Estimated reading time: 1 minute
Update: PRICE REDUCED!
From distinct architecture to social reforms, the Victorian era represented a pivotal turning point in history. Whether you’re a history buff or have a deep appreciation of beautiful home designs, this Victorian fixer-upper offers an excellent opportunity to connect with the property’s rich history and restore it to its former glory.
Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
In lake homes where views take center stage, interior design often leans toward maximizing space without compromising aesthetics. One overlooked yet highly versatile area is the space beneath the stairs. This is a zone ripe for elegant, high-function design. Whether you’re tucked into the wooded slopes of the Upper East Lake Region or facing the sun-drenched waters of the California coast, smart under-the-stair storage can add purpose and polish to your lake retreat. The key is to avoid generic solutions. Instead, embrace bespoke or semi-custom elements that reflect both regional character and modern sensibilities.
Today’s lake homeowners are looking beyond simple cubbies and closet conversions. They want design-forward ideas that serve specific needs—from wine preservation to multipurpose entertaining. This is especially relevant in regions where seasonal living requires flexibility and efficiency. Examples include the humidity of the Texas Gulf, the chill of the Northern lake regions, or the modern leanings of California and the Pacific Northwest. The following seven ideas reflect a layered approach to under-the-stair design. They bring function, flair, and fresh sophistication to lake homes across the country.
In wine-friendly regions like the Pacific Northwest and California, under-the-stair wine storage can serve as both a luxury feature and an aesthetic statement. Modern wine units can feature dual-zone cooling systems, backlit LED displays, and concealed drawers for storing bar tools or glassware. Choose smoked glass doors framed in matte black for a sleek, gallery-like effect. If your lake home has a rustic-modern vibe—typical in the Mid-Atlantic and Northern lake regions—consider pairing white oak shelving with steel wine racks. The key to implementation is moisture control and ventilation. Opt for a climate-controlled insert if humidity is an issue, such as in the Southeast or Texas Gulf. For added versatility, flank the wine section with concealed drawers for serving platters or linens.
For quiet moments after boating or lakeside entertaining, a built-in reading nook beneath the stairs offers a cozy yet refined escape. This idea is ideal for homes in the wooded Upper East or Northern lake regions. This concept layers comfort with functionality. Upholstered bench seating, sconce lighting, and custom millwork provide a tailored fit. Integrated bookshelves add storage without clutter. In California or Mid-Atlantic homes with more minimalist interiors, floating shelves and neutral-toned cushions can create a cleaner, more contemporary version. Use high-performance indoor-outdoor fabrics for longevity in humid or high-traffic environments. Add built-in charging ports or a hidden drawer beneath the seat for modern convenience.
Especially useful in four-season regions like the Upper East, Northern lakes, or Pacific Northwest, a makeshift mudroom under the stairs can help manage the transition between lake life and daily living. Incorporate a wrap-around bench with open cubby storage beneath for shoes or woven baskets. Add upper hooks for coats, dog leashes, life vests, or beach towels. In more humid zones, such as the Southeast or Texas Gulf, use water-resistant materials like composite beadboard, marine-grade cushions, and sealed hardwoods. Paint the built-ins a contrasting neutral, such as slate, olive, or soft black, for a modern touch that keeps clutter contained and style intact.
Remote work has reshaped how lake homes function, especially in year-round residences throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Pacific Northwest. Under-the-stair space is ideal for a compact home office or extra closet storage, where a built-in desk can be paired with upper cabinets or vertical drawers. Use wood tones that match existing finishes—like walnut or ash—for continuity. In Upper East and Northern lake homes, consider adding a pocket door or curtain to close off the space when not in use. Built-in LED task lighting and cable management systems are essential for usability. Include a lockable file drawer or pull-out printer tray to elevate the space beyond just a surface.
