Top 5 Things You Need at Your Lake House

Essentials to Make Your Summer a Blast

Over the last 5 years, I have become a lake person. It isn’t overly surprising as I’ve always loved being outside and in water. The surprise happened when I discovered a passion for being a part of the designing and decorating process of a lake home. A place where family, fun and memories are created. Today, I’m happy to share designer secrets for making a lake home comfortable for you, your family and your guests.

1. Flowers

​We know that nature is good for the soul. Afterall, going to the lake is seen as “restful” and “relaxing”. However, as an Indiana native who spends summers at the lake, I find that flowers are missing from lake cottages. I assume lake owners don’t want the burden of gardening while they’re at the lake, or the worry of not being able to water flowers when they’re not there. However, even just a few flower pots brimming with flowers will add color, fun and life to an outdoor space. Adding easy flowers like Dipladenia that only need to be watered once a week and bloom all summer is a great solution! Whoever looks at a lake cottage with vibrant, lively flowers and says, “Eh, those don’t make me happy”? 

2. Reading Nook, Corner, Away Room

​Most of the time, being at the lake means you’re in company. Unless you are extremely extroverted, you or some your family members may find this taxing and need some time and space to yourself. I know, I know, not everyone reads. Fine, call it a “recharging nook” or “reset corner”. Call it something fun so your kids don’t mind going there when they’re worn out by the sun and water and are less than agreeable. Whatever you call it, creating a space where people can get away and recharge based off their needs is essential in a location where there are many guests.
 
Depending on your space constraints you may only have space for a reading corner consisting of a comfy chair, a soft rug and a reading light. Or you may have a unique space that can be used as a reading nook. Or if you have even more space, you may be able to create an “away room”. I’m not 100% sure this is a real thing. The contractor on this project used this term for this space and I just went with it because I like the idea of it. A place to get away! Can you tell I’m an introvert? 

3. Entertaining Space 

​Whether you enjoy putting on a big party, or putting on intimate get togethers, having a space specifically for entertaining is important - even if it’s just for your family. While your physical lot may restrict how many people are able to attend any of your get togethers, the actual size of the space doesn’t mean you can’t create something special that meets your hosting needs. With some imagination and creativity even tiny spaces can become charming. Add a table, chairs, umbrella for shade, a cool drink and a summer snack and you’re ready to go!

4. Hobby Zones

​Hobbies are great. They give us something to learn and provide an outlet for our energy and attention. Fishing, swimming, kayaking, cooking, baking, gardening, making great coffee, photography, etc. The only negative side of hobbies is all the supplies that go with them. Why not take into account the hobbies that your family enjoys and create specific zones for those activities? By embracing hobby supplies, they will create interesting visuals that will add to your space and share your family’s life story with visitors. 

5. Eze Breeze Porch 

Who doesn’t love battling mosquitoes or swatting at the swarm of gnats that have taken up residence in your face as you’re trying to enjoy a beautiful day or a breathtaking sunset? Not you? Oh. It’s an unfortunate truth, but water = bugs.
 
Eze Breeze is a system of 4 vents that can be moved up or down with a full screen exposure on the outside. It gives the space a screened in porch feel that protects from bugs and provides a cozy interior. The vents can be closed to provide a closed in space that is protected against wet and/or cold conditions. This creates a cozy 3 season room and is often warm enough during all seasons for enjoyment.
 
The addition of Eze Breeze in this lake home added open livable space, almost doubling the size of the main floor.

In Summary

Whether you find little or large ways to add charm and comfort to your lake home, one thing is certain: summer has finally arrived. Go play!