Tag: lake lifestyle

Fresh Vibes: Upgrade Your Lake Home with These 2025 Kitchen Design Trends  

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Modern Lake home design 2025 showcasing open floorplan integrating kitchen, dining, living room, and outdoor spaces
Photo Courtesy of OneKindesign

Many of us aspire to live the lake life. For most, a lake home embodies a serene and picturesque lifestyle, often reflecting a harmonious blend of nature and modern comfort. The kitchen—the heart of the home— plays a crucial role in fostering this balance. In 2025, kitchen design trends are embracing sustainability, natural aesthetics, and smart functionality. These trends cater to homeowners looking to create stylish yet practical spaces that enhance their lakeside living experience. From the integration of natural materials to cutting-edge technology, each trend emphasizes a seamless connection between the home and its scenic surroundings.

Whether you are renovating an existing space or designing a new one, these trends will help you create a kitchen that is both visually stunning and highly functional. Below, we explore the top kitchen design trends that are making waves in 2025 and how you can effortlessly incorporate them into your own lake home interior.

Multi-Functional Islands

Multi-funcitonal island with drawers, shelves, counter stools painted in deep green with natural wood counter surface, green cabinetry, green range hood
Photo courtesy of Frank Frances, Elle Decor

Illustration: In 2025, the multi-purpose island is having an especially hot moment in the spotlight—kitchen islands with built-in storage, additional seating, integrated sinks, and other innovative add-ons.

Why It’s Popular: As the hub of the kitchen, an island provides extra workspace, storage, and socializing opportunities, making it an essential feature in modern homes.

How to Incorporate: Customize your island with hidden drawers, built-in charging stations, or a beverage fridge. This trend works well in large kitchens but can also be adapted for compact spaces with extendable surfaces.

Organic and Sustainable Materials

Asian-inspired Outdoor kitchen with resin-bound recycled glass countertops and island surface, reclaimed woods and bamboo used throughout, stone floor tiles, woven counter stools, comfy seating area,
Photo courtesy of DreamDEN

Illustration: Think reclaimed woods, bamboo cabinets, and biodegradable countertops.

Why It’s Popular: Sustainability remains a top priority for homeowners and eco-friendly materials provide both aesthetic appeal and environmental benefits. Natural textures create a warm, inviting atmosphere that aligns with the tranquil setting of a lake home.

How to Incorporate: Opt for salvaged wood for cabinetry, invest in sustainable flooring options like cork or bamboo, and use recycled glass backsplashes for a unique touch. This trend works well in kitchens but can also extend to dining areas and outdoor cooking spaces.

Earthy and Tranquil Color Palettes

Combined kitchen / dining space in an earthy color palette of browns, creams, slate blue tile backsplash, plaster range hood surround, taupe leather counter stools, dark wood round dining table with dark wood built-in banquette, black window trim, wood floors
Photo courtesy of Gonyea Custom Homes

Illustration: Shades of moss green, deep blues, and warm neutrals like sand and taupe.

Why It’s Popular: Homeowners are moving away from stark white kitchens, embracing color palettes inspired by nature to evoke calmness and serenity.

How to Incorporate: Paint cabinetry in muted green tones, add terracotta tiles for warmth, or introduce natural fiber rugs and linens. This trend is especially effective in open-concept kitchens that flow into living or dining spaces.

Smart and Seamless Technology

Smart kitchen with voice-controlled appliances, lighting, and temperature controls; under-island lighting, perimeter lighting on ceiling feature and upper cabinets
Photo Courtesy of DreamDEN

Illustration: Touchless faucets, smart refrigerators, and voice-activated lighting and appliances.

Why It’s Popular: Convenience is key, and smart technology enhances both efficiency and comfort. Automated features make cooking and entertaining easier while maintaining a sleek, clutter-free aesthetic.

How to Incorporate: Install motion-sensor lighting, use smart thermostats for energy efficiency, and upgrade to Wi-Fi-enabled appliances. These additions can extend beyond the kitchen to pantries and outdoor cooking areas for a fully connected experience.