Storage can be a bold design statement. In homes with high ceilings and open floor plans—common in modern lake properties from the Pacific Northwest to Northern lakes—a contrasting under-the-stair system creates visual tension and sculptural interest. Use unexpected finishes, such as matte forest green, navy, or terracotta, in combination with natural wood for cabinetry. Add architectural hardware in brushed brass or blackened steel for an art-forward touch. Incorporate modular open shelving to display objects or even rotate seasonal décor. This works exceptionally well in entry areas where first impressions matter. Finish with lighting—spotlights or under-shelf LEDs—to highlight the craftsmanship.
A stylish under-the-stair bar or butler’s pantry provides a sophisticated entertaining hub that maximizes the use of an otherwise unused nook. In Southeast and California lake homes, consider a compact bar with a quartz or marble countertop, under-counter wine fridge, glassware racks, and a mirrored or tiled backsplash for visual depth. For more traditional lake homes in the Upper East or Mid-Atlantic, use shaker cabinetry with integrated lighting and open shelving for bottles and barware. In Texas Gulf homes, materials should withstand humidity—think sealed wood and moisture-resistant cabinetry. For added elegance, incorporate a sliding pocket door or curtain to conceal the bar when not in use. This feature is handy for hosting lakefront gatherings without the need for a full kitchen setup nearby.
Pet-friendly design is essential for lake homeowners who bring their dogs along for paddleboarding, dockside lounging, or trail hiking. Transform the space under the stairs into a cozy built-in dog bed with thoughtful touches. Use durable indoor-outdoor cushions, washable slipcovers, and marine-grade finishes to handle wet fur and dirty paws. In high-style California or Mid-Atlantic homes, opt for millwork that mimics the surrounding cabinetry for a seamless appearance. In the Texas Gulf and Southeast regions, consider ventilation grilles or louvered doors to keep the area cool. Add upper drawers or side cubbies to store food, toys, or grooming tools. A personalized nameplate or integrated lighting can give the space a polished, custom feel.
Smart under-the-stair design is more than a clever space-saving move—it’s a reflection of how today’s lake homeowners live, entertain, and unwind. Across diverse regions—from fog-kissed Pacific shores to breezy Atlantic inlets and inland lakes framed by forest or farmland—these ideas respond to both architectural context and personal lifestyle. Whether you’re curating a wine collection, creating a hidden office, or designing a multifunctional pantry and bar, under-the-stair storage has evolved far beyond its utilitarian origins. With a thoughtful blend of materials, technology, and regional style cues, lake homeowners can transform this overlooked space into one of the most dynamic and design-forward zones in the entire home.
For more design tips to enhance your lake life, visit Lake Homes Lifestyles.
Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
In addition to the 10,000 lakes in Minnesota, the United States is also known for its lake towns that have gained recognition nationwide and sometimes even globally.
Being designated as a “lake town” can carry more weight in defining a city’s character than its mere proximity to bodies of water. Throughout history, lakes have played important roles in the development of early American industries and served as vital hubs for transportation and trade. As these waterfront communities evolved into the 20th century, they embraced modernization by nurturing vibrant downtown areas, diverse shopping districts, thriving business sectors, flourishing arts scenes, and outstanding educational opportunities, including leading schools and research institutions.
“And these towns could soon see an influx of new residents—in a spring 2025 report, the CEO of Lake Homes Realty predicted that the amount of lakefront real estate transactions will increase by 15% in 2025 compared to 2024.” – MSN
To find the top U.S. lake towns to live in, Stacker examined 2021 data from WalletHub, focusing on 46 towns with beaches on TripAdvisor and populations of 10,000 to 150,000. The study considered affordability, weather, safety, economy, education and health, and quality of life.
Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
Lake living is the best, at least we’re inclined to think so. But who can blame us? We are the lake people.
But before you decide whether the lake life’s right for you, take a look at some of the things lake homeowners love most about the lake lifestyle.
