interior design Archives

Living Beautifully: Easy Tips to Make Your Lake Home Feel Luxurious

Posted on September 23, 2021September 21, 2021 Jeanne Delathouder

Making time to enjoy the simple things in life has taken on new meaning these days. For many of us, our lake homes have recently brought us a much-needed sense of refuge, tranquility, and, quite literally, a kind of shelter from the storm. As we savor more moments with family and friends, we value the comforts of home now more than ever. Even life’s little luxuries have become front and center in our focus—and why not? After all, you only live once.

The best part is that luxury doesn’t have to be expensive. It might appear so, but then again, that’s the beauty of it. So, if you want to create an air of luxurious comfort in your lakeside interiors, here are some easy tips to get you started.

Adaptable Neutrals

If you’ve ever walked into an upscale furniture showroom, you’ve probably noticed that nearly all of them display an overall neutral color palette—and for good reason. An unassuming yet powerful neutral scheme instantly elevates the style of the space, making everything in the room look sleek, polished, and pulled together. It creates a cohesive look like no other and is also highly adaptable if you want to make seasonal changes with your accessories. For instance, adding a splash of color with sumptuous throws, pillows, and other decorative accents to warm up your interiors during fall and winter is quick and simple against a neutral backdrop. Nearly anything works within a monochromatic color scheme, and vibrant accessories, playful patterns, and elegant touches of black—used sparingly—always look crisp and impactful.

Think furniture, wall color, and even bed linens when building your serene and luxurious neutral palette. In this bedroom, white walls, curtains, roman shades, lamps, artwork, bedding, and plump, fluffy pillows work in harmony to create this tranquil and inviting space. The soft slate-blue bench cushion, along with the graphic patterns on the accent pillows, strikes a lovely counterbalance to the all-white palette while also creating a satisfying focal point. The nubby area rug underfoot adds texture and anchors the bedroom’s ethereal feel.

Full-Length Curtains

*Photo courtesy of Erica George Dines via* *Atlanta Homes and Lifestyles*

Don’t skimp on this one if you really want your rooms to shine. Nothing creates more elegance than long and luxurious floor-length curtains. They dress your rooms in sumptuous layers of fabric and, if hung appropriately, bring an exquisite sense of height to your interior spaces. Make sure to measure correctly and take curtains all the way to the floor, even allowing for the fabric to puddle a bit at the bottom if you prefer. Another trick is to hang your curtain rods as close to the ceiling as you can to bring the eye upward and create more visual height.

In this beautifully rustic lake home with soaring ceilings, the designer takes the curtain rod to the top of the first beam so the curtains can block out the sun when needed and create a sense of privacy. The windows above are left bare to allow for optimum natural light. And again, the ivory curtain fabric here coordinates effortlessly with the soft, neutral palette of the overall space, creating a pleasing continuity throughout the home.

Quick Tip: If you can’t do full-length curtains, opt instead for simple woven blinds or roman shades for a clean look.

Large Mirrors & Artwork

Incorporating a large mirror into your interiors will immediately create the illusion of having more space. It will also reflect light and illuminate your room with a dazzling effect—think natural sunlight, candlelight, and firelight. You can use a large full-length mirror as an accent piece that sits on the floor or hang a large mirror on the wall in place of artwork. Just make sure your mirror reflects something that is visually appealing and beautiful to look at.

When considering your artwork, the bigger, the better. Large statement pieces will instantly give your home a gallery vibe and create a dramatic effect. An over-size, museum-worthy work of art or even a pair of magnificent paintings or drawings bring powerful visual impact and interest to any room.

Vintage Rugs

The floor offers an ideal opportunity to introduce pattern, so don’t be afraid to accent your rooms with vintage rugs. This will instantly upgrade your spaces and infuse them with a bit of antiquity and colorful personality in a truly luxurious way. If you don’t want to afford the expense of an authentic vintage rug, consider using a vintage-style rug or even a natural-fiber area rug to complement your space.

In this hallway and dining room, the homeowners created satisfying continuity with two plush vintage area rugs that befit the style and size of each space. These gorgeous rugs ensure softness underfoot and incorporate lavish texture into the décor.

Lighting & Hardware

*Photo courtesy of* *Waunakee Remodeling*

Upgrading your hardware can make a tremendous difference, especially in your kitchen and bathrooms. You can give these rooms an instant facelift simply by replacing faucets, cabinet handles, drawer pulls, doorknobs, and even electrical outlet covers and light switch plates. This easy fix can give your spaces a fresh modern update and transition your rooms to reflect any style you desire.

Installing new lighting is also a brilliant way to change the look and feel of any space quickly. With a good lighting scheme, you can create soft pools of light, crisp focal points, and dramatic areas of interest. Transform any room quickly with a large-scale pendant light hanging over a kitchen island, a dining room table, an entrance hallway, or even a bedroom. Wall sconces are a perfect solution if you want to make a stylish statement in your bedrooms and bathrooms.

Keep in mind the overall mood you want your interiors to emit and choose lighting accordingly with warm lightbulbs and dimmer switches. To create truly luxurious spaces, remember to layer your lighting with a mix of the following styles: recessed lights, strip lights, down-lighting, up-lighting, overhead lighting, ambient light, and task light. If you like to use smart lights, motion sensors can highlight focal points such as stair steps with a WOW-factor effect.

