Best of Lifestyles: Top Lake Stories of 2024

Estimated reading time: 10 minutes

From lake activities and outdoor living to lake home maintenance and design, here are the most-read lake lifestyle stories from 2024:


Looking back at the past year, we’re excited to present a selection of our most popular and thought-provoking articles from 2024. These pieces have ignited discussions, fueled creativity, and offered valuable insights on a range of subjects. Whether you’re exploring current trends or revisiting our standout content, we trust that you’ll find these articles both informative and inspiring. Cheers to the new year! We can’t wait to bring you more compelling stories about lake living in 2025!

Outdoor Living and Lake Activities

5 Toys You Need for Your Pontoon Boat

Looking to take your pontoon boating experience to the next level? Check out these 5 must-have accessories that will make your time on the water even more fun for you and your guests! MORE>>

Picnic on the Water: The Perfect Boat Food

Set sail for a delicious picnic on the water! Here is everything you need to plan the perfect boat feast, from grilled favorites to refreshing drinks and easy cleanup tips. MORE>>

Tips on How to Deal with Bugs & Insects on the Lake

Lake living offers countless benefits, such as scenic views and recreational freedom. Yet, like any location, there are minor drawbacks like dealing with bugs. Explore tips to manage insects and enhance your lake living experience. MORE>>

The Ultimate Top 40 Boating Playlist

Get ready for a fun-filled day on the lake with the ultimate lake day playlist! Here are 40 songs that are perfect for creating the perfect atmosphere for your next boating adventure. MORE>>

Home Maintenance and Design

Boat Dock Basics

Boats need a place to stay on the lake, and the different types of docks come with their own advantages and disadvantages. It’s important to consider your options before investing in a lake property with a dock. MORE>>

Boat House Design Ideas

A boat dock is crucial for storage and protection, but for enhanced security, weather protection, and added entertainment space, consider a boathouse. Explore design ideas for your lakeside property. MORE>>

Hardscapes 101: Top Design Ideas for Your Lakefront Landscape

Enhance your landscape with a balanced design, starting with hardscapes—bricks, wood, stone, and concrete elements that define outdoor spaces. MORE>>

Lake House Landscape sallie hill design

Low Maintenance Landscaping Tips for Your Lake House

A stunning lakefront landscape often involves intensive gardening, but low-maintenance options exist for a beautiful backyard at your lake home. Explore our tips for hassle-free landscaping. MORE>>

Trivia

Top 5 Deepest Lakes in the U.S.

Dive into the deep! From Crater Lake to Lake Tahoe, explore the top 5 deepest lakes in the US. Which one would you add to your bucket list? MORE>>

5 of the World’s Largest Man-Made Lakes

Explore the grandeur of five of the world’s largest man-made lakes and discover the remarkable scale and unique features of these impressive water reservoirs. MORE>>

lakes with the longest shorelines

U.S. Lakes With the Longest Shorelines

When envisioning the largest U.S. lakes, the Great Lakes likely come to mind. Yet, if we shift the focus to shorelines, surprises emerge. Explore the top five lakes with extensive shorelines! MORE>>

States with the Most and Fewest Lakes 

Uncover the geographical tapestry of the United States as we explore the unique landscapes of states with the most and fewest natural lakes. MORE>>

Travel and Leisure

Top Attractions at Lake Hamilton

Embark on a journey to explore the premier attractions of Lake Hamilton, Arkansas. Delve into this article for insights into the must-visit destinations that define this captivating lakeside locale. MORE>>

Top 10 Quaint Lake Towns

Dreaming of a charming escape? Take a trip to one of these quaint lake towns and experience the beauty of lakeside living! Featuring 10 hidden gems across the US, each offering stunning scenery, friendly communities, and endless fun. MORE>>

Things to Do Around Lake Chelan, WA 

Explore the beauty of Lake Chelan, WA! This lake destination offers something for everyone, from fishing and wine tasting to boat tours and water slides. MORE>>

9 Great Reasons Why People Love Living on the Water

Live life to the fullest by the water! From stunning views and serene atmosphere to abundant wildlife and a strong sense of community, discover 9 amazing reasons why people love living on the water. MORE>>

Real Estate

5 Ways Overpricing A Lake Home Costs Sellers

Putting your lake home on the market? Before you do, learn how overpricing hurts your sale, even if you think it’s a smart move. Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, explains why. MORE>>

Why Are Lake Home Owners Selling These Days?

Embracing the lake lifestyle is a dream for many individuals, but as of late, there seems to be a growing trend of people putting their lakefront properties on the market. What could be prompting this shift? MORE>>

The Hidden Costs of Keeping A Lake Home: Tips for First-time Buyers

Owning a lake house sounds idyllic, but there can be hidden costs! From repairs to maintenance, be sure to factor these costs into your budget! MORE>>

5 Questions Lake Home Buyers Should Answer

Before you start your buying process, it is crucial to understand that you need to be prepared to handle particular inquiries. Clearly defining your preferences for your perfect property will significantly help your real estate agent and improve your overall satisfaction. MORE>>

Kitchen Evolution: Top Kitchen Trends 2023

Sunapee New Hampshire Lake House | Lauren Miles Interior Design
Photo courtesy of Lauren Miles Interior Design

The heart of the home continues its evolution in 2023. This year, the top kitchen trends are more thrilling than ever. As lake lovers, our never-ending quest for soothing spaces, natural materials, and nature-inspired hues has reinvented how we think about this favorite gathering space. No longer considered a purely functional place where you prepare meals, the kitchen has transcended into a real living space where people come together, dine, celebrate, and work from home. Plus, our desire to integrate the kitchen with other living spaces has also inspired us to embellish it like other rooms with artwork, collectibles, and refined materials.  

