Bringing the Outdoors In: The Art of Minnesota Waterfront Living

Erin Haugerud
Oct 14
2 min read

There’s something magnetic about the water. Whether it’s a quiet pond reflecting the morning light or the shimmer of a lake at dusk, Minnesota homes are shaped by their surroundings — each season telling a new story through color, texture, and view.

At EH Design, we believe the most beautiful homes don’t just overlook the outdoors — they invite it in. From the shoreline of Wayzata to the wooded calm of Deerwood, these homes capture the spirit of lake life with a touch of timeless luxury.

Here’s how we bring the outdoors in, one thoughtful detail at a time.

Cozy bedroom with a quilted bed, lamp, and large window showing a lush green backyard, trees, and a glimpse of a lake. Serene atmosphere.

1. Architectural Details That Frame the Waterfront View

Every window, doorway, and line of sight is an opportunity to connect with nature.

In the most compelling waterfront homes, architecture becomes art — framing the landscape like a living painting. Expansive windows, glass doors, and vaulted ceilings draw your eye outward, blurring the line between interior and exterior.

We often design sightlines that intentionally layer moments of nature — a fireplace that mirrors the horizon, a hallway that leads your gaze toward the water, a window perfectly positioned for sunrise reflection.

In our Pondsview Cottage project, the calm surface of the pond inspired the entire design philosophy: organic, quiet, and deeply rooted in place.

Two plaid chairs face a large window with a serene lake view. Shelves with decor items flank the chairs. Soft light creates a cozy mood.

2. Materials That Echo the Landscape

Bringing the outdoors in starts with the materials under your feet and at your fingertips.

We use natural, tactile finishes that reflect Minnesota’s surroundings:

Stone that feels like it could have been gathered from the shore.
Wood tones — walnut, alder, and white oak — that bring warmth and authenticity.
Glass and metal accents that capture light the way water does.

By layering textures and tones found in nature, each space feels grounded and timeless — a continuation of the landscape rather than a contrast to it.

Sunlit kitchen with gold faucet, white sink, and glossy countertop. Dark wood cabinet and large windows with greenery outside. Bright, serene mood.

3. Layouts Designed for Lake Life

Waterfront living is all about rhythm — mornings that begin on the dock, evenings that end by the fire, and weekends filled with guests who never want to leave.

Designing for that lifestyle means prioritizing flow, function, and gathering.

Mudrooms built to handle lake gear and daily life.
Open kitchens and dining areas for effortless entertaining.
Outdoor connections — screened porches, patios, and decks that extend the living space into nature.

Our goal is always to design spaces that feel intentional yet effortless — luxurious without losing the ease of lake life.

Mudroom with a shiplap wall, gold hooks, and colorful towel. Blue cabinet holds towels; bench and window to the left. Bright, airy setting.

4. A Glimpse Inside: Pondsview & Deerwood

Both Pondsview Cottage and Deerwood embody the essence of bringing the outdoors in.

At Pondsview, the design captures tranquility through soft light, layered neutrals, and organic materials — every element reflecting the stillness of the water just beyond its windows.

Bright living room with beige sofa, striped throw, and fireplace. Dining table near large windows. Elegant chandelier, warm ambiance.

At Deerwood, luxury meets lakeside warmth. Large windows, natural stone, and warm wood accents bring the beauty of the outdoors to every corner, from the great room to the screened porch overlooking the water.

Each home tells its own story — yet both share one defining thread: a deep reverence for the land around them.