For more ideas, click here. We hope you enjoy bringing a touch of comfort and luxury to your lake home this season—cheers!

Austin Lake Home Living: Scenic & Serene

Posted on August 30, 2021March 6, 2023 Jeanne Delathouder

*Photo courtesy of* *Dror Baldinger, FAIA Architectural Photography*

This stunning home perches high above beautiful Lake Austin and epitomizes easy lake living for a couple seeking their lakeside dream home. Situated along the west bank on a steep 1.2-acre wooded lot, the dwelling was originally built in the 1950s as a rustic, hexagon-shaped waterfront cabin. In the 1970s, the structure was renovated with a small addition. Captured by the site’s exquisite location and scenic beauty, the new homeowners didn’t hesitate to purchase the property. In 2014, they called on Austin architect James LaRue of LaRue Architects and interior designer Laura Britt of Britt Design Group to assess the initial design concept and thoughtfully integrate a new modern aesthetic that would also pay homage to the home’s architectural heritage.

Modern Makeover

Intrigued by the original construction of the building, the design team knew immediately they wanted to remove the 1970s addition yet keep the hexagon shape that was formerly the main living area. “The challenge was to intergrade a modern home design concept into the hexagon geometry while ensuring the final architecture became a cohesive building,” says LaRue. The site also had dramatic topography—environmental constraints due to its waterfront location and several large trees required to remain—so the design team had to address the heavily treed, steep lot that slopes down 120 feet from the back of the house to the shoreline. “The site constraints drive the entire design of this home,” says the architect, “and the finished result responds in a very beautiful way to those constraints and to its heritage.” The team collaborated with Classic Constructors during the build.

Dogtrot Design

LaRue’s initial design concept was to convert the hexagon living space into the master bedroom suite with expansive lake views. “We then connected the hexagon building with a long, narrow form—or dogtrot—running parallel to the shoreline,” he explains. “This design concept allowed us to address the steep nature of the site, preserve the large pecan trees, and allow every space to have views of the lake,” he sums. The exterior materials include expansive glass windows and doors, metal panels, and limestone.

Eclectic Energy

Dappled with natural sunlight, the new hexagon master suite boasts spectacular lakefront views. “A hand-woven wool rug and sumptuous bed linens bring an element of softness to balance the refined rusticity of antique wooden pieces,” says Britt, who worked closely with LaRue to ensure her interior design concepts would complement the home’s modern architectural style.

Gracious Guest Space

The new four-bedroom house is constructed in a long single-story L-shape with the private spaces anchored by the re-configured original structure on one end and a semi-detached guest suite on the far end of the horizontal design.

The spacious 4,100-square-foot Hill Country contemporary residence is now the owners’ primary dwelling. “The couple live an active lifestyle and love to travel but consider this their home base,” Britt explains. “They enjoy their living room space frequently, and their welcoming guest house is almost always in use.”

Effortless Ease: Indoor/Outdoor Access

The newly designed house now has a strong connection to the outdoors, with large expanses of glass throughout. “The public spaces are aligned along the center of the building with views of the lake and joined together by the open dogtrot-style outdoor living space, which overlooks a beautiful pool as well as Lake Austin,” says LaRue. “The outdoor space has a generous roof overhead with a warm wood-clad ceiling that protects it from the scorching Texas heat and intense thunderstorms,” he notes. In addition, this all-seasons area features a bug screen, lounge furniture, and a grand fireplace that allows for cozy gatherings during the winter months.

Panoramic Punch

“This home is all about panoramic views to the lake and expansive sky,” says Britt, “so the color palette features a generous dose of soft blues and greens. The living room showcases an expansive wall of glass, and an art piece commissioned by Austin artist Andrea Pramuk is specifically detailed with saturated blues and sea green hues that are also echoed in the ‘Tree of Life’ rug that anchors the room,” she adds. The serene blue and green shades immediately connect you to the water and sky beyond, and peach accents in the rug and pillows complement the cool blues.

“This home is a study of restraint in design—the color palette and textiles are tranquil,” says the designer. “There is a little bit of texture, but it’s sleek. The steel, stone, and woods are smooth, almost glassy—and there’s a sense of movement and texture in the lighting. The textiles and hand-woven wool rug bring an inviting nubby touch to the living room.”

The furniture is intentionally elevated and not heavily upholstered to keep the space visually open and avoid obstructing the views. The settee has an open notched back to allow the light in as well as the lake view. In the adjacent dining room, a custom-built steel and wood table was crafted from reclaimed wood from the original site.

Elevated Style

Custom cabinetry throughout the kitchen is designed to feel like beautifully detailed furniture pieces. “Elevating the cabinetry on wooden legs creates physical and visual space between the floor and cabinets,” says Britt. “A glass-front refrigerator adds to the sleek appeal of this unique kitchen, and a custom armoire stores coffee-making equipment.”

Grand Elegance

Thoughtfully planned lighting plays an essential role throughout this home and provides a sculptural counterpoint to the minimalist modern architecture. Natural finishes and a subtle palette reflect the homeowners’ style and complement the tranquil scenery outside.