In addition, color is making a comeback in 2023, with cabinet hues in dusty blues, sage greens, neutral browns, and earthy terracottas. Bold pattern is trending in opulent stone slabs cladding kitchen countertops, waterfall islands, and backsplashes. Natural stone elements, lustrous metals, wooden accents, and eco-friendly materials that create an organic vibe are also having a moment in 2023.

So even if you’re not looking for a full kitchen remodel, don’t be afraid to try out some of these ideas for a fresh, updated look. Apply a new backsplash, paint your cabinets or island base, and bring in some new artwork and accessories. Here’s our list of some of the top kitchen trends for 2023.

Full Circle

Photo courtesy of archiproducts

Who says a kitchen island has to be rectangular? Like a round dining table, rounded edges are delightfully inclusive and inviting. They inspire convivial group conversation and encourage guests to gather ‘round. Last year, we saw the emergence of curvaceous, rounded furniture, and 2023 has extended that idea to the kitchen—taking the trend full circle. This one from Cesar’s Tangram collection was inspired by the ancient Chinese game of geometric shapes that can be combined to create endless figures. The collection includes five curved elements that can be added to Cesar’s modules to build kitchen islands with unusual shapes.

Statement Stone

Photo courtesy of Steven Dewall via Good Housekeeping

Dramatic stone features are becoming the central focus of the modern kitchen. Marble waterfall islands, countertops, and backsplashes that showcase the beauty of the material are becoming increasingly popular. Plus, the natural stone brings a lustrous organic element to the kitchen and pairs exceptionally with warm wood finishes. Here, the cabinetry color echoes the soft gray veining in the marble. Additionally, it creates a striking contrast against the light finish of the wood-plank flooring.

Brilliant Backsplashes

Photo courtesy of Amanda Kirkpatrick via Dwell

Backsplashes are front and center this year as one of the hottest kitchen trends. The options are endless, and it’s one of the best ways to give your kitchen a complete makeover without breaking the bank. As functional as they are decorative, the ideal backsplash should not only protect the walls behind your countertops but also complement the cabinetry, flooring, and other design elements of your kitchen.

Available in an impressive range of options and styles, backsplash materials run the gamut from marble and natural stone to metal, stainless steel, and glass. To select one that fits your functionality needs and budget, here are some easy guidelines:

  • If your kitchen seems dull and lacks an exciting focal point, consider a stand-out backsplash with vibrant color or interesting decorative detail.
  • If your kitchen is void of natural light, choose light-reflecting materials such as lustrous metals, glass tiles, or stainless steel.
  • Think about ease of cleanability and choose a surface appropriate for your lifestyle.

This luminous backsplash from TileBar is composed of copper-colored stainless-steel tiles. Its gorgeous reflective capability produces a warm glow against contemporary white cabinetry with black Caesarstone countertops, and the copper look is reiterated in the cabinet hardware

Ultra-Cool Refrigeration

This innovative 48-inch French Door Refrigerator/Freezer from Signature Kitchen Suite boasts unprecedented capacity and functionality in the trendy French door configuration. Making its debut last year, this industry leader is now available on the market. It features a convertible drawer with temperature-changing capabilities, a dual ice maker with Craft Ice™, a user-friendly LCD display, and an internal water dispenser.

Looking for next-level refrigeration that will wow you and your guests? LG Studio’s MoodUP™ customizable refrigerator features color-changing LED panels, voice activation, craft ice, and Bluetooth speaker connectivity. This innovative design offers more than 190,000 color combinations to choose from. Plus, the ThinQ™ app makes matching your refrigerator to your cabinets a breeze. Knock twice on the InstaView™ glass, and you can illuminate the contents of your fridge and see inside.

Graphite & Gunmetal: The New Black

Photo courtesy of Native Trails Home

Superseding matte black hardware in 2023, graphite and gunmetal finishes are becoming the new black. A gleaming example is this new gunmetal sink from the Italian-made Precious Metals Collection from Native Trails. The handcrafted fireclay sink basin with a matte white interior integrates sleekly with an array of kitchen styles and offers an elegant complement to marble countertops and backsplashes. Look for this shimmering metal finish in hardware and plumbing fixtures as well.  

Smart Water

Photo courtesy of Kohler

Smart technology is everywhere, even your kitchen faucet. Recently unveiled by Kohler, the Sensate® touchless pull-down sink faucet has voice-activated technology that dispenses measured amounts of water at your command. It also includes a motion sensor that turns your water on and off with a wave of the hand. In addition, the Sensate® works with the KOHLER® Konnect™ app, which monitors water usage and notifies you of unusual flow. It is available in oil-rubbed bronze, matte black, vibrant stainless, and polished chrome finishes.

Island Dining

Photo courtesy Interior Impressions via The Spruce

Since everyone loves to hang out in the kitchen, many homeowners are opting for sit-down dining with larger islands for family meals and entertaining. In fact, many are forgoing a formal dining room altogether and instead expanding the kitchen to accommodate more seating and table surfaces. As a result, double islands are growing in popularity, as are sizeable in-kitchen dining spaces with plenty of seating and accent lighting.  

So dive in, dream big, and give your lake home kitchen a modern refresh in 2023. For more top kitchen design trends, visit Elle Décor.

