Envision discovering a residence that seamlessly combines luxury, prime location, and a vibrant lifestyle. Spanning across five separate properties within highly desirable neighborhoods, these coveted homes offer something truly exceptional. Whether it’s stunning water vistas, contemporary updates, or spacious cul-de-sac plots conveniently located near major thoroughfares, each home offers its own unique charm. Enter into meticulously designed spaces that blend comfort with elegance; every intricate detail beckons you to dream about your future.
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.
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.
Work-From-Home and Closet Conversions
Photo Courtesy of Left: Medina Grillo, Right: Alvar Furniture, all via Homecrux
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.
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.
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.
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.
Let’s be honest: few things trigger a full-body shiver quite like spotting a spider scuttling across your bathroom floor at 11 p.m. But before you reach for a shoe, vacuum, or flamethrower (please don’t), take a moment to identify your uninvited houseguest. Chances are, it’s more roommate than threat.
Here’s your crash course in becoming a spider sleuth—minus the fear factor.
First, Don’t Panic: Most House Spiders Are Harmless
Yes, spiders look like tiny Halloween decorations that came to life. But despite their bad PR, most of them are not dangerous. In fact, many are helpful! House spiders eat flies, mosquitoes, roaches, and even other spiders. They’re basically pest control with eight legs and zero complaints.
Now, let’s get to know your common creepy-crawly tenants.
Common House Spider (Parasteatoda tepidariorum)
Cellar Spider (Pholcidae)
Jumping Spider (Salticidae)
Wolf Spider (Lycosidae)
Black Widow (Latrodectus)
Brown Recluse (Loxosceles reclusa)
Sac Spider (Cheiracanthium)
Orb Weaver (Araneidae)
Funnel Web Grass Spider (Agelenidae)
Trapdoor Spider (Ctenizidae)
1. Common House Spider (Parasteatoda tepidariorum)
Also known as: That one in the corner How to identify: Small (under ¼ inch), brownish-yellow body, round abdomen with subtle patterns Web type: Messy, tangled cobwebs usually found in basements, garages, or ceiling corners
These are the spiders you’re most likely to see hanging out in forgotten corners. They’re timid, rarely leave their webs, and pose no threat to humans. Females tend to stay put, while males may wander in search of mates. They feed on insects that get caught in their webs and help keep your home bug-free.
Also known as: Daddy Longlegs (but technically not the true one) How to identify: Tiny peanut-shaped body with extremely long, thin legs Web type: Loose, wispy webs in quiet, undisturbed corners or ceilings
Cellar spiders may look fragile, but they’re persistent web-builders and great at capturing prey. They can vibrate rapidly in their webs when threatened—a defense move that makes them hard to catch. Despite persistent myths, their venom is not dangerous to humans, and they’re excellent at controlling other pest populations.
Also known as: The fuzzy one that stares back How to identify: Compact, fuzzy body; short legs; big, forward-facing eyes Web type: None. They roam and hunt during the day.
These charming little hunters are among the most visually engaging spiders. Their excellent vision and curious behavior often lead them to track movement—even watching you as you watch them. They don’t spin catch webs but rely on precise leaps to snag prey. With over 300 species in North America, they come in a variety of colors and patterns.
Also known as: The big fast one that made you yell How to identify: Large, hairy body; brown/gray coloring; noticeable eyes that reflect light Web type: None. These are hunters that roam.
Wolf spiders are robust, solitary hunters that prefer chasing prey to spinning webs. They are nocturnal and tend to hide during the day under furniture or along baseboards. Female wolf spiders are unique in that they carry their egg sacs with them and even tote their spiderlings on their backs after hatching—a surprisingly nurturing trait.
How to identify: Shiny black body with a red hourglass on the underside of the abdomen Web type: Irregular, strong webs in secluded spaces like sheds or woodpiles
Known for their potent venom and iconic red hourglass, black widows are often misunderstood. They are not aggressive and will retreat when possible. Bites are rare and usually occur only when they are accidentally pressed against skin. If bitten, medical attention should be sought immediately.
