Originally Published on March 7, 2020. Last Updated on September 19, 2023.

You’ve been dreaming of owning a lake house, fishing from the pier, watching sunsets, and making life-long memories with your family. Now that you finally have a lake house of your own, it’s time to embark another adventure—styling your new place. Whether you plan to host weekend getaways or month-long retreats, with these tips and the right outdoor furniture, we’ll help you transform your lake house into a lake home.

1. Step-Up Your Porch Appeal with Alternative Seating

The entrance to your lake home sets the tone for your weekend getaway. Because porches usually have limited space, look for alternative seating options. A rocking chair set and a charming porch swing will have you in relaxation mode the moment you arrive.  

2. Focus on the View

The waterfront is the focal point of any lake house. Keep windows and sliding doors free of draperies to let nature’s awe-inspiring beauty speak for itself. Sliding pocket doors or industrial glass-panel garage doors allow you to enjoy uninterrupted views of the horizons from the comfort of your living room.

3. Draw Inspiration from Nature

Pay homage to the great outdoors by incorporating natural elements and earth tones throughout the decor. Whether your style is farmhouse chic or Cape Cod casual, there are endless ways to reflect the spirit of the lakeside throughout your home. 

Play with a Variety of Textures & Earth Tones

An array of textured textiles in earth-tone hues is a fantastic option for lake house decor, such as an upholstered sofa, sherpa throw, and woven pouf. This combination of different textures in a similar color palette will add depth and variety to harmonize your lake house. 

Use Cool Shades of Blue Inspired by the Water

If you’re craving a pop of color, dreamy hues of aqua and nautically navy tones are the way to go. Make a splash in your sitting room with a few deep blue pillows on the sofa or a navy-striped accent chair.

Find Simple Ways to Tie Natural Elements into Your Decor

Stone, greenery, and exposed wood can seamlessly be integrated into any space. Implement lush strands of eucalyptus garland, a tabletop herb garden, or a wooden display tray topped with glowing candles and a few grey pebbles to enhance the earthy vibe of your place.  

4. Add a Personal Touch

Your lake house is where your family will create some of their fondest memories. Capture those sentimental moments and put them on display. Combine decorative maritime knots, ornamental anchors, as well as photos of your family swimming, sailing, and fishing to create a picture-perfect gallery wall in your summer home.

5. Layer White on White

Create a look that will stand the test of time by mixing layers of white, ivory, and champagne while the ample windows do all the work for you! This casually elegant look will open your space, amplify the natural lighting, and create a light and breezy ambiance. Layer ivory linen curtains against an eggshell-colored shiplap wall to soften the room and watch the natural light bounce across the room. The sparkling blue water and lush greenery peeking through the windows will provide a stunning contrast against the simple color palette. 

6. Choose the Right Outdoor Furniture for Your Deck 

Nestled beneath the shade of mighty oak trees and facing the glistening water, your outdoor deck serves as the social center of your lake house. Because you’ll be spending endless hours soaking up the sun, cooking out, and watching the kiddos splash on the shore, you’ll want to make sure you choose the right material for your outdoor space. Look for durable outdoor furniture that can withstand wet bathing suits, barbecue sauce stains, and muddy paw prints as well as sporadic rain showers.

Sturdy HDPE lumber is ideal for lake house decks because it resembles natural wood. It’s also strong enough to withstand offshore winds and seasonal weather conditions. Generally, furniture made with HDPE lumber requires little to no maintenance because it is fade-resistant, water-repellent, and easy to clean. 

7. Create Cozy Conversation Area Under the Stars

Spend summer nights enjoying the company of your loved ones from the comfort of an intimate conversation area. Place an Adirondack set on your deck and exchange stories across the coffee table while the crackling hearth and singing crickets hum in the background. 

However, if you plan on hosting the entire family at your lake house, a larger seating area may be more appropriate. Arrange a pair of outdoor sofas topped with plush cushions and pillows to provide optimal comfort as you chat with your cousins all night long. You and your family will never forget about the special memories shared in this open-air haven.

8. Invest in a Fire Pit Table

Making s’mores around a bonfire is a must for any lakeside getaway. However, it can be difficult to ignite a campfire because the soil and tender near the lake tend to be wet. With a fire pit table, you can light up a bonfire any time you want and adjust the flame to the perfect height for roasting marshmallows or warming your hands. Not only is this addition undeniably stylish, but it will also help you avoid unsightly scorched grass on your lawn.

When you’re living life on the lake, it’s best to keep your decor simple and let the stunning scenery do the work for you. After you’ve styled the deck, get ready to entertain in your new lake house by hosting summer barbecues, family reunions, and waterfront cocktail parties. 

Read more about how to furnish and style your lake house!