Boat House Design Ideas

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock via Sacra Custom Homes

When your boat isn’t in use or you’re away from your lake house, a boat dock plays an essential role in storage and protection. But what if you want even more security from boat theft? Or maybe you want to keep it secure during high winds or a torrential downpour? 

Enter the boathouse. Like a top deck covering your boat dock, boat houses have many benefits besides providing extra protection for your boat. For instance, boat houses offer more entertainment space for you and your guests. They also provide safer access to your boat dock, with stairs and railings. If you’re considering installing a boat house at your lake home, check out these design ideas!

The Open Concept One

Photo courtesy of Wahoo Docks

An open-concept boat house is perfect if your lake house is located in a milder climate with nice weather year-round. Since this design can include two or more levels, you’ll be able to double your outdoor space. Whether you want to dip your toes in the water or get an aerial view from above, this boat house style has multiple options for relaxing. In particular, a top deck is a perfect place for lounge chairs, a diving board, and an outdoor swing. Meanwhile, the bottom deck can be reserved for boat access.

The One With Garage Doors

One way to design your boat house is to lean into the garage concept. Essentially, a boat house could be conceptualized as a garage for your boat. The door design resembles the same style as a typical garage in this design. The dark green tones with wooden doors provide a sense of comfort, and the circular side windows add a nautical flare. The only difference is a floor of water instead of cement.

The One with Indoor Vibes

Photo courtesy of Pinterest

In lake house interior designs, bringing the outdoors in is a big trend. However, what about bringing the indoors out? With this boat house design, you can bring your living room to your lakefront. This style has two entrances, one specifically for the boat and the other for your lakeside lounge area. It’s also versatile — perfect for a social gathering with drinks or an “on deck” waiting area for the next boat ride.

The Simple One

Photo courtesy of Pinterest

For those seeking a simple, rustic style, this boat house design is for you. There’s nothing too showy or over-the-top about this look, and that’s precisely what makes it so refreshing. This design will work exceptionally well if your lake house isn’t on a high incline. All you need is wooden boards, a small roof to cover your boat, and a few Adirondack chairs. Who needs a flashy boat house when the lake is the main event?

The Classic One

This boat house design from Lake Guntersville, Alabama, features a classic American look. This style is stately and timeless, with a symmetrical structure and white railings. The covered bottom deck allows maximum boat protection, while the top tier serves as an entertainment venue. Complete with white umbrellas and chaise lounge chairs, your guests will enjoy this amazing view.

The One That Has It All

Photo courtesy of Pattymac.ca

Located on Lake Rousseau, Florida, this modern-style boat house is essentially a second home. The mix of open and covered spaces creates a dynamic style, and the clear railings make for a chic flair. This boat house design has it all: garage doors, two decks with lounge chairs, a hot tub, a bedroom, and a living room. If you frequently host guests at your lake house, it’s a perfect way to give them their own hotel-inspired living space while you take over the main home. 

We hope these styles inspire you to build a boat house you love!

Regional Lake Living: Midwest Styles – From Sleek Prairie to Modern Scandinavian

Photo courtesy of DeForest Architects

In our previous segment of Regional Lake Living, we explored the architectural styles of the Pacific Northwest, where romantic floating homes and dreamy cabin retreats reign supreme amidst the area’s majestic mountain landscapes and forested lakeside getaways. Today, we turn our focus to the Midwest as we take a guided tour of some of the most notable architectural styles and how they came to be. So, grab your favorite summer cocktail, and take in a spectacular lakeside sunset as we savor life along the shores of Lake Michigan, the pristine lakes of Minnesota, and all areas in between.

Prairie Style

Photo courtesy of Midwest Home

For anyone who might think the Midwest is boring and void of style, think again. Home to some of the most noted pioneers of modernist architecture—Frank Lloyd Wright, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Louis Sullivan—the Midwest, especially Chicago, became the epicenter of experimental, cutting-edge residential architecture. One of the most noteworthy and beloved styles that emerged is Prairie Style. This streamlined and elegant aesthetic embodies the purity of clean lines, minimalist decorative restraint, and a deep visual connection to the natural midwestern landscape.

A recognizable signature mark most often credited to the Chicago Group and Frank Lloyd Wright, Prairie Style brought us the first open floor plan, visually connecting the living, dining, and kitchen spaces. This airy aesthetic created a seamless flow throughout the home—an innovative concept void of doors and walls that otherwise separate and close rooms off from one another.

This magnificent Wisconsin waterfront home designed by Bruce Lenzen Design/Build typifies Prairie Style with its satisfying symmetry and minimalist interior décor. The dwelling integrates effortlessly with its breathtaking surroundings and exemplifies the genre with its natural stone exterior, wooden accents, low-pitched metal roof, and expansive horizontal window placement.

Craftsman Style

Photo courtesy of Susan Gilmore via Arts and Crafts Homes

Pure and simple. Influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement, this style celebrates a beautiful simplicity in design combined with the integrity found in superior craftsmanship. Glorified attributes include gabled roofs, exposed beams and rafters, stone and wood exteriors, columns paired with stone pedestals, and remarkable built-in interior woodwork.

Located on Crane Island in Minnesota, this home offers a cool summer retreat for city dwellers. The tiny island—an iconic and historic destination with only 20 or so houses on it, mostly built at the turn of the last century—seems to remain untouched by the hands of time.

For this new lake home, the task for the team at David Heide Design Studio was to build a house with modern conveniences and technology that captured the look and feel of a 1910 cottage. The new structure, outfitted in beautiful woods, repurposed cabinets, stone, reclaimed fir floors, and weathered granite, integrates inconspicuously with its neighbors and natural surroundings.

