Last Updated on February 27, 2025 by Angela Vaz
A while ago, I wrote this post here on how to live a studio ghibli life right now. It became so popular, that I thought I’d write more in this series.
There’s something special about the homes in Studio Ghibli movies.
They radiate warmth, nostalgia, and a connection to nature.
Whether it’s the countryside home in My Neighbor Totoro, Kiki’s charming attic in Kiki’s Delivery Service, or Howl’s magical, plant-filled castle, Ghibli homes feel cozy, lived-in, and full of soul.
If you’ve ever watched these films and dreamed of creating a similar cottagecore aesthetic in your own space, you’re in the right place!
With a few intentional changes, you can make your home feel like it belongs in a Ghibli-inspired world—a place where you wake up to sunlight streaming through wooden windows, where tea and fresh bread are always on the table, and where the simple joys of life feel like magic.
Let’s dive into how you can bring Studio Ghibli cottagecore charm into your home.
1. Start with Natural & Vintage Wooden Furniture
One of the first things you’ll notice in Ghibli homes is their natural, wooden aesthetic.
I’ve noticed this in all the movies.
And that’s why it feels so warm and cozy!
There’s very little plastic or modern furniture—everything feels handcrafted, warm, and slightly worn-in (in the best way).
To create this look in your space:
✔ Opt for wooden furniture with a rustic or antique feel.
✔ Look for vintage or secondhand pieces that have character.
✔ Choose warm-toned wood over sleek, modern finishes.
- Here are some pieces I love:
- Vintage Wooden Side Table
- Handmade Wooden Bookshelf
- Antique Style Wooden Chairs
2. Fill Your Home with Soft, Flowing Fabrics
Ghibli interiors always feel soft, warm, and inviting.
A big part of that is fabric—flowy curtains, cozy blankets, and delicate table linens make a home feel lived-in and peaceful.
Ways to add this:
✔ Use sheer, airy curtains to let in natural light.
✔ Drape knitted blankets over sofas and chairs.
✔ Add floral or gingham tablecloths to your dining area.
Here are some of my favorites:
3. Create a Kitchen That Feels Like a Ghibli Meal is Always Cooking
Studio Ghibli kitchens are cozy, functional, and filled with life.
There’s usually a wooden table, hanging dried herbs, and pots and pans that feel well-used and loved.
How to get the look:
✔ Display wooden cutting boards and ceramic dishes.
✔ Hang copper pots and pans for a rustic touch.
✔ Use open shelving to showcase dishes and ingredients.
✔ Keep a fresh loaf of bread or fruit basket on the table.
- I actually have all of these:
- Wooden Cutting Board Set
- Ceramic Vintage Dinnerware Set
- Hanging Copper Pots & Pans
4. Decorate with Books, Candles, and Cozy Details
Ghibli homes always feel warm and welcoming, and that’s because of the small, personal details.
They aren’t minimalist or overly styled—they feel lived in, like someone with a rich inner world calls them home.
✔ Fill bookshelves with well-loved books (bonus if they’re vintage!).
✔ Add candles or oil lamps for a soft, flickering glow.
✔ Use handwritten notes, letters, or postcards as decoration.
- Here’s what I recommend:
- Vintage Book Set (it’s actually a secret-compartment box)
- Handmade Beeswax Candles
- Oil Lamp for Cozy Lighting (I actually love reading with this)
5. Surround Yourself with Plants & Nature-Inspired Decor
If you look at Howl’s bedroom in Howl’s Moving Castle or the homes in My Neighbor Totoro, one thing stands out—plants and flowers are everywhere.
I’m not going to take credit, my partner’s mum helped me with this bit because I don’t know much about plants.
Bringing nature inside makes your home feel more peaceful, vibrant, and alive.
✔ Place potted plants on windowsills and tables.
✔ Hang dried herbs or flowers in the kitchen.
✔ Use earthy tones like green, brown, and terracotta in your decor.
Shop Cottagecore Plants & Greenery on Amazon:
Trailing Ivy Plant for Windows
Dried Lavender Bunch for Hanging
Ceramic Plant Pots with Cottagecore Designs
6. Bring in Soft, Ghibli-inspired Lighting
Lighting is EVERYTHING in creating a cozy, Ghibli-like atmosphere. Harsh overhead lighting? No thanks. Soft, warm glows? Yes, please.
✔ Use fairy lights or warm string lights.
✔ Add table lamps with soft yellow bulbs.
✔ Try paper lanterns or vintage-style sconces for a warm glow.
Here are my favorites:
Fairy String Lights
Vintage Lantern Lamp
Final Touches: Make It Feel Like a Ghibli Home
A home isn’t just about how it looks—it’s about how it feels.
To truly make your space feel like a Studio Ghibli cottage-core retreat:
✔ Play Ghibli soundtracks or soft, instrumental music.
✔ Keep a tea set nearby and sip tea throughout the day.
✔ Bake fresh bread or pastries just for the cozy scent.
✔ Embrace slow living—enjoy the small moments, like reading by candlelight or watching the rain from your window. I’ve written a whole post here on how to live a studio ghibli life right now.
Creating a Ghibli-inspired cottagecore home isn’t about perfection—it’s about warmth, character, and finding magic in everyday life.
Which of these ideas are you most excited to try? Let me know in the comments! 🌿✨
