As the clock strikes Friday afternoon, the thought of shedding the weight of a stressful workweek can be incredibly alluring. And what better way to indulge in some much-needed R&R than by retreating to a peaceful lake house? Surrounded by nature’s tranquility and seclusion, this serene setting offers the perfect antidote to the chaos of daily life, providing an idyllic escape from the grind of the office.
18 Ways to Create the Perfect Backdrop in Your Laid Back Lake House
As you prepare for a serene getaway to your lake house, consider infusing the space with design elements that evoke a sense of warmth and nautical charm. Earthy tones from reclaimed wood and natural hues can create a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of nature’s rustic beauty. Alternatively, opt for bright whites to channel the coastal cottage vibe.
The possibilities are limitless, as you can repurpose items like oars into decorative accents or transform reclaimed wood into unique signs that add character to your relaxation oasis. With an array of creative options at your disposal, why not start with these 18 inspiring lake house decor ideas below?
Reclaimed Earthy Warm Brown Wooden Mantle
Transport yourself to the serenity of nature’s beauty by bringing a stunning reclaimed wooden mantle into your lake house design. This majestic piece, characterized by its natural imperfections, such as cracks and knots, adds an undeniable touch of character to the existing fireplace.
Amidst a crisp white interior space, the warm brown tones of this large hunk of wood evoke a sense of coziness and ambiance, making it an ideal way to infuse warmth into your living space even on days when the fire isn’t burning.
Traditional White Fireplace Hearth with Crown Molding
Envisioning a classic lakeside retreat? This pristine white fireplace hearth embodies timeless charm, serving as a welcoming hub where families can gather to warm up after an invigorating evening outdoors. Imagine the snowflakes gently falling onto the frozen lake during a winter getaway, or the feeling of returning from a long day of fishing and being enveloped by the cozy warmth of the fire.
This traditional hearth perfectly balances function and style, making it the perfect addition to your lakeside haven.
Distressed Edges White Treasure Chest No. 74 with Knotted Handle
In a lake house setting, storage is crucial to maintain an organized and harmonious space. To achieve this, consider incorporating a unique rectangular trunk that combines function with whimsy. The distressed white finish adds a touch of rustic charm, while the subtle incorporation of the number 74 at the bottom corner provides a personal touch. A sea knot serves as the handle, seamlessly integrating into the lake house style.
This treasure chest is perfect for storing extra blankets or bedding, allowing you to get creative with your organizational needs. With endless possibilities, this piece can help you incorporate functional elements into your decorating scheme.
White Farmhouse Dining Table with Bench Seating
Elevate your lake house experience with a warm and inviting atmosphere! This rustic farmhouse table is the perfect spot for sharing meals with loved ones. Crafted from reclaimed wood, this straightforward piece of furniture requires minimal design fuss, making it an ideal DIY project for a weekend getaway. With its distressed finish in white patina, the traditional dining table exudes a cozy charm that’s sure to become the heart of your lake house gathering space.
Sea Blue Glass Subway Tile for Lake House Bathroom
Envision a subway tile design that wraps around your bathroom, transforming it into a serene coastal retreat. The sea blue hue, reminiscent of a calm ocean breeze, pairs perfectly with hints of green, evoking the freshness and tranquility of water’s essence. This stunning glass tilework fills every available space, from the shower to behind the sink, creating a seamless and inviting atmosphere that welcomes all who enter.
White to Blue Fish Trio on Wood Planks with Black Frame
Transform an old wooden planks into a unique backdrop for your lake house sign by carefully piecing them together. To add visual drama, paint the wooden frame in bold black strokes. The trio of fish, painted in a gradient of white, light turquoise, and blue, creates a striking vertical composition that draws the eye. By repurposing discarded flooring or decking materials, you can create a functional piece of art that updates your lake house decor while minimizing waste.