Photo courtesy of Susan Gilmore via Arts and Crafts Homes

Tucked into a corner, the large L-shaped screened porch clad in beadboard and clapboard offers splendid views in two directions. Interior rooms are furnished with painted or naturally finished wood—an appealing rustic look ideal for a lakeside cabin. 

Farmhouse Style

Photo courtesy of Michelle Fries

Dating back to the early 1800s—when immigrants from Europe were settling and building their homes in rural Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Minnesota—the farmhouse style became one of the most beloved architectural genres in the Midwest. Starting out as modest structures that merely provided shelter and warmth, the farmhouse-style home has gone through many evolutions. It has since become a popular design style that can be seen in all regions across the country.

One of the most iconic features of this architectural style is the expansive wraparound front porch that always welcomes visitors and provides a relaxing open-air environment to take in spectacular views of the natural landscape. Clean and simple vertical lines, gabled roofs, spacious kitchens, and inviting fireplaces also make farmhouse style appealing to all walks of life, especially lake lovers.

Log Homes

Photo courtesy of Aaron Kraft, Krafty Photos via HGTV

The Midwest is not only the birthplace of Prairie Style, but also it is a region known for its beautifully rustic log homes. Dating back to the 1600s, these small cabin-like structures were typically constructed without using nails and contained only one room. This quaint, well-worn aesthetic especially appeals to rural and lake home dwellers and today has evolved into elaborate interpretations that more resemble extravagant retreats rather than humble cabins. Fully functional for today’s modern lifestyle, log homes can be seen in any region but are still most prevalent in rural settings. Contemporary log homes are generally built with regional materials, so the types of woods used can lend a unique regional signature mark to your log home, depending on its location. Climate can also play an essential role in determining what types of woods can be used for optimal durability and insulation. For more information on various styles available, check out Log Home.

Modern Scandinavian Style

Photo Courtesy of Chad Holder Photography via Strand Design

Beginning in the early 1800s, many Nordic immigrants found their way into the Great Plains and the Midwest, settling down in places including Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, Iowa, and Illinois. As a result, Modern Scandinavian design evolved in the area and remains ever popular today.

Inspired by the cold Nordic climates and minimal sunlight during short winter days, this style rejoices in light and cozy interiors where comfort is key. The architecture is delightfully spare yet elegant, with airy open floor plans and light colors. Modern Scandinavian style exhibits clean lines, simple forms, and high-functioning minimalism for practical lifestyles. Unique attributes include graceful asymmetrical designs, large expanses of windows that allow for optimal natural light, sleek repurposed woods, stainless steel, and unobtrusive subdued colors.

If you’re eager to explore lake living options in the Midwest region—or anywhere else across the country—visit Lakehomes.com, select your desired state, and discover the beauty of life on the lake.  

2022 Outdoor Fabric Trends

Photo courtesy of Sunbrella via Sourcing Journal

Hello, summer! At your lake house, it’s that blissful time of year when you can finally use your backyard. As it gets warmer, there’s nothing better than inviting guests to your outdoor dining space to watch a warm lakeside afternoon turn into a cool evening. To prepare for the season, it’s never a bad idea to spruce up your outdoor fabrics. Whether it’s reupholstering seat cushions or investing in new throw pillows, just a little shift in fabric can transform a whole look. Today, we’re taking a glimpse at the top outdoor fabric trends for 2022.

Bold and Bright

Photo courtesy of Sunbrella via Hayneedle

After a few years locked inside during the pandemic, homeowners are taking this year to be loud and proud. According to Southern Living, a theme for the summer is bright shapes and patterns. Think large stripes, oversized florals, or any other bold designs that accentuate your individuality. In a similar vein, it’s also popular to mix patterns. For instance, highlighting florals on a sofa and stripes on an ottoman is a fun way to mix and match your designs. In an outdoor space, it also mimics the liveliness of your natural surroundings.

Botanical Motifs

Photo courtesy of Pottery Barn

This outdoor fabric trend is particularly relevant for lake homeowners. As Kirk Fitzsimmons, director of industrial sales at Sunbrella says, “Creating indoor-outdoor connections is especially important in lake home design, and we’re seeing this trend continue to gain popularity this year.” Whether it’s floral patterns, playing up the color green, or burlap texture, selecting fabrics that mimic the colors and qualities of nature. This trend is also in keeping with the overall concept of biophilic design which gives homage to nature in every aspect of home building and decor.

Earthy and Warm

Photo courtesy of Sunbrella

According to Sunbrella’s recent article addressing Spring fabric trends, warm and earthy colors are trending for this year. From dijon mustard yellows to corals, any shade that evokes a sense of warm energy is particularly in style. These hues create a welcoming feel in your outdoor space, which is perfect for any lake homeowners who enjoy hosting.

Awnings

Photo courtesy of Jans Awnings & Rollshutters

Fabrics aren’t just about pillows and cushions. Often forgotten, awnings can elevate your outdoor space to the next level. Fitzsimmons comments, “When it comes to fabrics, one of the best ways to accomplish this {indoor-outdoor connection} from a functional perspective is to introduce shade structures like awnings. Awnings not only provide cooling protection from sunlight but also add comforting texture and help elevate your outdoor space to a beautiful extension of your home.” Just be sure to look for fabrics with the Seal of Recommendation from the Skin Cancer Foundation, which recognizes safe and effective UV sun protection.

