If you’ve always dreamed of living in a lake house, Minnesota is the place to be. From Lake Minnetonka mansions to homes on smaller lakes in nearly every suburb, you have countless options in the Twin Cities.
The best lake house design ideas are geared towards maximizing your view, making the most of your outdoor space, and updating the style to feel more like you. In addition to style, however, you’ll want to think about choosing durable materials that can withstand the sometimes harsh elements of lake life.
Not sure where to start? James Barton Design-Build has decades of experience helping homeowners all over the Twin Cities. Whether you live in a Lake Minnetonka house or have been looking at Prior Lake homes, we can turn your space into the waterfront property of your dreams. Contact us to learn about our design process and get started on your renovation project.
Best Renovations for a Lake House in Minnesota
Like any home, a lakefront property can benefit from upgrades to the kitchen, bathroom, living room, or basement. Aside from changing the style, think about renovations that maximize your view and make your home more functional. Here are a few projects to consider:
- Add a mudroom with waterproof, easy-to-clean flooring. Adding built-in cubbies and benches is a great way to organize gear for fishing and other outdoor hobbies.
- Revamp your basement to address any moisture problems, which are far more common on lakefront properties.
- Build a screened patio so you can enjoy the outdoors without the mosquitoes that love to hang around lakes.
- Install larger windows that let you take in the view better. Make sure you choose windows with maximum insulation so your home isn’t too cold in the winter.
- Add a fire pit for lakeside campfires and marshmallow toasting sessions.
- Update your outdoor lighting to highlight your landscaping and make your yard safer to navigate at night.
- Build a multi-level deck to give your family more outdoor space while getting a better view from higher levels.
Lakefront Home Renovations: Defining Your Vision
In many areas, lakefront properties are used primarily as cabins or vacation homes. But in a state with so many lakes, it’s not uncommon for Minnesotans to have their primary residence on the water.
That has a big impact on design choices, especially in the Twin Cities. Far from being quaint cabins, most lakefront homes in the metro have an upscale and modern feel.
For this reason, lake house remodel before and after photos aren’t always beneficial when looking for style inspiration in Minnesota. That’s why it’s helpful to meet with our designers at James Barton Design-Build. With 30 years of experience remodeling homes in the Twin Cities, we can create a design that perfectly fits your vision. Contact us to schedule a consultation today.
Choosing Durable Materials for a Minnesota Lake House
Picking an area to renovate and defining your vision is just part of the equation. When you live on the water, you also have to be more intentional about the materials you choose for your renovation.
Lake homes are more prone to flooding, and humidity tends to be higher around lakes as well. On top of that, lakefront properties can be more exposed in the winter, making it important to think about insulation and durability.
- Composite materials are more water-resistant than wood. Pressure-treated wood can work, but it will need regular cleaning and sealing.
- Fiber cement siding is a more durable choice than standard vinyl siding.
- Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring is an ideal option because it’s waterproof, unlike wood floors that are susceptible to warping.
- Metal roofing is more durable than asphalt shingles, and it inhibits the growth of moss and algae.
Planning and Logistics for Lake Home Designs in Minnesota
Design choices and materials aside, lake home renovations require a bit more planning than other properties. Here are a few things to keep in mind.
Permits
In addition to municipal zoning permits, your renovation project may require permission from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) if it affects public waterways. DNR permits may be required for retaining walls, fences, or vegetation removal, among other things. Depending on the scope, your project may also need to comply with floodplain regulations.
Site Access
Compared to other properties, lakefront homes may have limited access due to narrow roads, unstable soil, and a lack of space around the house. Keep this in mind when setting a timeline for your project and planning the details.
Shoreline Setback Rules
In simple terms, shoreline setback rules determine how close a construction project can be to the water’s edge. The state of Minnesota determines the minimum distances for various projects, but municipalities may have their own additional requirements. On Lake Minnetonka, houses and other structures can be closer to the water than on Prior Lake, for example.
Environmental Concerns
If you’re planning a landscaping project as part of your renovation, it’s important to understand its impact on the ecosystem. Zoning permits and setback rules are in place to help protect lakes, but there are additional steps you can take as a homeowner. One of the best ways to preserve the shoreline is to use native plants in your landscaping to filter runoff and prevent erosion.
Renovate Your Lake Home with James Barton Design-Build
Living on the lake is a dream come true for many homeowners, but that doesn’t mean lake homes are always perfect. Whether you’re dealing with an outdated kitchen, are looking for a better view, or want to maximize your outdoor space, James Barton Design-Build can help.
With our award-winning design process, we’ve been helping Twin Cities homeowners create their perfect space for the past 30 years. Contact us for a free consultation and let us show you the possibilities for your lake house!
