We live in a time when our homes need to be a paradise amidst the chaos of the world. If we can’t have peace outside of our houses, we can at least create a semblance of it within our homes. What better way to create an atmosphere of solemnity and calm than by building a home near a lake? It will only take one look out the window to see a stunning and relaxing view, and being near nature can help boost your and your family’s mental health and overall well-being, too.
A house by the lake or near a body of water is an absolute dream during these times. So contact your trustworthy agent, buy a house in an area with a peaceful body of water or a view of the mountains, and take a look at these beautiful lake house design ideas to inspire you.
Biophilic design
This design style has been making waves in the real estate industry in the past few years, and with good reason: Biophilic design is the concept and principle of making nature and greenery the centerpiece of a structure’s interior design. Coming from the words “bio” which means life, and “philic” which means “love of,” this design concept is more than just hanging some paintings of plants and calling it a day. It means incorporating plants and greenery—actual pieces from the yard or the garden—inside the house.
Because a house by the lake is already naturally surrounded by greenery, having even more plants inside just seems organic. And it’s also ideal for people who believe in feng shui since water and earth together are often considered a good omen. Aesthetically, natural elements like wood can help bring a balance to the space since it already looks good with greenery.
Green design
Another design concept that will work well in a house by the lake is green design, also known as sustainable design. It is closely related to biophilic design in that its primary purpose and mission is for interiors to also connect with nature. Still, while biophilic design is all about using greenery for aesthetics, green design is about making design choices that will benefit the environment. This design concept is all about using eco-friendly materials and processes for the home’s construction.
Big, open, and airy
It has been long accepted that natural light is one of the things that can make a property go from zero to hero, and it’s a design feature that will also work well in homes surrounded by nature. If you happen to find land with a great view of the lake or the mountains, opt for a design concept that will maximize these views. Ask your architect to incorporate floor-to-ceiling windows and an open space floor plan. Glass homes automatically equal unparalleled and stunning views, creating the illusion that your home has no borders and that your indoors and outdoors are seamlessly blended.
When your house is in sync with the location’s natural terrain, you create a new psychological and visual space that helps you feel connected with nature.
Incorporate warmth and coziness
Nature is beautiful, but it can also come with a lot of uncertainty and a sense of gloom, especially if you’re choosing an area with harsh winters and plenty of wildlife. You may get away with a less warm atmosphere in urban homes where industrial and minimalist aesthetics might be a good idea. Still, in a house surrounded by nature, you need to ensure that your interiors and decor choices are as warm as possible. Moreover, it’s in the nature of lake houses to be a place where family and friends can connect, have some heart-to-heart talks over hot cocoa, and just exude a sense of warmth in general.
Here are some tips to ensure that your lake house’s interiors remain as warm and welcoming as possible:
- Make the fireplace the focal point of the common areas.
- Incorporate plenty of layers made of winter textures like knitwear, faux fur, and others. This means adding more area rugs, blankets, throws of different sizes, and even layered lighting via chandeliers, pendant lights, floor lamps, and table lamps.
Choosing to live in a house by the lake might be the best thing you do for yourself and your family, especially in a year like 2021 when there is so much distress in the world. If you can create a haven and an escape for you and your family, don’t hesitate to do so. Suburban living might be the future of America.
