After an afternoon of boating or sunbathing, wind down with an alfresco meal beneath a stylish scalloped umbrella or within a well-equipped screened porch, watching birds and butterflies flutter by. Complete your sun-dappled tableau with aqua straw place mats and garden print linens, such as the ones below from Joanna Buchanan—the perfect companions to a glass of chilled rosé and a plate of fresh seasonal fruit.
When it’s time to settle down indoors, continue the theme of outdoor living with décor fit for a lake house. The homeowner of this cottage, affectionately named Whit’s End, opted to decorate the space with antiques sourced over time, enhancing its existing timeworn charm. Vintage bathing suits are framed near the dining area (above), while a historic oak Hoosier cabinet (below) is ideal for storing serveware in anticipation of hosting friends for a waterfront weekend. While oars, life preservers, water skis, and maps have their uses upon the waves, they also make charming decorative details when hung throughout the home.
In the summertime, when sunny days offer no need of a crackling hearth, a basket filled with quilts finds its home in the fireplace. On the mantel, a pewter pitcher is filled with miniature American flags, ready for Fourth of July celebrations.
