This article is all about elevating your lake house decor to new heights. If you're tired of the traditional, heavy and campy style of the past, it's time to embrace a more stylish and sophisticated look that still exudes relaxation. With the right lake house interior design, you can transform your space into a haven of tranquility and beauty, perfectly complementing the stunning water views and clear blue skies that surround you.
Moving Beyond Traditional Decor
Gone are the days of dark and rustic lake house decor. The modern options available today are light, bright, and fresh. Take inspiration from nautical elements and incorporate warm whites and cool blues into your design. Embrace cozy textures, natural wood, and rattan elements. And of course, don't forget the classic charm of stripes. These elements will help create a contemporary yet inviting space that you'll never want to leave.
Image: Navy and white wallpapered bathroom
When my family and I purchased our lake cottage, we knew it needed some work. We wanted to update the home's interior, making it more family-friendly and suited to our entertaining needs. While the rustic style has its charm, we opted for a Coastal Modern look that combines clean lines, natural textures, and simple styling. The result is a contemporary space that feels inviting and comfortable, offering the perfect escape from our busy lives.
Image: Neutral and navy lake house decor in a living room
Texture for a Vacation Vibe
Texture plays a big role in lake house decor. Incorporate elements like grasscloth, rattan, and raffia to bring in a touch of the outdoors. Rattan, in particular, works beautifully both indoors and outdoors. From lighting to accent furniture and seating, rattan adds instant interest to any space. It strikes the perfect balance between being light and bright while still providing functionality. By incorporating texture, you create a warm and cozy home that your guests will love.
Image: Furniture and decorated accents with texture
Embrace Crisp Whites
Clean whites are not only fresh and crisp but also provide a beautiful backdrop for pops of color. While white may seem daunting to some, it's actually quite easy to maintain. After all, if you can see the dirt, you can clean it. Look for easy-to-clean white elements like side tables, swings, and stools to add that crisp touch without the worry of stains. By incorporating crisp whites in various ways, you can create a clean and spa-inspired space that feels welcoming and inviting.
Image: Collage of white lake house decor and furniture
Timeless Stripes
No lake house decor is complete without a nod to everything nautical. Stripes are the perfect way to achieve this. They evoke a sense of summer and add a happy and preppy feel to any space. As a timeless design choice, stripes have been used for decades in historic homes and resorts to welcome guests. Incorporate fresh, bold stripes into your lake house interior design to pay homage to the water and create a classic look that never goes out of style.
Image: Striped furniture and home decor
Pay Attention to Details
Don't be afraid to add a few subtle nods to lake life throughout your home. Oars can give your space a sense of adventure, whether hung above a large window or used as a unique handrail. Cleats can be repurposed as towel hangers, while boats and anchors can be integrated in unexpected ways. Remember, less is more when it comes to these decorative details. By incorporating them sparingly, you'll add a touch of charm without overwhelming the overall design.
Image: Bathroom with brass boat cleat towel hanger
More Lake Decor Tips
Here are a few more tips to enhance your lake house decor:
- Try using a wooden oar or nautical rope as a stair railing or curtain hanger.
- Embrace soft wood tones to complement the rustic lake setting.
- Consider adding a bunk room for that quintessential lake house feel.
- Personalize your wall art with photos of your family enjoying lake time or personalized maps.
- Create cozy nooks for overflow guests and rainy day reading.
- Make the most of your view by framing it with furniture and keeping windows unobstructed.
- Don't forget about outdoor spaces. Bring the comforts of home to your outdoor areas.
- Incorporate nautical fixtures and subtle nods like crisp whites and striped towels.
- Consider adding a pretty blue paint color to capture the essence of the lake.
Image: A white home with blue touches
Looking for more lake house inspiration? Check out our new Quartz Countertops and Bridge Kitchen Faucet, and get ready to take your lake house decor to the next level.
