Lakehouse Decor Ideas

Summer is a fun time, and it can be even better with a nicely decorated lake home. This is not as hard as you might think! If you’re one of the incredibly lucky people who have a lake house, but are looking for ideas and inspiration of how to decorate and achieve the total lake house look, then you are in the right place. Here I’ve compiled a list of 25 beautiful inspiration images, giving you beautiful lake house decorating ideas. There are also tips on how to source the perfect decor for your weekend abode. First let’s answer some frequently asked design questions.

Table of Contents

How should I decorate my lake house?

Like any other space, the decor of your lake house should feel good to you; because if you don’t feel comfortable and happy with the space, then what is the point? With that said, there are still some great design and decor options that will make you FEEL that you’re at the lake the moment you walk in the house, and help you and your family live that lake life. Here are some items to consider when you decorate your lake house:

Wall Art
Area Rugs
Wood paneling
Bunk beds
Throw pillows
Wall decor

What can you do at a lake house?

Lake houses are amazing because not only can you relax with the incredible vibe of being next to water, but there are so many fun things to do. From water skiing to swimming, fishing to paddle boarding, there really is no shortage of things to do at a lake house.

How can I decorate a lake house on a budget?

Decorating a lake house on a budget is absolutely doable with a bit of creativity, strategic planning, and a focus on practical yet stylish solutions. You can follow design trends, or, you can go for more classic and tried and true looks. Here are some tips and ideas for decorating your lake house without breaking the bank:

1. DIY Projects

A good DIY project can save you a lot of money, and, can be very rewarding! Here are some ideas to get started:

Upcycled Furniture: Give old or secondhand furniture a new life by sanding, painting, or reupholstering it. For example, you can find an old dresser or nightstand at a thrift store and give it a fresh coat of paint in a coastal or rustic color.
Pallet Furniture: If you have access to wooden pallets, you can create rustic furniture like coffee tables, benches, or outdoor seating with minimal investment.
DIY Wall Art: Create your own wall art by framing fabric, vintage maps, or photographs that capture the essence of your lake setting. You can even frame beach or nature-inspired items like pressed flowers or leaves for a more personal touch.

2. Thrift and Secondhand Finds

Vintage or Thrift Store Shopping: Hit up local thrift stores, flea markets, and antique shops for unique, budget-friendly furniture and décor. You can find items like light fixtures, mirrors, chairs, and side tables that are often much cheaper than buying new.
Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist: You can often find great deals on furniture or even outdoor equipment for your lake house. People often sell high-quality pieces that just need a little TLC.

3. Affordable Paint and Wall Treatments

Whitewashing or Painting: Instead of replacing wooden paneling or walls, you can whitewash or paint them to give them a fresh, updated look. A gallon of paint is often much cheaper than replacing wood or other materials.
Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper: Peel-and-stick wallpaper is an affordable and renter-friendly way to add a stylish touch to walls or even create accent walls. There are tons of patterns and designs that evoke a coastal or rustic vibe.
Shiplap or Faux Wood Panels: Consider using peel-and-stick shiplap or faux wood wall panels to create the look of wood walls without the high cost. Wallpaper that mimics wood is also a good option. Here is a beautiful option available at Home Depot.

4. Repurpose and Redesign

Repurpose Old Items: Look for items you no longer need and see if they can be transformed into something useful for the home design of your lake house. For example, an old ladder can become a towel rack or a bookshelf, and an old door can be turned into a rustic coffee table.
Furniture Swaps: If you have other homes or friends with furniture they no longer need, consider swapping pieces to refresh the look without spending much.

5. Use Natural and Found Materials

Decorate with Nature: Since you’re at a lake house, take advantage of the natural beauty around you. Collect stones, driftwood, or shells to create simple, rustic décor. Driftwood can be turned into a candle holder, a picture frame, or even a statement sculpture for the mantel. Display these pieces on your dining table to make it extra cozy.
Rugs and Textiles: Invest in affordable, natural fiber rugs (like jute or sisal), which are often cheaper than other materials. Layering inexpensive rugs can create a cozy and warm feel, while still staying budget-friendly. Look for budget-friendly throw pillows and blankets that match your theme.

