Tag: interior design

The Anchor of the Room: A Master Guide to Choosing the Perfect Lake House Area Rug

Posted on Oscar Gipson
Photo generated by Google Gemini

In waterfront design, a room without a rug is like a boat without an anchor—it drifts. Interior stylists often refer to the area rug as the anchor because it tethers every element, from the sofa and the view to the light, into a singular, cohesive vision. Without it, your furniture floats aimlessly, and in a spacious lakefront home, that can leave a room feeling cold and disconnected from the shore.

Why the Rug Matters

Oriental Rug Water Damage Help: Safe N Soft Carpet Cleani
Photo Courtesy of Carpet Cleaning Boise

Think of your area rug as the visual heartbeat of the room. It sets the tone, defines boundaries in open-concept spaces, and provides the literal foundation for your home’s aesthetic.

Beyond aesthetics, rugs offer critical functional benefits. They act as natural acoustic dampeners, softening the echo in rooms with high ceilings or hard surfaces, and provide thermal insulation, keeping your space warmer in winter. However, the most common pitfall homeowners encounter is scale. Most people buy rugs that are far too small, creating a “postage stamp” effect that makes a room feel cramped rather than expansive.

The Golden Rules of Sizing (By Room)

Duluth, GA Area Rug Cleaning: Expert Cleaning by ATL Clean
Photo Courtesy of Carpet Cleaning by ATL Clean

In real estate, scale is everything. It is the difference between a quaint cabin and a luxury estate.

The Great Room: Aim for the “All Legs On” rule for an expansive, high-status feel. If your layout is more casual, follow the “Front Legs Only” rule, ensuring the rug extends at least 6 to 8 inches under the seating. This prevents the rug from shifting on high-end hardwoods.

The Dining Room: The 24-inch rule is non-negotiable for those sunset dinner parties. Your rug must extend 2 feet beyond the table so that when guests slide their chairs back to watch the moon rise over the water, the chair legs stay firmly on the rug.

The Master Suite: Frame the bed to create a “Morning Footfall.” Place the rug perpendicular to the bed so that when you step out of bed to check the water conditions, your feet land on a soft, warm surface rather than a cold floor.

The Entryway and Mudroom: Use the “Frame” effect. Treat your floor like a piece of art and leave 18 to 36 inches of exposed flooring on all sides. This creates a balanced look while providing a dedicated transition zone for guests coming in from the dock.

Material Selection: Form vs. Function

Rug Binding vs. Serging: Which Rug Edging Is Right?
Photo Courtesy of BEC Flooring

Lakeside living requires materials that can handle a bit of nature without losing their luxury.

Natural Fibers: Wool is the gold standard for lake homes. Its natural lanolin coating makes it inherently stain-resistant to the occasional splash of water or wine. For executive realness in low-traffic dens, silk or viscose offers a high-sheen finish that mimics the shimmer of sunlight on the water.

Natural Textures: For the ultimate lakefront aesthetic, jute and sisal are unmatched. They provide an organic, earthy texture that feels sophisticated yet unpretentious, which is perfect for a refined yet rugged lifestyle.

High Performance Synthetics: If your home is the designated party house for the weekend, polypropylene and polyester are your best friends. Modern performance lifestyle weaves mimic the look of natural fibers but are virtually indestructible and moisture resistant.

Visual Strategy: Color, Pattern, and Texture

Royalty-Free photo: Designer living room interior with a wooden box table and a light blue carpet | PickPik
Photo Courtesy of PickPik

When designing a room around a lake view, choose the rug first. It is the foundation that allows you to pull in blues, sand tones, or forest greens from the surrounding landscape.

Texture is a powerful tool for comfort. Use a high pile shag to add warmth to cozy fireplaces. Conversely, sleek low-pile or flatweaves are ideal for cyber luxury home offices or boathouse lounges where mobility is key.

Craftsmanship and Care

Protect Area Rugs from Sun Damage: Tips by All Star Chem-Dry
Photo Courtesy of Carpet Cleaning

Protecting your lakeside interior requires a blend of the right construction and a proactive care regimen:

Select the Right Build: Choose hand-knotted for heirloom legacy, hand-tufted for a sophisticated middle ground, or power-loomed for high-traffic durability.

Invest in a Quality Pad: This invisible necessity prevents slipping on polished floors and acts as a shock absorber, extending the life of the fibers.

Rotate and Maintain: Turn your rug 180° every six months to combat uneven sun fading from large windows. Schedule professional cleanings every 12–18 months to preserve the weave.

Leverage Olfactive Branding: Use fiber-safe sprays with notes of cedar or ozone to maintain a fresh, outdoor-inspired atmosphere without the lingering musk of the lake.

Before you finalize your choice, ensure the scale matches the room’s grandeur and the material is ready for the transition from dock to deck.

Whether you choose a minimalist sand-toned neutral or a high-contrast geometric that mirrors the architecture of a supercar, let your rug be the statement that anchors your world.

Crafting a Five-Star Hotel Bedroom in Your Lake Home

Posted on Oscar Gipson
Grand Deluxe Room | Luxury Rooms Near Mdina | Luxury Hotel in Malta | Corinthia Palace | Corinthia
Photo Courtesy of Corinthia Hotels

There is a specific, unmistakable feeling that washes over you when you open the door to a luxury waterfront resort. It is more than just the view of the water; it is the escapism factor. Every element of the room has been curated to remove the friction of daily life, leaving only comfort and calm.

In a lake home, we often rely on the natural scenery to do the heavy lifting. However, true hotel ambiance is found in the balance of high-end aesthetics and sensory details tailored specifically for the primary bedroom. By bringing those professional design secrets home, you can transform your sleeping quarters into a permanent lakeside sanctuary.

The Foundation: Mastering the Cloud Bed

Galena Project: Rowland+Broughton's Aspen Design Showcase
Photo Courtesy of Rowland + Broughton Architecture

The centerpiece of any five-star stay is a bed that looks and feels impossible to leave.

