Tag: lake living

Cultivating Success: Gardening Mistakes to Avoid

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

Raised garden beds and white arbor aginst a beautiful lake backdrop
Photo courtesy of Shiplap and Shells

Glorious gardening season has finally arrived at the lake. And even if you’re a green-thumb amateur, there’s nothing to fear about digging in the dirt. Gardening mistakes happen. Nevertheless, it can be a fascinating and fulfilling pursuit, offering numerous benefits, from fresh produce to alleviating stress in the fresh air and sunshine. It can improve your mental health and well-being, giving you a rewarding sense of accomplishment.

This hobby might not be for everyone, but dig in if it speaks to you. And remember, even seasoned planters make gardening mistakes that hinder their success. We’ve got you covered. By understanding and avoiding some common pitfalls, you can cultivate thriving and bountiful gardens like a pro. Today, we’ll delve into the top five gardening mistakes to avoid for a successful growing experience.

Failing to Plan Ahead

a haphazard garden in the dirt with cinder block planters, garden shovels, and a metal planter
Photo courtesy of Muddling Through Life

The thought of randomly digging up your backyard can be intimidating. Planning is essential to a successful garden, yet many gardeners dive in without a clear plan. Failing to plan ahead can lead to haphazard planting, mismatched varieties, and poor utilization of your garden space. By taking the time to design a garden layout, choose appropriate plant varieties, and create a planting schedule, gardeners can set themselves up for success and enjoy a more productive and manageable garden.

Before you dig, consult with a professional or garden center about your planting goals. They can guide you on the best plants and vegetables for your climate conditions and garden setting. Be patient and start slowly. Remember that even experienced gardeners have made blunders and killed a few plants in their day. These are valuable teaching moments, so honor them and learn from your mistakes. Just like anything else worth pursuing, practice makes perfect.

Neglecting Soil Health

pair of hands holding soil with a green newly sprouted plant
Photo courtesy of Sondercdem/Getty via Almanac

Soil is the foundation of any garden, and neglecting its health can profoundly affect plant growth. One of the most common mistakes is failing to test and amend the soil appropriately before planting. Poor soil quality can lead to nutrient deficiencies, drainage issues, and pest problems. By conducting a soil test and amending as necessary with organic matter, compost, or fertilizer, gardeners can create an optimal growing environment for their plants.

Home test kits are available at most gardening centers. However, they are less thorough and accurate than professional testing through your local county extension office. For more information on testing soil pH, soil health, and a list of cooperative extension services by state, visit Almanac.

Improper Plant Spacing

Sprouting plants in the soil with a ruler to show plant spacing and depth.
Photo courtesy of Gardening Know How

Proper plant placement and depth are crucial for maximizing growth and productivity. Planting too close together can lead to overcrowding, competition for water and sunshine, and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases. On the other hand, spacing plants too far apart can result in wasted space and inefficient use of your designated gardening area. Understanding the spacing requirements of different plants and providing adequate room for growth can help optimize yields and create a harmonious garden ecosystem.

Plant depth is also vital to gardening success. Plants that are too deep can potentially rot in damp soil, and planting seeds that are too shallow risks exposure to birds and other wildlife. Before starting your planting adventures, talk to a professional gardener or garden center for the best strategies. For tips on proper plant spacing for vegetables, herbs, and flowers, check out this handy, downloadable guide on Farmbrite.

Ignoring Pest and Disease Management

Two beetles infesting plant leaves in the garden.
Photo Courtesy of Rain Bird

Pests and diseases can wreak havoc on a garden if left unchecked. Many gardeners make the mistake of ignoring early signs of infestation or disease, allowing them to spread and cause significant damage. Implementing preventive measures such as crop rotation, companion planting, and maintaining good garden hygiene can help minimize the risk of pest and disease problems. Additionally, being vigilant and promptly addressing any issues can prevent minor problems from escalating into major catastrophes.

Talk to a local garden center professional or check out this helpful guide at Rain Bird for valuable tips and information on dealing with common garden pests and diseases.

