6 Lake Houses We Wish We Could Stay in This Summer

Summer hasn’t even started yet, but we already can’t wait to spend some days by a lake—and looking at these homes from the WL archives is only adding to the anticipation. Located on the shores of some of the most pristine lakes in the West, they look as if they’ve been pulled straight out of our favourite beach reads.

Serene Shawnigan Lake Getaway

With floral wallpaper, a river rock fireplace, a CornuFé induction rangetop and soft colour palette, this Vancouver Island home has a bucolic quality that we just can’t get enough of. The owner wanted to merge Escape to the Country vibes with beachy-glam Hamptons style, and designer Andrea Rodman delivered.

Stunning Makwa Lake Residence

Is a lake home really a lake home if it can’t accommodate a bunch of guests? This 3,989-square-foot, three-storey, six-bedroom home on the shores of Saskatchewan’s Makwa Lake can comfortably fit 20+ people. “All the cousins can come for a sleepover,” says designer Cristina Rivett.

Modern Cultus Lake Summer Home

While the exterior of this waterfront home is sharp, dramatic and commanding, the interior is calm and neutral. Using natural materials, recessed lighting and gentle curves, Alexis Callegari designed a serene counterpoint to Steven Cross’s bold architecture.

Carefully Crafted Wabamun Lake Cabin

Architect Josh Kjenner had to be resourceful when building this home for his in-laws. The couple purchased the 0.29-acre lot in 2020, which meant navigating unpredictable construction prices and lumber costs throughout the pandemic.

But you’d never know it from the photos alone! From the cost-effective materials (think fibre-cement siding, corrugated metal, concrete and fir) to the pared-back layout, every part of the house feels intentionally done.

Japan-Inspired Kootenay Lake Retreat

The owners of this Riondel, B.C. home really love the Japanese design aesthetic, but Randall Boisvert of Covet Interiors knew that it also needed to be Kootenay-appropriate: “We needed to make sure it complemented the mountains, the lake and the changing seasons,” she says.

She struck the perfect balance between the two by leaning into the philosophy of wabi sabi, bringing in textured surfaces, custom millwork, and a colour palette of whites and blacks.

Sprawling Smithers, B.C. Lake House

For former NHL player Dan Hamhuis, his wife Sarah and their three girls, the firepit down by the beach is the preferred gathering spot for summer nights—and we can understand why. Looks like an idyllic spot to watch the sun go down (and roast a few s’mores).

“To make the house feel welcoming, the outdoor living spaces—dining, firepit, tennis court and dock—all face the front yard,” explains designer Chad Falkenberg. “When guests arrive at the property by boat or car, Dan and Sarah wanted them to be able to see if people were gathering outside and to feel welcome.”