Easy Repurposed Water Skis as Stair Case Spindles
One innovative way to breathe new life into old water skis is by repurposing them as unique stair spindles in your lake home. This creative solution kills two birds with one stone, adding both charm and character to your existing space. The rustic, worn look of the skis will be a conversation starter, especially when paired with buoys on ropes for an added touch of whimsy.
To ensure a secure and safe installation, take your time to carefully measure and arrange the skis before securing them with the proper screws. As you wander up and down the stairs, the added interest of these repurposed ski pieces will provide a delightful surprise for both kids and adults alike.
Beach House White Washed Trunk
Transforming an old beach house trunk into a treasure chest is a fantastic way to add some extra storage and decorative flair to your summer lake house. To get started, head to your local flea market or thrift store to find the perfect-sized trunk that fits your needs. Once you’ve found the right one, gather some supplies, including white wash paint, to give it a fresh new look.
A couple of coats will work wonders in transforming the worn-out and weathered trunk into a beautiful decor piece that’s sure to be the envy of all your friends. To take it to the next level, consider adding a fun embellishment like a sea star to give it some extra character. Whether you decide to place your new treasure chest on your deck or inside your home, this easy DIY project will not only provide an additional storage solution but also keep with your lake house theme and stay on-trend.
Thick White Sea Rope Stair Rail
Leave behind traditional stair rail designs and venture into uncharted territory by incorporating an unconventional stair railing system into your existing staircase. The foundation of this innovative design rests on silver rings mounted on the wall, providing a unique canvas for showcasing thick, white sea rope as it elegantly winds its way down the staircase wall. As the rope reaches the bottom, it will naturally curl up, creating a visually appealing focal point in the room.
To elevate the functionality of this design, opt for a sturdy, weighted rope that can support the added weight. Furthermore, ensure that your silver rings are robust enough to withstand the rope’s heft. This unique approach effortlessly infuses a charming nautical flair into your home without succumbing to clichés.
Hanging Tear Drop Tan Wicker Chair
Imagine transforming your outdoor space into the ultimate relaxation zone, where you can unwind and let your spirit soar. Serena & Lily’s whimsical hanging chair is just the thing to create a fun and free-spirited hangout spot. Shaped like a teardrop or egg, this wicker masterpiece features plush cushioning for ultimate comfort, making it perfect for lounging in style while taking in the breathtaking views around you.
Whether you’re chillin’ on your lake house deck, cozied up in a snug nook indoors, or simply enjoying some quality time with loved ones, this retro-chic hanging chair is sure to become the focal point of your space.
Reclaimed Wood Family Lake House Sign
Bring a touch of coastal charm into your home with this unique wooden sign, carefully crafted to reflect your family’s special story. The sign features the family name, wedding date, and the name of your favorite getaway spot, making it a truly personal and meaningful piece. While each sign is one-of-a-kind due to its customized nature, the underlying message remains constant – a celebration of family, memories, and the joy of sharing them with loved ones.
The rustic brown tones of the wood provide a cozy backdrop for the serene Adirondack chair, nestled between the blue ocean and tan sand. Hang this stunning piece of living room wall art behind your couch or above your hearth to give it the prominence it deserves.
Vinyl Graphic Oars and “On Lake Time” Wall Decals
Crafted in a rich, earthy tone, the vinyl oars and phrase of this graphic art form a harmonious union that effortlessly complements any lake house décor. Drawing inspiration from one of the most essential small boat accessories, these oars elevate a simple phrase to new heights, transforming it into a stunning visual statement. The juxtaposition of one oar on top and the other at the bottom frames the phrase ‘On Lake Time’ in a unique and captivating way, adding an inviting touch to any room.
Imagine welcoming guests as they enter your home, surrounded by the warmth and charm of this lakeside-inspired art piece. For added visual interest, consider pairing it with an actual working clock to create a stunning gallery wall along the hallway of your home.
This Way to the Lake Distressed and Full of Character Sign
For those moments when life’s path becomes unclear, an oversized sign can serve as a guiding beacon. One such example is an eye-catching directional sign that boldly points the way to the lake with an arrow and the word ‘LAKE’ emblazoned in capital letters. The unique finish of this distressed white and brown sign adds loads of character, with black lettering standing out against the rustic backdrop.