Indoor-Outdoor Integration

Marvin sliding glass door integrating kitchen with outdoor dining space on a deck; long kitchen island with drawers, stone top
Photo courtesy of Marvin

Illustration: Expansive sliding glass doors, outdoor kitchens, and transitional seating areas.

Why It’s Popular: Lake homes thrive on a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. This trend maximizes natural light and promotes an open, airy ambiance.

How to Incorporate: Consider retractable doors leading to a deck, incorporate outdoor dining spaces with built-in grills, and use weather-resistant materials to maintain continuity. This design works well in kitchens adjacent to patios or waterfront views.

Statement Lighting Fixtures

statement lighting over a waterfall island with clear glass-globe pendants in varying sizes
Photo courtesy of Decorilla

Illustration:  Over-sized woven lights, different-sized glass globe pendants, and sculptural LED fixtures.

Why It’s Popular: Lighting serves as both a functional and decorative element, adding character and ambiance to the kitchen.

How to Incorporate: Choose fixtures that reflect your home’s aesthetic, such as rustic wooden chandeliers for a cozy lodge feel or sleek geometric pendants for a modern touch. This trend extends to dining areas and even kitchen islands.

Textured Backsplashes and Bold Surfaces

Black soapstone countertop and shelf surfaces in a kitchen with white Zellige tile blacksplash contrasting black range hood, silver mercury-glass pendant lights with black hardware
Photo courtesy of Michael Hunter via Kitchen & Bath Design

Illustration: Zellige tiles, compelling pattern/color combinations, and dramatic stone surfaces.

Why It’s Popular: Unique backsplashes add personality and dimension to kitchen designs, moving beyond the standard subway tile look.

How to Incorporate: Choose tiles that reflect your style—stark color contrasts for a moody feel or earthy terracotta for a rustic charm. This trend is ideal for kitchens but can also enhance wet bars and butler’s pantries.

In 2025, lake home kitchens are embracing a blend of nature, technology, and artistry to create spaces that are both beautiful and practical. By incorporating organic materials, tranquil colors, and seamless technology, homeowners can craft a kitchen that enhances their lakeside lifestyle. Whether you are drawn to smart innovations or prefer the warmth of reclaimed wood, these trends offer versatile ways to elevate your kitchen design. With thoughtful integration, your lake home kitchen can become a perfect balance of style, functionality, and harmony with the surrounding landscape. For more design inspiration, visit Lake Home Lifestyles.

Whiteboard Topics: AVOID These 5 Questions When Selling a Lake Home

Posted on Chris Melton

Selling a lake home comes with several questions, but some are better than others. Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, discusses 5 questions to avoid when selling a lake home.

  1. “How many views did my listing get online?” The truth is that there’s no right answer to this question. If you get plenty of views, you start to think the websites aren’t good or the buyers aren’t serious. However, if you aren’t getting any, you’re still upset since there’s no traffic. The right amount of views is the one that leads to a transaction. The real reason sellers ask this is to know why they aren’t getting a transaction. Most of the time, if the property is marketed well, the home isn’t properly priced.
  2. “Should we counter-offer?” In negotiation, you always counter-offer. Not giving a counteroffer eliminates any chance of a negotiation. Counter-offers aren’t always about price; they can include extra property or furniture. Work through the negotiation to keep the discussion going until you reach a transaction.
  3. “Can you co-list with my relative?” What this question really means is that you want to hire an agent to do the work and split the check with your relative. If you don’t feel your agent is worth the money, don’t hire them.
  4. “Where is your office?” Office location for lake agents isn’t important. Most lake home buyers come from cities or states away and don’t want to come into town to look at an office. Lake home buyers would rather look at the house than go to an office.
  5. “Does your brokerage have a lot of agents?” This is more of a filler question when interviewing agents. Instead, ask them how they differentiate themselves from the other agents to be successful.

Asking your agent the right questions can make a world of difference when selling lake homes. Visit lakehomes.com to connect with expert lake agents who are ready to guide you to a successful transaction.

Whiteboard Topics: 4 Things Lake Home Sellers Say That Cost Extra

Posted on Chris Melton

Lake home sellers use some common phrases that may end up costing them money. Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, discusses 4 things lake home sellers say that could backfire.