Overwatering or Underwatering

pair of hands in gardening gloves watering a plant with a green watering can with other gardeners in the background
Photo courtesy of Getty Images via Southern Living

Water is essential for plant growth, but improper watering practices can spell disaster for a garden. Overwatering can lead to root rot, fungal diseases, and nutrient leaching, while underwatering can cause wilting, stunted growth, and even death. Understanding the water needs of different plants and monitoring soil moisture levels can help gardeners strike the right balance.

Remember that watering too much will most likely kill a plant quicker than not watering enough. Most plants thrive in moist soil, but soggy or improperly drained soil can keep the roots from functioning efficiently. To ensure your plants stay healthy, happy, and hydrated, follow this simple guide on “How to Water Your Plants.” Whether you’re an amateur or a master gardener, here’s wishing you an abundant growing season at the lake!

Whiteboard Topics: How Weak Real Estate Agents Fool Consumers

Posted on Zac Parnell

Buying or selling a home typically means you’re going to be working with a real estate agent. You might look and look, trying to find the best one. You also might decide to use somebody that you know in the business. When it all boils down, the best thing to do is to choose someone who knows what they’re doing. These strong real estate agents know how to keep on top of everything and not lead you astray. Today, Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, discusses how a weaker agent might not be the best fit. 

  1. Years in Real Estate: Someone who has many years in this business might boast about it. While this doesn’t inherently mean they’re not good, it means you need to look at what took place during those years. Were they effective with the market in those years? Or changed things up to ensure success? All these points take precedence over a certain number of years.
  2. High Number of Listings: If they have a high number, that can mean that they are moving transactions. However, some agents have a ton of listings that end up not going anywhere; they simply stay stagnant. 
  3. Number of Certifications: Certifications can play a huge part in becoming a great agent. But those certifications alone aren’t that meaningful if transactions and experiences aren’t there along with them. Being able to apply the certification knowledge comes into play in distinguishing between two types of agents.
  4. Number of Websites: You can have your home listed on many different sites. What it really comes down to, however, is if the website is getting a lot of traffic. More people see your listing on a website like LakeHomes.com as opposed to your home being listed on 10 low-traffic sites.
  5. Office Location: A buyer would much rather see a property as opposed to an office. The typical buyer is much more likely to find a property online and not need to come into an office. At the end of the day, having a physical location doesn’t really move the needle.
  6. Number of Brokerage Agents: Your listing will be put on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Agents within that market who have buyers interested will want to bring them to view that property. Having agents at the same brokerage doesn’t really matter when it comes down to it.
  7. Commission % Versus Net $: The biggest thing you need to know is how much you will net in cash when it comes down to selling it. 

These 7 tips can be intersectional in the way that a great agent can have them but still perform well. The thing you need to watch out for is if the agent is using these things to cover lower execution. If you’re looking for a great agent that can help you sell or buy a property, check out LakeHomes.com. There are many agents who would love to help out!

Whiteboard Topics: Is It A Good Time To Buy Or Sell A Lake Home In 2024?

Posted on Zac Parnell

Have you been pondering the idea of buying a lake home? Maybe you’re considering selling the one you currently have. You also might be thinking to yourself, is it even a good time to do either of these things? Lucky for you, Glenn Phillips, Lake Homes Realty’s CEO, discusses whether it’s the right time to buy or sell. 

  1. “Hot”… but Not Exactly: The demand for a lake home is still there. Buyers are continually on the hunt for the property they’ve been dreaming of. On the other end of things, not many transactions are taking place. However, the transaction flow is on the rise. 
  2. FOR SALE Inventory Increasing: There are plenty of properties for sale at the current time. The issue with it is phantom inventory
  3. “Phantom” Inventory: This essentially means there is a property where the seller has overpriced it. Not only is it overpriced, but the buyer can realize the property’s pricing isn’t what it should be. This leads to properties just sitting there and not having a transaction happen. When the property is set at a reasonable price, it moves through the market quickly.
  4. Seller Tip: Do Not Overprice: From a selling point of view, it is a good time to sell. The caveat to that is making sure you know how to properly price your lake home. A good way to ensure this is by contacting one of our lake experts at LakeHomes.com.
  5. Buyer Tip: Patience and Diligence: Making sure you take your time and pay attention to everything going on can help with the buying process. Don’t check in every 2 months or give up after one search. 