6. Light Fixtures and Accents

Update Light Fixtures: Instead of replacing entire lighting systems, you can change light fixtures to something more modern or thematic (like nautical-inspired or rustic-chic fixtures). Consider searching for budget-friendly lighting options online or in stores like Home Depot or IKEA.
Candlelight: Candles are inexpensive and can add instant charm. Use lanterns or glass jars to create a rustic or beachy ambiance. You can also place candles in mason jars for a cute, budget-friendly vibe.
Affordable Mirrors and Art: Instead of spending a lot on framed art, you can create a coastal or rustic-themed gallery wall using affordable prints or photographs you take yourself. Mirrors can also help open up the space and are relatively inexpensive in many stores.

7. Focus on Key Areas

Statement Pieces: Instead of decorating every inch of the space, focus on a few key areas like the living room or dining space. A statement rug, a few unique thrifted pieces, or a standout light fixture can make a big impact without the need to fill every nook and cranny. Check out this article on making an impact in the entryway.
Outdoor Spaces: If you have a deck or patio, you can often find budget-friendly outdoor furniture (like folding chairs, plastic Adirondack chairs, or wooden benches) and decorate it with affordable cushions and throws.

8. DIY Soft Goods

Custom Pillows: If you have some basic sewing skills (or know someone who does), you can create your own throw pillows using inexpensive fabric or even old clothes or linens. This adds a personal, custom touch to your space.
Upcycle Old Fabrics: Reuse old sheets, curtains, or tablecloths to create new throws, pillow covers, or even window treatments. Sometimes a fresh, tailored look is as simple as a little fabric modification.

9. Affordable Plants and Greenery

Indoor Plants: Bring in low-maintenance plants like succulents, snake plants, or pothos to add life and color to your space. You can buy small plants inexpensively and let them grow over time.
Outdoor Plants: Add some budget-friendly landscaping, like potted plants or flowers that thrive in your local climate. You can often find beautiful plants at local garden centers for a good price.

10. Seasonal and Personal Touches

Incorporate Personal Items: Add personal items like family photos in affordable frames, handmade pieces, or souvenirs from your travels to make the space feel truly yours.
Seasonal Decor: Decorate based on the seasons—simple touches like a fall wreath or summer lanterns can help transform the space without significant spending.

Are there sustainable decor options for lake homes?

Absolutely! There are plenty of sustainable décor options for lake homes that can help create a beautiful and eco-friendly environment while respecting nature. And, if you are embarking on a remodel, then many of these options are very doable. Here are some ideas to consider:

1. Reclaimed Wood

Furniture and Paneling: Using reclaimed wood for furniture, floors, or accent walls can add a rustic and natural feel to your lake house while minimizing the demand for new materials.
Upcycled Pieces: Old barn wood, shipping pallets, or salvaged wood from old homes can be turned into tables, chairs, and other home features.

2. Natural and Local Materials

Stone and Clay: Opt for stone or clay for elements like fireplaces, countertops, or flooring. These materials are natural, durable, and have a timeless appeal.
Wicker and Rattan: These materials are biodegradable and come from renewable sources. They work well in lake house décor for furniture and accessories like baskets and light fixtures.

3. Sustainable Fabrics

Organic Cotton: Look for throw pillows, bedding, and curtains made from organic cotton, which is grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers.
Linen and Hemp: Both are eco-friendly alternatives to cotton. Linen is durable and has a natural texture that complements lake house style, while hemp is low-impact and strong.
Recycled Fabrics: Choose textiles made from repurposed materials, such as recycled polyester or wool.

4. Energy-Efficient Lighting

LED Bulbs: Switch to energy-efficient LED bulbs to reduce electricity consumption while creating a cozy, well-lit atmosphere.
Solar-Powered Outdoor Lighting: Solar-powered lanterns or garden lights can be a charming and sustainable way to light your outdoor space without increasing your energy usage.

5. Eco-Friendly Paints

Low-VOC or No-VOC Paint: When it comes to painting your walls or furniture, using low- or no-VOC (volatile organic compound) paint is a healthier and more environmentally friendly choice.
Natural Paints: Some brands offer natural paints made from minerals, plant dyes, and earth pigments, which have minimal environmental impact.