Geometrics

Photo courtesy of Chloe and Olive

Geometric styles have been popularized since ancient history. Specifically, Greeks and Moroccans are known for their architecture and art that features small interlocking shapes. In outdoor furniture fabric, these geometric styles create a sense of order and harmony. This will create an intricate, yet clean look for your outdoor living space.

Cabana Stripes

Photo courtesy of Ballard Designs

According to experts at House Beautiful, cabana stripes are making a comeback. Especially if you have a pool — or in the case of lake homes, a body of water — these wide stripes paired with bold colors are a classic choice for your space. In particular, navy blue, gray, and bright yellow are excellent choices for summer. 

We hope this short summary of trends helps you in the decorating process!

Regional Lake Living: Pacific Northwest Styles – From Classic Craftsman to Sleek NW Modern

Photo courtesy of HGTV

In our previous segment of Regional Lake Living, we explored the architectural styles of the Northeast, where charming bungalows and shingled Cape Cods dot the lake shorelines of this breathtaking region that stretches all the way up to the northern coast of Maine. Today, we turn our focus to the Pacific Northwest as we take a guided tour of some of the most notable architectural styles and how they came to be. So, grab a glass of your favorite regional wine, and relax on your breezy lakeside porch as we relish life amidst Washington state’s majestic mountains and all areas in between.

Classic Craftsman Style

Photo courtesy of HGTV

A harmonious mix of functionality and classic architectural beauty is what makes craftsman style an iconic favorite throughout the Pacific Northwest. Blending seamlessly with the region’s extraordinary natural landscapes, craftsman-style homes feature an abundance of locally sourced materials—predominantly wood and stone—for which the area is widely known.

Stone foundations, gable roofs, and exposed wood beams are some of the most noteworthy characteristics of this beloved style. Deep overhangs and spacious wraparound covered porches provide much-needed protection from the Pacific Northwest’s excessive rains. Expansive windows allow plenty of natural sunlight inside while also offering picturesque views of the surrounding lake scenery.  

Rustic Cabin Retreats

Photo courtesy of The Mandagies

What could be more charming—and visually appealing—than a secluded cabin tucked into a forested lakefront in the Pacific Northwest? At one with the mountains, trees, and sparkling crystal waters, these rustic retreats meld gracefully into their natural environments, offering inhabitants a comforting sense of peace and a deep connection to the great outdoors. Using an abundance of reclaimed and salvaged wood, along with other locally sourced materials, simple cottages and log cabins are built with ease throughout the region. These cozy hideaways are most commonly found in more remote and rural areas, which makes them all the more alluring if you’re looking for a quiet escape away from it all.

Floating Homes

Photo courtesy of Seattle Pi

For many of us, the romantic notion of living in a floating home—or houseboat—conjures memories of a beloved movie favorite, Sleepless in Seattle. The thought of living in a dwelling that sits atop the shimmering water amidst the sounds of waves lapping gently in the night is a wonderfully dreamy image and one that people in the Pacific Northwest continue to pursue.

Contrary to popular belief, floating homes do not drift but are moored and often float next to a pier. Their typically small spaces often offer unique opportunities to create innovative architectural and interior design solutions that most minimalists thrive on.

But this extravagant 1,750 square-foot residence expels the notion that all houseboats are tiny. Flooded with natural light and surrounded by the tranquil waters of Seattle’s Lake Union, this captivating two-story floating home features incredible custom built-in cabinetry throughout, a luxurious sauna, and a breezy roof deck from which to watch the area’s spectacular sunsets. In addition, this lavish dwelling boasts a huge kitchen/dining area, three bedrooms, two baths, and two decks from which to enjoy the best of alfresco lake living.      

Tudor-Revival Style

Photo courtesy of Seattle Pi

Gracefully arched entryways, steep-pitched roofs, and cottage-like half-timbered stucco facades give Tudor-style homes a castle-in-a-fairytale vibe. With origins in England, this beloved architectural style is popular throughout the country, specifically the Pacific Northwest. Both quaint and elegant, Tudor style lends itself to splendid lakefront properties with sprawling grounds and spectacular views. With a hint of English grandeur, Tudor-revival homes typically feature narrow windows grouped together, creating wide expanses that allow lots of natural light and maximize the views outside.

This stunning home perches pristinely over Seattle’s lovely Lake Washington and boasts majestic roof peaks, leaded-glass windows, elaborate archways, and ornate brickwork. Cozy fireplaces and lavish outdoor spaces make this dwelling just as inviting in summer as in the chilly winter months.

Modern Style

Photo Courtesy of Hammer & Hand

For those who love minimalist design, modern style—sometimes referred to as NW modern—is a perfect choice. With clean lines, spacious open floor plans, and a complete lack of ornamentation, modern style architecture intentionally blurs the lines between home and landscape. Unadorned exterior design incorporating natural materials and vast expanses of glass and steel windows give this genre an industrial vibe that’s also warm and livable. Extended overhangs provide protection from the region’s notorious rains while creating year-round outdoor spaces that can be used—rain or shine.

An offshoot of modern style, NW modern style takes on a distinctively Japanese aesthetic—think sleek bamboo and lustrous maple woods, light-filled minimalist spaces, and a deep connection to the natural landscape.   

If you’re eager to explore lake living options in the Pacific Northwest region—or anywhere else across the country for that matter—visit Lakehomes.com, select your desired state, and discover the beauty of life on the lake.  

