Growing up on some of the biggest lakes in the world and now living in a community focused on lake life, it is no wonder we see a style that we call “Lake Home Chic” quite often. I’d like to think we have perfected it after so many years. Then again, the design world is constantly evolving so even we get excited but all of the ways we can create this feeling for our clients. And, since the way living on water brings so many different people to our area, there really is no one way to design a lake home. 

 

I will say that every design begins with inspiration for us. What does the client like? Bold colors or a neutral pallet.  Do they have a growing family with a need for durability or are they retired and enjoy a quieter lifestyle that doesnt include muddy paw prints and doors slamming? Where did they move from or what are their hobbies? So many things play into how we start creating a lake home.

 

We also search for style inspiration. The world is full of creative, smart people. The design world is one that is constantly thinking out of the box and I hope some of our ideas inspire others for the reason. It may not be on Pinterest or a magazine cover but while on vacation or dining at an eclectic restaurant. Our experiences constantly change our perspective and that is why our designs are never repeated. That and the fact that no two homes or clients are the same.

 

Here are a few inspirational images and what we like so much about them.

 

Light and airy with a lot of interesting elements to keep your eye wandering. With natural shades inspired by stony cliffs, sandy beaches and coastal scenes, this interiors trend might bring some calm to our homes. Also, even though the colors are so light, you do not feel like you can’t live in this space. Its beautiful, definitely, but it also feels welcoming and relaxed. 

 

The choice of light fixtures acts as pivotal pieces to bring the feeling of the lake or water inside of your home. Since a light source has such a subconcious impact on us (the remind us of warmth and coming home, direction back to where you belong or providing safety and security – think a port or lighthouse and how long light has been what guides us) it is a very important part of any style of home. We really like the black fixtures that really are timeless regardless of the technology.

 

 

Light and airy but with the next level of colors added in. Soft colors mixed with neutrals bring in some whimsy and fun. The shades replicate the colors you would find around water – aquas and yellows, sandy taupes and grays. Mixing them together is reminscinent of every classic water home with sea glass and sunshine. Patterns of blue stripes, pops of bold yellow or red are reminders of sail boats and blue skies. Because we are not in a tropical location, the colors are more muted and serene but would work in any home depending on the patterns and styles you used to design the space.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Usually, natural elements like stone and wood are a big part of designing a lake home. It may remind you of ships, cliffs or drift wood . Maybe just the way water adds a different feel to the plants and trees around you. The wood tones and earthy textures always bring us back to colors and materials found in nature. While we believe a home is more relaxed and reflective of the location with natural or reclaimed elements, that doesn’t mean we don’t see elegant surfaces or glamorous styles. It just gives us a chance to create a unique space for the area.

 

Natural light is a must have in our opinion. We are constantly thinking about how to bring in a great view and more sunlight into a space. Technology is coming a long regarding the way a light bulb lights up a space but so far, we have never found anything that competes with sunshine and a inspiring view. We try to incorporate furniture that makes the most of those views, too. BIG HINT! Swivel chairs. Minds blown, right? I don’t think there is anything better in a room with a great view than a swivel chair….

 

The way you finish the home makes a big impact while creating your lake home. Regardless of wood tones and color schemes, if your furniture isn’t inviting and casual, your family and guests will not feel like they can relax. Adding a few elements like a sofa that looks welcoming and comfortable, textures on pillows that beg to touched and tables stacked with books waiting to be enjoyed will let your company know this is a home to be enjoyed. It will also give you a home that you enjoy spending your free time in- after all, isn’t that why you want the lake to be the center of your space? To relax, enjoy and feel happy?

 

 

Creatively Yours,

 

Andrea and Kimberly