  • The All-White Palette: There is a reason luxury hotels almost exclusively use crisp white linens. White signals a high standard of cleanliness and creates a visual cloud that brightens the room, especially during those moody, overcast lake mornings.
  • Layering for Texture: Start with a high-thread-count duvet for that substantial, hotel-grade weight. To keep it from feeling too sterile, add a weighted throw at the foot of the bed in a lake-inspired hue, such as deep navy, slate grey, or weathered driftwood.
  • The Pillow Menu: For a structured, professional look, do not just toss your sleeping pillows on the bed. Layer them behind large decorative shams and finish the look with a single, long lumbar pillow in a contrasting texture.

Lighting Design: Layering the Glow

A look inside The Surrey – the latest Corinthia hotel to open its doors in Manhattan, New York - Design Dispatch
Photo Courtesy of Design Dispatch

Nothing kills the hotel ambiance faster than the big light. To create a retreat, you must banish harsh overhead lighting in favor of the Rule of Three:

  1. Task Lighting: Install symmetrical bedside lamps or wall-mounted sconces. This allows for reading without disturbing the overall peace of the room.
  2. Accent Lighting: Use LED strip lighting behind a headboard or under the bed frame to highlight the natural wood textures often found in lake architecture.
  3. Ambient Lighting: Place floor lamps in far corners to soften the room’s edges as twilight falls over the water.

The Dimmer Essential: Always install dimmer switches. Being able to slowly lower the light levels allows you to mimic a professional evening turndown as the sun sets.

The Sensory Suite: Incorporating Scent and Sound

scented, scent, fragrance, fragranced, perfume, perfumed, fragrant, bedroom, Pairfum, candle, reed diffuser, spray, home, room, linen, fabric, natural, light, organic, pillow, lavender, sleep, table, interior design, furniture, tap, still life photography, ceramic
Photo Courtesy of PxHere

A true hotel experience engages all five senses. In a lake home, you want to harmonize with the outdoors rather than mask it.

  • The Signature Scent: Choose a high-end candle or reed diffuser with notes that complement the shoreline, such as cedarwood, balsam, or a crisp lake breeze.
  • Acoustic Softening: While the sound of lapping water is peaceful, the sound of early morning boat traffic is not. Use heavy, floor-to-ceiling blackout curtains to muffle outside noise and light.
  • Plush Area Rugs: Even if you have beautiful hardwood floors, a plush rug under the bed is vital. It absorbs sound and provides a soft, warm landing for your feet on those brisk, misty mornings.

The Clutter Edit: Streamlining the Sanctuary

Photo by Pixabay

The primary difference between a hotel room and a home bedroom is the presence of life clutter. To maintain a five-star feel, you must be ruthless with your surfaces.

  • The Zero Surface Policy: Keep your nightstands clear of mail, tangled charging cables, and stray sunblock bottles. If it is not beautiful or essential for sleep, it belongs in a drawer.
  • The View Centric Nook: If space allows, position a single armchair and a small side table near the window. This creates a dedicated resort zone for your morning coffee while you watch the mist rise off the water.
  • Curated Art: Avoid the gallery wall of small family photos, which can feel busy. Instead, opt for one or two large-scale, calming landscape pieces that maintain a sophisticated, airy vibe.

Hospitality Touches: Adding the Little Extras

Dallas Luxury Homes: Top Features for 2025 | Starside
Photo Courtesy of Starside Custom Builders

It is the small, thoughtful details that make a guest feel cared for in a hotel. Treat yourself to the same level of hospitality.

  • The Bedside Carafe: Trade the plastic water bottle for a glass carafe and tumbler set. It is a simple upgrade that adds instant sophistication to your nightstand.
  • The Tech Hideaway: Use decorative lidded boxes or hidden charging stations to keep phone cords and GPS trackers out of sight.
  • Fresh Greenery: Bring the outside in with a single branch of local greenery, perhaps a sprig of pine or a birch stem, in a simple vase. It is a living element that connects your room to the landscape.

Maintaining a hotel-inspired bedroom is as much about habit as it is about decor. Adopting a daily turndown routine, such as straightening the linens, clearing the nightstand, and dimming the lights 30 minutes before bed, ensures the ambiance never fades.

Ultimately, a hotel-inspired bedroom respects the beauty of the lake by providing a world-class vantage point to view it from. When your environment is this intentional, you do not need a vacation to find peace; you simply need to go down the hall.

Did you enjoy this article? Be sure to check out Lake Homes Lifestyles for more!

Purpose-Driven: The Most Enduring Kitchen Trends for Your Lake Home in 2026

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder
Palmer Custom Builders Top Kitchen Trends, 2026
Photo Courtesy of Palmer Custom Builders

For lake homeowners, the kitchen is rarely a closed-off, purely utilitarian space. Instead, it functions as a social hub after a day on the water. It is also a prep zone for casual group meals and a visual anchor that often connects directly to decks, docks, or panoramic views. As 2026 unfolds, kitchen design for lake homes across the U.S. is moving toward longevity, adaptability, and regional sensitivity. It is moving away from short-lived visual statements. Savvy lake-property owners are increasingly focused on choices that enhance everyday use while quietly increasing resale value—materials that weather humidity, finishes that age gracefully, and layouts that support both large gatherings and low-key weekends.

Unlike primary residences, lake homes experience fluctuating occupancy, varied climate conditions, and heavier wear during peak seasons. The most relevant kitchen trends for 2026 reflect this reality. Designers are emphasizing performance-driven materials, flexible storage solutions, and understated palettes that complement water-facing views rather than compete with them. Across regions—from the Upper East and Northern Great Lakes to Texas lake country and California reservoirs—the strongest kitchens share a common thread. In particular, they feel intentional, grounded, and resilient.

The following six kitchen trends define 2026 for lake homes, balancing modern sensibility with practical design decisions. These decisions hold their value well beyond the current cycle.

Soft-Neutral Color Palettes with Regional Depth

Kitchen Trend Illustrating Soft-Neutral Color Palettes with Regional Depth
Photo courtesy of Meagan Larsen Photography, NKBA via Forbes

Rather than stark white or trend-heavy hues, 2026 kitchens are embracing layered neutrals inspired by local landscapes. Think warm taupes, muted clay tones, softened sage, and stone-inflected grays. These palettes feel modern without being rigid and allow lake views to remain the focal point.

This approach works especially well in the Upper East and Mid-Atlantic, where seasonal light shifts dramatically. It also works in the Pacific Northwest and Northern Great Lakes, where overcast days benefit from warmer undertones. In California and the Southeast, sun-washed neutrals help temper brightness.