If you’re planning to sell, there are always buyers looking, and vice versa. The thing you have to remember is that it is dependent on what your goal is. If you’re selling, remember to not overprice your home, which can ultimately lead to making less in the long run. When it comes to buying, you have to stay on top of it and have patience; it will get you a long way.

Easy Growing: Garden-Fresh Herbs with Lake-Inspired Recipes

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder
garden fresh herbs in pots
Photo courtesy of Teresa Kasprzycka/Shutterstock via Almanac

Fragrant, garden-fresh herbs are one of the simple joys of planting. Most herbs can be grown indoors or outside, and they thrive in containers on the windowsill or in pots on the patio. You can plant them in raised beds or right in the ground if you have well-draining soil and the right sunlight conditions. And above all, they are relatively easy to maintain—which makes them ideal for lake living.

Long prized for their curative properties, some herbs act as powerful anti-inflammatories or even aid with digestion, blood sugar levels, and kidney and brain functions. Some people enjoy planting herbs just for their fresh fragrances alone—but infuse them in your cooking, and your dishes will spring to life. Garden-fresh herbs offer an array of different flavors and aromas that can enrich the palate and bring depth to a variety of cuisines. This guide focuses on some of the most common herbs, their ideal culinary pairings, and some inspiring recipes you can try at the lake. Bon appétit!

Sweet Basil

bundle of fresh sweet basil
Photo courtesy of Dr. Axe

One of the most popular garden-fresh herbs in the culinary world, basil offers a sweet yet slightly peppery flavor with a hint of anise. Its vibrant green leaves bring a delightfully fresh taste and aroma to salads, pasta, and sauces—most notably, the quintessential Italian basil pesto. Basil’s aromatic essence also complements Thai curries and Vietnamese pho, infusing dishes with a delicious herbal note. Other varieties include purple and Thai basil, differing slightly in leaf color, shape, and flavor intensity. Purple and sweet basil should be added at the end of cooking for maximum flavor. However, Thai basil’s more robust flavor can withstand high heat.

White pizza with shaved vegetables and pesto with plates, fingers, fingers holding beverage
Photo courtesy of Chelsea Kyle via Epicurious

Looking for a fresh, light meal? You’ll love this interpretation of White Pizza with Shaved Vegetables and Pesto. Creamy white cheeses combine with basil, watercress, and fresh veggies on a homemade crust.

Cilantro

bundle of fresh cilantro
Photo courtesy of Medical News Today

Cilantro’s love-hate relationship with the individual palate makes this popular herb all the more intriguing. Some describe it as a bright, citrusy flavor that adds a unique zing to all kinds of dishes, including Mexican, Indian, and Southeast Asian fare. While others might sneer at it with distaste, describing it as unpalatable and soapy. Nevertheless, it’s a favorite among many, especially in fresh salsa and guacamole, providing a refreshing contrast to more spicy flavors. It’s also used as a garnish in Thai soups and stir-fries, and Indian cuisine incorporates cilantro into spicy curries and chutneys.

Gorgeous Green Shrimp in a skillet with serving spoon

Photo courtesy of Isa Zapata via Epicurious

Try a simple one-pan dish for a fresh take on this somewhat controversial herb. This bright and herbaceous Gorgeous Green Shrimp offers a vibrantly verdant presentation.

Rosemary

bundle of fresh rosemary
Photo courtesy of The Home Depot

With its robust, pine-like aroma and slightly bitter taste, rosemary is a versatile herb that significantly enhances savory dishes. Native to the Mediterranean region, it is a key ingredient in Tuscan-inspired favorites such as chicken cacciatore, focaccia, and other Italian flatbreads. Commonly paired with roasted meats, including lamb, poultry, and grilled fish, rosemary lends a fragrant—even pungent—earthiness that balances beautifully with rich flavors. It is also highly compatible with roasted potatoes, and you can even add it to shortbreads and cakes for a sweet and savory dessert. Considered an evergreen, rosemary features needles and woody stems, both of which can be used in cooking.