2021 Winter Interior Design Tips

Photo courtesy of Clayton Boyd via Boston Magazine

Even as temperatures plummet, there’s still lots to love about winter at the lake. Whether it’s spending evenings by the fire, watching movies with friends, or savoring the sweet aromas of holiday baking wafting from the kitchen, there’s always something innately soothing about the cozy comforts of hearth and home.

Our desire to retreat indoors when the weather turns cold and cocoon ourselves in softness and warmth is perhaps one of the most essential elements of our well-being. We all know the feeling—so how can we bring more of that wonderfully calm and relaxed vibe into our lake homes? Here are some easy tips you can apply to any room in your house to instantly generate a sense of coziness that even your guests will notice.

Pull Up a Chair

Photo courtesy of Philip Vile via  Elle Decor

The first step? Rethink your furniture arrangement, especially if you have a fireplace. Begin by pulling everything inward—closer to the fire—to create a relaxing and intimate oasis that immediately draws people in. If your sofa doesn’t face the fireplace already, move it either directly in front or perpendicular to the hearth so you and your guests can bask in the warmth and ambient glow of firelight. Pull in armchairs for extra seating that complements your new sofa arrangement and accent with occasional tables so that every seat has a surface within reach to hold drinks and snacks.

Layered In Luxury

Photo courtesy of Pinterest

Nothing speaks of toasty winter warmth like plush throws, pillows, blankets, and rugs. Use them in abundance throughout your rooms, and layer them to your heart’s content to design lavish texture vignettes that comfort and invite. Toss a fluffy sheepskin rug on the floor or atop a leather bench or ottoman to create cozy areas for morning coffee and evening cocktails. Drape smaller pelts over benches and dining chairs for added cushion and warmth. Pile pillows high with a mix of cable knits, faux furs, and other snuggly-soft fabrics, and keep enough blankets on hand for family and guests to stave off winter’s chill.

Quick Tip: When layering, make sure your soft goods adhere to a harmonious color scheme to ensure eye-pleasing continuity throughout.

Enlighten & Illuminate

Photo courtesy of Houzz

For instant gratification that requires little effort on your part, there’s nothing like the allure of candlelight to generate an instant cozy vibe. If you’re a scented candle connoisseur, even better. A seasonal fragrance—think cinnamon, clove, spiced apple, bourbon-vanilla, birchwood, pine—can lift your spirits and transform the mood of your spaces with the strike of a match.

Battery-operated candles offer a safe, mess-free option, and some come with timers so you can walk away and forget about them. For a more casual, Bohemian-chic look, string lights can illuminate windows, ceilings, and even artwork for an extra glint of glamor. And lastly, be sure to limit cold-temperature lights throughout your lake home and install warm light bulbs instead. Click here to learn more about lighting temperatures.

Natural Beauty

Photo courtesy of William Waldron via Elle Decor

Celebrate the beauty of nature and bring it indoors. Despite frigid temps, this spectacular outdoor space blends seamlessly with the frosty winter landscape and exudes an enchanting sense of warmth and charm. Take inspiration from the simplicity of its design and bring similar elements inside your home to warm up your rooms. Think pine branches and pinecones to adorn a table setting or stunning potted plants and floral bouquets to integrate splashes of green, pink, red, or white into your winter décor. No matter the season, the simple beauty of nature is at once tranquil, lively, and uplifting.

Cabin Cozy

Photo courtesy of House to Home Designs

Don’t forget your bedrooms when cozying up your lake home this winter. Swapping out your bedding is the quickest way to make a seasonal statement, and it doesn’t have to be costly. Adding colorful quilts or coverlets can transform your bedrooms in an instant and create that snug winter feel that you—and your houseguests—will love sinking into at night. Rich reds—solids, stripes, and plaids—generate a warm vibe and wrap the room in luxurious comfort. If color isn’t your thing, layer your bed with an ethereal mix of soft whites, creams, grays, taupes, and browns in a heavenly blend of cottons, cable knits, faux furs, and fleece. A plush, neutral-hued rug underfoot will add extra warmth and ground the vibrant color palette.  

Mantel Makeover

Photo courtesy of Pinterest

When the hearth takes the spotlight in winter, now’s the perfect time to give your mantel an alluring new look. Dress it up with a large mirror overhead that reflects the light—both sunlight and candlelight—and creates a high-impact focal point for your seating area. Here, a fresh green garland and a sprinkling of candles bring effortless elegance to the rustic, rough-hewn plank walls and the decidedly masculine style of the space. Wrought-iron deer figurines and fireplace tools create a sculptural design and echo the mirror’s black metal frame. Remember to keep it simple and achieve a pleasing balance with both elements from nature and meaningful decorative accents that add visual beauty to your space.

Regional Lake Living: Northeastern Styles – From Charming Cape Cods to Quaint Bungalows

Photo courtesy of Shabbyfufu

In our first segment of Regional Lake Living, we explored the architectural styles of the South, where gracious Southern hospitality reigns supreme and shady verandas and breezy screened porches offer a charmed way of life. Today, we turn our focus to the Northeastern region of the country as we take a guided tour of some of the most notable architectural styles and how they came to be. So, grab your favorite cocktail and relax in your Adirondack chair as we relish life on the Cape and all areas in between.

Classic Cape Cod

Photo courtesy of Architectural Digest

Originating along the coast of New England in the late 1600s, the classic shingle-style Cape Cod is the quintessential architectural style of the region. These picturesque cottages—sporting wonderfully weathered wood-shingled facades, steeply pitched gabled roofs, and a single chimney on one end—stand prominently on the Massachusetts shoreline and conjure images of idyllic summer clambakes on the sand.