Sunsets may be one of the universe’s most mesmerizing creations. They turn the skies from beautiful blue into vibrant pinks, oranges, and reds, smears of purple streaked with elongated tendrils of sunbeams.
After a long day of swimming, boating, fishing, and grilling, there’s nothing more captivating or more calming than the sun setting over a glass-smooth lake. And no matter how many days you spend staring out toward the horizon from your lake home, each day brings a sunset completely unlike the day before.
Hundreds of lakes across the country roll out the red carpets for out-of-this-world Fourth of July festivities.
Family-friendly activities include spectacular fireworks displays, poker runs, boat parades, and concerts by local artists.
Even if your lake doesn’t put on a grand show, most permit lake homeowners to privately shoot fireworks from their docks, decks, and backyards. Plus, no matter the degree to which you party for patriotism, at the lake, you can always count on there being good ol’ home-cooked food for the soul.
We all lead busy lives, and sometimes it’s hard to find time for quality family bonding.
That’s not the case at the lake. In fact, all the time you spend at the lake can be time spent with family, be it with those related to you by blood or the family members you choose to share the lake with.
At the lake, family time isn’t necessarily characterized by sharing stories around the dinner table, though that’s certainly one option. No, for most lake homeowners, family moments shared at the lake take place around fire pits and grills, on floaties and rope swings, and in the kitchen while the summer showers roll through.
Life on the lake is a nature lover’s paradise.
From boating to paddleboarding to fishing, there are plenty of things to do on the lake. However, if you need a break from water activities, going on a picnic or lounging lakeside in your backyard is the perfect way to relax and enjoy the picturesque lake views.
If staying active is more your style, hiking or taking a stroll around the lake is a great option. Additionally, it’s a fantastic opportunity to observe wildlife while taking in the natural landscape.
Ask any lake homeowner, or any lake lover for that matter, what their favorite memories are, and you’re guaranteed to hear a litany of wonderful things that happened at the lake. That’s because life’s best moments are made at the lake.
The lake is where grandfathers teach their grandkids to fish, where favorite uncles grill the best hamburgers, and where sons and daughters learn to swim.
It’s the perfect place to gather in celebration of birthdays, holidays, and milestones, like graduations and baby showers.
And the lake is where s’mores are shared, where minnows are turned into pets, and where some of life’s important lessons are learned.
Memories made at the lake are more than special; they are priceless.
It’s all these things and more that make lake living so worthwhile. They are why buying a lake home is more than a real estate transaction; it’s about attaining a lifestyle—the lake experience.
If you’re ready to invest in your best future, let us — the lake people — help make your dream a reality.
This article was originally published on July 31, 2019.
Summer at the lake is more than a season—it’s a lifestyle. For homeowners who retreat to lake properties from the Upper East and Mid-Atlantic to the Texas Gulf, Northern lake regions, Pacific Northwest, and California, summer invites a chance to refresh spaces with intention and modern ease. While lake homes often embody a laid-back elegance, this season calls for subtle yet impactful design updates. These updates should feel curated, not cliché. Today’s best summer décor strikes a balance between style and simplicity, featuring layered textures, functional upgrades, and a touch of nostalgia done right. The goal is to enhance the indoor-outdoor flow, accommodate summer entertaining, and evoke sensory delight without overwhelming the natural beauty that surrounds our lake homes.
From elevated outdoor zones to modernized guest spaces, these seven savvy ideas are tailored to today’s lake home lifestyle. Whether you’re prepping for long-weekend guests or spontaneous sunset cocktails on the dock, these fresh solutions create a timeless summer vibe. Plus, they honor regional character as well. Read on for elegant, well-edited ways to transform your lake house into a welcoming oasis that feels effortlessly inviting all summer long.