Implementation is simple: use a neutral base on cabinetry or walls, then introduce depth through veined countertops, textured backsplashes, or mixed wood tones. These palettes age well and appeal to a broad range of future buyers.

Purpose-Driven Cabinetry with Integrated Storage

2026 kitchen trend illustrating Purpose-Driven Cabinetry with Integrated Storage
Photo courtesy of Michael Clifford Photography and Martha Dayton Design via Canadian Log Homes

Cabinetry in 2026 lake homes is less about ornamentation and more about performance. Flat-panel or lightly detailed doors dominate. These are paired with interiors designed for real lake-life storage—cooler drawers, appliance garages, and concealed recycling or tackle storage.

This trend is particularly practical in Texas lake regions and the Southeast, where entertaining is frequent. It is also helpful in Northern Great Lakes homes that require efficient storage during seasonal use. Streamlined cabinetry reduces visual clutter while maximizing capacity.

To implement, prioritize high-quality box construction and interior fittings. Consider a mix of closed storage and limited open shelving to balance display and durability without sacrificing resale appeal.

Durable, Low-Contrast Backsplashes

2026 kitchen trend illustrating Durable, Low-Contrast Backsplashes
Photo courtesy of Prime Construction

High-contrast tile patterns are giving way to quieter, tactile backsplash materials. Slab stone, handmade-look ceramic tiles, and subtle stacked stone are leading choices in 2026. As a result, they offer visual interest without overwhelming the space.

This trend suits Pacific Northwest and California lake homes especially well, as organic materials naturally align with their surroundings. In the Upper East and Mid-Atlantic, neutral backsplashes provide a sense of continuity with historic architecture.

Homeowners can implement this trend by extending countertop material up the wall or choosing tiles with tonal variation rather than bold patterning. These choices are easier to maintain and feel timeless rather than trend-bound.

Advanced, Energy-Efficient Appliances

2026 kitchen trend illustrating Advanced, Energy-Efficient Appliances
Photo courtesy of Hackrea

Appliance trends for 2026 emphasize quiet performance, energy efficiency, and seamless integration. Panel-ready refrigerators, induction cooktops, and convection speed ovens are increasingly standard in lake kitchens.

This is particularly relevant in Northern Great Lakes and Upper East regions, where energy efficiency matters during colder months. It is also relevant in California, where sustainability standards influence buyer expectations. Texas and Southeast lake homes benefit from induction cooking’s reduced heat output.

Implementation involves prioritizing appliance packages that balance technology with reliability. Choosing brands known for longevity helps protect long-term value while supporting everyday ease of use.

Natural Stone and Composite Countertops

2026 kitchen trend illustrating Natural Stone and Composite Countertops
Photo courtesy Ashley Sullivan / Design by Kelsey Leigh Design Co. via The Spruce

Countertops in 2026 favor materials that wear gracefully. Honed granite, quartzite, and high-quality composites dominate, offering durability against moisture, temperature changes, and heavy use.

This trend works universally across lake regions, but is especially valuable in the Mid-Atlantic, Southeast, and Pacific Northwest, where humidity and seasonal shifts are common. In California lake homes, lighter-toned stone enhances indoor-outdoor continuity.

Homeowners should opt for subtle veining and matte finishes to avoid visual fatigue. These materials photograph well, age better, and remain attractive to future buyers.

Layered Lighting with Warm Metal Hardware

2026 kitchen trend illustrating Layered Lighting with Warm Metal Hardware
Photo courtesy of Matthew Kisiday, House Beautiful

Lighting strategies in 2026 focus on flexibility. Layered lighting—combining recessed fixtures, under-cabinet lighting, and understated pendants—creates adaptability for different times of day and seasonal use. Warm metal hardware finishes like brushed brass, aged bronze, and soft black complement this approach. These finishes feel grounded and resist trend fatigue better than high-polish alternatives.

This trend is especially effective in the Southeast, Texas, and California, where evening entertaining is common. It is also beneficial in Northern regions where interior lighting quality impacts comfort during darker months.Implementation involves dimmable systems and restrained hardware selections that complement cabinetry without dominating it.

The strongest kitchen trends for lake homes in 2026 prioritize longevity over spectacle. By focusing on durable materials, regionally informed palettes, and performance-driven design choices, lake homeowners can create kitchens that feel current while remaining adaptable for years to come. These trends enhance daily living and respect regional conditions. They also quietly reinforce property value—an essential balance for any well-considered lake home investment. For more design tips to enhance your lake life, visit Lake Homes Lifestyles.

Quiet Luxury: Top Interior Design Trends 2024

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder
Lake home living room with floor-to-ceiling windows, nature views, neutral interior palette, stone fireplace wall
Photo courtesy of Decorilla

Quiet Luxury dominates the interior design trends in 2024—with or without bold color. This is a fresh new year that empowers personal preference over enforced design rules and the dreaded over-styling of eras past. With organic shapes, biophilic design, and a connection to sunlight and nature still going strong, we are drawn to pieces with style, soul, and timeless appeal. Additionally, there is a focus on eliminating decision fatigue by selecting spectacular statement accents, larger, more impactful art pieces, and visually powerful focal points. Behold the modern kitchen’s dynamic range hoods and eye-popping tiled backsplashes. As lake lovers, we also value tranquility and brief pauses from technology, hence the emerging popularity of luxuriously substantial soaking tubs, in-home spas, and saunas.  

With an ongoing quest for individuality, we can bet that 2024 will continue the pursuit of personalization throughout our homes, from unexpectedly fresh color combinations to dopamine décor with nooks that soothe, calm, and relax. While smart technology and A.I.-assisted homes are all the rage, some of us are taking a step back to a less-is-more approach as a way to feel more mindful, grounded, and connected to the human experience.

Nurturing Hues, Materials, & Spaces

Soothing color choices, dramatic accent walls, sculptural hanging artwork, and custom hand-painted murals are just a few of the ways people are adding more expression and character to their homes. Customized secondary spaces like butler’s pantries, wine storage, and wet bars are on the rise like never before, with a continued focus on functionality, convenience, and transitional spaces that can be closed off behind doors if desired.

