There’s a quiet magic to lakefront living. The way light dances across the water, the soft rustle of shoreline trees, the natural rhythm that seems to slow time itself. Whether you’re building a custom retreat on Lake Minnetonka, along a secluded river bend, or simply dreaming of bringing that relaxed elegance into your home, waterfront design offers timeless inspiration.

At Stonewood, we specialize in building custom lake homes that capture this essence elevated living inspired by the natural world. In this post, we explore key strategies for custom homes that embrace the spirit of lakeside living maximizing views, blending architecture with nature, and creating everyday spaces that feel like a getaway.

1. Design That Frames the Water

The foundation of lakeside architecture is simple: put the view at the heart of the home. Smart layout and design can make even a modest property feel expansive and connected to its natural surroundings.

Design ideas to maximize the view:

• Floor-to-ceiling windows and glass walls in living areas to pull the lake into every room.
• Open-concept main floors oriented toward the water, minimizing interior walls that block sightlines.
• Terraced outdoor spaces, decks, patios, or stepped gardens that cascade toward the shore.
• Main-level primary suites or loft-style bedrooms with elevated vantage points over the water.

2. Seamless Indoor/Outdoor Living

Waterfront homes shine when the line between indoors and out disappears. Whether it’s a lakeside brunch on a screened porch or evening wine by a firepit, the goal is to make movement between spaces effortless.

Must-have features for lake life:

• Retractable walls or oversized sliders to open living rooms directly onto decks or patios.
• Screened porches or three-season rooms for protected, breezy gathering spots.
• Covered outdoor kitchens for lakeside entertaining, rain or shine.
• Mudrooms with storage, benches, and towel hooks to handle sandy feet and wet swimsuits.

3. Materials That Weather the Elements

Lake homes live in a tougher environment than typical suburban residences. Moisture, sun, and seasonal changes all demand smart material choices that balance beauty and longevity.

Recommended exterior materials:

• Natural stone or fiber cement siding that holds up against humidity and UV exposure.
• Decking in ipe, cedar, or durable composites that resist warping and splintering.
• Metal roofing for longevity and a clean, architectural edge.

Interior finishes to reflect the setting:

• Wide-plank wood floors, preferably in light or driftwood tones.
• Limestone, soapstone, or honed granite for a natural feel underfoot and underhand.
• Textural elements like woven fixtures, raw-edge wood, or linen fabrics that echo the lakeshore palette.

4. Landscape and Shoreline Considerations

Great lakeside homes extend their design down to the shoreline celebrating the transition from land to water while respecting the surrounding ecosystem.

Landscape design tips:

• Low-maintenance native plantings that stabilize the shoreline and thrive in lake climates.
• Layered gardens and soft-scape berms that preserve water views without harsh elevation drops.
• Boathouses, docks, and lakefront pavilions designed to complement the home, not compete with it.
• Outdoor lighting that softly guides movement at night without overpowering the natural setting.

5. Bringing the Lake Home (Even If You’re Not on the Water)

You don’t have to live on a lake to embrace the tranquility of lakeside design. Many homeowners in city neighborhoods or suburbs want to channel that calm, collected energy, creating homes that feel grounded, nature-inspired, and effortlessly livable.

Design takeaways for any home:

• Embrace natural materials and earth-toned palettes, soft whites, sandy beiges, misty blues, and woodsy browns.
• Prioritize natural light and open flow, with interiors that feel airy and adaptable.
• Create flexible indoor-outdoor spaces whether it’s a small patio with French doors or a breakfast nook that opens to a garden.