  1. “Let’s leave room for negotiations.” No matter what price you set for your house, the buyer will always try to meet you somewhere between your price and their price. Additionally, appropriately priced homes sell quickly and don’t sit on the market. Intentionally overpricing causes frustration and costs you money by having your home sit on the market.
  2. “We can reduce the price later.” Lake Homes Realty data suggests that overpriced homes don’t get offers and sit on the market. Overpriced homes also cause contention with your agent, as you believe they aren’t doing their job well. Once you start reducing your price, you’re training buyers to offer lower than the list price.
  3. “This is the price I need so I can…” Often, sellers price their home with the intention of paying for a trip, debt, or some other expense. However, this has nothing to do with what the market says. Buyers don’t care about what you want to buy with the transaction money. Your home will only sell for what the market says it’s worth, not what you need to pay for something else.
  4. “I really don’t have to sell.” Listing a home costs everyone involved time and money. If you don’t have to sell, then don’t. Playing around with the market costs you and other people a lot of time and money.

These common phrases often cost sellers extra time and money. Selling a lake home is a business transaction, so you should treat it like one. Visit lakehomes.com to connect with expert lake agents ready to guide you through lake real estate.

Whiteboard Topics: 4 Pointless Beliefs of Lake Real Estate Agents

Posted on Chris Melton

When you’re trying to find a real estate agent, you want to ensure you’re getting the best representation possible. Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, discusses a few things agents believe aren’t really true.

  1. “I work at the largest brokerage in the area.” Agents working for a large local brokerage are working alongside their competitors. Large brokerages make agents feel comfortable by bringing in a large number of agents. Large brokerages don’t make a difference for consumers, as their home gets listed no matter what.
  2. “My listings appear on thousands of websites.” Homes listed by any agent in any market across the country are syndicated to thousands of websites. Unless the property is being hidden and not advertised on the internet, it will appear on thousands of websites.
  3. “I earn stock in my publicly traded brokerage.” This is a common tactic for retention and recruiting agents. However, you can invest in the brokerage yourself if it’s publicly traded.
  4. “The ‘serious’ clients will leave a message.” People don’t want to leave messages anymore. If they get sent to voicemail, they’ll keep calling around until someone picks up. Great agents answer the phone even if it means dealing with spam.

Like anybody else, agents often believe things they do work when they don’t. Watching out for these sayings can help you find the best agent for you. If you’re looking to buy or sell, visit lakehomes.com to connect with expert agents who are ready to help you through the process.

Homes, Hammers, and Happiness: Lake Home Remodeling and Its Impact on Mental Health

Posted on Linda Thach

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

Photo courtesy of Ivan Samkov via Pexels

On Lake Homes Lifestyles, we’ve written extensively about the positive effects of lake living on mental health. Researchers agree that living on or near the water promotes the Blue Mind Effect, a meditative state that is characterized by a sense of calm, peace, and tranquility. This effect is believed to be a result of the soothing sounds and sights of water, which can reduce stress and anxiety, increase serotonin levels, and boost creativity. However, according to a report by the National Association of REALTORS®, mental health wellness goes beyond the Blue Mind Effect or simply enjoying oneself at the lake. Home remodeling, a multi-billion dollar industry, is shown to contribute to homeowners’ overall sense of happiness. The report calculated factors such as the homeowner’s sense of accomplishment, such as completing a challenging project or seeing a vision come to life, and increased enjoyment into a ranking system called the Joy Score.

Joy Score Methodology

The ranking system of 1 through 10, known as the Joy Score, is calculated by combining the share of those who were happy and those who were satisfied when seeing their completed project and dividing the share by 10. This score measures the emotional satisfaction and happiness homeowners experience after completing a remodeling project. Higher scores indicate greater joy. – NAR Remodeling Impact Report

Here are the top interior remodeling projects with the highest Joy Score.

Paint Job

Photo courtesy of Stephanie Ho via Pexels.