“The clients have a wonderful collection of art objects and furnishings they’ve collected from their travels around the world,” says Britt. “Weaving their personal story into the fabric of the overall design was a fun challenge. One important element to their story is their involvement in winemaking—they own a vineyard in Argentina, personally select the blends, and even custom-design the wine labels,” she adds. The entryway to their home features a Steinway grand piano and an impressive wine collection.

Decked-Out Dock

Designed by LaRue, the boathouse overlooks Lake Austin, offering yet another prime spot for these homeowners and their family and friends to take in the surrounding scenery. Perched high above the shoreline, the rooftop deck provides an ideal outdoor lounging area perfect for boat and bird watching.

Interested in the Lake Austin area? Visit Lake Homes Realty for more details and enjoy the lake life!

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

Posted on August 19, 2021March 6, 2023 Jeanne Delathouder

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

“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

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

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

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

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

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.

Regional Lake Living: Southern Styles – From Charming Cabins to Lavish Low-Country Cottages

Posted on July 26, 2021March 6, 2023 Jeanne Delathouder

*Photo courtesy of Helen Norman via* *Southern Living*

Whether you prefer a tiny lakeside cabin tucked far away from it all, or an expansive modern-style haven with a sweeping wall of windows that captures your stunning shoreline view, lake homes across the country are as unique as the dwellers within. But no matter where you live, a lake residence offers this in common—a peaceful sense of sanctuary, a place to unwind and connect with nature, and a place to enjoy family and friends.

If you’ve ever traveled across the country, you can’t help but notice certain architectural styles that reflect the area’s overall aesthetic and climate conditions. Like regional cuisine, lake homes embody the quaint characteristics of their location and reveal a charming sense of place. Today, we turn our focus to the South/Southeastern region of the country as we take a guided tour of some of the most notable architectural styles and how they came to be.

Lowcountry Style

Originating along the coast of South Carolina—a region known as the Lowcountry—this beloved Southern style radiates an air of refined simplicity and elegance. Developed in the 1700s, Lowcountry-style architecture was intentionally designed to invite natural airflow and ventilation for residents of this subtropical climate. A regional favorite deeply rooted in tradition and Southern hospitality, Lowcountry style exudes comfort and practicality with its spacious open-concept rooms, shady verandas, and breezy screened porches.

Other features quintessential to Lowcountry design—and well-suited for warmer lake climates—include high ceilings, shutters, and double-hung windows with top openings to allow hot air out and bottom openings to let in cool evening breezes. Transoms help create more ventilation and natural light, and durable metal roofing reflects the hot sun and protects against harsh winds and tropical rain.

Colonial Plantation Style

Colonial plantation-style homes typically feature stately columns and an expansive porch with a balcony above it. Like traditional colonial-style homes, these symmetrical structures include regal front entries usually accented with pediments, a quaint balance of windows with shutters, and clapboard or brick siding. Built initially on cotton plantations, these exquisite homes also embody characteristics of French colonial style.

This modern take on the iconic Southern style still honors the symmetrical attributes associated with the plantation home aesthetic. Built for warm and humid climates, these homes boast tall ceilings, grand central entryways, elegant stairways, and spacious rooms where the air can flow freely. The timeless appeal of this traditional Southern style makes it perfect for families who appreciate gracious lakeside living.

Classic Cottage Style

An all-time favorite, cottage style has a wonderfully relaxed and inviting appeal that makes it ideal for lake home retreats. Colorful and comfortable, the look is often characterized by airy porches that connect visually to the great outdoors. Worn and weathered finishes, charming beadboard walls, a delightful texture mix of wicker and natural-fiber rugs, and a lovely color palette inspired by nature create an unmistakable sense of warmth that speaks of home.

Rustic surfaces show their rich patinas and the imperfections of age while combining effortlessly with the sheen of modern appliances and quartz countertops. This no-fuss look emulates the easy-living mindset of those who embrace the lake life. Kids, dogs, wet bathing suits, and bare feet are always welcome here.

Coastal Style

The ease and practicality of coastal style make it a beloved favorite for many Southern lake home dwellers. Often referred to as beach style—no matter if you reside on a lake or a coast—this style incorporates high ceilings and large windows to invite breezes throughout the home while forcing the heat to rise far above the living spaces. In addition, expansive covered porches, verandas, and other exterior spaces extend the living areas outside—the place to be when you’re relaxing at the lake.

Some coastal-style homes are raised to help prevent flood damage that comes with tropical storms and driving rains. Durable roofing and siding, shutters, and impact-resistant windows also protect against high winds and heavy rainfall.

Interiors bathed in shades of white, vibrant accent colors, and plenty of comfy slip-covered seating create a casual coastal vibe like no other. This style is all about connecting with the outdoors and enjoying water views from nearly every vantage point.

Southern Charm

Photo courtesy of *Melanie Turner Interiors*

But no matter your architectural tastes, a sense of charm, comfort, and hospitality are the common threads intrinsic to Southern style. Within the walls of the Southern home, there is a palpable feeling of warmth, welcome, and timelessness that celebrates the beauty of gracious living. For this stunning waterfront property on Georgia’s Lake Oconee, award-winning Atlanta interior designer Melanie Turner put her talents to work to transform what was once a bachelor pad into a cozy retreat for the homeowner and his new bride.

