OUR TOP 4 LAKE HOUSE DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
It's almost time...to get back to the lake! The approach of Memorial Day and the start of summer has the lake house top of mind for those lucky ducks who have access to a summer getaway. This year we have two projects cooking that center around life at the lake - one will be ready for action this summer and the second is just breaking ground. Building, renovating and decorating at second home locations have different parameters, and our experience over the years has taught us a thing or two - here are some top considerations for life at the lake!
1. Consider the vibe. How do you want to feel at the lake? Is this a place to rest and recharge? Or, a place to reenergize with family and playtime? Perhaps some of both? Whether you want it to feel serene and peaceful or vibrant and fun will drive the direction for the color palette and design direction.
2. Prepare for guests. Will this home welcome family, friends, or renters? What can you weave into the home to anticipate all the people who will enjoy it? From the number of bathrooms to the number of towels - thinking through big and small details can make a big difference. Having easy access to serving pieces for a larger group, storage for the Costco runs, ample laundry space for towels, the list goes on - because you live and entertain differently in a vacation home, spending the extra time to anticipate this in your design is wise. How does dining happen at your lake home? Is it takeout pizzas on a large island for causal self service or is there camaraderie in the kitchen with everybody pitching in?
3. Evaluate functional spaces with lake life in mind. How is your day-to-day life at the lake different than your day-to-day life at home? A place to peacefully drink your coffee at home may be nice, but not all that practical given that you're likely taking your java to-go. But, at the lake, having that serene spot to soak in the sunrise with a cup of coffee is worth planning. Bedrooms at home may be used to study or play, but at the lake, is a bunk room to fit all the cousins more helpful? Can we talk about the outdoor shower? It's probably not on your wish list at your year round home, but at the lake it's a must for washing off sand and and giving an extra shower spot when everyone is coming up for dinner. If space allows, considering indoor and outdoor dining areas is nice - we hope for the sun all weekend but the reality is rain happens and having spaces that accommodate lake life when the weather is a bummer extends the usefulness of the house. Ditto for homes that get used year round - how does a weekend in January inform the living room layout for the winter months?
4. Give durable, livable, performance option priority - no one wants to worry about spills or stains at a vacation home. Is there a place someone can sit in a wet bathing suit for lunch (we love a good patio set for this!). What about a restroom where someone can easily pop in - even if they have sandy feet? Performance or indoor/ outdoor fabrics that are nice to have at home may be necessary at the lake and allow for a truly relaxed experience. Bedding and rugs that can be easily cleaned are important, along with thinking of storage for extra linens, towels and blankets when there are guests.
And of course - we hope it goes without saying - the lake house is meant to be enjoyed and NONE of your guests will expect perfection - they're just glad for the invite:)
To see a lake house condo renovation surprise, visit this JOURNAL POST.