Whether you’re looking to update your dreary interiors with a fresh coat of color or spruce up a room with a lake-inspired accent wall, painting is one of the simplest home remodel projects. Many homeowners choose to tackle paint projects on their own, while others hire professional help. Nonetheless, this task ranks highest out of all projects, with a Joy Score of 10 points. So before you think about putting off painting that room, the joy and satisfaction that comes along with it might be a well-deserved return on investment. Here’s the Joy Score data analysis for the home interior paint project:

Paint Entire Interior Home

  • 88% of homeowners have a greater desire to be at home since completing the project
  • 83% have an increased sense of enjoyment when they’re at home
  • 65% feel a major sense of accomplishment when they think of the project

Paint One Interior Room

  • 73% of homeowners have a greater desire to be at home since completing the project
  • 63% have an increased sense of enjoyment when they’re at home
  • 67% feel a major sense of accomplishment when they think of the project

Add a New Home Office

Photo courtesy of Photo By: Kaboompics.com via Pexels

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many office spaces became empty as many people were required to quarantine and work from home. This shift gave way to the rise of home office remodel projects. Even today, years after the height of the pandemic, these renovations and additions remain popular as homeowners strive to find a balance between work and home. Adding an office improves a home’s functionality and liveability and contributes to the homeowner’s overall satisfaction and happiness. Here’s the complete Joy Score data analysis for adding a new home office:

  • 91% of homeowners have a greater desire to be at home since completing the project
  • 73% have an increased sense of enjoyment when they’re at home
  • 55% feel a major sense of accomplishment when they think of the project

Add New or Refinish Hardwood Floors

Photo courtesy of cottonbro studio via Pexels

A once immaculately smooth hardwood floor will eventually lose its luster and become dull, riddled with scratches and scuff marks. Whether refinishing existing floors or adding brand-new ones, this renovation project is one of the most common for lake homeowners.

While costs vary depending on factors such as labor, size of the space, and materials used, replenishing hardwood floors typically have the highest percentage cost recovered. Moreover, 22% of REALTORS® recommend this remodel project before selling. Homeowners have reported tremendous satisfaction upon completing the project. Here’s the Joy Score data analysis for hardwood floor remodels:

Hardwood Flooring Refinish

  • 100% of homeowners have a greater desire to be at home since completing the project
  • 64% have an increased sense of enjoyment when they’re at home
  • 64% feel a major sense of accomplishment when they think of the project

New Wood Flooring

  • 90% of homeowners have a greater desire to be at home since completing the project
  • 77% have an increased sense of enjoyment when they’re at home
  • 61% feel a major sense of accomplishment when they think of the project

Closet Renovation

Photo courtesy of Curtis Adams via Pexels

Whether adding more practical storage solutions or remodeling an entirely new space, redoing a closet can completely transform your home and your entire daily routine. 46% of homeowners reported that this upgrade provided better functionality and livability to the house, leading to less stress and greater satisfaction and happiness. The NAR ranks closet renovation with a 10 on the Joy Score scale. Here’s a complete Joy Score data analysis for closet renovation:

  • 79% of homeowners have a greater desire to be at home since completing the project
  • 61% have an increased sense of enjoyment when they’re at home
  • 61% feel a major sense of accomplishment when they think of the project

Insulation Upgrade

Photo courtesy of Kindel Media via Pexels

According to the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA), 89% of single-family homes in the U.S. are under-insulated. That said, insulation upgrades are one of the top projects homeowners turn to for home cost-saving measures. Furthermore, home insulation upgrades are among the top projects that yield the highest percentage of recovered costs. Regarding emotional satisfaction, insulation upgrade projects have a Joy Score of 10 and round out our countdown at number five. Here is the Joy Score data analysis for insulation upgrades:

  • 85% of homeowners have a greater desire to be at home since completing the project
  • 62% have an increased sense of enjoyment when they’re at home
  • 69% feel a major sense of accomplishment when they think of the project

Whether you’re tackling a straightforward project or a complete renovation overhaul, there is an emotional aspect that impacts the lake homeowner’s mental wellness. Are you ready to tackle your lake home remodel project? Check out these home improvement articles and tips HERE.