Lemon rosemary garlic chicken and red potatoes in one-pan dish with serving fork and bread
Photo courtesy of Becky Luigart Stayner via Southern Living

Indulge in the savory, earthy flavors of this perfect Lemon-Rosemary-Garlic Chicken and Potatoes. Chicken legs and thighs make this dish extra juicy, and fresh rosemary brings an irresistible aroma.

Mint

bundle of fresh mint in glass mason jar
Photo courtesy of A Couple Cooks

Renowned for its cool, refreshing taste and invigorating aroma, mint is a beloved herb in both sweet and savory dishes. In Middle Eastern cuisine, mint is an essential ingredient in tabbouleh and lamb dishes, offering a fresh contrast to rich flavors. It’s also a popular addition to cocktails, including the renowned mint julep, the classic mojito, and desserts like chocolate mint ice cream or fruit salads. Peppermint and spearmint are the most widely used varieties in the U.S., and both have a rough yet fuzzy texture with jagged green leaves.

two mint juleps in silver cups and ice and fresh mint sprigs
Photo courtesy of Huge Galdones via Food & Wine

The official cocktail of the Kentucky Derby, the mighty Mint Julep has endured for centuries. Served in a classic silver cup over chipped ice, it’s like sipping on a cool breeze.

Parsley

bundle of fresh flat Italian parsley
Photo courtesy of RIOU via Allrecipes

With its mild, slightly peppery taste, flat-leaved Italian parsley is one of the most widely used herbs globally. However, its curly cousin does not deliver the same bite, making it considerably more bland. Italian parsley acts as a palate-cleanser, and its versatility makes it an essential component of garnishes, sauces, and salads, such as tabbouleh—a Middle Eastern salad featuring bulgur, parsley, mint, and tomatoes. Parsley also brightens up creamy egg and pasta recipes and seafood dishes like grilled fish or shrimp scampi, adding a fresh herbal note.

Spring Tabbouleh served on a white platter with fresh lemon wedges, asparagus, lentils, fava beans
Photo courtesy of Fustini’s

Indulge in the herbal flavor sensation of this delicious Spring Tabbouleh. A blend of parsley, mint, and scallions combines with couscous, lentils, asparagus, and fava beans for a fragrant garden-fresh meal.

Thyme

bundle of fresh thyme with twine and garden shears
Photo courtesy of Plantura Magazine

Known for its subtle, earthy flavor with hints of mint and lemon, thyme is a fundamental herb in French and Mediterranean cuisines. Its aromatic leaves pair pleasantly with roasted vegetables, meats, and hearty stews, imparting depth and complexity to dishes. One of the essential ingredients in the classic French herbs de Provence, Thyme mixes especially well with sage, lavender, basil, and other herbs and spices. Thyme also shines in marinades, sauces, and stuffing for poultry or game meats, enhancing their savory profiles.

Glass of iced Grilled Lemon & Thyme Lemonade next to jar of honey and plate with green beans, roast potatoes
Photo courtesy of Taste Of Home

Thyme’s amicable nature makes it the perfect companion to this creative Grilled Lemon & Thyme Lemonade recipe. Grilled lemons and thyme meld with a honey syrup tinged with almond extract.

For a more extensive list of herbs to grow indoors or in your garden, visit Southern Living. Cheers to a fragrant and flavorful spring at the lake!

Whiteboard Topics: 5 Ways Overpricing A Lake Home Costs Sellers

Posted on Zac Parnell

If you’re thinking about selling your lake home or already have it on the market, the last thing you want is unnecessary costs. One of the ways these costs can arise is actually from overpricing your home. Luckily, Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, has the reasoning why something you might think is beneficial to you might actually hurt you in the long run. 

