Winter, spring, summer or fall — if you could live anywhere year-round, where would it be? For me, living by the water is always the first choice. Decorating with a lakeside or seaside aesthetic instantly feels like home.
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The weeks between summer and fall are some of my favorites along the water. Our backyard looks out over the Puget Sound in the Pacific Northwest, and this time of year mornings are cool and crisp, afternoons are bright, and evenings glow pink as the sun sets over the water. I love living by the water.
Having lived near a lake or the sea for most of my life, the coastal surroundings have naturally shaped my decorating style. When I imagine the ideal space, I picture a relaxed late-summer afternoon at a lake house or a cozy vacation cottage by the sea.
A lakeside look is achievable in any home, even if you don’t live on the shore. It’s all about creating the right mood with texture, color, and laid-back furnishings.
For this post we created two lakeside mood boards using pieces found at Walmart. The selection surprised me — there are so many charming, affordable items that work together to capture that relaxed waterfront vibe.
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Walmart carries a surprising number of pieces that fit the lakeside aesthetic — from lanterns and woven textures to weathered finishes and simple nautical details. I ordered several of the accessories from our mood boards for my own yard, including the white lanterns featured in this post and a sweet bench that feels right at home in a coastal-inspired space. The cart shown in the top mood board even reminded me of a vintage one I already use outdoors.
Let your personal taste guide the look. Start with a few statement pieces that set a relaxed, lakeside mood: braided or natural-fiber accents, soft coastal colors, and a couple of standout items that feel collected and comfortable. Even a small number of well-chosen pieces can transform a room and carry the look through every season.
The two white lanterns I ordered arrived last week and they’re just what my yard needed for this in-between season. The rope handles add a nautical touch that feels authentic without being kitschy. I also love that these pieces can move inside when the weather turns colder — styling them in different rooms gives them new life each season.
On the practical side of outdoor living, I’m also using an outdoor shed to store cushions and seasonal items — a helpful solution to protect soft goods and keep the yard tidy through the year.
How would you describe your decorating style?
Shop more Lakeside Style Walmart Finds:
Coastal Wall Art
Sea-Inspired Bedroom
Oceanfront Patio