If you own a lake house, then lucky you! For a time each year (or year-round if you’re really fortunate!) you’re able to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful scenery of lake life – amidst plenty of entertaining and a ton of water sports.

At its heart, lakeside living is laid back and relaxed - and your decor should be, too. Since you’ll be spending as much time outdoors as possible, it’s helpful to choose furniture, outdoor decor and accessories that speak to a leisurely, casual lifestyle.

Here are a few ways you can add calm and comfort to your lakeside retreat when you want it, while being prepared for family and guests who can’t wait to experience a day at the lake!

Casual Seating

One of the best parts about lake living is sitting and enjoying the view, which makes having plenty of comfortable seating a priority. Fortunately, your choices are almost endless. If you’re into the classics, you may prefer classic wicker furniture or a rocking chair for the porch, or the equally iconic Adirondack chair. You could also choose the retro look of tulip chairs paired with comfy cushions, or perhaps a hammock or chaise lounge for lazing by the water.

Whatever you decide, don’t forget to add a handy side-table to set drinks, phones, books and snacks so you can savor the experience of just being still.

Out on the Lake

When you’re at the lake, the water is the major attraction. For many, that means swimming, fishing, boating, sailing, water skiing, paddleboarding and many other water activities. For others, the water is their favorite place to lounge and drift on the swells.

Whatever your choice, an inflatable dock provides a handy stopover for swimmers, while a novel towable float levels up the boating excitement.

Keep the fun going near shore with floats and games for all ages. Kids can enjoy a little underwater exploration with a set of goggles and swim fins. Make sure you have floats for everyone, plus a few water games for additional lakeside entertainment.

Lake houses also should be equipped with extra swim vests and life vests for boating guests and weak swimmers.

Lakeside Oasis

While the emphasis is on the water, you’ll no doubt want to add decor elements that enhance the leisurely atmosphere of your house on the lake. Windchimes are a classic lake house decor feature, emphasizing the tranquility of the setting with their gentle melodies.

Add some planters filled with bright flowers on the porch, a quirky statue in the garden, a colorful flag out front and maybe a birdhouse or two to give your lakeside cottage a feeling of welcome and cheer.

Time to Eat

Al fresco meals are de rigueur at the lake, so make sure your outdoor dining furniture accommodates a crowd! As with seating, outdoor dining sets offer many size and style options. Resin and resin wicker sets are durable and long-lasting, while aluminum and aluminum frame sets are sturdy and easy-care. On the other hand, an all-wood or wood-topped dining table is always a beautiful option.

After Dark

Lake living doesn’t end after dark, it just drifts to the shore, where patio lights and a fire pit create a congenial setting for relaxed conversation, laughter and continued good times. On a porch or patio, add to the atmosphere with garden torches and LED lanterns, plus a few solar powered stake lights to brighten the path from the bonfire to the back door.

When it comes to lakeside retreats, there are a lot of expectations. It should be a place for relaxation and renewal, fun and games, for gathering with family and friends. At various times, lake living can be tranquil, invigorating, busy, leisurely, quiet or bustling. But with the right furniture, accessories and decor, you can turn your lakeside property into a place that offers something for everyone.

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