Southern Comfort

“The house was bought and owned by a bachelor, and the design had changed multiple times over the years,” says Melanie. “Once he married, his gift to his new wife was to renovate and redesign the house to fit their new lifestyle.”

The couple found they never really used the living room, so they decided to move the pool table out there to capture the beautiful lake view and add four comfy slip-covered chairs for drinks and socializing.

Flexible Family Room

Melanie divided the family room into two sections. In front of the fireplace, she incorporated big “man chairs” for watching TV. “For a surprise feature, I incorporated dog beds into the bases of a pair of console tables flanking the fireplace,” says the designer.

Family Room Flipside

Here, Melanie added a sofa facing the kitchen to keep the chef company. “The overall color palette was based on the lake setting itself—rich greens, weathered and rustic textures, and soft neutral-hued linens,” she says. “The homeowners are big dog lovers, so we added a playful composition of dog portraits for a personal touch,” she sums.

Porch Life

There’s nothing like having a breezy screened-in porch at the lake. The soft upholstered seating makes it feel like an outdoor living room. “We used monochromatic, calming colors throughout to infuse the interiors with the surrounding colors of nature,” says Melanie. “This place has an easy lake lifestyle feel to it, so our plan for this house was to bring life into the spaces without making them too formal.”

For more of Melanie’s style tips, check out her first new book, Inviting Interiors: A Fresh Take On Beautiful Rooms.

Back to Basics: Interior Design Tips for Your Lake Home

Posted on June 25, 2021March 6, 2023 Jeanne Delathouder

There is something deeply meaningful and nostalgic about owning a lake home. This is the place where memories are made, where families and friends gather, and where life is blissfully celebrated. Lake homes are sanctuaries that comfort us, draw us in, and invite others to come inside, relax, and stay awhile. No matter your style—whether cozy and casual or opulent and grand—the essence of any lake home captures the beauty of its surroundings within the walls of the interiors.

So how do we go about getting the right look that suits our functional needs and individual tastes? We spoke to Marta Mitchell, ASID, the owner and president of the award-winning MM Interior Design Group in Greensboro, NC. Marta has designed numerous waterfront properties nationwide, and her tireless attention to detail ensures a unique design that reflects every homeowners’ artistic vision and desire.

Capture the View

“With a beautiful view right outside, why not take advantage of it?” says Marta. “Every room should be designed in a way that highlights its natural surroundings. The interior should be designed with windows and glass doors as focal points. Let visitors enjoy the outdoors from every room possible,” she sums. Unless you need added privacy or shade from intense sunlight, consider leaving windows in public spaces uncovered. Limit sumptuous draperies to your private rooms to cocoon them in softness and create a sense of coziness.

Color Scheme Strategy

Photo courtesy of Laurey W. Glenn via *Southern Living*

“The trick is to keep it simple,” Marta explains. “Consider a more neutral palette rather than bright window treatments, furniture, and rugs. That way, your eyes won’t be distracted by the interior, and you can focus on the beautiful lakefront surroundings,” she adds. If you absolutely love bold colors, fear not. Introduce them in accessories that can be easily changed when you’re ready for something new.

The designer suggests repainting dark ceilings in lighter tones to open up space visually. She also recommends painting walls, trim, and paneling in monochromatic hues to create a satisfying unity. “For color relief, leave the ceiling white,” notes Marta. “But always feel free to mix and match motifs and styles however you like to create a carefree informal look.”

Clutter-Free Kitchen

Photo courtesy of *MM Interior Design Group*

“Keep clutter out of your lake house kitchen and try to limit dishes and glasses to the essentials,” Marta suggests. “If you have space, installing a second refrigerator is a great idea for storing drinks and leftovers,” she adds. Lots of cabinet storage space will also eliminate visual clutter.

Other elements to consider when planning your kitchen include plenty of seating for family and guests. Most kitchens are the heart of the home and the place we prefer to gather for every occasion. Ample counter space and island seating with counter stools make it comfortable for everyone to sit and keep the cook company while preparing meals. It’s also a great space for overflow entertaining when the whole house is being used.

Flexible Furnishings

Photo courtesy of Nancy Nolan via *Southern Living*

“Choose durable seating for minimal worry and upkeep and design a color palette that connects visually with the surroundings to blur the distinction between indoors and out,” says Marta. “If you’re planning on entertaining or inviting guests, it’s a good idea to add furniture and accessories that can double as extra seating to accommodate a crowd,” she adds.

Other ideas to consider? Have large custom cushions or pillows made and use easily movable ottomans for additional seating in a pinch. If you know you’ll need extra sleeping space year-round, built-in bunk beds are a great space saver and perfect for kids’ rooms.

A Serene Escape

“After a busy day with friends and family, you need a peaceful place to relax,” says Marta. “Think of the master bedroom as your serene oasis at the lake. A calming palette is a perfect thing to create this effect—consider a grey or white scheme. If privacy is needed, opt for soft linen draperies or blinds, which will allow light filtration and not completely obstruct beautiful views,” she adds.