6. Indoor Plants

Air-Purifying Plants: Adding plants like snake plants, peace lilies, or spider plants can purify the air and enhance the natural vibe of your lake house. Plus, they help regulate humidity, which is especially beneficial in areas near water.
Native Plants: Choose plants that are native to your region, as they require less water and maintenance. Native plants can also support local wildlife.

7. Upcycled and Secondhand Furniture

Antique and Thrifted Pieces: Vintage or secondhand furniture adds character and reduces waste. You can often find beautiful furniture that just needs a little love, whether it’s a fresh coat of paint or reupholstering.
DIY Projects: If you’re into crafting, you can repurpose old furniture or materials into something new and useful, such as turning an old door into a table.

8. Sustainable Flooring

Bamboo or Cork Flooring: These materials are renewable and environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional hardwood.
Recycled Materials: Consider using flooring made from recycled materials like rubber or glass tiles. These are durable, unique, and contribute to reducing landfill waste.

10. Water Conservation Features

Low-Flow Fixtures: Installing low-flow shower heads and faucets can help conserve water, especially in a lake house environment where water quality is important.
Rainwater Harvesting: Consider adding a rainwater collection system for outdoor watering or landscape irrigation.

By focusing on sustainable materials, energy efficiency, and local sourcing, you can create a space that reflects your values while also respecting the natural beauty around you.

Is white washing wood paneling in a lake house a good idea?

Whitewashing wood paneling in a lake house can be a great idea depending on the look you’re going for and the ambiance you want to create. It can be a true makeover and breathe a whole new life into a home. It can also brighten up the space, giving it a fresh, airy, and coastal vibe that works well with natural surroundings. Here are some things to consider:

Pros of Whitewashing:

Brightens the Space: If the wood paneling feels dark or heavy, whitewashing can lighten it up, especially in smaller or darker rooms. A white wash in a living room for example can give it a bright and airy feel.
Beachy or Coastal Look: It gives a laid-back, beach house feel, which works wonderfully for lake houses. If your lake house is in more a wooded area, you might want to skip the white wash and keep the log cabin look.
Natural Wood Grain Visible: Whitewashing typically lets some of the natural wood grain show through, adding texture and warmth without being overwhelming.
Easy to Maintain: Light-colored finishes can often be easier to clean and touch up compared to darker wood finishes.

Cons of Whitewashing:

Can Be High Maintenance: Depending on the type of wood, whitewashing may show stains or dirt more easily, so you might need to do more regular cleaning.
Not for Every Style: If you’re aiming for a more rustic or traditional wood cabin look, whitewashing may not suit that aesthetic.
Requires Preparation: The wood needs to be clean and properly prepared (sanded or prepped) before applying the whitewash to avoid uneven coloring or peeling.

Tips:

If the wood is very dark, a full whitewash might make it look too stark. Consider lightening it first with a wash of diluted paint to see how it balances with the natural light in the room.
Make sure to choose a high-quality whitewash product (or mix your own with paint and water) that is suitable for wood.

If you love light, airy, and coastal designs, whitewashing could be the perfect way to go.

Which decor ideas work best for small lake cabins?

When decorating a small lake cabin, the goal is to maximize space while keeping the charm of the natural setting. Your weekend getaway spot doesn’t have to be massive to be luxurious. Here are some home decor ideas that work especially well for small lake cabins:

1. Embrace Natural Materials

Wood and Stone: Incorporate natural wood (pine, cedar, etc.) for walls, floors, and furniture. Pair this with stone accents, like a fireplace or exposed stone walls, to bring the outdoors in.
Rough-hewn furniture: Choose rustic, handcrafted furniture made from reclaimed wood or metal, which adds character and complements the natural surroundings.

2. Light and Airy Colors

Soft Neutrals: Use light colors like whites, creams, and soft grays to make the space feel larger and more open. Accents in blues, greens, and sandy neutrals will help evoke the lake and nature. The color scheme will make a huge impact on the feel, so choose a color palette that compliments the materials in the rest of your home.
Pops of Color: Add in small touches of color inspired by the lake (teals, aquas) and nature (forest greens, muted browns).