In this article, we included only the top 5 projects with the highest Joy Scores. Here is the entire list of projects on the Joy Score scale:

Want to learn more about the Joy Score? Access the full report HERE.

Winter Warriors: Nurturing Your Indoor Plants to Thrive Over the Long Cold Winter

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

potted plants in a window with a frosty winter scene in the backdrop
Photo courtesy of Getty Images/Melinda Podor via Home & Gardens

Winter can be harsh for indoor plants, especially for garden enthusiasts who treasure their greenery as part of their serene lakeside retreat. But a few essential plant care tips can help your greenery stay healthy and beautiful all season long. Winter brings shorter days and cooler temperatures that challenge the survival of indoor plants. Ensuring your plant life thrives during this time requires a few strategic adjustments to meet their needs. Reduced sunlight, cooler temperatures, and drier indoor air conditions can task even the most resilient houseplants. Adjusting care routines and selecting the right plants can help create a thriving indoor oasis to brighten your lake home during the colder months.

Sunlight Needs

grouping of indoor plants with grow lights hanging above and window in the background
Photo courtesy Vadim Kaipov/Unsplash via House & Gardens

During winter, natural light is limited, and the sun’s angle is lower, resulting in fewer hours of direct sunlight indoors. Position your plants near south- or east-facing windows to maximize exposure to the weaker winter rays. Clean your windows regularly and dust your plant leaves to ensure no barriers block sunlight absorption.

Consider adding grow lights to your setup if you notice your plants leaning toward light sources or their growth slowing significantly. LED grow lights are energy-efficient and designed to emit light in spectrums that encourage photosynthesis. They are beneficial for homes with small windows or cloudy winter climates. Position the grow lights six to twelve inches above the plants, following the manufacturer’s recommendations to avoid overheating the foliage.

Watering Requirements & Tips

hand with spray water bottle spraying leaves of indoor plant
Photo courtesy Dukai Photographer / Getty Images via House Beautiful

Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes in winter plant care. As temperatures drop and plants enter their dormant phase, they require less water. Check the soil before watering—only water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Use room-temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.

Pay attention to humidity, as indoor heating systems can dry the air. Grouping plants together, placing water trays with pebbles beneath pots, or using a small humidifier can help maintain optimal moisture levels. Avoid letting plants sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot. Plants like cacti and succulents, which naturally prefer dry conditions, may only need watering once a month in winter.

Ideal Temperatures

hanging plants and a potted plant in black containers in a black bathroom with natural wood walls and white tub
Photo courtesy of Marnie Hawson via Home Beautiful

Houseplants thrive in stable indoor temperatures, typically between 65°F and 75°F. Sudden fluctuations caused by drafts, open doors, or proximity to heat sources can stress plants. Avoid placing plants near exterior doors, radiators, or heating vents.

For those with a fireplace in their lake home, position plants safely away from the heat to prevent foliage from drying out. Maintaining consistent conditions mimics the stable environment plants experience in their natural habitats.

Fertilizing Tips

Homemade Plant Food Recipe Chart
Photo Courtesy of Good Earth Plant Company

Most houseplants don’t require frequent fertilizing during winter, as their growth slows. Applying fertilizer during this dormant period can lead to salt buildup in the soil, potentially damaging the plant. However, if you notice signs of nutrient deficiency—like yellowing leaves—apply a diluted liquid fertilizer sparingly, no more than once every six to eight weeks. For blooming indoor plants such as peace lilies or orchids, consider a fertilizer tailored for flowering species. These formulas contain higher levels of phosphorus, which encourages blooms. Always follow the label instructions and use less rather than more when in doubt.

If you are an experienced gardener and DIY-er, you can make a homemade version of Miracle-Gro fertilizer with safe household ingredients. For more tips on fertilizing, visit Good Earth Plant Company.

Customizing Your Plant Aesthetic

Pothos plant in white container set in a wicker tray holding bar essentials and a watercolor painting above
Photo courtesy of Mindi Cook via Home Beautiful

Indoor plants are beneficial for air quality and a key element of home decor, especially during winter when your lakeside property may feel a bit more subdued. Selecting the right plant shapes and container styles can transform your living spaces.

