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.
“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.
“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.
“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.
“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.
In 2025, lake home design trends are evolving to align with contemporary design movements while maintaining the tranquility of lakeside living. Inspired by the natural beauty of wooded shorelines, calm waters, and seasonal transformations, these homes embody style and functionality. Emerging design trends emphasize sustainability, energy-efficient technology, and seamless indoor-outdoor integration. This ensures that every space enhances the lakeside experience.
Whether nestled in the Great Lakes region, tucked away in the Adirondacks, or set against the dramatic landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, these trends reflect how people want to experience lake life in 2025. Here are seven top interior design trends shaping modern lake homes. Also, explore ways to incorporate them into your retreat.
Why it’s trending: Homeowners are embracing a more pared-down aesthetic that lets the lake’s natural beauty shine while maintaining a cozy, livable feel.
How to incorporate it: Choose simple, organic materials such as light-stained wood, linen, and handcrafted ceramics to create a calming interior. Additionally, large, unobstructed windows frame picturesque views. Built-in furniture maximizes space while reducing clutter. This aesthetic is perfect for homes in the Great Lakes region. Here, clean lines and natural textures complement the expansive water views.
Why it’s trending: Advances in home technology are making lake houses more energy-efficient and eco-friendly. Homeowners can reduce their environmental footprint without sacrificing comfort.
How to incorporate it: Install smart thermostats, solar panels, and energy-efficient lighting to optimize sustainability. Additionally, water filtration systems and reclaimed materials further enhance eco-conscious living. Automated blinds and climate control systems benefit regions like the Upper Midwest, where seasonal temperature shifts require adaptable solutions.
Why it’s trending: Homeowners prioritize a deeper connection to nature by bringing outdoor elements inside through biophilic design.
How to incorporate it: Use natural textures like stone, raw wood, and woven materials in furniture and decor. Incorporate indoor water features, living plant walls, and large-scale botanical prints to reinforce a connection to the outdoors. This trend is especially fitting for homes in the Pacific Northwest, where the lush, forested lake surroundings inspire organic interiors.
Why it’s trending: Instead of just being a summer retreat, lake homes are now designed for year-round use. Outdoor spaces are adapted for all seasons.
How to incorporate it: Heated patios, retractable glass walls, and covered outdoor kitchens extend the usability of decks and porches throughout the year. Fire pits and cozy outdoor furniture encourage lakeside gatherings even in cooler months. This approach is beneficial in the Midwest and Northeast, where lake homes must withstand varying seasonal conditions.
Earthy, Nature-Inspired Palettes
Photo courtesy of Ellen McDermott; Design, OAD Interiors via Livingetc.
Why it’s trending: Instead of the bright blues and whites of coastal design, lake homes are leaning into moodier, more complex color schemes inspired by their surroundings.
How to incorporate it: Incorporate deep lake blues, mossy greens, charcoal hues, and warm clay tones through textiles, accent walls, and furniture. Opt for matte finishes, reflective elements, nature-inspired materials, and textured fabrics to enhance depth. This trend is ideal for homes in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast. In these regions, lakes are often surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills.
Why it’s trending: With more people working remotely and using their lake homes as multifunctional retreats, interiors must be adaptable to different purposes.
How to incorporate it: Use convertible furniture, sliding partitions, and built-in storage to create flexible spaces that transition from work to relaxation. A guest room that doubles as an office or a retractable wall that opens up to an outdoor lounge can maximize usability. This trend especially suits homes in California and the Gulf region. Here, vacation homes are increasingly used as hybrid live-work spaces.
Why it’s trending: Homeowners are moving away from mass-produced furnishings. Instead, they are favoring handcrafted, locally sourced pieces that add authenticity and character.
How to incorporate it: Support local artisans by incorporating custom furniture, handmade ceramics, and woven textiles into your décor. Incorporate unique, one-of-a-kind elements like hand-carved wooden accents or locally crafted light fixtures. The trend is particularly popular in the Adirondacks and Pacific Northwest. In these areas, a rich tradition of craftsmanship blends seamlessly with natural surroundings.
In 2025, the design trends for lake homes largely embrace nature, sustainability, and adaptability. By integrating energy-efficient technology, organic textures, and flexible living spaces, homeowners can create a retreat that harmonizes with their lake environment while supporting modern lifestyles. Whether designing a year-round escape in the Great Lakes or a seasonal hideaway in the Pacific Northwest, these trends ensure your lake home remains timeless, stylish, and deeply connected to its surroundings. For more design inspiration, visit Lake Home Lifestyles.
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.
“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.
“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.
“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.
“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.
It’s time to let the light in. Sunshine always lifts our spirits, especially during the cold winter doldrums, so why not harness this mood-lifter in your lake home? A sunroom is an exceptional addition to any lake property, providing a serene space to soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Offering a perfect blend of indoor comfort and outdoor charm, a sunroom allows homeowners to enjoy panoramic views of the lake in a controlled environment shielded from harsh weather or insects. The allure of having a sunroom is particularly evident in colder regions, where it provides a cozy retreat to experience the beauty of winter landscapes without braving the cold.