Mix rustic woods with lavish textures to create a pleasing contrast, and consider adding a fireplace to invite warmth. Plush area rugs create softness underfoot, and luxurious blankets and throws wrap you in cozy comfort on cool nights.

Outdoor Oasis

When planning outdoor spaces, your lake home’s geographic location and its orientation on the lot are key considerations. “Morning or afternoon sun is critically important to take into account and will determine your space planning and furniture layout,” says Marta. “Also, keep in mind the function of each space—will it be used for lounging, entertaining, playing games—and do you plan to include other features such as an outdoor kitchen, a fire pit, or a swimming pool,” she notes. Deciding these things early on in the process will help create a cohesive design, a smooth traffic flow, and an effortless indoor/outdoor feel.

“For both covered and uncovered seating areas, fabric selection is essential,” adds Marta. “Performance outdoor fabrics have come a long way, but most manufacturers don’t recommend leaving cushions outside year-round. Making sure you have convenient and adequate space for storage is an important consideration,” she sums.

We hope these ideas get you thinking about your own dream lake home. For more inspiration, visit Marta’s showroom of Signature Projects and her project Gallery.

Biophilic Design: A Trend You Should Know About

Posted on June 4, 2021June 7, 2021 Camille Smith

On the Lake Homes blog, we often cover interior design trends related to lake living. Hygge, a Danish concept defined simplistically as “coziness,” evokes comfort in the home by using warm tones, candles, fireplaces, and blankets. Another recent trend is wabi-sabi design, a Japanese concept that focuses on finding beauty in imperfections. Natural materials like driftwood, personally significant artwork, and repaired pottery are all emblematic of wabi-sabi. Each of these trends reflects the spirit of lake living in different ways.

Today, we’re introducing a new concept for lake lovers to adopt in their homes — biophilic design. Although it was introduced in the 1970s by biologist E.O. Wilson, it’s been practiced since ancient times (e.g., the rumored Hanging Gardens of Babylon). To learn more about this style, we talked with Hope McMahan, project manager at Deltec Homes in Asheville, NC. Read on for everything you need to know about biophilic design.

What is Biophilic Design?

Biophilic design is all about connecting back to nature through architecture and decor. But it’s more holistic than simply adding a few indoor plants to your lake home. McMahan explains that biophilic design can be broken down into three components. The first is the direct experience of nature (e.g., letting in more natural light, incorporating greenery). The second is the indirect experience of nature (e.g., paintings of scenery, natural colors, wood furniture). Finally, the third component is the physiological connection to nature.

McMahan clarifies, “There’s fear in nature, and at the end of the day, we’re still animals. We need to feel safe and secure in our environments.” Features like large windows play into this sense of safety, allowing you to physically witness any impending threats and rest in the security of your home’s protective qualities. In the same way, many biophilic homes expose the beams of the trusses so you can see the structures that are keeping you safe at home.

Essentially, all three components focus on enhancing our connection to the natural world. This connection, McMahan says, is one that’s often lost in traditional homes. “Biophilic design reminds us that we’re still animals, and we need to exist more like that. We can actually think about the living things in our world.”

Why Is Biophilic Design Trending Again?

According to research from the University of Vermont, more people, especially women, are turning to the outdoors for comfort these days. The resurgence of biophilic design reflects this desire for nature that has become more prominent since the rise of COVID-19. McMahon says, “During the past year, we’ve all been trapped inside. We’re experiencing this trauma together. We’re also starting to understand how our homes make us feel.”

To illustrate this point, she explains the ways in which architecture can evoke certain feelings. For example, the brutalist, concrete structure of a courthouse creates solemn, stoic vibes. By contrast, a biophilic design with wooden cabinets and expansive windows manifests a sense of peace and comfort that we’re all craving amid this global crisis. “Biophilic design is not just functional — it’s also an art,” she says.

Another reason behind biophilic design’s revival is its connection to the popular sustainability movement. Although it’s possible to practice biophilic design without being environmentally friendly, they often go hand in hand. McMahon describes biophilic architects as “the green builders before it was cool to be green.”

What Are the Benefits of Biophilic Design?

Perhaps the most apparent benefit, biophilic design is simply beautiful. By bringing the outdoors in, both literally and metaphorically, your home blends more seamlessly with the natural world. But beyond aesthetics, biophilic design also has several psychological benefits. Many research studies have demonstrated that those who inhabit biophilic spaces experience lower stress levels and more positive moods. It also has physical health benefits. McMahon mentions the myriad of studies suggesting that patients in hospitals with biophilic design recover more quickly than those in traditional buildings. In workspaces, biophilic design is also linked to greater productivity. With all these clear benefits, what’s not to love?

How Can I Incorporate Biophilic Design in My Lake Home?

Photo courtesy of Hirouyki Oki via ArchDaily

Whether you’re redesigning a home or looking for minor improvements, biophilic design can be for you. If you’re remodeling your lake home, consider a round wooden ceiling. Deltec Designs features a 360 Collection that is completely round, allowing it to withstand higher winds due to its aerodynamic frame. From a design perspective, its structure resembles a tree, eliciting a sense of biomimicry. In these round homes, be sure to install wide windows to connect the home to the landscape. At a lake house, this is especially important since the lake view is a central feature of the home.