In climates like the Pacific Northwest and Northern lake regions, where weather shifts quickly, lake homeowners benefit from transition zones that allow year-round use. Consider updating screened porches or sunrooms with sliding glass or folding patio doors to enhance their functionality. These features blur the line between inside and out. Durable performance rugs, indoor-outdoor textiles, and water-resistant slipcovers ensure style and comfort regardless of the forecast. In the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic lake regions, ceiling fans and retractable insect screens create a refreshing breeze. Meanwhile, radiant floor heating under stone tile in cooler zones adds year-round usability. Keep the palette light and natural—linen, rattan, white oak, and pale neutrals. This echoes the landscape while providing a calming backdrop for guests and family alike.
Outdoor areas are the heart of summer lake living, especially in regions such as California, the Southeast, and the Texas Gulf Coast. In these areas, warm evenings stretch into fall. Rather than crowding decks and patios with seasonal clutter, focus on clean-lined furniture with durable, all-weather materials. Think teak, aluminum, or woven resin in modern silhouettes. Add a freestanding pergola or extend shade with a motorized canopy for sun protection without blocking the view. Use modular outdoor sectionals or built-in benches with storage. This offers flexible seating that suits both quiet afternoons and lively gatherings. Enhance ambiance with low-voltage lighting, lanterns, or LED path lights. Keep things functional with an outdoor beverage station or rolling bar cart.
For those who favor a neutral summer palette, texture becomes the key design element. Throughout the Upper East and Northern lake regions, opt for layered linens, boucle throws, nubby jute rugs, and light wood tones. Summer-weight slipcovers in creamy ivory or beige freshen up living rooms without a complete furniture overhaul. Add ceramic vases with beach grass or locally foraged greens to bring nature in. Style mantels or bookshelves with driftwood, handmade pottery, or woven baskets for a natural, rustic look. Textural layering feels elevated without needing bold color or pattern. It is ideal for second homes that benefit from low-maintenance polish.
Lake homes often host extended family or friends during the summer, so guest rooms and bathrooms deserve attention. In Northern or Upper East lake regions, consider white matelassé bedding layered with soft throws and crisp hotel-style sheets. Add a small bedside bouquet, water carafe, and reading light for a thoughtful touch. In warmer zones like the Southeast or Texas Gulf, light cotton robes, scented sachets, and a curated mix of summer reads elevate the experience. Bathrooms benefit from natural fiber rugs, handmade soaps, eucalyptus sprigs in vases, and high-quality white towels. These easy upgrades feel indulgent without requiring renovation.
Themes like nautical or nostalgic Americana are summer staples but can easily feel dated if overdone. The trick is subtlety. In California and the Mid-Atlantic, layer in tone-on-tone navy or crisp white striped pillows. Consider vintage boat oars mounted as minimalist wall art, or coastal abstract prints in neutral hues. In Texas Gulf or Southeast lake homes, lean into regional nostalgia with mid-century wicker chairs. Retro coolers as side tables or vintage lake signage reinterpreted in clean fonts and soft palettes are other options. Think refined—not kitschy—and mix these elements with contemporary touches. Consider black metal accents or minimalist lighting for balance.
Dining areas—whether inside, on a screened porch, or al fresco—deserve a seasonal refresh. In Pacific Northwest and California lake homes, lean into minimalist ceramic dishware, linen runners, and foraged greenery as a centerpiece. For Southeast or Mid-Atlantic homes, experiment with bold summer fruit arrangements (such as citrus, peaches, and berries) and casual bistro lights overhead. Try mixing natural wood or rattan chargers with mismatched vintage glassware and modern flatware for a curated yet effortless look. Don’t forget the lighting—add cordless rechargeable table lamps, hurricane candles, or low-hanging pendants to create an intimate and memorable meal experience.
A true summer refresh engages more than just the eye. Diffusers with scents like sea salt, citrus, or fresh herbs create a mood the moment you enter. Place them strategically in entryways, bathrooms, and bedrooms. Candles in hurricane glass containers add flicker and fragrance during evening hours. Summer flower arrangements—whether store-bought hydrangeas or wildflowers from a nearby trail—breathe life into any room. In outdoor spaces, consider a hammock underneath a pergola surrounded with fragrant flowers, or a trickling water feature near a lounge area. These small but layered touches resonate exceptionally well across all lake regions, from quiet Northern hideaways to social Gulf Coast retreats.
