Generations at the Lake

Family Planning

Lake life is a gift in our area. From water sports and yard games, to ghost stories and bonfires, the ability to connect and relax abound. This is an escape lake property owners want to share with their family and friends, and the reason why we see a trend in home builds that cater to several generations.  Dietrich Homes has been through this process and believe there are six areas to consider as you put thought and planning into creating your personal late retreat that’s – hopefully – enjoyed by many others for years to come.

1. Personal Spaces

More than in a typical home, a lake home is designed for comfortable guest accommodations. Personal space is a plus for guests and homeowners alike. Guest suites provide a getaway as well as a private bathroom and space for cribs and toddler beds.

  • Guest suites provide personal comforts for family and visitors.

  • Extra space for chairs or portable cribs is important.

  • Guest suites are separated by a catwalk.

  • Master suite for your personal retreat, too.

  • This lake home‘s master bath enhances the owner’s space for personal retreat.

12345

2. Gathering Areas

Togetherness is the name of the game at the lake. Breakfasts, dinners, board games and cocktails are enjoyed as a group. Keep in mind transitional spaces that can be combined to accommodate groups multiple times a day. Great rooms are perfect here. This space with distinct areas for lounging, eating and prep work functions perfectly for a gathering of 20 and feels intimate for a family of four.

  • This great room welcomes gatherings of all sizes.

  • Inside or outside, make sure every guest and family member has a seat at the table.

  • A bar area can offer additional comfortable seating.

  • Enjoy great views from a custom bar.

1234

3. Kitchens

We’ve always said the kitchen is the heart of a home, and this is no different at the lake. Open kitchens allow cooks stay engaged in the fun while preparing and cleaning up after a meal. A kitchen island has many roles at the lake, perfect for food prep, serving, eating and socializing.

  • Design featuring plenty of seating at the kitchen island.

  • This large kitchen with two ovens accommodates many cooks comfortably.

  • Quality appliances last for years and make preparing meals for your family easy.

  • Lots of elbow room and plenty of refrigerator space in this lake kitchen.

  • Prep, cook, serve and eat from the functional island.

12345

4. Outdoor

Let’s not forget about the star of the show – the lake. Positioning windows and outdoor seating areas that maximize your view and accessibility to the lake is a must. When landscaping, be sure to pay attention to the height of your plantings at maturity. Also, know the plant hardiness zone for your lake property to ensure your selections can stand up to winter’s harsh conditions.  

  • Unique details give great curb appeal.

  • The lakeside patio provides table, seating and fire table areas.

  • Well placed maple trees frame the soaring windows, providing shade while keeping the beautiful view.

  • Well placed maple trees frame the soaring windows, providing shade while keeping the beautiful view.

  • Thoughtful comfortable outdoor seating areas.

  • Fire tables create a stage for nightly stories and family time.

  • Know the plant hardiness zone for your lake property and what will grow and stay alive best.

  • Place seating on the opposite side of the house incase the wind is blowing the “wrong” way.

12345678

5. Kids

There is a lot to do at the lake, and all this activity can become overwhelming for little swimmers. Plan a space where kids can pull away from the action to take a break, rest, watch movies or read a book. You’ll all be happy you did.

  • This upstairs recreation room provides a comfortable kid-approved getaway.

6. Upkeep

You’re at the lake: Your place meant for time to relax, not cleaning up. But it’s hard to relax in a cluttered space. Consider installing ample storage space in your lake home. Even if it’s at the expense of sacrificing some of your living space. Items are more accessible, and clean up is faster with specified storage. Think vacuum cleaners, crock pots and warehouse shopping.

  • Ample storage and dual washer/dryer combos make housework a breeze.

Want more?  Sign up for our style guides, design tips, and photos of our home remodel and construction projects.