Tag: lake living

How to Handle Inclement Weather at the Lake

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Frank Cone via Pexels

In part due to climate change, extreme weather is increasing across the world. As a result, heavier rains and high winds directly affect freshwater systems. Since we spend a lot of time outdoors at the lake, it’s crucial to know what to do when encountering these extreme conditions. To make it easier, we compiled a few basic rules to help you stay safe in inclement weather at the lake.

Thunder and Lightning

Photo courtesy of Fernando Flores, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

According to the CDC, the optimal rule for this type of inclement weather is: “When thunder roars, go indoors!” It’s no wonder why. Where thunder is, lightning is not far behind, which is dangerous or even fatal. To protect yourself from thunder and lightning at the lake, keep the 30-30 rule in mind. If you see lightning, count to 30. If you hear thunder before reaching 30, go indoors and do not go back outside until 30 minutes after the last sound of thunder. 

Also, keep in mind that lightning is essentially a giant electrical blast in the sky. As such, it can travel through metal and electronic devices, and it’s best to avoid these materials during a storm. This also includes avoiding water since lightning can travel through plumbing.

High Winds

Photo courtesy of Biswarup Ganguly, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

According to The Weather Channel, high winds are the biggest threat to boaters in lake areas. These winds create choppy waves that can easily overturn a boat or fill it with water. This can be especially detrimental if improper flotation devices are used. Be sure to check the weather ahead of time and avoid going out on the lake in high winds. If you do end up there, according to Boatus, “head into the waves at a slight angle, and reduce your speed. This will help you maintain control and avoid falling off of a wave or having a wave break over your stern.” Also, avoid large areas of open water as winds are likely to be stronger there. If you’re caught outside on the land, a good rule of thumb is to seek shelter next to a building.

Tornadoes

Photo courtesy of Espen Bierud on Unsplash

If your lake house is located in the southeast or midwest, chances are, you’re no stranger to tornadoes. These regions most commonly experience tornadoes, especially during the late spring and early summer. A common myth about tornadoes is that they cannot cross lakes or other bodies of water. However, this is simply false. Tornadoes can cross bodies of water, and they can also form on bodies of water — a phenomenon known as a “waterspout.” Tornadoes can also change directions at any time, so anticipating their specific route will not ensure safety. Seek shelter immediately during a tornado in an interior room on the lowest floor of your building.

Hurricanes

Image courtesy of Open Water Chicago via WBCKFM.com

Typically, we think of hurricanes as a form of inclement weather that only affects beach houses. However, hurricanes can still be an issue if you live on a lake in a coastal region. For example, in 1996, a dangerous hurricane hit the Great Lakes region. Although this is the only time a Category I hurricane has impacted the Great Lakes, it’s not entirely out of the question. If you find yourself facing a hurricane, be sure to avoid low-lying, flood-prone areas and instead seek higher ground. And of course, staying away from windows is critical due to the threat of glass breaking.

Snow and Hail

Image courtesy of WNEP.com

Although many forms of inclement weather take place in the spring and summer, there are certain conditions to watch out for during the winter months. To protect you and your lake home from the damage of snow, you can prepare your house by securing your pipes for the winter and owning a snow shovel and other tools. However, one often overlooked form of inclement weather is a hailstorm. They form when raindrops are carried upwards by thunderstorm drafts. 

According to the NOAA, hailstorms outnumber thunderstorms in the U.S. with a 5 to 1 ratio. At a lake house, the best thing to do is take cover. Another important thing to remember is that if you have a garage, use it! Vehicle damage is very common with hailstorms, as these heavy balls of ice can easily break through glass. For the same reason, stay away from windows in your lake house. 

From us at Lake Homes Realty, stay safe out there!

Three Mental Health Benefits of Gardening

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of SML Home Magazine

Lake living has plenty of mental health benefits. In addition to green space, blue space has a calming effect while the isolation from urban life reduces stress. And even better, leisure is good for you. However, these perks of lake life do not always guarantee freedom from anxiety. Even at the lake, stress and worry can creep in. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), one in five adults currently experiences mental health struggles. Whether this describes you or you’re simply having a bad day, one common lake hobby is likely to help — and that is gardening.