However, you don’t have to completely rebuild in order to incorporate biophilic design into your home. Simple changes like adding indoor plants, choosing curtains with natural materials like 100% cotton, installing hardwood floors, and picking native plants can go a long way in establishing your biophilic home. The important thing is to keep it natural. “The more synthetic it is, the less we’re able to realize that it’s from the earth,” McMahon explains. If you don’t have a green thumb, fake plants or photos of plants can offer the same effect.

From the ancient Hanging Gardens to your own lake home, biophilic design is both beautiful and beneficial. We wish you luck in incorporating this trend into your home!

Green Lake Grandeur: A Wisconsin Lake Home Feature

Posted on May 11, 2021March 6, 2023 Jeanne Delathouder

*Photo courtesy of* *McCormack + Etten*;
*Architectural design by Wisconsin firm* *McCormack + Etten Architects*

Built for a family who loves to live large, this roomy lakeside home nestles along the beautiful shores of Green Lake, Wisconsin. Avid boaters and entertainers, these homeowners are the life of the party all summer long and always attract a house full of family. So, when it came to designing a lake-dwelling that would ultimately become a blissful haven for their children, grandchildren, and host of friends, the owners went big and bold to celebrate their surroundings and the joys of lake life. They called on interior designer Summer Thornton to walk them through the process and make their dreams a reality.

Headquartered in Chicago, Summer is especially known for her fearless use of vibrant color that infuses life into all her spaces. Working on projects nationwide, she steadfastly believes that every home should be a true reflection of the owners’ personal style—their soul, their passions, and their quirks should be found on the walls and in the furniture throughout the entire home.

Bring the Outdoors In

*Photo courtesy of* *Summer Thornton Design*

“A lake house is not a beach house,” says Summer, “and a lot of people make this mistake when designing a lake home in the Midwest. I always try to keep a sense of place and climate in mind,” she explains. To her, this means mixing bright colors with some moody rich tones that envelop the spaces in warmth on chilly nights. It also means mixing textures—fabrics that feel light and breezy in the summer combined with plush textiles and rugs that offer a cozy touch in fall and winter. Plus, it almost always means a generous dose of greens.

Summer loves the heavily wooded areas surrounding most lake locations, and she wanted to bring this palette of verdant hues inside with fabrics, fresh flowers, plants, and paint colors. The designer believes the key is to have options. There are huge windows and plenty of comfy first-row spots to take in the dreamy views. Yet, there is seating focused on the fireplace for when the sun sets and the air becomes cooler. “The giant stone fireplace that anchors the great room is quintessentially midwestern and screams I’m in Wisconsin,” she laughs, “not to mention the taxidermy elk above it.”

Scale and Proportion

One of the biggest challenges when working with a large-scale lake home is making sure your furniture proportions befit the magnitude of the space. “It is essential that you size up your selections, so they don’t look or feel like doll furniture,” Summer jokes. Case in point? The coffee table measures six feet by four feet—the size of a typical city dining table.

She also incorporated wood paneling to the ceiling and giant wood beams to visually diminish the great room’s grand scale and make it feel more intimate. She then took patterns to another level, swathing the pair of giant sofas with a blue-and-white ikat print and layering them with bold animal-print pillows. Armchairs upholstered in a bright red floral create a colorful punch and complement the overall palette.

Reclaimed Materials

An advocate of using reclaimed materials, Summer loved the idea of this custom-made walnut dining table made from a huge fallen tree. She intentionally scaled it extra-long and narrow to allow plenty of seating for large group entertaining and family gatherings the homeowners host regularly. The bright green painted latticework was a special touch created by the designer to introduce visual interest and an eye-grabbing splash of nature’s favorite color.

Colorful Kitchen

“I truly believe color hides a multitude of sins and puts people at ease,” Summer laughs. “It not only makes a home feel livelier and more lived-in but also it’s great for holding up to wear and tear and the occasional spill.” In the kitchen, she took her color cue from the owners’ love of clear and happy colors and based the palette on their love of blue and red. She started with a marble-topped island painted in Benjamin Moore’s Slate Teal and accented it with a pair of gleaming brass pendant lanterns lined with a rich pop of red.

Texture and Warmth

“I’m a fan of blending textures to create a sense of coziness,” says Summer. “Throughout, you’ll find the typical lake-house suspects like cotton and linen, but I made sure to mix in a bit of wool and mohair to add depth and texture,” she adds. Enveloped in dark gray paneled walls, the cocoon-like den stands in striking contrast to the designer’s lighter approach for the rest of the home. This inviting space is dark yet comfortable, with lots of leather, mohair, tweeds, and rich reclaimed woods.

Cocooned in Comfort

Bathed in pale aqua hues and soft, sumptuous fabrics, the master bedroom takes a departure from the home’s brilliant color palette, offering a restful private sanctuary. A white tufted headboard creates a pleasing backdrop for a layering of luxurious bedding and a stunning Balinese art piece hanging overhead.

Cheerful and Charming

“Everyone will agree that porches are a big deal in lake culture,” says Summer. Designed to invite the natural beauty of this waterfront setting inside, the cheerful color-drenched porch offers a place for casual meals. It serves as the main dining room throughout the summer.