  1. Knowledgeable Buyers: In today’s day and age, buyers have become more knowledgeable than ever before. The access of information that surrounds real estate is more accessible than in years prior. Being able to study the data from real estate and having Lake Homes Realty provide more insight into the market is something buyers use to their advantage. This can lead to price cuts if nobody comes to see your home because they know that it is overpriced.
  2. Failure to Appraise: In 2020, during the Covid-19 frenzy of real estate, there were failures to appraise. However, this was due to buyers willing to cover an appraisal gap. Now there is a standard of the current market.
  3. Increased Days on Market “What’s Wrong With It?”: Having a property on the market for a while, whether it’s because of overpricing or something falls through, ultimately causes a groupthink scenario. Many buyers will start formulating their own idea of something being wrong.
  4. Price Cuts Lead to Low Offers: From a seller’s perspective, you might think to set your own price. From here, you’ll evaluate and drop it accordingly. This can help you find the range in market terms of where it works, but the buyer still might think it’s not at the right price. 
  5. Marketing Cannot Overcome Price: The idea of having a real estate agent “Market my house better” isn’t the full solution. If your home isn’t receiving any offers, it’s more than likely not a marketing issue. Fixing the price is the main way to fix these issues of not having any offers. 

When it comes down to it, pricing matters way more than you might expect. It is key to make sure that you haven’t overpriced your lake home. In today’s market, this overpricing is something you won’t get away with if you’re truly wanting to get your home sold. If this is something you think you are struggling with, reach out to one of our lake agents. They would be able to help and guide you through the selling process. 

Weekend Warrior DIYs: Doable Home Improvement Projects for Your Lake Home

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder
Boat House in lake with bright kayaks up against building, beautiful lake landscape
Photo courtesy of Helen Norman via Southern Living

For lake homeowners, spring means getting back outside to experience the joys of lake living. It also means tackling those home improvement projects you’ve been putting off until the weather warms up. But almost every DIYer knows the feeling of diving headfirst into a project before realizing it’s going to take a lot more time than you planned. It can leave you feeling deflated without the sense of accomplishment you had hoped for.

No worries. We’ll ease you into this slowly with a few quick yet high-impact projects you can accomplish over a weekend. Some of these ideas are more labor-intensive than others, so take your pick and choose one you know you can complete. Who knows? You might even be game to try another one next weekend. Happy home improvement!

Warm Welcome

front facade with bright red door, window flower boxes, landscaping, stones, little white dog
Photo courtesy of Kevin Miyazaki Photography via Better Homes & Gardens

Start with the obvious and spruce up your curb appeal with an eye-catching front door. This bright cherry-red hue pops against a fresh green landscape adorned with potted plants and flowers. Window boxes brimming with white and red blooms complement the vibrant color palette while enhancing the exterior façade. You can easily do a complete makeover of the entrance to your lake home over a weekend. Don’t forget to include exterior lighting and updated hardware for your new door. A small stone walkway or a new welcome mat can also make a big impression, creating an inviting ambiance for your guests.

Self-Watering Veggie Garden

self-watering vegetable garden in raised wooden bed with basket of tomatoes
Photo courtesy of Family Handyman

If you’re feeling ambitious, you won’t mind the extra time and effort required for this weekend home improvement project. And if you love fresh vegetables, you will reap the benefits this garden delivers for many months to come. This raised garden bed is made of beautiful cedar and incorporates a perforated drainpipe that stores and distributes water as needed. With this ingenious design, you will save water while growing your favorite vegetables—or flowers. Once the work is done, the fruits of your labor will be well worth it! For a list of required tools and instructions, visit Family Handyman.

Paver Pathway

white stone pavers over green grass
Interior design and photo courtesy of Jacob Fox via Better Homes & Gardens

This multi-functional stone walkway provides a beautiful accent for your outdoor living space while still allowing rainwater to seep into the soil. But the best part is that you can complete this home improvement project in about two hours. These easy-to-install pavers protect your grass from foot traffic and provide a dry, stable surface you can walk on when entertaining outside. They are also flat enough to the ground that your lawn mower can roll right over them. Create your own look with a random pattern of square and rectangular pavers for a crisp, modern aesthetic. Visit Better Homes & Gardens for tips and instructions.

Fishing Finesse

fishing rod garage storage system
Photo Courtesy of Family Handyman

If you live at the lake, chances are you or someone in your family loves to fish. But fishing rods can be awkward to store and easily get tangled if you stash them haphazardly. Why not create a designated place in your garage or storage area to organize your fishing gear and get it off the floor? This brilliant garage storage system requires just a few household tools, a foam swimming pool noodle, and some 3-inch PVC pipe. Just follow these simple instructions—and voila!