Typically rising one and a half stories tall, the classic cape cod is anchored by a center hall that runs the entire width of the home. The front door is usually centered and void of architectural embellishment, but modern interpretations of this iconic style can include breezy porticos and porches—perfect for waterfront living.

Greek Revival

Drawing inspiration from the architecture of ancient Greece, this visually appealing style found its place in American history during the mid-1800s. Pristinely poised with gleaming white-painted exteriors, Greek Revival homes embody a pleasing sense of symmetry accented with graceful columns or pilasters and front-facing gabled roofs. The popularity of this style—reminiscent of Greece’s famed Parthenon—emerged as American architects sought inspiration from Grecian architecture in the mid-1800s, a turn of events spurred by the country’s bitterness toward the British after the War of 1812.

This uplifting aesthetic celebrates the impeccable timeless beauty of Grecian design, which can be found in both grand public buildings and scenic city neighborhoods. In residential settings, Greek Revival homes connect seamlessly to their surroundings, often including large porches that invite effortless indoor-outdoor living.

Bungalow Style

Photo courtesy of Pinterest

Beloved for its quaint simplicity and airy open floor plan, the bungalow captures all the rustic charm of a lakeside cabin, yet with the efficiency of built-in shelving, cabinetry, and roomy double-hung windows. Originating in India by the British during the mid-nineteenth century, the first one-story bungalows offered shelter from the hot climate with roomy porches and wide overhanging eaves.

Taking style cues from the Craftsman, the more petite American bungalow typically features a second story, dormered roofs, and a smaller-scale front porch at the entrance. Clad with stonework embellishments on the bottom—along with clapboard, shingle, or stucco siding—bungalows can be found all over the country and adapt to many different tastes and regions. First constructed in southern California between 1905 and 1930, American bungalow style rapidly became ubiquitous throughout the United States. Today, it is especially befitting in the Northeastern region, where laid-back lake living thrives.

Victorian Style

Photo courtesy of Better Homes & Gardens

The utmost antithesis of the buttoned-up attitude that typically characterizes the Victorians, these eclectic painted ladies or gingerbread houses celebrate whimsy and fanciful architecture like no other. These playful expressions, or so it seems, came across through the unexpected style of Victorian homes in what could be considered a joyful rebellion against the rigid symmetry, balance, and unadorned squareness depicting American architecture over the past 200 years.

Originating in England, Victorian style eventually flourished abroad, and its extensive reach soon spread to America. The style became most prominent during the 1900s when manufacturing developments paved the way for the mass production of materials used in these ornamental designs. Architectural embellishments indicative of Victorian style include turrets, multiple porches, steeply pitched roofs with many gables, scalloped shingles, patterned roofs, and a hodge-podge of expressive arches, hexagons, curves, and other lively shapes.

Some of the most exquisite examples can be seen along the seacoast of New England, and they are delightfully sprinkled throughout the Northeast as well.

Federal Style

Photo courtesy of William Waldron via Architectural Digest

Popular during the early 1800s and prominent throughout New England’s affluent port cities, this stately style was originally a symbol of wealth in urban settings. Inspired by eighteenth-century Greek and Roman architecture, Federal style is best known for its impeccable symmetry, brick facades, and grandiose double-hung windows. The front door is often capped with a semicircular fanlight and then crowned with elaborate molding atop regal columns. A pair of chimneys typically flank each side of the house, punctuating either a gabled or low-grade hip roof. Dentil moldings—or friezes sometimes displaying garlands, swags, urns, lotus buds, medallions, or wheat sheaves—accentuate the windows in ornate Federal-style fashion.   

Adirondack Style

Photo courtesy of New England Home

Named after the Adirondack Mountains and dating back to the 1800s, this rustic alpine style emits a cozy lodge-like warmth that speaks to all of us. It was amidst this glorious mountain setting that well-heeled East Coast families purchased acres of the breathtaking land within New York’s Adirondack region and built Great Camps—compounds comprising everything from luxury lodges and guest houses to stables and boathouses.

Colors, furnishings, materials, and other details of Adirondack style are always inspired by the surrounding nature and exude a relaxed mountain-getaway vibe. Capture the look with elements like rough-hewn wood ceiling beams, wainscoting, and furniture, twig work, burnished metals, bluestone or slate tiles, fieldstone fireplaces, supple leather upholstery, and sturdy Arts & Crafts décor. And let’s not forget the most iconic element—the Adirondack chair. A classic piece for patios, lawns, and decks, the wood-slatted, straight-backed, and angled-seat chair is perhaps the most recognizable component of Adirondack style.

Exterior hallmarks include rustic timber framing, poplar bark shingled siding, fieldstone foundations, pillars, and chimneys, cedar shake roofs, captivating towers, red window trim, screened sleeping porches, and breezy verandas and porches lined with rustic wood railings. These dreamy retreats offer a place to escape with family and friends—a place to commune with nature and take in the natural beauty of the nearby lakes.

If you’re eager to discover lake living options in the Northeastern region—or anywhere else across the country for that matter—visit Lakehomes.com, select your desired state, and explore to your heart’s content.   

Modern Farmhouse Style: Beautiful Laid-Back Living on the Lake

Photo courtesy of Dan Zeeff, DJZ Photography via Mike Schaap Builders

When it comes to lake living, the trend for cozy comfort has picked up speed since life as we know it changed suddenly in 2020. So, it comes as no surprise that the relaxed, no-fuss aesthetic of modern farmhouse style is on the rise everywhere—and especially at the lake. The perfect mix of minimal contemporary design blended effortlessly with traditional country charm, this look offers the warm and fuzzy feeling we crave yet with a fresh take that accommodates today’s streamlined lifestyle. Modern farmhouse style celebrates the beauty of serene color palettes, natural, rustic finishes, and a deep appreciation for the imperfect.

