Lake house decorating ideas for living rooms aim to create a cozy and inviting space that reflects the beauty and serenity of the surrounding lakefront. These decorating concepts focus on bringing the outdoors in, maximizing natural light, incorporating lake-inspired colors and patterns, and selecting comfortable and functional furniture.
A well-decorated lake house living room should provide a welcoming atmosphere for relaxation and enjoyment. Whether it’s a primary residence or a vacation retreat, designing a living room that captures the essence of lakeside living can transform it into a place of tranquility and rejuvenation.
In this article, we will explore various decorating ideas to enhance the beauty and functionality of your lake house living room. From choosing the right furniture and color schemes to incorporating lake-inspired accessories, we will provide practical tips and inspiration to create a living space that reflects your personal style and embraces the unique charm of your lakefront surroundings.
Creating a lake house living room that reflects the beauty of its surroundings requires careful attention to detail. Here are nine important points to consider:
- Embrace natural light
- Incorporate lake-inspired colors
- Choose comfortable furniture
- Add a touch of rustic charm
- Accessorize with lake-themed items
- Create a cozy reading nook
- Maximize storage space
- Consider a fireplace or wood stove
- Add a personal touch
By following these tips, you can create a lake house living room that is both stylish and functional, a space where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings.
Embrace natural light
Natural light is essential for creating a bright and airy living room, especially in a lake house surrounded by beautiful scenery. Maximizing natural light can also help to reduce energy consumption and create a more sustainable living space.
- Large windows and sliding glass doors:
Installing large windows and sliding glass doors is an excellent way to bring in natural light and create a seamless connection between the indoors and outdoors. Choose windows that offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding nature.
- Skylights:
Skylights are another great option for bringing natural light into your living room. They can be placed strategically to provide ample light even in areas that don’t have windows. Skylights can also help to reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day.
- Light-colored walls and furnishings:
Light-colored walls and furnishings reflect light and make a room feel brighter and more spacious. Choose neutral colors like white, beige, or light gray for your walls and curtains. For furniture, opt for pieces with light-colored upholstery or finishes.
- Avoid heavy drapes and curtains:
Heavy drapes and curtains can block natural light. Instead, choose sheer curtains or blinds that allow light to filter through. You can also use valances or cornices to add style and privacy without blocking the light.
By embracing natural light in your lake house living room, you can create a bright and inviting space that showcases the beauty of your surroundings and reduces your reliance on artificial lighting.
Incorporate lake-inspired colors
When choosing a color scheme for your lake house living room, draw inspiration from the natural beauty of the lake and its surroundings. Lake-inspired colors can create a sense of tranquility and serenity, while also reflecting the unique character of your lakeside home.
- Blues and greens:
Blues and greens are the most obvious choices for a lake house living room, as they reflect the colors of the water and the sky. These colors have a calming effect and can help to create a sense of peace and relaxation. For a classic lake house look, pair navy blue with white and beige. For a more modern aesthetic, opt for turquoise or teal with gray and brown.
- Neutrals:
Neutrals, such as white, beige, and gray, can provide a backdrop for more vibrant lake-inspired colors. They can also help to create a sense of spaciousness and airiness. Pair neutrals with pops of blue, green, or yellow to add color and personality to your living room.
- Earthy tones:
Earthy tones, such as brown, tan, and sage green, can bring a touch of rustic charm to your lake house living room. These colors are reminiscent of the natural elements found around lakes, such as trees, rocks, and soil. Earthy tones pair well with warm neutrals and pops of brighter colors.
- Accent colors:
Accent colors can be used to add a touch of personality and style to your lake house living room. Consider using bright shades of blue, green, or yellow to create a cheerful and inviting atmosphere. You can also use accent colors to highlight certain features of your living room, such as a fireplace or a built-in bookcase.
By incorporating lake-inspired colors into your living room, you can create a space that reflects the beauty of your surroundings and invites relaxation and enjoyment.
Choose comfortable furniture
Comfort is key when choosing furniture for your lake house living room. You want to create a space where you can relax and unwind after a long day on the water or exploring the surrounding nature. Consider the following points when selecting furniture for your lake house living room:
- Choose pieces that are both comfortable and stylish:
Look for furniture with soft cushions and supportive frames. Avoid pieces that are too hard or uncomfortable to sit on. Also, choose furniture that fits the overall style of your lake house. For example, if you have a rustic lake house, choose furniture made from natural materials like wood and leather. If you have a more modern lake house, choose furniture with clean lines and simple silhouettes.