Not only does gardening beautify your yard, but it’s also great for your mind. In fact, there’s a whole subfield of counseling dedicated to it. Horticultural therapy is a professional practice in which therapists guide clients through gardening experiences. More intensified than home gardening, its effectiveness highlights the power of plants. Sarah Schluep, a horticultural therapist at the Horticultural Society of New York, says, “Home gardeners benefit from being with plants in a very personal way, but it’s far less directed or intentional than a horticultural therapy program.” 

Even if formal therapy isn’t for you, it’s clear that having a green thumb is valuable. Check out these three mental health benefits of gardening that we’ve learned from horticultural therapy.

Stress Reduction

Photo courtesy of @PentiumIII via Twenty20

Whether you are adding fertilizer to the soil or replanting an annual, caring for a plant necessitates focus and attention to detail. The level of intentionality required in gardening has a calming effect on your mind by keeping you in the present moment. This attention to present-focused details is also known as mindfulness, a skill that is highly effective in reducing stress and anxiety. Schluep adds, “Plants provide us an opportunity to practice care and attention while also encouraging us to be more intentional with our actions.” This degree of focus required in plant maintenance facilitates mindfulness, and in turn, reduces stress.

Increase in Hopefulness

Photo courtesy of @michelleluo via Twenty20

One of the exciting things about gardening is watching plants grow. As a gardener, you are both an observer and a catalyst of your plant’s progress. This caretaking role can instill feelings of hopefulness, both for the plant and perhaps in your own life. Schluep says that in her therapy, she might ask her client, “As we remove the spent flowers to encourage new blooms, can you think of anything in your life that time has come to pass, which could allow new growth?” This question helps the client reflect on their own life. While you can certainly bring this introspective question from horticultural therapy to your gardening, it isn’t necessary. Simply observing a plant’s growth can increase feelings of hopefulness in its own right.

Happiness Boost

Photo courtesy of @SBphoto via Twenty20

Have you ever finished a day of gardening feeling a little peppier than before? There’s a reason behind this. “Anyone who gardens is aware of all the good feelings that happen during and after spending time in the garden or caring for plants,” Schluep comments. “However, I feel that it’s relatively recent that it’s being spoken of in the mainstream.” 

In one recent 2020 study from Princeton University, participants reported high levels of happiness after gardening. In fact, it ranked one of the top five reportedly meaningful activities, in addition to biking and walking. Part of this effect is chemical. One 2007 study found that a chemical in soil called Mycobacterium vaccae or M. vaccae releases serotonin when inhaled, which lifts your mood. This is the same chemical targeted in some antidepressant medications. 

We all know that physical activity and fresh air are good for the brain, but we sometimes view gardening as a chore. While it does require hard work, the mental health benefits of gardening are worth the labor. So this summer, take a note from horticultural therapists and break out those gardening gloves!

An Introduction to Vertical Gardening

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Home World Design

On the Lake Homes Realty blog, we’ve covered a lot of landscaping topics. By now, you’re probably well versed in cultivating gardens that adhere to your USDA zone, as well as new low-irrigation techniques like xeriscaping. But have you heard of the latest trend — vertical gardening? Especially perfect for those with smaller backyards, vertical gardening makes the most use of the space you have. Think of it as the landscaping equivalent of New York City’s architectural strategy — when there’s limited space, build upwards with skyscrapers! Today, we’re diving into the basics of the vertical gardening trend and how you can implement it at your lake house.

What is Vertical Gardening?

Photo courtesy of @lenaivanovaphoto via Twenty20

In the broadest sense, vertical gardening is essentially vegetation growing on a non-horizontal surface such as a wall, trellis, or fence. Although it’s certainly a hot new trend, vertical gardening has been around since the beginning of recorded history. The history of vertical gardening begins in 3000 BCE with grapevines in the Mediterranean area. Whether for growing food or decorating homes, these vines were known for climbing up walls and trellises. Today, nearly any non-horizontal surface is perfect for growing vegetables, adding beautiful greenery to your landscape, or indoor herb gardening.

Why is Vertical Gardening so Popular?

Photo courtesy of House Beautiful Magazine

One of the most logistical benefits of vertical gardening is that it doesn’t take up too much space. If your backyard is small, or you’re living in a more urban lake area, you may need to conserve space on your property. The limits are your own property with horizontal gardening, but with vertical gardening, the sky’s the limit! From an environmental perspective, they also reduce your carbon footprint — a win-win for both you and the environment. Plus, your plants are more likely to thrive with added air circulation than on the moist ground. 