Innovative sustainable materials also remain at the forefront—seaweed fibers, mycelium features, non-toxic Japanese shikkui plaster, cork, bamboo, natural stone, and reclaimed woods. Warm spaces layered in texture, natural materials, and moody earth-toned palettes of rust, brown, cream, and subtle green create an organically inviting vibe for living spaces. People are embracing dramatic black accent walls and dark woods to cozy up quiet spaces like bedrooms, studies, and reading nooks. And some are playing up individualized eclectic looks with antiques, vintage finds, rich color, and playful patterns—and yes, wallpaper is back in many ways. Love it or leave it!

Now more than ever, people are intent on creating personalized homes they can grow with and change—just as styles will do. By starting with a solid foundation of quality materials, soulful accents, and functional, hard-working spaces, your lake dwelling can become a flexible, personalized sanctuary able to adapt to your ever-evolving lifestyle.

Breezy, Blissful, Blue

Snapshots of Sherwin-Williams 2024 Color of the Year, Upward in a kitchen, with accessories, and cabinet wall
Photo courtesy of Sherwin-Williams

With the introduction of Sherwin-Williams 2024 Color of the Year, Upward, along with an inspiring color-pairing palette, we see a restful mix of relaxed and carefree hues that encourage us to take a breath, slow down, and allow our minds to clear. “A hint of silver lining,” says the well-known paint brand. “Upward is a sunny-day shade for spaces brimming with positive energy, creative thinking, and total contentment.” Their soothing collection invites us to experience the transformative power of paint, bring a sense of serenity to our spaces, and express ourselves through color that nurtures mind, body, and soul.

Mid-Century Modern Moment

Lake home with sweeping lake views and mid-century modern decor
Photo courtesy of Decorilla

The ubiquitous mid-century modern look appears to never go out of style. In fact, homeowners seem to be embracing the trend like mad in 2024. There is something to be said about its timeless appeal and enduring aesthetic that offers an elegant blend of organic curves, clean lines, and optimal functionality. Gracefully designed, these fluid works of art mesh effortlessly with almost any era. Lauded for its staying power, this storied aesthetic captures the very essence of our desire to connect with nature in simple yet innovative forms.

Hoodwink

Statement range hood in dark olive-green with accent lights and a green tile backsplah, stone flooring
Photo courtesy of Ryan Dyer via House Beautiful

Dynamic range hoods are all the rage and one of the top interior design trends in 2024. What better way to customize your kitchen? There is no limit to your creativity with all the options available at your fingertips today. Various designs include painted plaster, fluted woods, sleek, low-profile stainless steel island hoods, luminous bronze and gold finishes, and glamorous metal trims.

Here, an arched olive-green hood lends a dramatic accent to this modern kitchen, blending seamlessly with an emerald-green tile backsplash. The design incorporates an entire feature wall spanning the length of the prep area, creating a moody focal point that all but disguises the hood entirely. Stylish lighting accents enhance the modern aesthetic. For more inspiration, visit Design Galleria Kitchen and Bath Studio.     

Sculptural Lighting

Sculptural pendant lighting at kitchen island and dining area
Photo courtesy of Mike Van Tassell via Good Housekeeping

Driven by our desire to connect with nature, organic shapes and materials continue to trend, especially in furniture forms, dinnerware, accessories, and artistic accent pieces. But in 2024, lighting fixtures have jumped aboard the organic bandwagon and are emerging as a top interior design trend. These curvaceous, sculptural silhouettes bring movement and a graceful fluidity into our homes. Earth tones and organic shapes also bring a sense of comfort to our interior spaces. Lighting options in natural materials, including wood, clay, rattan, seagrass, and other rustic textures, lend depth to our spaces. Add to that the soft glow of ambient light, and you can create inviting and serene spaces bathed in refined elegance.

Curves & Clean Lines

curved sofa sectional against a linear built-in shelving unit in living area
Photo courtesy of PION Studio via Elle Décor

Today’s modern spaces encourage curves and clean lines to coexist in harmony. Soften your linear pieces with curvaceous, serpentine sofas for a satisfying counterbalance that works with any aesthetic—whether ultra-modern or vintage eclecticism. It’s all in the fine details, including scalloped embellishments, undulating sculptural accents, and curvy framed mirrors resembling organic shapes. Artisans and designers are gravitating to more fluid forms that defy the boxy and rigid straight lines of the past. Curves lend an approachable warmth, nestling spaces in luxurious comfort.

Tile Style

green-tiled shower wall with brass hardware accents and built-in shelving
Photo courtesy of Katie Griff via Good Housekeeping

Both statement and accent tiles are having a moment in 2024, especially in the bathroom, where walk-in showers are becoming more spacious and elaborate. The “jewelry” for your shower wall and other wet areas, decorative tiles have evolved into more sophisticated choices and are available in an endless array of colors, styles, and textures. A stunning tile application in a bathroom, kitchen, or laundry area creates a powerful visual impact, lending a gorgeous signature mark to your lake sanctuary.   

Metals & Mirrors

mirrored dining table in retro-inspired dining area with jewel-toned color palette
Photo courtesy of Yoshihiro Makino
via Architectural Digest
glamorous white walk-in closet with mirrored cabinetry, white cabinetry with silver hardware, and drum-shaped chandelier
Photo courtesy of Meghan Beierle O’Brien
via Good Housekeeping

A resurgence of reflective metals and mirrors is in our future for 2024. Luminous cast-aluminum furniture, polished chromes, brushed nickels, and glam mirrored pieces amplify light and exhilarate the vibe of your space—whether dark and moody or light and cheery. Silver finishes and hardware dominate the trend, replacing the excess of golds and blacks that gained traction over the last decade. Mixing metals is also gaining acceptance as a top interior design trend, paving the way for more playful and balanced spaces.

For more design inspiration and top trends from the experts, visit Decorilla. From all of us at Lake Homes, here’s wishing you and yours a tranquil, refreshing, and reflective 2024!

Pantone Color of the Year 2024: Wrap Your Lake Home in Elegant Warmth with Peach Fuzz!

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder
Photo courtesy of Pantone

Released in December 2023, Pantone’s Color of the Year 2024 13-1023 Peach Fuzz “captures our desire to nurture ourselves and others,” say the color experts at the renowned Pantone Color Institute.  

