Combine These Two Popular Home Decor Aesthetics To Create An 'Elevated Homestead'

While design trends make it simple for people to decorate and elevate their spaces by pulling inspiration from existing themes, sometimes one home decor aesthetic doesn't suit your needs. Whether it seems like something is missing from a singular trend or you like elements of multiple themes and palettes, there is no rule saying you cannot combine trends and designs. In fact, the elevated homestead aesthetic is a combination of cottagecore and shabby chic, and Erika Dale, House Digest's interior design expert and founder of Erika Dale Interior Design, has insight into why this particular style is such a desirable one. "Elevated homestead aesthetic conjures up images of a humble lifestyle connected to the land and full of organic, unfussy materials," she said.

In her exclusive interview with House Digest, she went on to explain what makes it so unique. "This aesthetic combines the weathered, well-loved look of shabby chic (but without all of the cutesy chipped paint) and the indoor/outdoor casual countryside vibes of cottagecore," Dale said. Both of these aesthetics are stylish and cozy on their own, but using them together adds more complexity and helps to create a space that invokes comfort, inviting vibes, and a nod to the nostalgic.

During her exclusive interview with House Digest, Dale offered tips on how to nail this aesthetic. "To get this look, opt for natural, rustic materials to exemplify the connection of your home with nature and layer in casual chic elements that make a place look lived-in and full of history, but not cheap," she told readers who want to try the elevated homestead trend. Begin as if you were designing a rustic home. Natural elements are a great starting point and offer an easy base to build around. From there, Dale suggests focusing on the that the "elevated" portion of this aesthetic. "To elevate your look beyond from shabby chic, homestead, and other overly-rustic design aesthetics that have a down-home look, you will need to incorporate quiet upscale touches," she said.

These can be in the form of whatever suits your aesthetic, but Dale has some recommendations to really pull the theme through. "Take inspiration from aesthetics like Nancy Meyers or Coastal Grandma, which add a layer of effortlessly chic, subtle luxury, as if your homestead was nestled in an European countryside with just a touch of the Hamptons," she suggested.

When it comes to choosing specific items for your elevated homestead aesthetic, Dale said that materials make a massive difference in the finished result. "Build your foundation with pieces that embrace natural materials, such as rustic wood and natural stone, and have [pared] down yet elegant silhouettes," she shared in her exclusive interview with House Digest. Having a balance of items that bring in an earthy, grounded vibe is important. "Nothing should feel overly precious, but not overly rundown — just a perfect middle ground that is organic and practical but still beautiful," she explained.

Vintage finds, lightly used furniture, antique pieces, soft linens, and wall decor all work together to help create balance within this aesthetic. "Mix utilitarian homestead decor with elevated art pieces, cozy throws, and patterned textiles to round out the humble yet sophisticated vibes," Dale said. Elevated homestead combines the organic feel of cottagecore decor, the approachability of shabby chic accents, and the refinement of more elevated pieces, making it the perfect source of inspiration for those who want to create a cozy space that still looks put together.