There are also aesthetic benefits to vertical gardening. A wall of blooming greenery adds dimension to your backyard. In the same way that wall art rounds out an interior design, vertical gardening draws the eye upward and offers a holistic look. Plus, there’s no better way to disguise an unattractive wall than with a whole lot of ivy.

What Makes It Perfect for Lake Houses?

Photo courtesy of Catriona Tudor Erler via Smith Mountain Laker Magazine

Have you ever wanted to incorporate greenery onto your boat dock but didn’t have enough room? Enter vertical gardening. For smaller spaces like boat docks, vertical gardening is the perfect solution. The same goes for your screened-in porch overlooking the lake. Further, vertical gardening is simply another way of showing off your biophilic design. This design trend embraces the natural world and also reflects the values of many lake homeowners who spend a lot of time appreciating nature.

How Can You Incorporate Vertical Gardening?

Photo courtesy of Pinterest

There are tons of different ways to incorporate vertical gardens into your lake home. If you’re looking to get creative, try a DIY project. For example, you can simply re-pot your house plants into wooden crates and stack them on top of each other to create a farm-chic vertical garden. Less mainstream but delightfully creative strategies include succulent frames and monogrammed planters. If you’re not so crafty, look for an existing vertical surface to use. Perhaps you’re not so crazy about one wall of your lake house. Or maybe the fence dividing your home from the neighbor’s could use a makeover. Think outside the box with these vertical surfaces. We bet there’s a way to incorporate vertical gardening.

Whether you’re a gardening newbie or you have a green thumb, we hope you find some fun ways to use vertical gardening at your lake house!

Deck Out Your Dock: Container Gardening at the Lake

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder
Photo courtesy of Ralph Lee Anderson via Southern Living

After a long winter, there’s nothing more blissful than springtime at the lake. This is the season for planting, getting back outside, and bringing nature’s vibrant life into our lake homes and outdoor spaces. The perfect way to do this, especially in a lakeside setting, is with container gardening.

We’re undoubtedly happier and more relaxed when surrounded by the natural beauty that comes with lake living, but not everyone has ample space for in-ground gardening. No worries. You can still enjoy the beauty without all the fuss by setting up container gardens on your deck, porch, patio, or entryway.

Even if you don’t have much outdoor space, using containers and planters can bring joyful color and fragrant greens to any area on your property. To help you get started, we spoke to two gardening experts for some inspiring tips.

Beauty Benefits & Flexibility

Photo courtesy of Southern Living

“Container gardening can lend an incredibly decorative accent to your lake home,” says Melanie Evans, a master gardener and a gardening consultant for Factory Direct Hose based in Middleton, Idaho. Melanie has assisted clients with their gardening and product needs for more than 15 years in all climates, including some of the top golf courses in the country as well as the U.S. Embassy in Russia.

“The variety of containers available allow you to design your small-scale garden in a way that fits your needs and complements your lake home’s unique aesthetic,” she adds. Melanie also notes that indoor container gardens can be a great asset to your lake house’s interior design. The options and combinations are endless, from hanging baskets and window boxes to a cluster of matching pots or large single decorative containers. 

“Many lake homeowners are seasonal residents, making the upkeep of a small garden plot difficult,” she explains. “Container gardens are the perfect solution for those wanting to reap the benefits of a seasonal garden without having the space get overgrown with weeds when you leave for the winter. If worse comes to worst, and the plants die, the cleanup is easy and as simple as dumping out the container,” she sums. 

Growing your plants— and vegetables—in containers also allows for portability. Seasonal lake house residents have the option of taking their favorite year-round plants with them when they leave. 

Blooms that Bring It!

Photo courtesy of Lushome

“On a large lakefront landscape with lots of sun, it’s best to plant one species per pot,” says Jason VanderMey, managing partner of West Coast Gardens in Surrey, British Columbia. “This will give the plants space and allow for more design flexibility with the best color contrast—plus, it will look more natural in lakeside areas,” he adds. If you plant multiple species together, carefully consider color, height, and bloom times. Make sure they have similar growing conditions, and your container is large enough to accommodate them.

Are you looking to WOW your friends and neighbors? Jason suggests planting lots of radiant flowers—like petunias. They smell wonderful, the colors are beautiful, and they’re easy to maintain. These flowering plants grow quickly and fill in densely, creating vibrant, eye-catching focal points. Plant them in decorative containers, hanging baskets, or window boxes for instant beauty anywhere at your lake home. They love full sun and grow well in most well-drained soils. “When you water your flowers, be sure to feed them with a water-soluble fertilizer like SUPER-BLOOM-15-30-15.