How to identify: Light to dark brown with a violin-shaped marking on the back Web type: Flat, messy webs in dark corners
The brown recluse lives up to its name—it’s shy and prefers dark, undisturbed areas like closets, attics, or cardboard boxes. They are more common in the central and southern U.S. Though their bites can cause serious reactions, they are very rare. Most encounters happen when the spider is unknowingly trapped against the skin.
Also known as: The yellow sac spider How to identify: Pale yellow to light green, about 1/4 inch long Web type: Small sac-like webs in corners or folds of fabric
Sac spiders are night hunters that build silk retreats rather than webs to catch prey. They can deliver a painful bite if disturbed, which may cause mild skin irritation. They’re often found near ceilings, behind pictures, or in closets.
Also known as: The garden web artist How to identify: Colorful bodies, long legs, often seen near circular webs Web type: Classic round spiral webs outdoors
Though not typically indoor spiders, orb weavers can sometimes set up shop near porches, patios, or inside open sheds. They build stunning, symmetrical webs and usually rebuild them every night. Harmless and fascinating to watch.
Also known as: The turbo weaver How to identify: Brown-gray body with stripes, long spinnerets Web type: Funnel-shaped webs in grass, window wells, and basement corners
These spiders build sheet-like webs that funnel down into a small retreat, where they wait to ambush prey. Though fast and elusive, they are not dangerous to humans. They’re more common in basements or areas with grass access.
Also known as: The hidden ambusher How to identify: Thick-bodied, usually dark brown or black, lives in burrows Web type: None—uses silk to line burrows and create camouflaged “trapdoors”
Rarely seen indoors, but worth noting for curious minds. Trapdoor spiders are ground-dwellers and known for their stealthy ambush tactics. While not harmful to humans, they’re a marvel of natural engineering with their hinged, silk-sealed homes.
Spider Web Decoder: What Their Webs Say About Them
Messy webs in corners? Common House Spider or Cellar Spider
No web, just a fuzzy jumper? Jumping Spider
Burrow outside near your steps? Likely a Wolf Spider
Perfect, circular web outdoors? Not a house spider, but an Orb Weaver
Should You Remove Them?
If you’re squeamish, gently relocating spiders outside is a kind option. But if you can tolerate them, they’re beneficial in controlling other pests in your home.
To minimize spider appearances, reduce clutter, fix leaks, seal cracks, and clean regularly. Fewer bugs mean fewer spiders.
Spiders get a bad rap, but most of the ones you find indoors are helpful and harmless. Understanding how to identify common house spiders can save you stress—and maybe even a few bugs.
So next time you see one dangling from the ceiling, take a breath. With a little knowledge and a lot less fear, you might just realize you’ve got nature’s pest control on your side.
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.
Layer Neutral Textures for Understated Sophistication
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.
Refresh Summer Dining with Creative Tablescapes and Lighting
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.
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.
The Star Spangled Banner – Chris Stapleton
Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl) – Looking Glass
Never Too Much – Luther Vandross
Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd
Sweet Escape – Gwen Stefanie
God’s Country – Blake Shelton
We Didn’t Start the Fire – Billy Joel
Stay the Night – Zedd ft. Haley Williams
Life is a Highway – Rascal Flatts
America the Beautiful – Ray Charles
All I Wanna Do – Sheryl Crow
Something Just Like This – The Chainsmokers & Coldplay
American Saturday Night – Brad Paisley
Tongue Tied – GROUPLOVE
Cruise – Florida Georgia Line
Summer – Calvin Harris
I Gotta Feeling – Black Eyed Peas
Born in the USA – Bruce Springsteen
Semi-Charmed Life – Third Eye Blind
Dexys Midnight Runners, Kevin Rowland – Come On Eileen
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