For a modern aesthetic, choose plants with clean lines and pair them with sleek ceramic or metallic pots in neutral tones. If you’re leaning toward a cozy, rustic vibe, consider trailing plants like pothos or philodendrons in woven baskets or terracotta containers.

Add bursts of color with flowering plants like anthuriums or African violets. You can also highlight seasonal cheer by choosing planters in seasonal hues or textures, such as frosted glass or wood finishes, that evoke the natural beauty of your lake property. Combining plants of varying heights and shapes creates a layered, dynamic display that can become a centerpiece in any room.

Houseplants in a grouping by a window seat with green cushion
Photo courtesy of Patch Plants

Certain plant varieties are ideal for winter because they thrive in low light and require minimal upkeep. Consider adding these to your home:

  • Snake Plant (Sansevieria): This hardy plant tolerates low light and infrequent watering, making it an excellent choice for busy lake homeowners. Its upright leaves add a sculptural element to your decor.
  • ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia): Known for its glossy, waxy leaves, the ZZ plant is nearly indestructible. It survives well in dimly lit spaces and prefers soil to dry out completely between waterings.
  • Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): A versatile trailing plant that thrives in indirect light, the pothos plant is forgiving if neglected and comes in several varieties with variegated or golden leaves.
  • Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum): This low-maintenance plant adds greenery and purifies the air. It prefers moderate light but can survive in lower light settings.
  • Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior): True to its name, this plant is highly resilient. It tolerates low light, drier air, and minimal watering, making it a favorite for winter.

Caring for indoor plants during winter is about creating a stable environment that mimics their natural conditions. By paying close attention to their sunlight, water, temperature, and nutrient needs and selecting the right varieties, you can maintain a thriving indoor garden that enhances the ambiance of your lake home. For more design inspiration, visit Lake Homes Lifestyles.

Whiteboard Topics: 5 Reminders About the 2025 Lake Real Estate Market

Posted on Chris Melton

Heading into 2025, you might consider buying or selling a lake home. Glenn S. Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, shares 5 helpful reminders about lake real estate in 2025.

  1. Price Includes Location. Many lake home buyers, particularly first-time buyers, don’t realize the impact of the lake location on price. You may not be able to get the same amount of house at the lake as you would in your neighborhood because of the location.
  2. “Sellable” Inventory is Limited. Over the last several months, the number of homes listed for sale has increased, and there’s also a lot of demand. However, since these homes have been sitting on the market, they aren’t appropriately priced. Many sellers are listing at aspirational prices to get a lottery ticket price. This means “sellable,” or appropriately priced, inventory is actually limited.
  3. Prices Are Roughly At Peak. Throughout 2024, price appreciation became fairly limited. Lake home prices aren’t expected to significantly rise or drop.
  4. Discretionary Product. Nobody has to buy a lake home for shelter. Unlike typical residential property, buyers can wait until they find what they want. This is also true for sellers. Lake home sellers generally aren’t in a rush to sell, so they can hold onto the property longer.
  5. Niche Expert Agents Matter. Lake homes come with different contingencies that primary residential properties don’t have. Additionally, discretionary lake home buyers come from cities and states away. Expert lake agents can navigate this market and expose homes to nationwide buyers.

Lake real estate can be a tricky market to navigate and understand. With these tips, you’ll be better prepared to buy or sell your lake home in 2025. Visit lakehomes.com to connect with expert lake agents who are ready to help you navigate this market.

Whiteboard Topics: 5 Mistakes Made by Lake Home Sellers

Posted on Chris Melton

Selling your lake home is a big deal, so you’ll want to do it right. Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, discusses 5 mistakes made by lake home sellers.