If you want to bring bright pops of color to your front porch, patio, or dock, there are lots of flower options. Pansies, violas, hydrangeas, calibrachoas, geraniums, marigolds, and chrysanthemums all thrive in pots.

The Edible Garden

Photo courtesy of Harvest To Table

Vegetables that are ideally suited for growing in containers include tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers (sweet and chili), peas, carrots, eggplant, green onions, leafy greens, potatoes, beans, squash, and radishes. Avoid planting pumpkins, corn, and melons, which require more space to thrive. For container veggies, remember this: the bigger the pot, the better. For tips on growing and choosing the proper container for your vegetables, talk to your local gardening specialist or visit this helpful post on Houzz.

The Chef’s Garden

Photo courtesy of Farmers’ Almanac

If you enjoy cooking, herbs are the perfect thing to plant in your container garden. Herbs that thrive in containers include chives, basil, dill, cilantro, garlic, fennel, lemon balm, sage, mint, marjoram, parsley, rosemary, and thyme. “When it comes to planting herbs, keep in mind that many thrive in Mediterranean-like climates—meaning, they need plenty of sunlight and moderate temperatures,” says Melanie. Herbs can thrive in both indoor and outdoor settings if these criteria are met. 

“Try having one close to the kitchen,” says Jason. “That way, you’ll always have fresh herbs on hand. I love it when I’m cooking and can reach out the window for fresh basil.”

The Sun-Loving Garden

Photo courtesy of Houzz

If your containers are basking in high temperatures and bright sun, succulents and cacti are heat tolerant and incredibly easy to grow. They lend a beautiful texture accent to almost any landscape or indoor area. Make sure your containers provide proper drainage and aren’t too large. The soil will take longer to dry out in oversized containers.

Click here for more expert tips and ideas on how you can create a lush look with container gardens for your lakeside setting.

Container Gardening Care

Photo courtesy of Millcreek Gardens

Before you get going on your container garden, here are Melanie’s simple basics that will steer you in the right direction:

  • Make sure to consider the shape and size of the plant’s root system before selecting a container. Keep in mind that the smaller the container, the more likely the plant will dry out. Large and deep containers are less prone to drying out and allow plants to deepen their roots.
  • Water your container garden thoroughly and fertilize it every week or two. With succulents and cactus, the soil should be almost dry before you water again. Regardless of the size of your container, you must make sure it drains well. If your container has no drainage holes, water will get backed up in your plant and cause disease. 
  • If you’re in doubt, a local nursery professional can help you select the perfect plant and the ideal container.

Want to create a luxuriant lake landscape of your own using containers? We’d love to hear your story and see your results.

Lake-Inspired Gift Baskets

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Simply Northwest

Regardless of whether or not you celebrate Easter, the gifts associated with this holiday are instantly recognizable. Peeps, chocolate rabbits, robin’s egg candies, and the all-encompassing gift basket. Gift baskets are incredibly versatile, whether it’s a “welcome to the company” assortment of sweets or an “I’m sorry” message expressed through Edible Arrangements. The versatility of gift baskets makes them easy to customize to the recipient. Plus, creating them can be fun! If you need a gift for a lake lover, try tailoring a gift basket to their favorite lake hobbies. Here’s some inspiration for creating gift baskets for your loved ones who love the lake.

For the One Who Loves Fishing

Photo courtesy of Premier Home & Gifts

If you know any anglers, you know that they’re nowhere to be found on a sunny summer afternoon. That’s because they spend hours in a canoe, hoping to reel in a fish. A gift basket of outdoorsy snacks in a cute fishing basket is the perfect gift for these friends. They’ll need some fuel while they’re on the water.

For the One Who’s Always the Host/Hostess

Photo courtesy of Getty via The Spruce Eats

Whether it’s Thanksgiving, game day, or another event, many of us like to host guests at our lake home. But the hosts and hostesses in your life need some relaxation too. The gift baskets that will suit them the most contain delectable goods like wines and cheeses. This time, you’re bringing the party to them!

For the One with the Green Thumb

Photo courtesy of Gift Baskets Etc.

