Some homes are more than just homes—they’re memory-keepers, passed-down traditions, and the backdrop to generations of summer days and family milestones. The #BigSilver project was precisely that: a beloved lake house on Big Silver Lake in Wautoma, Wisconsin, reimagined with reverence and fresh intention.
These homeowners had raised their children in this space. The lake itself is stitched into the fabric of their family’s story. When they came to us, their vision was clear: they wanted to honor the home’s history while creating a space that felt elevated, relaxed, and rooted in the natural beauty just outside their windows.
Cottage Ease Meets Elevated Style
From the start, we approached this project with balance in mind. We wanted to unite timeless lakefront charm with a refined, curated aesthetic. The homeowners didn’t want a home that felt overly polished or untouchable. They wanted it to breathe. To welcome barefoot mornings and late-night card games. To glow during sunset and feel cozy after a swim.
The design direction was grounded and earthy. We kept the color palette natural and soft, drawing inspiration from the shifting lake water, sandy shoreline, and surrounding woods. Every design decision—from the wall treatments to the upholstery—was made to reflect the soothing, organic palette of the outdoors.
A View Worth Building Around
One of the non-negotiables of this home? The view. Big Silver Lake is undeniably the star of the show here, and we ensured the design honored that.
We leaned into large windows to maximize natural light and keep the focus on the water. We kept window treatments minimal and airy so that nothing would distract from the expansive lakefront views. The result is a home that feels like it was dropped gently into the landscape, not built on top of it.
Designing for Connection, Not Just Space
One of the unique design challenges in this home was a large open-concept room that needed to function in multiple ways, without losing its sense of intimacy.
We approached this space by thoughtfully dividing it into three distinct zones:
- A gathering space around the fireplace, perfect for conversation or curling up with a book
- A dining area that seats a crowd, but still feels cozy enough for two
- A casual hangout nook by the windows, ideal for morning coffee or quiet reflection
Through furniture placement, layered lighting, and textural contrast, each area feels purposeful and inviting while still contributing to a cohesive whole.
The Little Things That Make It Home
From earthy tile in the mudroom to perfectly worn-in finishes in the kitchen, every corner of #BigSilver was designed to tell a story. The home doesn’t shout—it speaks gently, with warmth and intention. It’s not about chasing trends, but creating something lasting and meaningful.
A Space to Return To
#BigSilver is more than a summer destination. It’s a year-round sanctuary. It’s where memories have been made, and where new ones will unfold. And we feel incredibly honored to have helped shape the next chapter of this family’s story.
Looking to bring grounded beauty to your own lake house or legacy home? Book a consult with our design team or stop by the store to explore selections that feel like home!