“It’s a velvety, gentle peach tone whose all-embracing spirit enriches mind, body, and soul,” says Leatrice Eiseman, Pantone Color Institute’s Executive Director. “In seeking a hue that echoes our innate yearning for closeness and connection, we chose a color radiant with warmth and modern elegance. A shade that resonates with compassion, offers a tactile embrace, and effortlessly bridges the youthful with the timeless.”

Both subtle and sensual, this soft peach hue communicates a feeling of kindness and nurturing—a warm message of community, collaboration, sharing, and caring. So, how do we introduce this inviting color into our lake homes? Here are some inspiring ideas that will guide you in creating a warm and fuzzy sanctuary all your own—whether you want to make a WOW statement or introduce soft touches throughout your rooms.  

Palette Play

Pantone Color of the Year 2024 Palettes
Photo courtesy of Pantone

“With this year’s Pantone Color of the Year 2024, we see an increased focus on community and people across the world reframing how they want to live and evaluating what is important—that being the comfort of being close to those we love,” says Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute. “The color is one whose warm and welcoming embrace conveys a message of compassion and whose cozy sensibility brings people together and enriches the soul.”

Comforting and approachable, PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz harmonizes beautifully with a wide range of color tones. Mix it with barely-there beiges and whisper-soft peachy pinks to evoke a warm and inviting ambiance. Or create a cheerful high contrast with bright orange, blue-greens, and vibrant, deep pinks. For playful inspiration, check out these Pantone Color of the Year Palettes featuring Libations, Flavor-Full, Hybrid Hues, Peach Plethora, and Pairings.

“A cozy peach hue softly nestled between pink and orange, PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz brings belonging, inspires recalibration, and an opportunity for nurturing,” Eiseman adds, “conjuring up an air of calm, offering us a space to be, feel, and heal and to flourish from whether spending time with others or taking the time to enjoy a moment by ourselves,”

So, whether you opt to decorate expressively or quietly, the choice is yours to select the palette that embodies your taste and lifestyle. If you don’t want to commit long-term, experiment with pillows, throws, artwork, lamps, rugs, and tableware.

Dreamsicle Décor

Pantone Peach Fuzz Pop Divide Rug from Ruggable.
Photo courtesy of Ruggable

Enliven a seating area of your lake home with this limited-edition Pantone Peach Fuzz Pop Divide Rug from Ruggable. Featuring Pantone’s Color of the Year 2024 and inspired by Bauhaus architecture, this asymmetrical geometric composition blends dreamy pops of Pantone Peach Fuzz, Pantone Peach Purée, Pantone Peach Pink, orange, and cream for a vibrant statement in any space. This machine-washable rug is water- and stain-resistant and is available in various sizes and flatwoven or tufted textures. Its minimalistic modern-retro style works with endless décor styles and creates an eye-catching accent piece for your home. Offering a comforting set of three rugs, a doormat, and a bath mat, The Ruggable x Pantone Collection “harnesses Peach Fuzz’s cheerfulness to transcend seasons and inspire well-being in homes all year round,” say the Pantone color experts.  

Peachy Prints

Spoonflower's partnership with Pantone for the Color of the Year 2024, exclusive launch collection of fabrics, wallpapers
Photo courtesy of Spoonflower via Pantone

Bring a sense of warmth and serenity to spaces throughout your home with this exclusive launch collection of fabrics, wallpapers, bedding, and dining/living room décor from Spoonflower in collaboration with Pantone. Spoonflower’s partnership with Pantone for the Color of the Year 2024 “brings together the authority in color and the authority in surface pattern design,” say the Pantone color experts. “Three distinguished Spoonflower independent artists have already unveiled new designs for print-on-demand wallpaper, fabric, and home décor, and the creativity continues in January with Spoonflower’s 2024 Pantone Color of the Year Design Challenge.”

With everything from floral and modernist-inspired wallcoverings to throw blankets, curtains, and cocktail napkins, The Spoonflower x Pantone Collection celebrates PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz in impeccable style.

Warm & Fuzzy

PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz hotel lobby design
Photo courtesy Pantone

“Drawing comfort from PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz, we can find peace from within, impacting our well-being,” notes Eiseman. “An idea as much as a feeling, PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz awakens our senses to the comforting presence of tactility and cocooned warmth.”  

This dreamy hotel lobby design says it all. Enveloped in textures embodying the Peach Fuzz philosophy and aesthetic, this nurturing, fantasy-like space portrays a warm embrace. Who wouldn’t want to sink right in?

Nourish & Flourish

PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz inspirational field of flowers with textiles
Photo courtesy of Pantone

“Sensitive but sweet and airy, PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz evokes a new modernity,” say the Pantone experts. “While centered in the human experience of enriching and nurturing the mind, body, and soul, it is also a quietly sophisticated and contemporary peach with depth whose gentle lightness is understated but impactful, bringing beauty to the digital world. Poetic and romantic, a clean peach tone with a vintage vibe, PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz reflects the past yet has been refashioned with a contemporary ambiance.”

As you seek out the cozy moments at your lake home this year, let PANTONE 13-1023 Peach Fuzz inspire you and “enkindle warmth from the outside in.” From all of us at Lake Homes—may your 2024 reveal a refreshingly peaceful sense of renewal.

Wabi-Sabi Inspired Cabin on Loon Lake, NH

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder

Photography: Trent Bell, Trent Bell Photography
Architecture: Whitten Architects
Landscape Architect: Soren deNiord, Soren deNiord Design Studio
Interior Design: Heidi Lachapelle, Heidi Lachapelle Interiors

On a peaceful waterfront plot, this contemporary cabin nestles between New Hampshire’s Lakes Region and the White Mountains on the scenic shores of Loon Lake. Lined with tall pines and hemlocks, the picturesque lake hosts swimming recreation in the summer and ice fishing shelters in the winter. The homeowners, who have generations of family history in this charming locale, imagined a restful retreat that expressed deep ties to the area while also reflecting their well-traveled sensibilities and the wealth of ideas they learned abroad. One such concept that appealed to them was the wabi-sabi aesthetic, a traditional Japanese ideology that embraces the imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete in nature.

The clients brought their design concept to Maine-based Whitten Architects, who immediately got on board and ran with it. Tom Lane, an associate with the firm, seized the opportunity with enthusiasm and led the team who worked closely with the couple to design their two-bedroom getaway. Whitten Architects also worked in tandem with landscape architect Soren deNiord to ensure a fluid continuity inside and out.