3. Maximize Small Spaces

Multifunctional Furniture: Use furniture pieces that can serve multiple purposes, like ottomans that double as storage, or beds with built-in drawers. Foldable or stackable seating is also a great way to save space.
Floating Shelves: Install floating shelves to display personal items or store essentials without taking up floor space.
Built-in Storage: Utilize built-in shelving, cabinets, or even benches that can offer storage without being bulky.

4. Use Textures

Soft Fabrics: Layer cozy textures like wool throws, knitted blankets, and linen or cotton pillows to make the space feel inviting and warm. A soft rug underfoot can add warmth and style.
Natural Rugs: Choose rugs made from natural fibers like jute, sisal, or cotton to bring texture into the space while being functional and easy to clean.

5. Incorporate the Outdoors

Large Windows: If possible, prioritize large windows to capture views of the lake and surrounding nature. Use simple window treatments like linen or cotton curtains to keep it light and breezy.
Indoor Plants: Bring nature inside with a selection of indoor plants, which add life, color, and a touch of greenery to complement the outdoor environment. Plans will always enhance a living space!

6. Lake-Inspired Accents

Nautical or Rustic Decor: Add home decor that evokes the lake, like oar or boat-themed accents, woven baskets, or driftwood art. You could add some fun decor to the front door, like an anchor or vintage fish carving.
Antique or Vintage Finds: Search for old lake-related objects or vintage furniture, like old fishing rods, retro lanterns, or rustic signage. These items give the cabin character without overwhelming the space.

7. Cozy Lighting

Soft, Warm Lighting: A key piece of interior design is lighting; Incorporate warm, ambient lighting with string lights, lantern-style lights, or sconces to create a relaxed, cozy atmosphere. Using dimmable lights allows for adjusting the mood based on the time of day or need.
Fireplace: If possible, a wood-burning or gas fireplace adds warmth and a perfect focal point for the space.

8. Personal Touches

Local Artwork: Decorate with local art that captures the essence of the lake and surrounding area. This could include paintings of water scenes or photographs of local wildlife.
Family Heirlooms: If you have family heirlooms, display them in a way that integrates with the natural, rustic feel. It makes the space feel homey and personal.

9. Outdoor Living

Deck or Porch: If your cabin has a porch or deck, make it an extension of the indoor space with comfortable seating, outdoor rugs, and lighting. You could even add a hammock or swing chair for relaxation.
Outdoor Fire Pit: Consider setting up an outdoor fire pit with seating around it, ideal for evenings by the lake.

These ideas aim to create a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that makes the most of the natural beauty around the cabin while also ensuring functionality and comfort for everyday use.

What are some popular themes for lake house decor?

When it comes to lake house décor, the theme you choose can really help set the tone for the space and enhance the natural beauty around you. Here are some popular themes for lake house décor that are both stylish and functional:

1. Coastal/Beachy

Color Palette: Think soft blues, whites, sandy neutrals, and ocean greens for your paint colors.
Vibe: Light, airy, and relaxed. The goal is to create a serene, breezy space that feels like an extension of the lake or ocean outside your door. A sunroom in the house will help achieve this vibe!
Key Elements: Driftwood furniture, woven wicker chairs, light linen curtains, sea glass, nautical accents like ropes, and glass lanterns. Natural fibers like sisal and jute work well for rugs, and you can incorporate starfish or seashell motifs.
Perfect for: People who love the laid-back, carefree beach life and want to bring that atmosphere to their lake house.
Image via Chicnesthaven

2. Rustic/Log Cabin

Color Palette: Think rich browns, deep greens, and earthy tones with accents of red, mustard, or black for your paint colors.
Vibe: Cozy, warm, and inviting, with a bit of a traditional cabin or lodge feel.
Key Elements: Exposed wooden beams, log furniture, plaid patterns, leather accents, stone fireplaces, and antler chandeliers. Throw blankets and plaid pillows add comfort, and you might incorporate taxidermy or other woodland-inspired décor.
Perfect for: Those who want a traditional, woodsy feel, with lots of warmth and a rustic charm.

3. Modern Lakeside

Color Palette: Neutral tones, whites, soft greys, and pops of blue or green to complement the lake outside.
Vibe: Sleek, minimalist, and chic. Modern lake houses often have clean lines, big windows that focus on the view, and sophisticated finishes.
Key Elements: Glass or metal light fixtures, streamlined furniture, abstract art, and high-end materials like marble or polished concrete. Incorporating natural materials like wood and stone in a more contemporary style (think smooth finishes and geometric shapes) helps tie it to the outdoors.
Perfect for: People who enjoy a more polished, modern aesthetic while still keeping a connection to nature.