It includes plenty of seating around the table and heaters built into the ceiling for a little extra warmth. Green-and-pale blue floor stripes painted with Benjamin Moore’s Buckingham Gardens and Forget Me Not emanate a cottage-style charm. “I love it when people give me the green light to go crazy with color,” says Summer.

Want to infuse some bright color into your own lake life? Get out your creative paintbrush and go for it! We’d love to hear your ideas and see your results.

Flexible and Functional: Lake Home Design 2021

Posted on February 1, 2021March 6, 2023 Jeanne Delathouder

Over the past year, vacation homes—particularly lake homes—have become much more than just a place to escape for a relaxing weekend. Since the pandemic took hold, more and more homeowners have decided to give up city living and retreat to a lake home full-time or make their existing lakeside vacation property their co-primary residence.

Tranquil, comforting, and connected to nature, these soothing lake-based sanctuaries offer a peaceful alternative where families and empty-nesters alike can safely work, learn, entertain, and embrace life to the fullest during these challenging times. In turn, this new movement has inspired lake-home owners to re-invent their spaces to meet the functionality demands of our “new normal.”

What do we need now? Chicago interior designer Michelle Rohrer-Lauer, founder of Michelle’s Interiors and owner of her own lake home retreat in Wisconsin on Lake Camelot, shares her wisdom, innate sense of style, and conviction that every home should embrace the spirit of the people who live there.

Here are her tips on how you can amp up the functionality of your interior—and exterior—lake spaces:

Optimize Your Home Office

“Our homes have always been our safe places away from the stresses of the day, but COVID has eroded some of that sanctuary feeling,” says Michelle. “More than ever, our homes are where we work, which brings that stress in through the front door. Yes, we need home offices—and learning spaces for our children—and those must be carefully designed to make long sessions comfortable, organized, and productive,” she notes.

Aesthetically, your home office style and its furnishings should always reflect the design incorporated throughout your home. For instance, if your home embodies a rustic farmhouse vibe, consider implementing knotty and imperfect repurposed wood flooring and dramatic ceiling beams. Pair this look with the rich patina of elegantly finished custom cabinetry, desks, and storage units for a visually satisfying contrast.

Next, make sure your office is Zoom-ready with the right equipment and lighting. Since video conferencing is now our primary connection to clients and co-workers, we—as well as our home offices—need to be dressed for success.

Beyond a great camera, microphone, and a comfortable chair, we want our workspace to look appealing, professional, and uncluttered. “Task lighting is important for reading, and your computer monitor should be positioned to avoid glare from a window or overhead light,” Michelle recommends.

Soundproofing, storage, and concealing all your cords are other factors to consider when planning your personal home office. For more tips and home office eye candy, visit Michelle’s Interiors.

Jump Start Your Home Gym

With all the time we spend sheltering in place these days, working out at home has become necessary for burning off stress and staying fit. While we love to exercise outdoors, a home gym is often the easiest option when we’re super busy, or the weather is bad.

What are the must-haves for an aesthetically pleasing and inspiring home gym? “Bright lighting is number one,” says Michelle. “Evenly spaced recessed lighting and lots of natural light can make us feel more energetic—which equals a better workout.”

Other key essentials include a wall of mirrors to magnify the light and make a space look larger, an interlocking rubber floor, mats, or other cushioned surface for comfortable floor workouts and noise suppression, plus acoustical tiles and sound-proofed walls to create a quieter workout.

A TV monitor creates a great distraction while you burn calories and brings an element of luxury and value to your home gym. You can listen to your favorite music, binge-watch a Netflix series, or live-stream a motivating fitness program.

Plenty of smart storage solutions will ensure exercise equipment and towels are conveniently stowed away yet still within easy reach. “An eco-friendly water dispenser is also handy and cuts down on plastic bottles,” notes Michelle. “Everyone can fill up their reusable bottles—and you know how important that is to me! I am always thinking of ways to help people live greener lives at home.”

Take It Outside! — Design Your Alfresco Dream Kitchen

Photo courtesy of subzero-wolf.com via Michelle’s Interiors

We all love to cook and dine outdoors these days—especially while enjoying the beautiful scenery surrounding our lake homes. After spending more time in open-air environments than ever before, we now crave the same luxuries and amenities outside as we do indoors. “An outdoor kitchen extends your food prep and dining space substantially—and it requires careful planning,” says Michelle.

Key considerations to discuss before launching a project include lifestyle, location, the traffic pattern between your indoor and outdoor kitchen, layout, and the type of appliances desired and placement.

When designing outdoor spaces for her clients, Michelle approaches it the same way she would for the interiors. How will you use the space, and what is your preferred aesthetic? Do you want to incorporate comfy seating and cozy focal points such as a built-in fireplace or firepit? “Regardless of your style and how you use your backyard, the exterior should be a natural extension of your interior style so that it flows effortlessly in both directions,” she sums.

For more stylish outdoor kitchen inspiration, visit houzz.com.

Perfectly Pet-Friendly

Photo courtesy of Metropolitan Custom Homes via Michelle’s Interiors

Not surprisingly, pet adoption has been on the rise since COVID-19, as many of us are feeling isolated and in need of a comforting companion. Integrating pet-friendly design into your lake house not only benefits our furry friends but also makes care and maintenance easier and less time-consuming—which ultimately makes us happier, right?