“Our clients discussed the idea of wabi-sabi in their brief—the Japanese concept of beauty in imperfection and transience,” Tom explains. “We explored the expression of these ideas in the rustic wood cladding, which will patina in time, and in the polished concrete slab that reveals evidence of the formwork of its construction. The home was designed without a particular style in mind, but rather, through a process of discovering how our clients wanted to use their home and what form and materials fit on the site.”

Organic Orientation

“Our clients wanted a home that was natural in materials and textures,” says Tom. “The exterior cladding was inspired by a stack of cut logs that were on the site at an early meeting. The house is clad, like a cut log, with bark and sapwood. The ​‘bark’ is Western red cedar stained black giving it a Shou Sugi Ban appearance, inspired by the ancient Japanese technique that preserves wood by charring it with fire. The ​‘sapwood’ siding undercover, along the entrance axis, is Douglas fir with a natural oil finish.”

Natural Flow

The interior walls are veneer plaster, a traditional craft in New England, and the floor is a polished concrete slab with hydronic radiant heat. “Together with the interior designer, we developed a restrained material palette to allow the views outside to provide color that changes throughout the seasons,” says Tom.

The living area transitions effortlessly outdoors, creating a seamless connection to the surrounding landscape. Outside, a conversation area welcomes family and guests with a grouping of Adirondack chairs. A clever concrete bench with firewood storage and detachable wood back was designed by landscape architect Soren deNiord, who collaborated with craftsman Ken Hood. Douglas fir columns lining the walkway create a colonnade aiming toward the lake.

Visually Connected

“We see the house as a means to enjoy this land by the lake,” Tom says. “The living room is designed to invite the outdoors in while providing shelter from the elements. The interior ceiling is lower on the sleeping and utility sides of the house and is vaulted in the shared kitchen and living space. In the cold and dark New England winters, the corner fireplace engages the senses and provides thermal comfort and a warm atmosphere from two sides.”

The interior furnishings, selected by interior designer Heidi Lachapelle, are intended to be functional, comfortable, and elegant in form. Materials were chosen that age gracefully, showing evidence of use by developing a patina and aligning with the wabi-sabi concept. The room’s lofty 12-foot ceiling makes the room feel airy and spacious.

“Our interior palette of dark green and rust stayed in step with the colors seen in the landscape,” Heidi explains. “We punctuated the color scheme with neutral-hued textures. We were thoughtful with the fabric materials and used linens, velvets, and weaves to add subtle dimension and depth.”

Heidi’s clean and minimal aesthetic includes an oak daybed from Bautier and an indoor/outdoor rug by Dash & Albert. Shapely trapezoidal cushions counterbalance the straight lines of the concrete bench.  

Functional Flexibility

In the kitchen, an oak table by Ethnicraft can be extended by the flip of a lever. Contemporary Windsor chairs by Hay complement the Shaker influences seen throughout the home. The oak cabinet behind the sofa has casters, so it can be pulled into use in multiple places when extra surface space is needed.

The original architectural plan included a centralized kitchen island, but the owners opted for a more flexible option—a dining table that could also double as a prep area. The countertops are fabricated from local granite, and the light wood screen backing the darkly stained open cabinetry echoes the cut-log concept of the exterior façade.

Shaker Simplicity

The primary bedroom features a vintage velvet Ligne Roset chair—a treasured find from the renowned Brimfield Antique Market. Heidi sourced the Ethnicraft bed and side table from Fiore Home in Portland, Maine. 

“With the furniture, we focused on familiar Shaker references that have modern silhouettes,” Heidi explains. “We wanted every piece within the space to work seamlessly with the architecture and the inside/outside design. No single piece stands out more than the other but works together to create a beautiful environment.”

Imperfect Harmony

“The home is simple and functional in form and materials in deference to the natural surroundings and local traditions,” Tom Says. “Granite boulders, emerging between hardscape, express the splice of the architectural intervention with nature.”

A simple and streamlined concrete bench custom-designed by deNiord aligns with the concrete slabs—intentionally sized in a random fashion—that lead to the covered entrance. The landscape architect also opted to pour concrete around the organically shaped boulder to represent the disruption of perfect geometry and bring the homeowners’ requested wabi-sabi aesthetic outdoors.

Secluded Screened Porch

“A screened porch, situated on piers, was nestled in the woods with minimal impact to the earth and surrounding trees,” Tom explains. “At night, the porch appears like a lantern in the woods and offers another point of view to the site.”

The family uses this home throughout the year—often as a place for introspection and other times as a place for gathering and hosting. In the summer, they enjoy accessing the lake by the dock, sitting around the fire pit, and enjoying the screened porch. The wood stove makes the porch comfortable and enjoyable on cool fall nights, and a concrete wall behind the porch provides privacy from the road as well as a backdrop for the stove.

Quiet Contemplation

“The design of this home is intended to create a well-crafted locus for peaceful contemplation as well as a venue for hosting, gathering, and making memories with family and friends,” Tom concludes. “We see this fitting well into the tradition and purpose of a home by a lake.”

If you’re inspired to find your own little slice of serenity, visit Lake Homes and start your search. Here’s to a blissful summer by the lake—cheers!

Decorating Ideas for Your Lake Home’s Powder Room

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder
Photo courtesy of House Beautiful

Most likely, your powder room feels ignored. While this small yet essential space may not be the most popular area of your lake home, it has more potential than you know. For professional decorators, this liberating and delightfully noncommittal space is just the place for taking design risks. And because of its inherent smallness, you can remodel or quickly change the look at a reasonable cost. Consider it your creative canvas for experimenting with bold hues, textured wallpapers, a montage of tiles, and statement mirrors, fixtures, and lighting. If your lake home powder room or half-bath needs a makeover, here are some tips to make it memorable.  

Wrap It Up!

Photo courtesy of Elle Décor

If you’ve fallen in love with a wallpaper pattern, and you’re dying to try it but don’t want to commit to a large room, the powder room is the perfect place to do it. Small but mighty powder rooms typically don’t have a lot of square footage, so you won’t have to invest in too many rolls. With wallpaper, you can create your own vibe with bold graphics, calming botanicals, dainty toiles, or whatever pattern strikes your fancy. For this space, you don’t have to consider moisture issues from a shower or bathtub, so wallpaper is always permitted here.