The unique charm of a sunroom lies in its ability to merge relaxation with functionality, serving as a versatile space for entertaining, reading, or simply unwinding. Depending on your location, a sunroom can also serve as a reflection of regional design influences. Check out these decorating tips and aesthetic suggestions tailored to six lake regions across the United States.
The rustic and tranquil surroundings of the Northern Lake region inspire a cozy, cabin-like retreat. Capturing stunning views of Reeds Lake in East Grand Rapids, Michigan, this charming sunroom offers the best seat in the house. Instantly inviting, the space needs little more than some comfy seating pieces and simple accessories. It’s best to choose overstuffed sofas and armchairs with pillows and throws for extra softness and warmth in this climate. If you have a central fireplace or wood stove, that’s even better. You can arrange your seating around it for cozy warmth during the chilly months.
Large picture windows with no treatments maximize natural light and views. If privacy is needed, use simple wooden blinds or shades. Earthy tones or nautical blues mix effortlessly with neutral tones to enhance the rustic feel of the lake landscape. Layer the room with faux-fur throws, handwoven blankets, and natural fiber rugs to create an environment of livable luxury. You can also include soft lighting, wildlife-themed artwork, and organic sculptural works to complement the beauty of the outdoors.
The Southeastern Lake region’s sunny climate and lush landscapes call for a breezy, Southern-inspired aesthetic. Opt for whitewashed wood or wrought iron furniture with plush cushions. Arrange seating to create a cozy conversation area and include a side table for refreshments. Uncovered windows are best for capturing lake views, and enhancements like arched windows or plantation shutters are ideal for a classic Southern feel. Lightweight sheer curtains in pastel hues will also complement the airy vibe.
Soft pastels like mint green, peach, and sky blue, accented by crisp white, create a light and cheerful ambiance. Bare floors bring a cooling rustic touch, and for softness, you can incorporate sisal or seagrass rugs, floral-patterned pillows, and gauzy throws. Personalize your space with framed vintage maps, prints, or botanical artwork to befit your style.
A sunroom in the Upper East Lake region, known for its historic charm and lush greenery, can evoke a classic New England feel. Focus on timeless and elegant styles with modern touches. Opt for wicker or rattan furniture with weathered wood finishes. Arrange seating to maximize views, with a central coffee table anchoring the room. Include a chaise lounge or swing chair for added comfort. Bay windows or floor-to-ceiling panes work well to frame picturesque landscapes. Pair these with light linen curtains or Roman shades for privacy without obstructing natural light.
Neutral cream, sage green, and soft gray palettes, accented by navy blue or cranberry red, reflect the coastal inspiration. Introduce braided jute rugs, plaid or striped throw pillows, and soft wool blankets. For a region-specific touch, add coastal artwork, such as watercolor prints of lighthouses or sailboats.
The Mid-Atlantic Lake region blends traditional and transitional styles, offering opportunities to create a polished yet inviting sunroom. Choose upholstered furniture with clean lines and subtle patterns. A loveseat paired with armchairs and a tufted ottoman adds a sophisticated touch. Arrange pieces around a small coffee table to encourage conversation. Opt for French doors or casement windows for a classic look. Use sheer curtains or bamboo blinds to balance light and privacy.
Warm neutrals, such as beige, taupe, and soft gold, accented by jewel tones like emerald green or sapphire blue, evoke the richness of the region’s heritage. Layer the space with Persian-style rugs, velvet cushions, and ceramic vases. To enhance the traditional vibe, incorporate framed botanical prints or antique-inspired mirrors.
Capture the coastal essence of the Gulf Coast Lake region with a casual and vibrant sunroom style. Choose sturdy outdoor furniture with weather-resistant cushions. Arrange seating in a U-shape for entertaining and include a bar cart for a beachy vibe. Sliding glass doors or oversized windows offer unobstructed water views. Opt for minimal treatments like solar shades to reduce glare. Bright hues like turquoise, coral, and sandy beige mimic the coastal landscape. Include woven area rugs, macramé wall hangings, and brightly patterned pillows. Seashells, driftwood art, or nautical décor enhance the coastal aesthetic.
The Pacific Northwest Lake region’s eclectic and nature-inspired style invites you to create a sunroom that’s both modern and organic. Choose minimalist furniture with clean lines, such as mid-century modern pieces. Arrange seating to emphasize openness and flow. Floor-to-ceiling glass walls or skylights maximize natural light. Use sheer panels or roller shades for an unobtrusive look. Earthy neutrals like taupe, olive, and charcoal, accented by soft blues or mustard yellow, reflect the natural surroundings. Incorporate shag rugs, woolen throws, and leather pillows. Abstract artwork or nature photography ties the design to the region’s scenic splendor.
A sunroom at your lake property is more than a design choice—it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying modern comforts. By tailoring the design to your specific region, you can create a space that complements the local landscape and reflects your personal style. Thoughtful furniture arrangements, carefully selected colors, and layered textures ensure your sunroom becomes a cherished retreat, enhancing both the functionality and beauty of your lake property. For more design inspiration, visit Lake Homes Lifestyles.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
“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.