Modern summer décor at the lake is all about elegant restraint, thoughtful textures, and subtle sensory elevation. Whether your property is nestled in the Pacific Northwest or basking in sunshine in the Southeast, the best updates are those that support your lifestyle—entertaining, relaxing, and hosting. They also honor the natural rhythms of summer. These seven curated ideas strike the balance between comfort and style. They offer a roadmap for a memorable season that feels just right, inside and out. For more lake-inspired design ideas, visit Lake Homes Lifestyles.
Estimated reading time: 1 minute
Wake up to the serene beauty of Central Texas lakes, where luxury and nature blend seamlessly. These five stunning waterfront properties set a new standard for upscale living with breathtaking lake views, private water access, and custom design. Whether it’s a Mediterranean-inspired villa or a unique hillside retreat, each home features spacious layouts, premium amenities, and peaceful surroundings. Located in exclusive communities or on expansive estates, they offer both privacy and tranquility—ideal for a lakeside getaway or a forever home.
Need some tunes to accompany your 4th of July celebration at the lake? Check out this playlist! Curated to accommodate a variety of genres, from pop to classic rock to country and more, you won’t be disappointed with this patriotic soundtrack.
Want more music? Check out our other playlists!
Estimated reading time: 7 minutes
While grilled burgers and store-bought chips have long held a place at 4th of July lake gatherings, today’s lake homeowners are curating more intentional and elevated holiday spreads. Whether you’re entertaining guests dockside, picnicking under the trees, or launching fireworks from a pontoon, the right appetizers can anchor your 4th of July celebration. They add regional flavor, conversation-starting presentations, and inventive twists on familiar ingredients.
Especially across varied lake regions—from the breezy Pacific Northwest to the sunny Gulf Coast—seasonal produce and local specialties offer opportunities to impress on the 4th of July. You can do this without overcomplicating your prep. The following snack and appetizer recipes go beyond the standard fare. They blend regional flair with crowd-pleasing appeal. Each dish speaks to a specific region of the country. They cover a broad spectrum of tastes, including vegetarian, seafood, meat, poultry, sweet, dip-focused, and kid-friendly bites.
Southeastern lake regions, including Georgia’s Lake Oconee and North Carolina’s Lake Norman, are known for their sweet, juicy peaches in early July. Grilled peach-and-burrata crostini is a refined yet simple vegetarian option that makes the most of this seasonal bounty. Thick-sliced peaches are lightly grilled to bring out their sugars. They are then layered over creamy burrata on toasted baguette slices. A drizzle of local honey, a sprinkle of flaky salt, and a few torn basil leaves add complexity and freshness to the dish. This interpretation incorporates pesto and balsamic glaze for a flavorful balance. Serve these on a wooden board for a rustic, lake-house aesthetic. This is perfect for warm Fourth of July twilight gatherings. Visit Recipe Runner for this juicy recipe.
For lake homes around Deep Creek Lake in Maryland or Lake Wallenpaupack in Pennsylvania, blue crab reigns supreme in the summer. Combine sweet lump crabmeat with fresh corn, minced onions, and your preferred seasoning (such as Old Bay) in crisp fritters. Serve them with a lemon or spicy aioli. These bite-sized snacks seamlessly blend coastal influences with an easy-going inland style. They can be pan-fried or cooked in an air fryer for a lighter version. The balance of crunch, sweetness, and spice is perfect for lakeside cocktail hours. You can make them ahead and warm them on a grill pan. Visit Urban Cookery for their interpretation of this recipe.