Many of us lake lovers have impressive gardens in our backyards. When it comes to native plants and landscaping solutions, these friends seem to have all the answers. To make things a little easier for them, create a gift basket with some of the latest gardening tools. Your gardener pal will undoubtedly appreciate a nice new pair of gloves, an extra shovel, and a packet of seeds for a new plant.

For the One Who’s Always Crafting

Photo courtesy of Everyday Megan

Do you have a friend who’s always in the middle of a creative craft project? Whether it’s creating DIY decor for their lake home or stitching a sofa cover together, some people are simply crafty. For this person, a gift basket full of supplies from Michael’s or Blick would be perfect.

For the One Who Never Leaves the Porch

Photo courtesy of Mom Unleashed

There’s something about front porches that evoke a sense of relaxation, especially with a beautiful view of the lake. If your friend typically goes to the lake solely for the cozy porch experience, put together a gift basket that screams “hygge.” Your friend will love a combination of books, mugs, and soft blankets for those misty mornings enjoying a cup of coffee.

For The One Getting Lost in the Woods

Photo courtesy of Bisket Baskets

Some lake-dwellers spend more time getting lost in the woods than they do at their lake house. When preparing a gift basket for your hiking-fanatic friends, an assortment of trail snacks is a great option. They’ll definitely appreciate beef jerky, toasted almonds, and other outdoorsy favorites.

For the One Who’s Always Taking Pics

Photo courtesy of BHPhotoVideo.com

Since lakeside surroundings are so beautiful, many lake homeowners are hobby photographers. For your friend who’s always taking pictures, get them a gift basket that caters to this pursuit. If they already own a nice camera, add an inexpensive Polaroid camera to the basket so they can capture more moments instantly!

For the Family Game Night Champion

Photo courtesy of Kremp Florist

Lake houses are all about relaxation, family, friends, and fun. In this spirit, game night is a popular lake home activity that spans across every season. For the one who’s always challenging the group to another round of Scrabble, a gift basket of games is a perfect choice! From card games to board games, they’ll surely appreciate the assortment.

Fun Facts About Daylight Saving Time

Posted on Camille Smith

What starts on the second Sunday in March and ends on the first Sunday in November? Yes, it’s that pesky time of year—Daylight Saving Time (DST). It’s associated with more daylight in the spring and less in the fall, as captured in the mnemonic devices “spring forward” and “fall back.” Although it’s just an hour difference, the impact is sufficient cause for complaint. Changing the clocks is irritating, your sleep is disturbed, and it’s linked to seasonal depression. Plus, if you’re spending time on the lake, your stronger connection to the outdoors has likely made you more sensitive to DST’s effects. So given all these drawbacks, why is DST so important anyway? Today, we’re diving into the history of this day and some fun facts surrounding it.

There’s no “S” on the End

Image courtesy of WINK News.

Colloquially, most people refer to this day as “Daylight Savings Time.” However, there is actually no “s” on the end. Logically, it makes sense. We are saving daylight — hence the name.

It’s Not Observed Nationwide

Image courtesy of webexhibits.org.

Many people think that DST is commonplace across the United States. This belief is not entirely accurate. In the U.S., the only state that does not observe daylight saving time is Hawaii. Additionally, most of Arizona does not observe it, and Indiana only adopted it in 2006. 

Outside the U.S., it’s certainly not a globally recognized phenomenon. It’s observed in most areas of Europe and North America and some Middle Eastern countries, such as Iran. In the southern hemisphere, it’s observed by two Australian states and a few South American countries such as Chile.

Benjamin Franklin Suggested It

Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons

As mentioned in the Nicholas Cage movie National Treasure, Benjamin Franklin is responsible for the original idea of DST. However, he suggested it as a joke. He proposed the concept of daylight saving in a satirical essay. Although he includes some practical ideas in his article, the actual suggestion of daylight saving may have been a jab at the French for being lazy. Beyond Ben’s passing suggestion, DST’s actual inception is credited to an entomologist. A post office worker by day, this bug enthusiast hunted for insects at night. He complained about how early the sun sets during the summer months and introduced DST to solve his dilemma.

