, you wake up to the birds singing in the morning, and your first thought is not "what do I have to get done again today" but "when am I finally going to make that hot tea that goes perfectly with that fireplace?"

If you, too, long for such a retreat, read how to turn an ordinary cottage into a place where even the wood has a soul and the windows look like windows to paradise (or at least to the forest). Let's join forces with nature, add wood, a dash of humour and a touch of comfort, and create an interior that will become synonymous with the word cosy.

1. Wood, wood, wood - and wood again!

Wood in a cottage is basically the same as deciding to spend all day on a sofa with a blanket: it just works. A wooden floor? Perfect for anyone who likes warmth underfoot. What's more, you'll "leave" your imprint on the wooden floor, so your cottage will have some of that personal charm as well as a beautiful interior.

If you're brave enough to invest in a table that could also serve as a place to cook, eat and - yes, of course - play board games with friends, I recommend something made of solid wood. The rustic wooden table will add not only flair to any room, but also elegance that you will appreciate on any occasion. 

2. Windows to the world: when nature enters the living room

If you have large windows, you're already half a winner. Imagine - you're sitting on the sofa, sipping tea and suddenly... you're looking right at the forest. When was the last time you had such a view of nature that you thought "this is no ordinary window, this is a window to paradise"? Large windows are key to connecting with nature, but they also allow you to take advantage of natural light, which means less grey and more of a "wow effect".

And what goes with those windows? A sofa, of course, where you can sit back and watch the beauty of nature, whether it's a sunset or the first snow. A sofa should not only be comfortable, but also beautiful - ideally one that looks like it will offer you a whole new level of relaxation. Choose something in neutral colours to match the wood, and enjoy that feeling where all you have to do is settle on the sofa and look out. 

3. Fireplace: the heart of the cottage (and a guarantee that you'll never be bored)

If you don't have a fireplace yet, grab your phone and select "urgent purchase" immediately! A fireplace isn't just about fire - it's about an atmosphere that warms you up even when it's freezing outside. A crackling fire in the fireplace will remind you that even when the world around you is running at full speed, you can enjoy every minute of your time in peace.

For this, you definitely need some kind of chair that will be the perfect place to spend some relaxing moments watching the fire in the fireplace turn into abstract art. Whether it's a leather chair or one with comfy cushions, the key is that it's soft and invites you to relax. 

4. Textiles - It wouldn't be the same without them!

Wood is great, but without textiles the cottage would be more of a "house in the woods". What's better for comfort than a soft blanket to throw over you when you're relaxing in the evening, or soft pillows? A great wool rug in natural tones will add a cosy look to the space and keep you warm whenever you need it. Don't forget the details, such as a wool blanket or plaid, which will not only be practical but stylish too. 

5. Natural supplements that make it all perfect

Nature has plenty of treats to take back to the lodge. Various interesting rocks or roots, there are no limits to your imagination. Stone vases, wooden statuettes, or perhaps a few houseplants to keep you company will serve you just as well. Such details will give your cottage a distinctive character, and besides - who wouldn't want a piece of nature right in their living room? 

So, are you ready to escape?

A cottage in the countryside is not just about wooden floors and a fireplace. It's about feeling like you're somewhere where time has stopped, where everything is in balance, and where you wake up every morning thinking: "How did I get here, that this place isn't just a dream?" With the right pieces of furniture, comfort and a little bit of nature around you, you can create a home that is not only beautiful, but practical. So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and create a cozy hideaway where you'll feel great - not just in the winter, but all year round!