4. Cottage/Charming Vintage

Color Palette: Soft pastels, whites, pale blues, and floral patterns.
Vibe: Cozy, quaint, and homey, like an old-fashioned lakeside retreat.
Key Elements: Wicker or painted wood furniture, floral or gingham fabrics, vintage signage, antique décor, and lots of personal touches. You might also have mismatched furniture or colorful throw pillows for an eclectic feel.
Perfect for: Those who enjoy a more nostalgic, whimsical aesthetic with a lot of warmth and charm.

5. Industrial Lakeside

Color Palette: Greys, blacks, and natural wood tones with metallic accents.
Vibe: A blend of urban and outdoor elements, this theme uses industrial design principles like exposed metal, concrete, and wood but adapts them to a lakeside setting.
Key Elements: Raw metal furniture, exposed brick, large windows, factory-style lighting, and minimalist décor. You can pair these with cozy elements like leather or wool throws to soften the hard edges.
Perfect for: Those who like a more contemporary, rugged look with an industrial twist.

6. Farmhouse/Lakehouse

Color Palette: Neutral tones, whites, blacks, and natural wood.
Vibe: This theme combines the rustic warmth of a farmhouse with the relaxation of a lakeside retreat.
Key Elements: Shiplap walls, vintage-style furniture, open shelving, barn doors, galvanized metal, and farmhouse sinks. Accessories like mason jars, enamelware, and rustic light fixtures are common.
Perfect for: Those who love the rustic charm of farmhouse décor but want to bring in a more relaxed lakeside element.

7. Scandinavian/Modern Nordic

lake house decor ideas — Image via Pinterest

Color Palette: Light wood tones, whites, blacks, and shades of grey.
Vibe: Simple, clean, and functional, with a focus on comfort and minimalism.
Key Elements: Light-colored wood furniture, simple lines, natural textures like wool, linen, and cotton, and a mix of cozy textiles (blankets and rugs) for a sense of warmth. Incorporating greenery, like potted plants, is key.
Perfect for: Those who want a minimalistic yet cozy, nature-inspired look with a modern touch.

8. Boho Lakeside

Color Palette: Earthy tones, terracotta, deep reds, oranges, greens, and gold.
Vibe: Relaxed, eclectic, and free-spirited, combining nature with artistic expression.
Key Elements: Layered rugs, macramé wall hangings, ethnic textiles, vintage furniture, and lots of plants. Incorporating natural materials like wicker, wood, and leather gives it a laid-back, boho vibe.
Perfect for: Those who enjoy a more carefree, bohemian aesthetic and want to make the most of natural textures and vibrant colors.

9. Nature-Inspired/Organic

Color Palette: Greens, browns, beiges, and soft whites—anything that mimics the colors of the surrounding natural landscape.
Vibe: Earthy, grounded, and connected to nature. This theme emphasizes bringing the outside in and using materials that reflect the natural world.
Key Elements: Organic shapes, natural wood and stone furniture, live-edge wood tables, woven baskets, and earthy textiles like hemp and wool. Artwork or décor inspired by local wildlife or plants can help emphasize this connection to nature.
Perfect for: Those who want to create a space that feels like a peaceful retreat and celebrates the natural beauty of the environment.

10. Transitional

Color Palette: Neutrals, blues, greens, and light browns.
Vibe: A blend of traditional and contemporary styles, with the focus on comfort and functionality. The idea is to create a timeless space that works well with the surroundings but feels fresh and modern.
Key Elements: Clean lines mixed with more traditional touches, neutral fabrics with pops of color, and natural materials like wood and stone. This style can incorporate both vintage and modern pieces seamlessly.
Perfect for: Those who want a more balanced approach that isn’t too traditional or modern but feels comfortable and inviting..
Image via Robin Gannon Interiors

What are some modern decor ideas for a lake house?