  1. What Seller Paid for the Property. Similar to stocks, you often can’t sell your lake home for exactly what you bought it for. The buyer doesn’t care about how much you paid for the house years ago.
  2. Price of Listed (i.e. Unsold) Homes. If the listed homes were priced right, they would be sold homes. When these homes sit for a while, it should be a warning about the price. Your neighbors aren’t getting that number, so it’s unlikely you will, too.
  3. Seller’s Blood, Sweat, and Tears. Oftentimes, sellers get caught up in what they’ve done to the property or the memories they have there. However, buyers aren’t interested in those things; they care about the house’s value, according to them. In fact, sellers often intend to remove additions to the home the buyer made, creating negative value.
  4. Outlier Sales. When a home sells for a fantastic price, sellers often want to get that price themselves. However, the price alone doesn’t tell the whole story of that transaction. There could be things like closing costs, additional property, and more that the price included that make the price deceptive.
  5. Taking Offers Personally. Even if the “low” offer is fair, but under the listed price, you can’t get offended by it. A low offer is better than no offers. Low offers open the opportunity for discussion about prices that no offers don’t allow for. Keep the discussion going, and try to land that transaction.

Lake home sellers can often make mistakes when they aren’t familiar with lake property. Using these tips can help guide you to a better transaction. Visit lakehomes.com to connect with expert lake agents ready to guide you through the lake market.

Pantone Color of the Year 2025: Immerse Your Lake Home in the Lusciousness of Mocha Mousse

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder

Estimated reading time: 1 minute

Pantone 17-1230 Mocha Mousse Hero Shot with chocolate mousse in stemmed glassware
Photo courtesy of Pantone

Released in December 2024, Pantone’s Color of the Year 2025 17-1230 Mocha Mousse “captures a global mood of connection, comfort, and harmony,” said the color experts at the renowned Pantone Color Institute.  

“Underpinned by our desire for everyday pleasures, PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse expresses a level of thoughtful indulgence,” adds Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute. “Sophisticated and lush, yet at the same time an unpretentious classic, Mocha Mousse extends our perceptions of the browns from being humble and grounded to embrace aspirational and luxe.”

Instilled with understated elegance and a sense of organic earthiness, this richly appetizing hue appeals to our deep desire for comfort, enveloping us in sensorial warmth with its flavorful suggestions of cacao, coffee, and chocolate. Its universal appeal and infinite versatility make it an effortless shade to incorporate into your lake home environment. Applied liberally throughout your spaces or subtly with quiet accents, this approachable, user-friendly shade will transport your senses into the pleasure and deliciousness it inspires.

Palette Possibilities

Pantone 17-1230 Mocha Mousse stylized palette shot with paint colors, fabric swatches, textiles, textures, paint decks
Photo courtesy of Pantone

There is a growing movement to align ourselves more closely with the natural world. Characterized by its organic nature, PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse honors and embraces the sustenance of our physical environment. Imbued with authenticity, it finds harmony and balance between the demands of modernity and the timeless beauty of artful creation.

“The everlasting search for harmony filters through into every aspect of our lives, including our relationships, the work we do, our social connections, and the natural environment that surrounds us,” added Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute. “Harmony brings feelings of contentment, inspiring a positive state of inner peace, calm, and balance while being tuned in with the world around us. Harmony embraces a culture of connection and unity as well as the synthesis of our mental, spiritual, and physical well-being. With that in mind, for Pantone Color of the Year 2025, we look to a color that reaches into our desire for comfort and wellness and the indulgence of simple pleasures that we can gift and share with others.”

As comforting as it is approachable, PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse harmonizes seamlessly with a broad range of color tones. Mix it with luscious creams and decadent chocolates that instantly conjure a warmly elegant ambiance. Or create vibrant color contrast with rich orchid tones, deep turquoise, and mustard-tinged yellows.

Pantone Palettes

For playful inspiration, check out these Pantone Color of the Year Palettes featuring Uniquely Balanced, Floral Pathways, Deliciousness, Relaxed Elegance, and Subtle Contrasts. “Infused with subtle elegance and earthy refinement, PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse presents a discrete and tasteful touch of glamour,” Eiseman adds. “A flavorful brown shade, Mocha Mousse envelopes us with its sensorial warmth.”

So, whether you apply a little or a lot, the choice is yours to select a palette that reflects your individual taste and lake lifestyle. You can also introduce soft touches throughout your home with accent pieces, including artwork, lamps, rugs, pillows, throws, and tableware.