“Pet design, particularly organizational solutions, makes your home more functional and enjoyable for you and your new best friend—or friends,” says Michelle. “The way you plan a house influences a dog’s behavior and spirit, and good design makes pets feel cared for and content,” she adds.

Some of her go-to solutions? Multi-purpose pet showers are perfect for your laundry area or mudroom. Having your dog wash near an exterior door is the ideal location—no more muddy or snowy paws tracking all over the house! Whether you choose a floor-level or counter-level shower, a flexible goose-neck faucet will help direct the flow of water wherever you need it.

Plenty of storage is also key. Pull-out bins for pet food, treats, and built-in bowls are easy to access—and hide—and other essentials such as leashes, medications, and brushes can be stashed inside designated drawers in the same area.

“Pet doors are a great way to give your cat or dog the freedom to go outside for business or pleasure, or to access a litter box in the basement,” shares Michelle. “Some can be monitored remotely via a smartphone, and others work in sync with a sensor attached to your pet’s collar so they only open for your pet—not the neighborhood skunk or raccoon,” she laughs.

Want to dive into some lake home updates of your own? Start by reimagining your rooms, considering your individual lifestyle, family needs, and how you want to live in your space. After all, your surroundings are the backdrop of your life—and your home is a personal expression of who you are and the place where you feel your best.

2021 Interior Design Trends for Your Lake Home

Posted on December 18, 2020January 20, 2021 Camille Smith

Photo courtesy of Martha O’Hara Interiors.

Since the start of the pandemic in March, we’ve been forced to spend more time indoors. As a result of lockdowns and distancing, the importance of personal space has become crucial. Now, more people are investing in lake houses, hoping for much-needed outdoor space and a remedy for that familiar “cooped up” feeling.

Due to spending ample time at home, many of us are paying more attention to interior design. After all, if you’re going to spend all day working from home, you might as well enjoy the decor! If you’re looking to re-evaluate your lake home’s feng shui, we’ve got some tips for you.

We spoke with interior designer Karen Parziale, the lead designer of The Real Estate Staging Studio in New York, to learn more. Recently, she’s been redesigning her family’s home on Lake Paradise, and she has advice on the latest interior design trends for lake lovers.

Biophilic Design

A combination of the root words “bio” (life) and “philic” (love of), this concept of biophilic design refers to embracing nature in your interior decor. This concept does not just refer to pictures or representations of nature, but rather incorporating actual pieces from the outdoors inside of your home.

Although the biophilic design trend has been popular since the ’70s and is especially trending this year, it dates back to ancient times. The hanging gardens of Babylon are perhaps the first depiction of biophilic design in action.

In your lake home, one manifestation of biophilic design might be adding live plants inside your home. And not just potted desk plants. Karen says that it’s trending for plants to be the “big focal point of the room.” She adds, “from a feng shui perspective, the lake has water and earth energy already. Incorporating natural elements like plants, distressed wood, and twigs into your home design helps with balance. You want to have a mix of everything.”

Green Design

Photography by Michael Moran via InteriorDesign.net.

It’s always great when interior design trends align with sustainability. Green design has been trending for many years, but it’s becoming prevalent now and will continue in 2021. Like biophilic design, green design is about connecting with nature. However, while biophilic design is more about the connection itself, green design focuses on environmental well-being more broadly. “It’s all about a healthier home,” Karen explains. “This trend involves being intentional about using eco-friendly materials in construction.”

This popular notion of ‘going green’ applies to both interior decorating and landscaping designs. It’s becoming trendy to opt for ground covers over grass to conserve water and choosing furniture that uses recycled materials. In other words, what’s in style is also good for the environment — win-win!

Sense of Warmth

Lake houses are not meant to be cold, detached environments. They’re a place of connection with friends and family. In the world of interior design trends, it’s becoming popular to reflect this sense of warmth into the design intentionally.

Karen specifies that a home’s warm feel should not be conveyed through a country aesthetic. “The plaid patterns and ‘deer-on-the-wall’ look is over,” she says. “Instead, incorporate congruous, earthy tones in a sophisticated way. You also want it to be warm without being modern and glitzy.” In keeping with a sense of warmth, open-concept spaces are trending. The idea of removing walls and borders and installing big, expansive windows evokes a laid-back, welcoming feel consistent with the lake lifestyle.

Overall, the biggest interior design trends for 2021 are all about the incorporation of nature and sustainability. In keeping with this idea, it’s no coincidence that Pantone’s color trend report for Spring 2021 names “a range of shades inspired by the beauty of nature” as colors to watch out for next year.

The theme of nature is also timely, given what we’re all craving during the pandemic. “With COVID, people are realizing they’re tired of living in little spaces,” Karen comments. “They want to be outside more and have outdoor space.” She explains that her business has become busier recently, as she’s designing these outdoor spaces and helping people connect with nature.

Whether it’s through using recycled wood, creating an open concept living room, or replacing plaid patterns with warm tones, we hope you can incorporate these trends into your decor. After all, this connection with nature is what lake living is all about.