  • Drill 1-inch holes spaced every 4 inches in the PVC pipe.
  • Use a utility knife to cut slits in the foam noodle, spacing them 4 inches apart.
  • Line up the pool noodle on the wall so that at least two of the slits sit over studs.
  • Pull slits apart, slide in a fender washer, and screw the noodle to the wall with 2-inch screws.
  • Screw the PVC pipe to the wall beneath it at a comfortable height and insert your fishing rods.

Fired Up!

stacked stone outdoor fireplace
Photo courtesy of HGTV

This outdoor stacked stone fireplace requires a bit more patience, time, and grit, but if you have some experience with concrete and mortar—and some extra help—you can conquer this project over a long weekend. Once you’re finished, you’ll enjoy crackling fires by the lake for years. This eight-step project takes you from creating a design and a concrete foundation to installing the stacked stone and attaching the chimney cap. Visit HGTV for instructions, a list of the materials, and a helpful two-minute video offering tips and inspiration.

From organizing your garage and building a workbench to resurfacing your driveway and installing an outdoor deck, here’s wishing you success in all your DIY weekend projects at the lake!



Whiteboard Topics: What Are 5 Pricing Mistakes Made By Lake Home Sellers?

Posted on Zac Parnell

When selling a lake property, you always need to be aware of possible mistakes that can happen. Luckily, Glenn Phillips, CEO of Lake Homes Realty, gives insight into 5 common pricing mistakes. Not only does he mention what they are, but he also explains ways to ensure you avoid them. 

  1. Trusting Websites Offering AVMs: Automated Valuation Models are essentially websites where you can input data and “find out” how much your home is worth. These are not real people and are simply automation algorithms. A lot of times, these websites are flawed. These tools are typically better suited for evaluating homes in subdivisions as opposed to lake homes spread around a lake.
  2. Using Prices of Currently Listed Properties: Just because you have a neighbor or friend listing at a specific price doesn’t mean you should use the same one. At the end of the day, these properties will still likely sit on the market, which typically means the prices didn’t work. The longer a property sits, the less money the seller will get.
  3. “I Need to Get…”: Oftentimes, a seller will have unrealistic goals for what their home is worth and will ask for too much money. Before putting your home on the market, you will need to understand what the market value of the property is. 
  4. Emotional Reasoning: Being aware of what the market is saying about what a property like yours is worth vs. how you might feel emotionally. Just because you added certain features or made modifications to the home doesn’t necessarily mean it increases its value. Always see what the market says. 
  5. Failing to Consult a Lake Expert Agent: This is one of the best ways to avoid any of these mistakes. Consulting someone who is an expert in this area will be beneficial to you in the long run. It might be tempting to use somebody who is a friend, but someone who specializes in this area is ideal. Lake agents have a better understanding of what it takes to sell in this market.

When it comes time to sell, there are plenty of ways to avoid these mistakes. It will ultimately help you in the long run and avoid a lot of stress. If you still have any questions or need guidance, check out LakeHomes.com. There are plenty of lake agents who would be thrilled to help you through your real estate process. 

2024 Outdoor Furnishings Trends: Lake Home Designer Kelly Guinaugh Shares Her Trade Secrets

Posted on Jeanne Delathouder

Text by Kelly Guinaugh, ASID
Produced by Jeanne Delathouder

Covered patio with sofa, chairs, and round metal cocktail table with lake setting in background
Photo courtesy of West of Main Design

Here in the Midwest, we start dreaming about the summer months in spring and the warm weather coming our way soon. Like many lake lovers, we relish this season because it allows us to revamp our outdoor furnishings and return to our blissful outdoor living spaces once again. My Chicago-area design firm, Interior Enhancement Group, embraces this opportunity every year to create unique spaces through our bespoke designs that speak to our clients’ lifestyles. Spring is a special time for us—when we get to stretch our creative wings and plan your perfect outdoor living scenario, so when the sun shines again, and temps begin to soar, these spaces are ready for you to enjoy.

