How to Create Lakefront Home Decor on a Budget
There’s something magical about lakefront living—peaceful water views, the sound of gentle waves, and the calm, serene environment. But even if you don’t live directly on the water, you can still capture that tranquil lakefront vibe in your own home. With a few simple and affordable decor tips, you can create a serene, lakeside-inspired space that feels just like a getaway retreat. Here’s how to get that dreamy lakefront look without spending a fortune.
1. Embrace Soft, Natural Colors
The color palette for a lakefront home is all about soft, calming tones. Think light blues, watery greens, sandy beiges, whites, and subtle grays. Start with affordable throw pillows, blankets, and curtains in these colors. You can also find inexpensive accent rugs or art prints that mimic the colors of the water and sky.
2. Use Natural Wood Elements
Wooden accents help bring the outdoors in and create that cozy, cabin-like feeling that many lakefront homes have. Look for budget-friendly reclaimed wood pieces, such as a rustic coffee table, wall art, or shelving. You can even try DIY projects like making a wooden picture frame or a floating shelf from reclaimed wood.
3. Incorporate Woven and Natural Textiles
To channel the relaxed, rustic lakefront feel, add woven textiles to your decor. Think wicker baskets for storage, jute rugs, or seagrass placemats. These elements give your space a relaxed, organic feel without the need to splurge on expensive designer pieces.
4. Bring in Coastal-inspired Furniture
While you don’t need to buy pricey coastal furniture, you can still find affordable items that mimic the look. Consider shopping secondhand for a distressed wooden chair or a vintage wicker side table. A simple bench with soft cushions or a wood-framed lounge chair can add lakefront charm to any room.
5. Use Nautical and Water-Inspired Decor
Nautical touches are a natural fit for lakefront-inspired decor. Look for inexpensive decorative elements like lanterns, glass vases with seashells, or nautical rope as curtain tiebacks. You can also frame a vintage map of a lake or a watercolor of a boat on the water to bring a subtle nautical vibe to your space.
6. Hang Natural Fiber Curtains
Soft, airy curtains in natural fibers like linen or cotton add to the serene feel of a lakefront home. They allow the light to filter in, mimicking the soft glow you’d get from a lakeside view. You can find affordable curtains in light, neutral shades that create an open, breezy atmosphere in your space.
7. Create a Faux Waterfront View
If you’re not lucky enough to have a lake view, make one! Large prints or canvases of tranquil lake scenes, forests, or waterscapes can instantly transport you to a lakeside retreat. You don’t have to invest in expensive artwork—search online for affordable prints or even try creating your own artwork inspired by your favorite lake scenes.
8. Incorporate Local, Found Objects
Bring the outdoors inside by collecting items from your local lakeside or beach. Gather smooth stones, driftwood, or pinecones, and display them in decorative bowls, glass jars, or shadow boxes. These nature-inspired elements are free and add a touch of authenticity to your lakefront-inspired decor.
9. Add Soft Lighting
A lakeside home is all about soft, natural light, and you can achieve this on a budget with affordable lamps and fairy lights. Opt for light fixtures with natural textures, like a rattan lamp shade or a glass lantern. Battery-operated LED candles in decorative holders can mimic the soft glow of lanterns by the water.
10. Use Beachy Accents
Don’t be afraid to add a few beach-inspired touches, even if you’re decorating for a lakefront home. Think of subtle references like seashells, sand dollar accents, and driftwood wall decor. These affordable items will enhance the lakeside feel and make your space feel like a getaway.
11. Repurpose Old Furniture for a Cottage Look
Give your old furniture a fresh, lakefront-inspired makeover by repainting or reupholstering it. Opt for whitewashed or soft gray finishes, and consider reupholstering chairs or sofas with inexpensive linen or cotton fabric in light, beachy tones. A fresh coat of paint on old furniture can transform your space into something that feels coastal and fresh.
12. Make Your Own DIY Lake-Themed Art
Instead of purchasing expensive art pieces, create your own DIY lake-inspired decor. Use affordable materials like canvas, watercolors, or even recycled wood to create lake scenes, abstract waves, or serene landscapes. Personal, handmade art will give your home an intimate, lakeside vibe.
13. Use Whitewashed Furniture and Decor
The weathered, sun-bleached look of whitewashed furniture is a hallmark of lakefront homes. Look for affordable, budget-friendly pieces like whitewashed frames, cabinets, or even old furniture that you can update with a coat of white paint. This will instantly create a fresh, relaxed feel in any room.
14. Add a Pop of Fresh Greenery
Greenery is a natural fit for lakefront-inspired decor. Incorporate indoor plants like ferns, succulents, or even faux plants if you want to keep it low-maintenance. Place plants in natural woven baskets, terracotta pots, or simple glass vases for an organic, peaceful touch.
15. Create a Cozy Lakeside Lounge
Transform a corner of your living room or porch into a cozy, lakeside-inspired lounge by adding throw blankets, soft cushions, and candles. Layer pillows in muted blues and whites, and add a soft throw blanket in a subtle pattern for a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. This is a perfect spot to relax, sip tea, and enjoy the tranquility of your lake-inspired home.
With these easy and affordable tips, you can bring the calm and serenity of lakefront living into your home. Whether it's through natural materials, soft colors, or budget-friendly DIY projects, you can easily create a peaceful, lake-inspired retreat without spending a lot. So start embracing the natural beauty of the water today, and let your home reflect that serene lakeside atmosphere!
