A Dynamic Lakefront Home Puts Family at the Forefront
WRITTEN BY JEANINE MATLOW / PHOTOGRAPHY BY WEST OF MAIN & JUSTIN THOMASON PHOTOGRAPHY
It's not often you find a home designed around seizing the day and planning for the future. But that's exactly the goal of this impressive lakefront getaway that currently serves the owners for summer months and holidays. "It will eventually become their primary residence, so it's been completely future-proofed for this transition," explains Alicia Bedard, designer with West of Main Design who worked on this project alongside TSH Custom Homes. "Every selection was done with intention, prioritizing natural textures and an organic sensibility that reflects the lakefront setting. The spaces feel sun-washed and layered, balancing comfort with quiet sophistication."
Comfort is at the core of this luxurious new-construction home that blends texture, layers, and natural light that complements the landscape. The family-oriented dwelling reflects their active lifestyle at the lake. Neutral tones are easy on the eyes. The soft palette also provides a visual connection to nature in the scenic waterfront setting. Cozy seating for the family and their guests can be found around the home where everyone can reconvene and relax after a day on the lake. The primary bedroom offers some quiet time and prime views for the owners.
The clients wanted the home to reflect the lifestyle they embrace at the lake. "From the moment you enter, the house feels like summer—light-filled, layered, and deeply connected to its coastal surroundings," says Bedard. "Every sight line was thoughtfully considered to enhance livability, warmth, and function. Entertaining was a top priority, so ample gathering spaces were incorporated alongside more intimate areas designed for relaxation and taking in the views."
The palette echoes the landscape. "Think soft sands, warm wood tones, creamy whites, and muted earth tones," says Bedard. Textured elements enhance the subtle shades, like the cast-concrete fireplace, exposed wooden trusses, and tile selections that make the home feel timeless and tied to its environment.
Highlights include the well-equipped kitchen, where the owners can host with ease; a sizeable island that seats five also benefits from waterfront views. The great room incorporates expansive wood beams, a striking fireplace, and swivel chairs that maximize the views from the generous windows. Another fireplace in the sunroom features the same stone as the exterior for a cohesive feel. "This is the perfect spot for morning coffee or a late-night board game session," says the designer. And for overnight visitors, the guest loft offers a real treat: "It includes a separate entry, kitchenette, living room, bathroom, and bedroom, creating an experience that feels independent yet connected."
The beachside-oasis feel extends to the primary bedroom where a custom walnut bed in the center offers spectacular morning views and the headboard doubles as a desk. A woven light fixture lends texture to the tranquil getaway. The en suite bathroom features mixed metals and special finishes. Vanity mirrors that partially cover the windows allow for privacy and natural light.
Though there are spaces designed for privacy and respite, the owners cherish spending time with family at their lake retreat. "The home was designed to support togetherness—long meals, lakeside mornings and evenings spent gathered indoors after a day on the water," says Bedard. "Every view is intentional . . . expansive windows, warm wood tones, and soaring ceilings were incorporated to amplify the connection between indoors and out."
Must-Haves
Designer Alicia Bedard shares what no waterfront home should be without.
To welcome guests, Bedard recommends a dedicated entrance for sandy feet and lake gear. "You should also have a ground-floor bathroom with a shower for easy clean-up," and ample storage for all those towels too, she adds. Special, durable selections also make the list. "Materials must withstand moisture, sand, and heavy seasonal use without compromising on beauty," says Bedard. Consider expansive windows that fully capture the view and a thoughtfully designed indoor-outdoor flow for effortless entertaining. Lastly, the designer emphasizes layered lighting to enhance a waterfront home from breathtaking sunrise to awe-inspiring sunset.