Joybird x Pantone Color of the Year 2025

Joybird x Pantone 17-1230 Mocha Mousse upholstered chair with ottoman, room vignette with wall covering, pillow, throw, console table with decor, green houseplant in basket
Photo courtesy of Joybird

This exclusive collaboration between custom furniture manufacturer Joybird and Pantone seeks to redefine how we perceive neutrals in our homes. A collection of sumptuous Mocha Mousse-inspired upholstered pieces enables Joybird’s clientele to embrace luxurious tranquility while indulging in creature comforts through fabrics that are both accessible and aspirational.

“The collaboration features Joybird’s top-selling performance fabric, Royale, and stars the Pantone Color of the Year 2025, PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse, available in over 300 of Joybird’s silhouettes, including sofas, sectionals, sleeper sofas, upholstered bed frames, accent chairs, ottomans, pillows, slipcovers, and more,” say the color experts at Pantone. A fine knit velvet weave selected explicitly for its silk-like hand, Royale provides an exceptional sense of warmth, indulgence, and comfort. Shop the collection at Joybird as well as all 12 Joybird showrooms.

Spoonflower x Pantone Color of the Year 2025

Spoonflower x Pantone 17-1230 Mocha Mousse Hero Shot with fabrics and wallcovering patterns
Photo courtesy of Spoonflower

Soothe your senses by infusing your spaces with this richly mellow-brown hue that is both grounding and sophisticated. Spoonflower’s partnership with Pantone for the Pantone Color of the Year 2025 “brings together the authority in color and the authority in surface pattern design,” say the Pantone color experts. “Four distinguished Spoonflower Independent Artists have unveiled exclusive designs for print-on-demand wallpaper, fabric, and home décor—bringing the Pantone Color of the Year 2025 to life. The creativity continues in January with two Spoonflower Pantone Color of the Year 2025 Design Challenges. With everything from floral-printed wallcoverings to graphically-inspired runners, cocktail napkins, pillows, and throw blankets, The Spoonflower x Pantone Collection celebrates PANTONE 17-1320 Mocha Mousse in superb style.

Society6 x Pantone Color of the Year 2025

Society6 x Pantone 17-1230 Mocha Mousse Hero Shot with Maggie Stevenson art print with gold side table and decorative accents.
Photo courtesy Society6

To further celebrate the universal appeal of Mocha Mousse in the home, Pantone partners with Society6, an artist-driven e-commerce retailer selling wall art, home décor, accessories, and apparel. With impeccable designs suiting styles for every personality, Society6 offers bespoke made-to-order creations from independent artists with more than 75 premium products, including art prints, throw pillows, curtains, rugs, iPhone cases, bedding, and more. Shop exclusive artist-designed pieces featuring Pantone’s Color of the Year 2025 and discover how unique creative minds reimagined PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse in this limited edition Society6 x Pantone collection.

Ultrafabrics x Pantone Color of the Year 2025

Ultrafabrics x Pantone 17-1230 Mocha Mousse Hero Shot with fabric selections draped over table with decorative vases, coffee mug, and bolw of chocolate candies
Photo courtesy of Ultrafabrics

Collaborating with Pantone for the third year, the Japanese-crafted, New York-based Ultrafabrics will share its expertise through interactive events, exclusive color palettes, and color customization across the brand’s vast range. “Together, they will tap into the essence of PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse by celebrating the harmonious balance between modern design and timeless simplicity,” say the Pantone color experts, “inspiring designers to create interiors that evoke sensorial comfort, connection, and warmth.” Constantly pioneering new ideas and partnering with leaders in 11 industries, including Jaguar Land Rover, Fitbit, MillerKnoll, Airstream, Virgin Galactic, and Gulfstream, the brand’s bold vision continues to demonstrate how color can revolutionize interior environments. To learn more about their Pantone partnership, visit Ultrafabrics.

As you seek out the cozy moments at your lake home this year, let PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse inspire harmonious comfort, thoughtful indulgence, and feelings of contentment throughout your spaces. From all of us at Lake Homes Lifestyles—may your 2025 reveal a warm and mindful sense of renewal.