Artful Solutions

Photo courtesy of House Beautiful

Beautifully minimal in both its design and color palette, this sleek little powder room integrates storage solutions without disrupting the smooth visual flow of the space. A luxurious marble backsplash inspired the designer to add a small shelf in the same material for lotion and hand soap. Cabinet space underneath an elegant black and white floating sink creates hidden storage for stowing away bathroom essentials. To punctuate the room, a single pendant light hangs next to a compelling work of art—an unexpected element in the bathroom in place of the usual mirror. Instead, an adjacent mirrored wall provides reflection and makes the room feel more spacious.

Relish the Rustic

Photo courtesy of House Beautiful

If your lake house has a more rustic style, carry it into the powder room to create a nice visual flow and a satisfying continuity. Here, chicken wire replaces glass on these charming cabinets, and you can still see the contents inside if that’s the look you’re going for. A tip? If you have exposed cabinets, make sure to style them neatly with essentials that are neatly folded and blend with your color palette. Select a mirror, fixtures, and faucet that aligns with your rustic aesthetic and keep them in finishes that either match or blend harmoniously. For instance, the silver hardware used here mixes effortlessly with the burnished metal on the wall sconces. The painted beadboard walls and ceiling add to the casual farmhouse vibe, and a simple patterned roman shade lends a delicate touch without interfering with the overall rustic feel.

Tile Tableau

Photo courtesy of Dwell

If you’re crazy for tile, the powder room is your design laboratory for trying your hand at blending styles. Infused with glamorous touches, this chic space mixes a bold black and white print on the floor with a stylish yet subtle herringbone pattern on the walls. In addition, the color black may not be a hue typically found in the bathroom, but in the powder room, all design rules are made to be broken. Here, luxe splashes of black in the tile, rug, and drapery introduce an element of drama to an otherwise bland and forgettable space. Matte black vanity fixtures complement the look and heighten the luxurious aesthetic.

Moody & Masculine

Photo courtesy of The Spruce

Deep, rich hues are not off-limits in the powder room. In fact, this is the perfect space to try them if you love color. Here, an intense, deep red shade mixes elegantly with bold matte black and an impactful graphic black and white floor tile. The floating vanity creates the illusion of more space, as does the long mirror behind it. Ivory accent pieces used sparingly produce eye-pleasing contrast atop the black surface. White globe lights create a visually powerful focal point and bring a welcome sculptural element to this tiny but tasteful space.

Beach Bliss

Photo courtesy of Houzz

A universal favorite, the beachy farmhouse style has a broad appeal. Crisp, clean, and simple, this look is ideal for a lake home with its pared-down, laid-back aesthetic. Here, limestone pavers set a relaxed tone along with whitewashed beadboard walls and a beautifully rustic vanity topped with a wide vessel sink. Gold fixtures and glass pendant lights create a sense of casual elegance to this charming cottage-like space, and woven baskets stashed with white towels introduce lovely texture to the bare floors.

For more brilliant ideas to power up your powder room, visit HGTV.

Dive Into Deep Creek: A Maryland Transitional Lake Home

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder

A couple’s request for a sizable lake home poised along the shores of Deep Creek Lake in Oakland, Maryland, materialized into a dream come true for themselves and their extended family. Designed by Pennsylvania architect Chad Chalmers, a principal at Wildman Chalmers Design in Pittsburgh, this ground-up residential project features a spectacular double-height living area that opens up to a deck overlooking the lake. Considered a traditional home with modern interior detailing, the house boasts seven bedrooms and eight and a half bathrooms. Luxurious amenities include a hot tub, a full gym with a sauna, a golf simulator room, four massive fireplaces, and a spacious covered porch.

“Nestled lakeside in the woods, this house truly becomes one with nature because of its expansive windows, natural materials, and earthy tones,” says Chad. “Four large stone fireplaces provide additional warmth during the cool mountain nights—one in the great room that is mirrored by a fireplace at the opposite end of the house by the pool table, one in the basement seating area, and one on the porch,” he adds.

Deep Creek Lake is the largest inland body of water in Maryland, offering 69 miles of shoreline and covering approximately 3,900 acres. The lake is well known for its seasonal outdoor recreation, including boating, swimming, tubing, biking, rafting, snow skiing, and snowboarding. It’s also home to a wide variety of freshwater fish and aquatic birds. This four-season getaway has it all, from blissful summers in the sun on the lake to brilliant autumn foliage to lots of fluffy snow for downhill skiing.

Lavish Lake Views

Chad intentionally designed the home with a sloped roof to accommodate the region’s heavy snow during the winter season. The extra-long deck is perfect for soaking in the sun and taking in gorgeous views of the lake.

“The size of the lot was one of the biggest challenges we faced due to the architectural program the owner requested,” Chad explains. “We were working near a lake that has a buffer zone governed by the Department of Natural Resources that you cannot build on. We managed to site the home accordingly yet capture the best views and enable easy access to the lake for the homeowners,” he notes.

Optional Open-Air

A large expanse of sliding glass doors opens up to the balcony overlooking the lake, lending a seamless flow and a breezy alfresco feel to the living spaces when the weather permits. The soaring double-height living area provides magnificent views from top to bottom.

“The owners’ friends and family gather at the house often for holidays, weekends, and extended stays to ski at the local resort,” says Chad. “The family gravitates here for water sports on the lake, to work remotely, and simply enjoy each other’s company.”

Free-Flowing Floorplan

The remarkable absence of walls creates an effortless flow and offers beautiful sightlines from any vantage point. Perfect for entertaining, guests can mingle and move about with ease while constantly feeling part of the group. Swivel seating near all the windows allows intimate fireside gatherings and sunrise gazing across the lake with a cup of coffee by a simple twist of the chair.

“The soft seating in all areas of the home balances the solidity of the wooden beams and stone fireplaces, producing a relaxing effect,” says the architect. “The simple lines and patterns throughout the house keep distraction from the architecture and views to a minimum,” he notes.

Design Drama

The living area flows gracefully into the dining area, allowing unobstructed views of the grand floor-to-ceiling stacked-stone fireplace and the landscape outside. A striking circular chandelier with a double ring of candelabras creates a soft glow and accentuates the dramatic beamed ceiling. The airy open staircase brings yet another visually appealing architectural element to the space.

