lake home interior design Archives

Quiet Luxury: Top Interior Design Trends 2024

Posted on February 7, 2024February 7, 2024 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 Yoshihiro Makino*
*via Architectural Digest*

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!

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!

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.