Whether you hang it on your porch or in the kitchen, this charming piece is a lovely addition to any lake-themed decor.
Gray Lakin It Easy Lake Home Decor Sign
Combine modern and classic elements with this unique ‘Lakin’ It Easy’ sign, featuring a gray background that subtly supports crisp white lettering displaying the year of establishment. This blend of fun and flair adds a laid-back vibe to any lake home, making it perfect for placement in a hallway or focal wall area. As a thoughtful gift option, it’s ideal for retirees who’ll spend their golden years by the lake or newlyweds who cherish their time on the water.
Fun and Feisty Lake House Rules Wall Art Sign
As you step into the serene atmosphere of your lake house, let this charming sign set the tone for a peaceful retreat. Its understated design serves as a gentle reminder to start each day with a smile and prioritize relaxation. Don’t be afraid to indulge in afternoon naps or take a leisurely boat ride across the lake. As you unwind, remember to cherish every moment of your life.
The present is indeed a gift, and this sign’s soothing color palette – think soft grays and blues – adds a touch of calm to your lakehouse decor. Consider hanging it near the back door or inside the bathroom so its thoughtful message can be enjoyed by all.
Metal Sailboat Plant Shelf and Beautiful Black Oars Lake House Decor
Transform your living space with a touch of natural charm by bringing this sailboat plant shelf indoors! This delightful piece combines the serenity of plants, the elegance of black oars, and the whimsy of a miniature sailboat to create a unique decorative statement. Whether you choose to integrate it into an existing gallery wall or place it alongside your kitchen’s culinary creations, this lake house-inspired decor is sure to feel right at home wherever you decide to display it.
Popular Water Destination Wood and Rope Sign
A charming wooden sign, suspended by crisp white nautical rope, showcases a curated list of popular water destinations and their corresponding directions. The result is a delightful decorative piece that effortlessly blends with lake home aesthetics. Whether placed in the half bath or guest bedroom, this clever idea is sure to bring a smile to your guests’ faces. Ditch the outdated AAA map and instead opt for this rustic wooden sign, perfect for guiding visitors to their desired destinations.
Black Metal Collapsible Lobster Cage Repurposed Pendant Light Fixture
Transforming your lake house kitchen’s overhead space into a conversation-worthy haven is as easy as installing this one-of-a-kind pendant lighting fixture, which reimagines an ordinary lobster cage into an extraordinary piece of art. The black finish of this unique light ensures it seamlessly blends with any decorating style, making it a standout feature in the heart of your home. Its unconventional design earns it a top spot on the list of best lake house decorating ideas.
18 Easy DIY Decor Ideas that will Make Your Lake House Even More Charming
As we navigate our fast-paced lives, it’s essential to carve out a sanctuary where we can escape the chaos. While having a dedicated lake house is ideal, incorporating lake-inspired elements into your home decor can still transport you to a serene lakeside oasis. One way to achieve this is by embracing rustic charm through reclaimed wood accents, vintage trunks, and nautical ropes repurposed as sign hangers or stairway adornments.
Take it a step further by personalizing your space with custom vinyl letters featuring the name of your favorite water entity and family surname, serving as a constant reminder of cherished memories. By thoughtfully organizing your surroundings, you can create a peaceful retreat that’s equal parts functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Our Favorite Rustic Entryway Decorations to buy on Amazon
When it comes to designing a room, the key is often in the details. A small addition or subtle touch can make all the difference in creating a cohesive and inviting space. In this sense, the humble console table serves as more than just a practical storage solution – it’s a statement piece that sets the tone for the rest of the room. Similarly, wall art and table lamps provide an opportunity to introduce personality and style through thoughtfully curated pieces.
Meanwhile, signs, wreaths, windlights, arrows, windows, and baskets all offer unique ways to add texture, depth, and visual interest to a space.