World War II Pushed Daylight Saving Time Into Law

Image courtesy of Defense.gov

Germany was the first country to adopt DST into law. This decision came from an effort to conserve coal during World War I. In 1918, this concept spread to the U.S., and in 1966, it became an official practice. For our country, the primary motivation for DST’s introduction was to save electricity, and the notion became even more popular during the energy crisis in the 1970s. Ironically, some studies point out that DST may actually increase the amount of money spent on energy. This is because the cost of heat and air conditioning goes up, even though people save money on lighting.

Most Farmers Dislike Daylight Saving Time

Photo courtesy of @addie2354 via Twenty20

One pervasive myth about DST is that it was created to help farmers by providing them with more daylight hours to spend working outdoors. However, farmers have been some of the strongest opponents of DST since the 1960s. To this day, most farmers are not keen on DST. Just like humans have trouble adjusting to a new schedule, so do crops and animals. Twice a year, farmers are faced with the difficult task of adapting their plants and livestock to a new routine. DST is especially loathed by dairy farmers whose cows are sensitive to particular milking times.

From our lake house to yours, we hope you make it through DST this spring!

Things to Consider When Designing a Mudroom for Your Lake House

Posted on Camille Smith

If you own a lake home, you’re no stranger to bringing the outdoors inside. And we don’t mean that in a good way. While we love to incorporate outdoor items like driftwood into our home decor, we’re not fans of muddy footprints and wet swimsuits ruining our floors. However, keeping a lake house immaculately clean is impossible. After all, we love the messy fun that comes with living out in nature, and sometimes this mess makes it into the home. The solution? A mudroom. 

Traditionally used as a casual secondary entrance to one’s home, a mudroom serves as a place to hang wet clothing, remove muddy boots, and generally deposit the debris from outside. It’s usually located towards the back of a house attached to a garage. 

According to Home Beautiful, while your front entrance should be as polished as possible, the mudroom is the “hard-working skivvy behind the scenes.” If you’re considering adding a mudroom in your lake home or looking to renovate your current mudroom, we have some advice for you. After talking with some experts, we’re here to answer your most frequently asked questions about mudroom design.

Does a Mudroom Add Value?

In short, yes! Tim Bakke from The Plan Collection calls mudrooms an “especially desirable design feature.” They allow you, your family, and guests a space to drop off dirty shoes before stepping into the more manicured parts of your lake home. According to McFall Builders, mudrooms are “beautiful and functional, meaning organization and more storage to potential buyers in the future.” If buyers can see that there’s storage space to hang up coats and shoes, it’ll help them envision living in their future home. HGTV even listed mudrooms in their article about “6 Smart Ways to Add Value to Your Home in Unexpected Places.” Although a mudroom is typically not the home’s cleanest place, its value should certainly not be underestimated.

How Big Should a Mudroom Be?

Photo courtesy of Home Stratosphere

Although the mudroom is a crucial feature of any lake home, it shouldn’t necessarily be large. Since its primary function is to store dirty items, essentially serving as the gate between the outdoors and your home, it should only be big enough to fulfill that purpose. Unlike other rooms in your home, the mudroom is transient. It won’t be a room for guests to hang out. According to Houseplans.com, the ideal mudroom design should be at least 5 feet wide and 11 feet long. This allows a few people to enter the house simultaneously and store their items in cubbies.

What’s the Best Floor Surface for
a Mudroom?

The number one rule of mudroom flooring, according to Bakke, is “easy to clean.” He elaborates, “Rather than track the outdoors inside onto carpet or difficult-to-clean rugs, make sure the floor itself is made from a durable, waterproof material.” These materials could include tile, laminate, or vinyl. In some cases, sealed wood could be used with some success, but it isn’t ideal. When picking out flooring for your mudroom, keep in mind that you’ll have to clean it more frequently than other floors in your lake home.

How Should a Mudroom Be Organized?

Photo courtesy of One Kindesign

There are a few “must-haves” for every mudroom design. First, one of the biggest mudroom perks is having a space to deposit dirty shoes and overcoats. Bakke notes that you’ll need an ample amount of hooks and cubbies for storage. He adds, “Built-in storage like lockers, cabinetry, and shelving is great if not essential; however, you can also use simple baskets and bins to hold your galoshes and gloves.” It’s also a good idea to have a closet nearby for storing out-of-season items like winter gloves and coats. Finally, since a mudroom will be a place for tracking dirt, it’s a smart idea to place it near the laundry room.

Any Specific Lake House Features?