If you’re aiming for a modern décor style in your lake house, you can create a fresh, sleek, and welcoming atmosphere that still complements the natural beauty of the water and landscape around you. Modern design focuses on clean lines, minimalism, and the use of natural materials. Here are some modern decorating tips and ideas for your lake house:

1. Open, Airy Layout

Maximize Natural Light: Modern lake house design often embraces large windows or sliding glass doors to let in as much natural light as possible and to showcase the lake view. Consider open shelving and furniture arrangements that maintain the flow of space. Natural light in an entryway can make a big impact, so consider using a front door with glass to allow for natural light to flow in.
Open Floor Plan: An open-plan layout combines the kitchen, dining room, and living spaces, allowing for easy movement and a sense of flow. This is especially great for lake houses because it creates a light, airy environment that connects indoors with the outdoors.

2. Neutral Color Palette

Soft Neutrals and Whites: Modern lake house décor often uses whites, light grays, taupes, and beige as the base colors, creating a soothing, calming environment. These neutral tones mimic the natural surroundings and make the space feel expansive and clean.
Accent Colors: Use bold, deep accents like navy blue, charcoal, or forest green in moderation (through pillows, rugs, or art) to add interest and connect with the natural surroundings without overwhelming the space.

3. Natural and Sustainable Materials

Wood and Stone: Incorporate clean lines with natural materials such as reclaimed wood, stone, and concrete. These elements create warmth and texture while maintaining a modern aesthetic. You can use wood for flooring, accent walls, or furniture, and stone for fireplaces or countertops.
Metal Accents: Modern lake houses often have metal accents, such as steel or brass in light fixtures, furniture legs, and decor, providing a contrast to the natural materials while still keeping things sleek and contemporary.

4. Minimalistic Furniture

Simple and Functional: Modern furniture is typically sleek and functional with clean, straight lines. Think low-profile sofas with simple silhouettes, minimalist chairs, and geometric tables. Avoid heavy, overly ornate pieces in favor of furniture that promotes easy flow and openness.
Natural and Neutral Fabrics: Opt for neutral-toned fabrics such as linen, cotton, and wool for upholstery, creating a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere. Leather furniture pieces also add an elegant, modern touch while maintaining a natural feel.

5. Statement Lighting

Pendant Lights and Chandeliers: Install striking pendant lights or modern chandeliers to add a touch of sophistication. Consider geometric designs or fixtures with clean lines, in materials like metal, glass, or concrete. I love these pendants that definitely give a lake house vibe:

lake house pendant — Rattan Lighting Pendant

Floor Lamps: Modern floor lamps with a sculptural or minimalist design can add both style and functionality to the living areas without taking up too much space.

6. Open Shelving and Floating Elements

Floating Shelves: Use floating shelves made from wood or metal for a minimalist, modern vibe. These shelves can hold books, plants, or decor items and give the space an airy and uncluttered look.
Integrated Storage: Opt for built-in storage solutions to minimize clutter and maintain clean lines. Modern design favors hidden storage or sleek cabinets to keep things tidy while preserving the open, spacious feel.
Image via Pinterest

7. Art and Decor with Purpose

Abstract Art: Modern décor often incorporates bold, abstract art with minimalist or geometric designs. Choose pieces that reflect natural landscapes or subtle textures to bring in a connection to the outdoors.
Large-Scale Art: Consider one large, statement piece of art or a striking photograph of the lake or surrounding nature. This could be a black-and-white photo of the lake, a colorful abstract painting, or a piece of modern sculpture.

Sculptural Accents: Modern décor loves clean and simple sculptures or unique art objects. You can place them on coffee tables or mantels for a touch of interest.

8. Outdoor Living Spaces

Seamless Indoor/Outdoor Flow: Create outdoor living spaces that feel like an extension of your interior. Think about a modern deck with minimal furniture, comfy lounge seating, and stylish fire pits or fireplaces that align with the style of your indoor space.
Glass Railings: Consider using glass railings for decks or patios to keep the views unobstructed, enhancing the modern, airy aesthetic while allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the lake without distractions.

9. Textural Contrast

Layered Textures: In modern design, texture is key. Mix and match different textures—such as a soft wool rug on a concrete floor, linen cushions on a leather couch, or a woven throw on a minimalist chair. Textures can help soften the modern aesthetic and keep the space from feeling too stark or cold.