“The home was elegantly designed in a transitional architectural style—not modern, not contemporary,” says Chad. “Natural, authentic materials and a palette of browns, grays, and soft whites create visual continuity between the interior of the house and the cloud-dotted sky and oak-studded hillside,” he sums.

Gather & Game

Adjacent to the game room area, a wonderfully roomy kitchen with a central island and generous counter space offers multiple options for convenient food prep, group cooking, and family gatherings. This hotspot is the home’s entertaining hub and connects visually to the scenic surroundings of Deep Creek Lake. Beamed ceilings align with the home’s rustic yet refined aesthetic, and a lowered ceiling height lends a cozy feel to the space.

Soothing & Serene

Framing an idyllic view of the lake, one of the primary bedrooms offers a relaxing retreat for anyone lucky enough to sleep here. Fling open the French doors at night to enjoy a glimpse of the moon and stars, and you’ll quickly be lulled to sleep by the gentle sounds of water lapping against the shore. Simple and understated furniture and décor let the lake landscape take center stage.

Party on the Porch

Perfect for game day celebrations or evening cocktails at sunset, this blissful covered porch features a vaulted ceiling with a rich red patina and an inviting outdoor fireplace. Oversize seating with plump cushioning welcomes guests to kick back, relax, and enjoy the moment. A ceiling fan keeps it cool in the summer, and stylish hanging lanterns create a cozy ambiance at night.

“The key objective for this project was making sure all the spaces in the home have a great view of either the lake or the woods,” says Chad. “It was an absolute pleasure working with these homeowners to bring their vision to life.”

5 Simple Upkeep Tips to Rejuvenate Your Lake Home

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder
Photo courtesy of Houzz

After everything we’ve been through these past couple of years, we could all use a fresh start—and so could our homes. Just as personal rejuvenation is therapeutic for mind, body, and soul, so is it for the dwellings we live in. If your lake home could use a little pick-me-up, here are some simple upkeep tips that pack a powerful punch and make your rooms look and feel renewed. 

Keep It Clean

Photo courtesy of The Lilypad Cottage

We all dread household chores but love the feeling and satisfaction we get from a clean home. After all, it makes no sense to spend a fortune on our homes and all the furnishings if we don’t keep them clean. The payoff is well worth it, so let’s face it—we can’t avoid this unpleasant task. But it doesn’t have to be as unbearable as you think if you plan ahead and implement some handy gadgets that make cleaning a breeze.

Consider investing in hi-tech housekeeping tools such as a robot vacuum, a carpet spot cleaner, and an electric mop to make tasks go quicker and seem virtually effortless. Keeping floors, furniture, baseboards, ceiling fans, and surfaces dirt and dust-free—and washing windows regularly—makes all the difference in the world in how you and others perceive the look and feel of your home. Plus, if you keep things clean regularly, you won’t have to put as much effort into it each time.

Also, make a schedule and stick to it. Break up chores in simple, easy-to-digest increments, so they won’t be such a pain and take up an entire day. If you’re not doing it all yourself, make it a family project and delegate jobs each week. For truly huge tasks, don’t be afraid to call in a professional.   

Declutter and Downsize

Photo courtesy of ecko360estates

Removing visual clutter from your life is a beautiful way to keep your home looking smart, stylish, and organized. Also, as many of us are downsizing to smaller places these days, it’s the perfect time to take inventory of our belongings and get rid of things we no longer want in our lives. The minimalist look continues to trend today—so less is more.

In the kitchen especially, keep countertop clutter to a minimum and arrange the daily objects you use efficiently and within easy reach. Group items on trays and in canisters to keep things looking clean and orderly. Don’t forget to edit and arrange your pantry, cabinets, and drawers neatly—even though their contents are hidden from sight. Most of us accumulate clutter in those very places, including our closets, and later dread the thought of clearing them out.

We all know how difficult it is to part with our personal possessions, so be mindful and practical about the process. Consider gifting or donating things you no longer need—or have a yard sale. Without all that baggage, we tend to feel lighter, freer, and more at peace in our surroundings.

Maintain What You Have

Photo courtesy of Serena & Lily

Our lake homes are our sanctuaries, so make it a priority to maintain what you already have. Keep your beloved rugs and plush carpets clean and odor-free, replace any worn rugs, patch holes in the wall, polish bathroom and kitchen fixtures, replace cracked tiles, and regularly clean grout on all your tile surfaces. If your rooms look tired and outdated, give them a fresh facelift with new fixtures, hardware, and lighting.

Don’t forget to maintain your lake home’s exterior features as well. For example, clean your gutters to direct water away from your house, seal your driveway to prevent cracks and preserve your pavement, and touch up your home’s exterior paint if you notice any chipping or peeling.

By keeping up with these essential maintenance tips, you can avoid living in a house that looks and feels neglected and instead enjoy a well-dressed home that feels fresh, clean, and cared for.

Paint Power

Photo courtesy of Country Living Magazine

There is nothing like a fresh coat of paint to change the complexion of any room. So don’t be afraid to introduce a splash of color to your kitchen with painted cabinetry, an island base, or even your wooden floors. Paint will instantly transform your rooms and dramatically change the mood with a simple color change.

If your bright white walls look sad and dull, there’s no better way to revive them than with a brilliant new coat of your favorite hue. To create an eye-catching focal point, consider painting an accent wall in a darker, more richly pigmented tone that will make a striking contrast to the adjacent walls while still complementing the style of your interior.      

Fresh Linens and Towels

Photo courtesy of Pottery Barn

Let’s confess, we all have them—flattened pillows, ratty towels, and old worn-out sheets that are either stained or torn. And the sad truth is, nothing makes bedrooms and bathrooms look more unkempt than having these less-than-luxurious items in plain view. However, you can elevate your spaces instantly simply by replacing them with plush, luxurious bed linens, fluffy towels and bathmats, and plump new pillows—either down-filled or a down alternative. Also, consider using two duvets to get a more sumptuous plumped-up look. You can stuff two duvets into one duvet cover or simply layer them one on top of the other over your bed.

For more tips on how to freshen up and rejuvenate your home, click here. From all of us at Lake Homes Lifestyles—here’s to a beautifully renewed 2022!