This year, we are seeing an emphasis on a few new trends as well as the continuation of those we have seen over the past few years. Lake homeowners especially want to connect with nature via their outdoor living spaces, and maximizing the splendid water views remains a priority. Light-filled sunrooms, lavish patios, and party-ready outdoor kitchens continue to trend, blurring the lines between inside and out. Additionally, mixing textures, materials, and organic shapes is still going strong and brings a soothing aesthetic to any space.

Comfort and functionality are also essential to enjoying life at the lake. And this year, we’re bringing on double-duty lounge pieces, bold colors, and patterns like never before. There is also a focus on layered lighting—think firelight, ambient light, and task lighting—to create (and control) your desired vibe. So, join me as I walk you through some of my favorite outdoor furnishings trends for 2024. 

Seamless Living

When our indoor spaces flow gracefully into our outdoor living areas, the result is a seamless design that creates lovely continuity. The first step to accomplishing this starts with flooring. Simply by using the same porcelain or stone both inside and out, your spaces suddenly feel like one large room, expanding the living areas visually. The same effect can be achieved if we use different materials but keep them in the same color family.

Beyond the foundation of the floor material, we always get great results when using the same color scheme in our fabrics and finishes, as well as similar furniture styles. And don’t forget to include comfy cushions and soft pillows, just like in your interior rooms. This will further create an equally inviting outdoor space—just like what you’re accustomed to in your family room. More and more, people continue to blur the boundaries between inside and out.

Bold Beauty

Outdoor patio with dog and outdoor furniture with vibrant red stripes
Interior design and photo courtesy of Summer Classics

In both interior and exterior living spaces, our clients are ready to add more patterns and bolder colors than in recent years. We are seeing vibrant colors—emeralds, saturated blues, and bright oranges—and a fearless mix of patterns. Bold stripes, graphic prints, and large and small-scale florals are all happy together outside.

A bold approach with textures is trending as well. Outdoor furnishings are blending industrial metals with concrete accent pieces. Finishes range from smooth to rugged and unfinished—all working together to bring interest, drama, and organic appeal to your outdoor living space.

Pattern Play

covered outdoor patio with graphic tile flooring, a fire pit, sofa, and lanterns
Photo Courtesy of Lucas Interior

This playful patio comes to life in a dance of patterns and lively colors. Stripes harmonize with graphic floor tile with this vivid primary palette anchored with black accents. Woven lanterns and glossy ceramic stools bring a balance of refined textures that complement the rustic wood ceiling beams. The black-and-white tile floor bordered in solid black defines the seating area, much like an area rug. A circular fire pit with cushions provides extra seating for guests while creating a dynamic focal point. Simply put, these fun outdoor furnishings welcome a party!

Light It Up!

Covered and uncovered outdoor area with dining, comfy seating, TV, and outdoor fire pit seating area
Design by Pamela Pennington Studios courtesy of Eric Zepeda Photography

Outdoor lighting is essential to creating an alluring atmosphere. It generates a sense of warmth and invites guests to linger around the dining table or cozy up to a soothing fire pit. Lighting can create drama, but it also enhances our security while adding a positive element to our curb appeal. As our clients expand their living spaces outside, lighting follows suit with the same concepts we apply to our interiors.

Here, a lavish covered patio includes a luminous halo chandelier, dimmable pendants over the dining table, and recessed lighting around the ceiling perimeter. String lights guide the transition to the alfresco area, with an intimate seating area surrounding a fire table for roasting marshmallows or enjoying cocktails after dark.

Set the Mood

covered patio with dining table illuminated by candles and overhead pendant light
Interior design by Interior Enhancement Group courtesy of Cole Horcher Photos

Here, a softly lit woven pendant mingles with candlelight in this elegant outdoor setting. With the right lighting, you can create your perfect ambiance for an outdoor gathering. So, when the sun goes down and evening sets in, the magic of the moment takes over with pure enchantment.

Luxe Alfresco Dining

outdoor dining area with pergola and built-in fireplace
Interior design by Tammy Randall Wood, Interior Archaeology courtesy of Joe Schmelzer Photographs

This glorious outdoor setting emanates garden elegance with climbing vines covering a pergola overhead. A linear chandelier illuminates the long rectangular dining table, along with a built-in outdoor fireplace glowing in the background. This lavish setting captures the essence of luxurious outdoor living while maintaining a casual and carefree vibe.  