Natural Fiber Rugs: A large, neutral-toned jute or sisal rug can anchor the space while maintaining a modern, laid-back vibe. If you want to add color, opt for abstract or geometric-patterned rugs in muted tones.

10. Smart Home Technology

Integrate Smart Devices: Modern lake houses can embrace technology seamlessly, with smart thermostats, lighting systems, and sound systems that can be controlled through apps or voice commands. Incorporating technology into your home can help keep the design streamlined while offering convenience.

11. Greenery and Plants

Large Plants: Use large, statement indoor plants like fiddle-leaf figs or palm trees to add life and greenery to the space. These plants work well in modern settings and bring the outdoor elements inside.
Minimal Planters: Opt for sleek, modern planters in concrete, metal, or ceramic to add to the contemporary feel. Avoid overly decorative pots and go for a more minimalist style.

12. Fireplace Feature

Modern Fireplaces: A contemporary, linear fireplace can serve as a sleek focal point in the living room. Opt for a wall-mounted gas or electric fireplace with a clean design to keep things modern and low-maintenance.

Having the Outdoors in Your Living Room

So, if you have a lake house, the chances are that you will spend the summer there exploring the outside world. Therefore, why not bring the outdoor elements inside the dining room or entryway as well?

You can do this by incorporating wood in the lake house living room or any other room. Having a wooden mantle or fireplace can liven the living space. It can also look unique. You can also choose to have a headboard made up of wood in your guest bedrooms or any room.

One important interior design item

One home design idea that you should not forget is having a large window or sliding pocket doors in your lake cottage or house.

A lake house is usually built near somewhere with great scenery, and that should be the main focus. So you should play up the view by having an ample outdoor viewing space incorporated into the lake house design to see the lake views or any other beautiful view.

Don’t forget the furniture

The furniture should not only fit the theme of your lake house but also be easy to organize. Buying furniture that is practical and can store all your belongings easily should be a priority.

Have beautiful boxes in the guest room and in your room. The outdoor spaces should also be equipped with storage space to keep things. The furniture should be light in color or should incorporate wood tones.

Moreover, the furniture should also be durable like the sofas, which should be able to handle wet clothes. The side table should be able to hold all your necessary belongings as well.

Let the light in

The lake house should have plenty of light since this is the whole purpose of summer. The lake decor won’t matter if the house is too dark and cramped.

There should be open windows in every room and a simple color palette which will make the room even lighter. Have minimal window treatments, especially in the living and master bedrooms, which are the most noticed and visible rooms. You want your lakehouse decor ideas to shine.

Have enough space for sitting

If you are going to a lake house for a holiday with the whole family, you need to make sure everyone can sit. The living room should have furniture that can also double as extra seating.

You should also make sure that the dining area has a large enough dining table for the whole family to sit on. This will be especially useful during Christmas time. Furthermore, with the right choices of Christmas decorations, the house can be used all year round.

Making use of the wall during the home decor

Even when confused with the furniture and accessories in your lake house, you can never go wrong with wall art.

Many wall decor ideas could make your whole house stand out. You can DIY some paintings or pictures and hang them on the wall. You can even have a modern farmhouse feel by incorporating lots of wall art and photographs.

Making the bathroom standout

Although, you should make sure that the whole house is painted in light colors. However, you can make the bathroom pop with bright colors.

Having a summer theme, you can make the bathroom sea green or blues instead of white or beige like the rest of the house. Also, incorporate glass and mirrors in the bathroom to make it appear larger.

Mix and match the decorations

Just because you have to follow a theme for painting the walls doesn’t mean that you can’t mix and match the furniture and decorations.

Mixing and matching will make the lake house have a more farmhouse feel which is also great. There are many decor ideas that will make use of various types of furniture. Not to mention, it will make the house feel more homely. You can even bring your favorite pieces to decorate the house this way.

Connect the indoor and outdoor space

To make it look coherent, you should seamlessly make the outdoor space match the indoor space. You can do this by matching the wall paint, floor paint, or just simply furniture items.

Have steps are leading into the outdoor space. If the indoor space like the living space is not that huge, doing this will make it appear larger and airier as well. Having doors or curtains separating the outdoor and indoor space will also make it look more cohesive.