Lake House Luxuries: The Summer Edit

There's something magical about a lake house in summer… those long, lazy days where time seems to stretch like taffy and the biggest decision is whether to have your coffee on the dock or the porch. As someone who grew up spending summers at a family lake house, I know these sanctuaries aren't just about the sweeping water views or the architectural details; the lake house experience is about the little touches that transform a house into your personal retreat.

In this first installment of my vacation home series, I'm not here to tell you to gut-renovate your kitchen (though I could, and your contractor would send me a thank-you note!). Instead, I'm focusing on those finishing flourishes that even the busiest professionals can incorporate to create instant character and charm.

That printed lampshade? It's the conversation piece your dining area has been begging for. Those pickleball paddles aren't just sporty, they're practically artwork when not in use. And let's talk about that oyster plate - a nod to my Louisiana roots that brings coastal charm, whether you're serving Bayou bivalves or using it as a catch-all for keys and sunscreen.

The beauty of these additions is their dual functionality. They're both pretty and practical. Glass jars filled with lemons bring cheerful color while providing ingredients for that evening's cocktails. A summery cookbook isn't just counter décor, it's inspiration for family meals that don't require a culinary degree.

For lake house living, I recommend embracing items that celebrate water life without veering into "live, laugh, lake" territory. The shrimp-patterned plate works because it's artful, not kitschy. (And while we do crawfish boils in Louisiana, I acknowledge that most of America gravitates toward shrimp, though I won't judge if you want to be the first to start a crawfish trend in Michigan.)

The ideal lake house feels collected, not decorated. A mix of elevated essentials (good silverware for those who enjoy jambalaya), whimsical art (hello, lemon painting), and practical luxuries like a scented candle that reminds you you're not at the office anymore.

That scalloped-edge towel with its sunny yellow border isn't just for drying off after a dip in the lake; it's a pop of warmth draped over a chair or hanging from an open shelf. And the clever sardine tin candle brings whimsical sophistication to evening gatherings - the ultimate conversation starter that elevates lake living beyond the expected citronella.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

So as you head to your lakehouse retreat this summer, remember: sometimes the smallest touches make the biggest splash.

Next week: Mountain cabin must-haves that go beyond moose motifs and plaid.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​