Double Duty Seating

Outdoor seating area with pierced stone privacy screen, sofa, bench, chairs, and coffee table
Photo courtesy of Lance Gerber Studio

So many of our clients are looking for ways to maximize their outdoor spaces. A few key tips to accomplish this is to use accent chairs that can also function as overflow seating around your dining table. And simple things like selecting a cocktail ottoman, bench, or side table that includes storage give you a place to tuck away blankets you’ll want handy when the sun goes down.

Here, these lightweight pieces are easily movable to suit almost any outdoor occasion. The extra chairs can be pulled in where you need them—poolside or lakeside.

Modular Lounging

Modular sectional seating by a p ool

Photo courtesy of Lane Venture

Modular seating pieces can be a game changer for outdoor entertaining because they can be reconfigured to suit your needs. Here, this generous sofa sectional from Lane Venture’s Oasis Collection virtually creates a living room outdoors. Sumptuous cushions upholstered in a high-performance fabric welcome wet bathing suits without fuss. Pull the sectional apart, and you can arrange the seating pieces any way you like.

I hope these inspirational ideas and tips can guide you in creating your perfect outdoor setting. If you’re planning a project of your own, my team at Interior Enhancement Group is eager to assist you with all your interior design needs. Here’s wishing you and yours a blissfully beautiful season by the lake!

Pet-Friendly Plants for Your Lake Home Garden

Posted on Oscar Gipson

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Photo Courtesy of Martha Stewart

Your lake home is your oasis—a place of relaxation, recreation, and connection with nature. But what if you share your slice of paradise with furry (or feathered) friends? Don’t worry, pet parents! You can still cultivate a beautiful garden without compromising your pet’s safety. Here’s a guide to creating a vibrant, pet-friendly haven filled with gorgeous greenery.

Blooming Beauties

Photo Courtesy of Love Your Dog
  • Petunias: These cheerful annuals come in a rainbow of colors and are non-toxic to cats and dogs. They thrive in full sun and require minimal maintenance, making them perfect for busy lake house weekends.
  • Marigolds: Not only do these bright blooms deter pesky insects, but they are also non-toxic to your furry companions. Look for dwarf varieties that thrive in containers or garden borders.
  • Snapdragons: These unique and vibrant flowers come in various shapes and sizes; luckily, they pose no threat to your pets. Enjoy their cheerful presence throughout the summer months.

Leafy Delights

Photo Courtesy of Gardener’s Path
  • Spider Plants: These easy-to-care-for beauties are non-toxic and love hanging planters, making them perfect for adding greenery to your porch or balcony.
  • Boston Ferns: Known for their elegant, cascading fronds, Boston Ferns add a touch of lushness to any space. Easy to care for and requiring low light, this fern variety makes for a perfect addition to your indoor or outdoor space.
  • Maidenhair Ferns: These delicate ferns add a touch of whimsy to your garden and are safe for cats and dogs. However, they prefer shaded areas with high humidity, so consider placing them in pots on your covered porch.

Edible and Aromatic Herbs

Photo Courtesy of Cats Away
  • Rosemary: This fragrant herb adds flavor to your culinary creations and is non-toxic to pets. Grow it in a raised bed or a pot on your deck for easy access and a delightful aroma.
  • Basil: Although a member of the mint family, unlike mint, basil is non-toxic to cats and dogs. One of the most common culinary herbs, basil is versatile and easy to grow. This herb thrives in an outdoor garden as well as indoors.
  • Thyme: This versatile herb is safe for pets and adds a delightful flavor to grilled meats and vegetables. Plant it in a sunny garden or use a hanging pot for easy access.

Remember to ensure the safety of your beloved pets by closely supervising their outdoor activities. If you’re uncertain about the potential risks of a particular plant, seek advice from your veterinarian. Keep in mind that even seemingly harmless plants can lead to digestive issues if consumed excessively. Prioritize your pet’s well-being by thoroughly researching and confirming the suitability of any plant variety before incorporating it into your pet-friendly garden.