Prices Are Roughly At Peak. Throughout 2024, price appreciation became fairly limited. Lake home prices aren’t expected to significantly rise or drop.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
“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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
New Year’s Day at the lake is a perfect time for a relaxed, make-ahead brunch that lets you ease into 2025! It can be a cozy and intimate meal or a celebration surrounded by friends and family. If you’re a lake enthusiast who loves spending time at your retreat over the holidays, you most likely already know how stress-free it can be when you have things prepped and ready before the ball drops. After all, New Year’s Eve is about festivities—staying up late, enjoying the night’s buzz, and perhaps watching fireworks over the water. So why not make the next morning easy on yourself? Make-ahead brunch dishes mean you can wake up at your leisure, grab a fresh cup of coffee, and indulge in a warm, flavorful meal without the fuss of cooking everything from scratch.
With that in mind, here are some fantastic make-ahead brunch ideas—from savory one-dish wonders and seasonal veggie sides to fresh fruit, warm bread, and a sweet dessert starter or finale. Plus, we’ve included a brunch cocktail to toast the new year! These recipes ensure everyone can relax and enjoy a comforting lakeside brunch, kickstarting the new year with great food, laughs, and breathtaking waterfront views.
Welcome the new year in style, and bring on the comfort food! This hearty egg casserole is a crowd-pleaser, loaded with Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and melted cheese over chunks of sourdough bread. It’s also easy to assemble the night before. Simply refrigerate overnight to let the bread soak in all those delicious flavors. Bake in the morning until golden, and serve hot for a complete, gratifying brunch dish. For the full recipe, visit Simplicity and a Starter.
For all the veggie lovers, this is for you! Packed with vibrant fresh veggies, this colorful frittata offers a yummy and nutritious start to the year. Perfectly balanced with earthy roasted vegetables, extra virgin olive oil, and sharp feta cheese, this comforting egg dish hits the spot after a festive evening—especially if you overindulged the night before. Made with red bell pepper, zucchini, green onions, and broccoli, this warm and savory dish promises to be a brunch favorite you’ll want on repeat. It’s ideal for prepping beforehand—whisk, pour, and bake. You can also serve it at room temperature if you’d rather sleep in a bit. Visit The Mediterranean Dish for the recipe.
Bring a spicy kick to an ordinary fruit salad with Angostura bitters, Tajín Clásico (chili lime seasoning), nutmeg, and honey. The warming spices introduce a bit of winter flair to this eye-grabbing mix of fresh berries, stone fruit, melons, mangoes, pineapple, and kiwi. An unexpected twist on the familiar, this decidedly exotic Honey and Bitters Fruit Salad yields vibrant tastes that are both fresh and exciting. Allow the fruit to mingle in the honey and spice dressing for at least 10 minutes before eating to experience the full flavor sensation. You can also chill the salad overnight and cut the fruit into larger pieces to preserve some of the texture. Visit Bon Appétit for the recipe.
A fall harvest specialty you can also serve in winter, this root vegetable salad makes a colorful and healthy presentation at your make-ahead brunch table. This hearty side dish or light entrée features carrots, beets, parsnips, turnips, and onions roasted with honey and fresh sage. The secret is to roast first, then brush with honey topped with fragrant sage, and roast again until your glaze is sticky-sweet. Serve on a bed of arugula dressed in vinaigrette and topped with herbed goat cheese. For a satisfying complement to your salad and your entire brunch menu, check out this Cheesy Herb Pull Apart Bread recipe you can make the day before and refrigerate before baking.
This ridiculously easy overnight casserole is your go-to if you want to wake up to something sweet and decadent on New Year’s Day. A delectable take on traditional cinnamon rolls, these beauties are drizzled with cream cheese icing and require no mixing or rolling out dough. Made with cubed challah (a traditional braided Jewish bread) drenched in milk, eggs, and cinnamon, the dish comes together in a snap and refrigerates overnight before baking in the morning.
You can also substitute with brioche if challah bread is unavailable. When you’re ready to throw this in the oven, drizzle on a cinnamon, sugar, and butter mixture over your casserole and bake for 25 minutes. While baking, you’ll have plenty of time to whisk together a heavenly cream cheese icing to wow your family and guests. You can serve this with coffee first thing in the morning or with your other brunch fare. Click here for the recipe and some helpful tips.
Bring some effervescence to your celebration with this Sparkling Citrus Champagne Punch. This easy-to-make punch combines the brightness of citrus with the crisp bubbles of champagne—perfect for toasting in the new year. And what’s even better? There is no prep. Simply combine the fruit juices of your choice, your champagne (Prosecco and other sparkling wines work well, too), and some ice just before serving. This recipe calls for freshly squeezed orange, grapefruit, and lemon juices, but you can use whatever you’d like, including store-bought juices, pineapple juice, and other citrus blends. For this recipe, visit Sweet Life.