- Consider the size of your living room:
Make sure to choose furniture that is appropriately sized for your living room. Oversized furniture can make a small living room feel even smaller. Conversely, small furniture can get lost in a large living room. Measure your living room carefully before you start shopping for furniture.
- Choose furniture that is easy to clean:
Lake houses are often used for entertaining and outdoor activities, which can lead to spills and stains. Choose furniture that is easy to clean and maintain. Look for fabrics that are stain-resistant and easy to vacuum. You may also want to consider slipcovers for your furniture, which can be easily removed and washed.
- Add personal touches:
Don’t forget to add personal touches to your lake house living room to make it feel like your own. This could include family photos, artwork, or souvenirs from your travels. You can also add throw pillows, blankets, and rugs to add color and personality to your living room.
By choosing comfortable and stylish furniture, you can create a lake house living room that is both inviting and functional. This will provide a space where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings.
Add a touch of rustic charm
Rustic charm is a popular design aesthetic for lake houses, as it captures the natural beauty and simplicity of lakeside living. To add a touch of rustic charm to your lake house living room, consider incorporating the following elements:
Natural materials: Use natural materials such as wood, stone, and leather to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Choose furniture made from solid wood with a natural finish. Avoid furniture made from synthetic materials like plastic or metal. You can also add stone accents to your fireplace or built-in shelves. Leather sofas and armchairs can also add a touch of rustic charm to your living room.
Simple lines and shapes: Rustic furniture typically features simple lines and shapes. Avoid furniture with ornate carvings or embellishments. Instead, opt for pieces with clean lines and a simple silhouette. This will create a sense of casual elegance that is perfect for a lake house living room.
Neutral colors: Neutral colors are a good choice for a rustic lake house living room. They will create a backdrop for your more vibrant accent pieces. Choose neutral colors like beige, gray, and brown for your walls, furniture, and curtains. You can then add pops of color with throw pillows, blankets, and artwork.
By adding a touch of rustic charm to your lake house living room, you can create a space that is both cozy and inviting. This will be a place where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings.
Accessorize with lake-themed items
Lake-themed accessories can add a touch of personality and style to your lake house living room. They can also help to create a cohesive look that reflects the beauty of your surroundings. Here are a few ideas for lake-themed accessories that you can incorporate into your living room:
- Framed lake photos:
Display framed photos of your favorite lake views in your living room. This is a great way to bring the beauty of the lake indoors and create a personal touch. You can choose photos that you have taken yourself or purchase prints from local artists.
- Lake-themed artwork:
Incorporate lake-themed artwork into your living room dcor. This could include paintings, prints, or sculptures that depict lakes, boats, or other lake-related scenes. You can find lake-themed artwork at local art galleries, online retailers, or even garage sales.
- Lake-inspired textiles:
Add lake-inspired textiles to your living room to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This could include throw pillows, blankets, rugs, or curtains with lake-themed patterns or colors. You can also find lake-inspired fabric by the yard and use it to create your own custom curtains or pillows.
- Decorative oars and paddles:
Hang decorative oars and paddles on your walls or display them in a corner of your living room. This is a great way to add a touch of rustic charm to your dcor. You can find decorative oars and paddles at lake house dcor stores or online retailers.
By accessorizing your lake house living room with lake-themed items, you can create a space that is both stylish and inviting. This will be a place where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of your surroundings.
Create a cozy reading nook
A cozy reading nook is the perfect place to relax and escape with a good book. If you have a lake house, there are many ways to create a cozy reading nook that takes advantage of the beautiful views and natural surroundings. Here are a few ideas:
- Choose a comfortable chair or seating area:
The most important element of a cozy reading nook is a comfortable chair or seating area. Choose a chair that is supportive and comfortable to sit in for long periods of time. You may also want to consider adding a footstool or ottoman to put your feet up and relax.
- Place your reading nook near a window:
If possible, place your reading nook near a window that offers a view of the lake. This will allow you to enjoy the beauty of your surroundings while you read. You can also add a sheer curtain or blind to the window to filter the light and create a more cozy atmosphere.