Photo courtesy of One Kindesign

At a lake house, a mudroom is a critical feature. Andra DelMonico, an interior design expert for Next Luxury, says, “A unique idea that’s perfect for a lake house is a boot wash station. This mini-tiled space is just big enough to rinse your feet off. Mount the controls and shower head low to avoid splashing. A showerhead with a handle on a hose will make it easier to rinse everywhere. As a bonus, you can also use it as a dog wash station.” Just like beach houses have outdoor showers for this purpose, she recommends a similar feature for lake homes. 

If you have children, other special mudroom considerations apply. For example, DelMonico recommends skipping the open cubbies if you have kids. “They will always look like a tornado just came through,” she elaborates. If your lake house has a garage, it’s best to place the mudroom near the garage entrance. Without a garage, a good rule of thumb is to stick to the side or rear of the house — whatever is closest to the lake itself! 

From us at Lake Homes Realty, we wish you the best with your mudroom design renovations!

2021 Outdoor Furniture Design Trends

Posted on Camille Smith
Photo courtesy of Apricity Outdoor

If you spent the better part of this year debating whether to replace your furniture, you’re not alone. According to The Washington Post, more people than ever are shopping online for furniture during the pandemic. Plus, since we’re spending more time outdoors than indoors due to social distancing, outdoor furniture has gotten more of our attention. After all, who wants to sit on pollen infested cushions and a plastic chair that’s on its last leg? To fully enjoy your lake views, it’s time for an upgrade. With the start of the new year, we’re here with updates on the top 2021 outdoor furniture design trends from leading experts in the field.

Bringing the Indoors Out

Photo courtesy of Life on Virginia Street

On a broad level, one trend is versatile furniture. In other words, people are attracted to furniture that works both indoors and outdoors. One of these features is nautical styles. Traditionally, nautical elements are a part of interior design, but luckily for lake homeowners, the nautical look works outdoors too. Alice Benjamin, principal and owner of Alice Benjamin Interiors, expects “lots of caning” trending in the new year. In the same vein, design experts also see lamps, rugs, and even bars being transferred to outdoor spaces. “It’s truly becoming an extension of the inside,” Alice adds.

Outdoor Beds

Who hasn’t enjoyed a front porch nap or two (or several) to get through 2020? Perhaps due to our collective embrace of naps this year, swinging beds are a trending feature of outdoor furniture designs. Harold K. Hardesty, blogger/co-founder at The House Wire, says, “outdoor daybeds are not a new concept, but they’ve certainly grown more popular over the past few years… they come in a million different styles and sizes, but I’m partial to the canopied ones I’ve been seeing all online lately.” Whatever your style, this trend is certainly not one to snooze on.

Wicker Furniture

Photo courtesy of Restoration Hardware

Some trends never go out of style. According to Harold, wicker furniture is still very popular due to its timeless, woven look. However, he notes, “today’s wicker furniture looks different than ten or twenty years ago… we’re seeing more oversized chairs that look more like living room recliners than outdoor furniture.” Although for us living the lake lifestyle, reclining chairs are an unbeatable, comfortable way to enjoy a view of the lake from your outdoor patio. As such, it’s worth checking out some reclining wicker chairs, such as this one by Hanover.

Monotone Fabrics

Photo courtesy of Sunbrella via Instagram

Instead of seeing bright pops of color, outdoor furniture design experts notice that more monochromatic looks are trending. Nisha Varma, interior designer and founder of NV Luxe Interiors, advises incorporating Sunbrella all-weather fabrics in monotone colors that mimic the colors of nature. For example, monotone blues resemble the sky or ocean, yellows reflect the sun or flowers, and greens denote grass and trees. “This is all about bringing nature closer to you through outdoor furniture design,” she says. Another way of incorporating elements from nature into designs is by adding scents. For example, a gardenia plant or scented candle will complete the mood. 

We hope these tips help you take your outdoor furniture designs to the next level in 2021! 

Hidden Gem Lake Areas to Explore in 2021

Posted on Camille Smith

If you’re actively looking to buy a lake home, you’ve likely come across all the big-name lakes in your searches. If you’re in the southeast, you’ve probably heard of Lake Martin. Or, if you’re a northerner, Lake Michigan tends to stand out.

Regardless of your region, refining your search to exclusively large or most popular lakes is a misstep. In doing so, you’re likely missing out on several hidden gem lakes across the country. Check out these five lake areas that are less known but deserve a big spotlight. 