This spectacular waterfront home nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan illustrates an impeccable example of contemporary farmhouse style. Jodi Medina, lead designer at Benchmark Design Studio, together with Adam and Mike Schaap of Mike Schaap Builders, helped their clients step by step to achieve their family dream home on the lake.

If this look appeals to you, here are a few of their surefire tips on how you can create this contemporary take on rustic farmhouse style without sacrificing the ease of modern living.

Fabrics & Finishes

Photo courtesy of Dan Zeeff, DJZ Photography via Mike Schaap Builders

“Modern farmhouse is a casual, relaxed, simple design that is so popular these days,” says Jodi. “Some of the details that our clients gravitated towards that we helped them incorporate in this home include black hardware and light fixtures, wide-plank white-washed white oak floors, and shiplap walls.”

A fusion of classic country style with rustic farmhouse elements, the modern farmhouse is polished with the sleek sophistication of crisp lines, soothing neutrals, lustrous metals, and a mix of smooth and weathered woods. Comfort is still key and can be achieved with a thoughtfully planned layering of color and pattern. In the living room and throughout, Jodi mixed playful patterns with subtle stripes and sumptuous solids in nubby tweed, supple leather, and even dog-friendly performance fabrics on some of the larger pieces. Patterned area rugs introduce plush softness underfoot and anchor the seating groups.

Pleasing Palettes

Photo courtesy of Dan Zeeff, DJZ Photography via Mike Schaap Builders

The modern farmhouse palette comprises a layering of neutrals—soft whites, creams, beiges, and grays. This will give your home a satisfying continuity and a contemporary fresh feel that defines this ever-popular style. To create contrast with a modern edge, Jodi added pops of black throughout with lighting fixtures and sleek kitchen countertops for the perfect juxtaposition to the home’s serene neutrals. Accent pillows in pale shades of blue, pale pink, and coral add visual interest and lend a soft touch to an otherwise modern scheme.

In addition to incorporating black into your color palette, don’t be afraid to use deeper shades—charcoal gray, dark blue, rich green—on accent walls, backsplashes, and cabinets to create visual balance and bring a sense of cozy warmth into your contemporary farmhouse home. 

Texture & Traditional Touches

Photo courtesy of Dan Zeeff, DJZ Photography via Mike Schaap Builders

For this project, Jodi and her team made sure to combine sleek contemporary materials with weathered woods to create authentic farmhouse character. Natural and tactile textures such as a needle-point style area rug and intricately woven wicker-backed dining chairs nod to the traditional farmhouse aesthetic and pair perfectly with other textural accents, including a herringbone-patterned tile backsplash against built-in custom cabinets and a rustic barn beam atop a beachy pebble-stone fireplace surround.

“I think the style works well in this lakeside setting as it has a casual, laid-back feel to it,” says Jodi. “It also allows the family to live a more relaxed lifestyle with the finishes, which I think are easier to maintain than others. The homeowners live in this house full-time with their three children and the family dog. The white oak wood floors perform well at the lake, and the shiplap walls offer a low-maintenance, more forgiving option that also speaks to farmhouse style,” she sums.  

Heart of the Home

Photo courtesy of Dan Zeeff, DJZ Photography via Mike Schaap Builders

The nerve center of almost every home, an inviting kitchen is the sweet spot for entertaining, family gatherings, and group cooking sessions. As with all the other rooms in the house, Jodi designed the plan and selected the architectural and trim details, cabinetry, furniture, and finishes. Her sister company Benchmark Wood Studio produced the custom cabinetry.

“Our three companies, including Mike Schaap Builders, are located in Holland, MI, under the same roof,” she says. “We work collectively to provide our clients with beautifully crafted and constructed, well-thought-out lake homes.”

Outfitted with white oak floors, honed black countertops accented with a shiny white subway-tile backsplash, and pendant lights wrapped elegantly with chicken-wire detailing, the kitchen aligns with the home’s modern farmhouse vibe. A roomy white island seats four and features extra pull-out stools tucked into each end.  

Sleek & Simple

Photo courtesy of Dan Zeeff, DJZ Photography via Mike Schaap Builders

Offering panoramic views of the lake, the master bathroom emits a spa-like ambiance with its sleek, minimalist style. Gray custom cabinetry connects visually with a beautiful herringbone-patterned tile floor, and a white soaking tub makes an elegant statement. Shiplap walls, brushed metal lighting fixtures, and a touch of black hardware on the door echo elements of modern farmhouse style seen throughout the home.  

Architectural Aplomb

Photo courtesy of Dan Zeeff, DJZ Photography via Mike Schaap Builders

The exterior features for this home that embody modern farmhouse style include white board-and-batten siding, a black shingled roof with metal accents, and black-framed windows, doors, hardware, and light fixtures. In addition, a black Shaker-style bench creates a subtle hint of country charm that always befits this look.

“I loved how the homeowners trusted us with this project and allowed us to listen to their needs and wants,” recalls Jodi. “It is a highlight when our clients get to walk in their finished home and see the beautiful work our team envisioned and how our talented craftsmen implement it. It’s a blessing to us that we get to create these beautiful homes that people will live in and create amazing memories with their family and friends.”

For more tips on creating the modern farmhouse style in your own lake home, visit Homes & Gardens.