- Add a soft blanket and pillows:
A soft blanket and pillows can make your reading nook even more cozy and inviting. Choose a blanket and pillows that are made from soft, comfortable materials. You can also add a throw pillow with a lake-inspired pattern or design.
- Add a small table or shelf for your books:
A small table or shelf next to your reading nook is a great place to keep your books and magazines. This will make it easy to grab a book when you’re ready to read. You can also use the table or shelf to display some of your favorite lake-themed accessories.
By following these tips, you can create a cozy reading nook in your lake house living room that is perfect for relaxing and enjoying a good book.
Maximize storage space
Lake houses often have a lot of stuff to store, from life jackets and fishing gear to beach towels and blankets. By maximizing storage space in your lake house living room, you can keep your belongings organized and out of sight, creating a more spacious and inviting atmosphere.
One way to maximize storage space is to use furniture with built-in storage. This could include a sofa with storage drawers, an ottoman with a hidden compartment, or a coffee table with shelves. You can also add storage baskets or bins to shelves or cabinets to help keep things tidy.
Another way to maximize storage space is to use vertical space. Hang shelves on walls to store books, magazines, and other items. You can also use wall-mounted hooks to hang hats, coats, and bags. If you have a high ceiling, you can even install a loft or mezzanine to create additional storage space.
Finally, don’t forget about the space under your furniture. You can use under-the-bed storage containers to store seasonal items or extra blankets and pillows. You can also use rolling storage containers to store toys, games, or other items that you don’t use on a regular basis.
By following these tips, you can maximize storage space in your lake house living room and create a more organized and inviting space.
Consider a fireplace or wood stove
A fireplace or wood stove can be a beautiful and functional addition to a lake house living room. It can provide warmth and ambiance on chilly evenings, and it can also be used to cook food or heat water. If you’re considering adding a fireplace or wood stove to your lake house living room, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
First, you need to decide what type of fireplace or wood stove you want. There are two main types of fireplaces: open and closed. Open fireplaces have a large opening at the front, while closed fireplaces have a glass door that keeps the fire contained. Wood stoves are typically closed, but they can also be open.
Once you’ve decided on the type of fireplace or wood stove you want, you need to choose a location for it. The best location for a fireplace or wood stove is in the center of the room, where it can distribute heat evenly. However, you may also want to consider placing it near a window so that you can enjoy the view of the lake while you’re relaxing by the fire.
Finally, you need to make sure that your fireplace or wood stove is properly installed and maintained. This is a job that should be left to a qualified professional. A properly installed and maintained fireplace or wood stove can provide years of enjoyment and warmth.
In addition to providing warmth and ambiance, a fireplace or wood stove can also add value to your lake house. A well-maintained fireplace or wood stove can be a major selling point for potential buyers.
Add a personal touch
One of the best ways to make your lake house living room feel like home is to add personal touches that reflect your style and interests. This could include anything from displaying family photos on the walls to hanging a collection of vintage fishing lures. When choosing personal touches for your living room, think about what makes you happy and what brings you joy. Do you love to read? Add a cozy reading nook with a comfortable chair and a bookshelf filled with your favorite books. Do you enjoy spending time outdoors? Add a few potted plants or a terrarium to bring the beauty of nature inside. Every personal touch you add to your living room will make it feel more like your own.
Another way to add a personal touch to your lake house living room is to incorporate items that have sentimental value. This could include heirlooms passed down from your family, souvenirs from your travels, or artwork created by your children. When you display items that have sentimental value, you’re not only adding to the dcor of your living room, you’re also creating a space that tells the story of your life. As you relax in your living room, you’ll be surrounded by objects that remind you of happy memories and special people in your life.
If you’re not sure where to start when it comes to adding personal touches to your lake house living room, here are a few ideas:
- Display family photos and artwork on the walls.
- Add a cozy reading nook with a comfortable chair and a bookshelf filled with your favorite books.
- Hang a collection of vintage fishing lures or other items that reflect your interests.
- Incorporate items that have sentimental value, such as heirlooms or souvenirs from your travels.
- Add a few potted plants or a terrarium to bring the beauty of nature inside.
By adding personal touches to your lake house living room, you can create a space that is both stylish and inviting. A space that reflects your personality and makes you feel at home.