Lake Wedowee, AL

Photo courtesy of Lake Homes Wedowee.

Officially known as the Harris Reservoir, this hidden gem lake in East Alabama is affordable, secluded, and an easy driving distance from major cities like Birmingham and Atlanta.


Because this lake doesn’t incorporate any urban areas, it has retained a pristine quality. Lake Wedowee is ranked as one of the cleanest lakes in the region by the State and Federal Conservation Services. According to Lake Homes Realty’s Lake Real Estate Market Report, Lake Wedowee is number four in Alabama’s Largest Markets category.  

 

If you’re an angler, you’ll love the bass fishing opportunities along Lake Wedowee’s 270 miles of shoreline. Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the Talladega National Forest and discovering Mount Cheaha, Alabama’s highest point — 2,407 feet above sea level. And for everyone, the small-town charm of Wedowee is lively and close-knit. Concerts at the Marina and hunting with the Tallapoosa River Hunting Club are just a few of the activity options. 

Lake Hickory, NC

Photo courtesy of HickoryNC.gov.

When it comes to lakes in North Carolina, Lake Norman sometimes eclipses the others because of its size. However, nearby Lake Hickory has attractive qualities. First off, it’s fully recreational, meaning that fishing, boating, water skiing, and other fun lake activities are all on the table. At Sandbar Cove, you can often find boats tied together for conversation or water sports. For anglers, the prospects of bass, channel catfish, and crappie are exciting.

Besides the highly active lifestyle, Lake Hickory is a serene environment with plenty of wildlife and mountain views in every direction. Once you’re here, you can enjoy the peaceful scene from a Lake Hickory Adventures Dinner Cruise — or from your boat dock. If you are looking to build on Lake Hickory, you are in luck! Lake Hickory is ranked number three in North Carolina for having the most land available, as stated in the Lake Real Estate Market Report.

Lake Eufaula, OK

Photo courtesy of wildlifedepartment.com.

Surprisingly, few people know of Lake Eufaula, but it is Oklahoma’s largest lake. Along its 800 miles of shoreline, there are 100 million dollars in available properties, but it’s still a very affordable lake. According to Lake Home Realty’s Lake Real Estate Market Report, Lake Eufaula has the most listings and land available of all the lakes in Oklahoma. With over 600 listings and a variety of properties and price points, you’re sure to find your dream home here. 

 

Once you’ve arrived, there’s no shortage of activities at this hidden gem lake. For starters, Lake Eufaula was dubbed the “bass fishing capital of the world” in 1962, and this reputation still holds firm. This lake is a fishing paradise for those looking to catch largemouth bass, Kentucky bass, sand bass, and crappie. Angling is a year-long sport here, with multiple annual tournaments. For other outdoor recreation, check out Lake Eufaula State Park nearby. 

Chain O’Lakes, IL

Photo courtesy of onlyinyourstate.com.

Because Chain O’Lakes is close to the Chicago market, Midwesterners often overlook it. However, these beautiful, surprisingly affordable lakes deserve a pin on the map. Chain O’Lakes is a 7,000-acre waterway system that encompasses fifteen different lakes, including Pistakee Lake, Fox Lake, and Lake Marie.

Pistakee Lake is ranked number three on the Lake Real Estate Market Report for having the most listings in Illinois. This chain was formed when the Wisconsin glacier melted, creating multiple lakes tied together.

Several of the lakes are interconnected, making this region a boater’s dream. Its proximity to Chain O’Lakes State Park, boasting 23 miles of forested trails, makes it a hiker’s paradise. Each of the lakes has a different feel, so visit our Illinois listings for a full description of each lake in the Chain O’Lakes region.

Paw Paw Lake, MI

Photo courtesy of Paw Paw Chamber of Commerce.

Paw Paw Lake has been a popular resort town since the 1890s. Part of the lake’s appeal is its concealed location in the countryside of Northern Michigan, actually making it a hidden gem lake. Located just outside the farming village of Kalamazoo, Paw Paw Lake has a population of only 3,534. This remarkable lake is surrounded by nature.

Besides the calming landscape, Paw Paw Lake is known for its nearby wineries such as St. Julian and Lawton Ridge. The wineries host an annual wine and harvest festival to celebrate their varietals. If your ideal lake experience is drinking a glass of wine while surrounded by nature, Paw Paw Lake is for you. 

Which hidden gem lake do you want to explore first?