Complete renovation of a lake house from the 1950s to become both a family retreat and a rental house, blending mid-century charm with modern updates. Renovation work included:
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When we first walked into Lake House Lesa, it was like stepping into a piece of family history—a place where three generations had built memories (and left their furniture!).
The house from the 1950s had been regularly maintained with practicality in mind, but was in need of a full update to meet modern living standards while preserving its original charm. Key challenges included outdated kitchen and bathroom, aging plumbing and electricity, old-fashioned materials, inconsiderate lighting and a lack of natural light and lake views from some of the rooms. One key thing to address was to 'bring the lake in', ie make the best of the lakeside light and views by opening up walls and using colours and materials that would complement the lake views and the mid-century style of the house. We focused on reviving original features such as beautiful parquet floors and brass door handles, and introducing some modern features.
Lake House Lesa, with its high ceilings, terraced garden, pool, and lake views, inspired a vision that brought the outdoors inside. Our goal was to let the lake’s hues—blues, greens, and soft gold light reflections —define a calm, timeless palette while celebrating the home’s mid-century details.
Renovating Lake House Lesa revealed both treasures and trials. Rusted pipes, roof leaks, and outdated wiring pushed us to reimagine the structure’s longevity. We preserved the original parquet floors, replacing mismatched flooring with basketweave parquet in living areas and cement mosaic in the entry, kitchen and bathroom. Mid-century and modern elements coexist in each room: striking wallpapers, vintage lighting, and a colour scheme inspired by the lake. Every detail, from restored furniture to the subtle hues, respects the past while making way for new memories.
Today, Lake House Lesa is a place that feels truly connected to its surroundings, merging beauty and practicality in a way that feels effortless. Each room is filled with light and views, designed for both comfort and style. Overseeing the renovation from afar was a challenge, yet the results—seen in every thoughtful finish and fixture—make it all worth it. Family feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and the home’s value has grown significantly. In the end, Lake House Lesa is more than a renovated space; it’s a restored legacy, ready for new stories by the lake.