The Upper East lake regions—think Lake George in New York or Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire—favor traditional fare with a hint of contemporary kick. These chicken skewers are marinated in a blend of salt, pepper, chili powder, and olive oil, then grilled and brushed with a peach preserves glaze. The result is a perfect interplay of sweet and spicy. Serve them with lime wedges skewered with red, white, and blue cocktail sticks for a festive presentation if desired. They also reheat well over a campfire grill for late-night snacking. Check out this home cook’s rendition at
I Am Homesteader.
In Gulf Coast and Texas lake communities, such as Lake Travis or Lake Martin, bold flavor profiles are a given. Smoked Andouille sausage, sliced thick and seared on a hot grill pan, pairs perfectly with a house-made Creole mustard dip—made by mixing whole grain mustard, a dash of Tabasco, and a touch of mayonnaise. Serve these sausage rounds on small toothpicks or skewers with pickled okra or jalapeño coins for a distinctly Southern flair. They’re hearty enough for meat lovers and hold up well in warm, humid conditions typical of July in this region. For an elevated yet quick recipe incorporating dry white wine, visit Platings + Pairings.
At lakefront homes in California—like Lake Tahoe or Big Bear Lake—guests appreciate dips that are bold, fresh, and layered. This charred poblano corn dip hits all the marks: smoky poblano peppers, grilled corn kernels, cream cheese, sour cream, lime juice. Some recipes also incorporate Monterey Jack, so feel free to create your own signature dish. It’s typically finished with chopped cilantro and served warm in a cast-iron skillet alongside corn tortilla chips or jicama slices for dipping. California’s abundant produce and preference for bright flavors shine here, making it a standout dip. It pairs well with crisp white wine or agave cocktails, especially on the 4th of July. For this classic recipe, visit Taste and See.
Lakes in the Pacific Northwest—like Lake Chelan in Washington or Oregon’s Crater Lake—are surrounded by berry farms that hit peak season around the 4th of July. Mini berry shortcake cups offer a make-ahead dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Use mason jars or compostable cups to layer fresh strawberries, blackberries, and blueberries with whipped cream and buttery shortcake cubes. A splash of lemon zest or elderflower syrup elevates the flavor. Chill these in a cooler or fridge until dessert time for a refreshing end to the meal. Visit Carson Farmers Market for a scrumptious multi-layered recipe using fresh yellow butter cake, whipped cream, and no-bake cheesecake. Berry types are not specified here, so use what’s available in your region to create a red, white, and blue theme celebrating the 4th of July.
For kids (and adults with a nostalgic streak), mini corn dog muffins are a playful, mess-free option. Made by combining cornbread batter with chopped hot dogs or mini sausages, these bake up in mini muffin tins and travel well from kitchen to dock. Serve with squeeze bottles of ketchup and mustard for easy dipping. They’re especially popular with families celebrating the 4th of July across U.S. lake regions. They can be tailored with locally made sausages or even a vegetarian version using plant-based hot dogs. These snacks are easy to prepare in bulk and disappear quickly once served.
Whether you’re entertaining at a lakeside lodge in the Northeast or a breezy dock house in the Pacific Northwest, your 4th of July menu can reflect both your region and your creativity. These snack and appetizer ideas offer a polished yet approachable blend of textures, temperatures, and flavor profiles that sets them apart from typical holiday fare. Better yet, each recipe is designed to travel well and hold up outdoors. With just a bit of planning, your holiday spread can taste as memorable as the fireworks lighting up your lake. For more lake-inspired recipes, visit Lake Homes Lifestyles.
Estimated reading time: 1 minute
Cedar Bluff, situated in the northeastern region of Alabama, offers breathtaking views and an unparalleled lake lifestyle on Weiss Lake. With its quintessential small-town vibe and affordable cost of living, Cedar Bluff provides many opportunities for both homeowners and investors. When you’re ready to start the next chapter of your life at the lake, working with a professional lake expert to help you navigate the nuances of lake real estate makes all the difference.
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