When it comes to an ideal weekend at the cabin, many enjoy outdoor sports, boating and fishing, while others may prefer lounging outdoors in a hammock and soaking up the sun with a favorite beverage and book. No matter your style, lake homes, lodges and cabins are a spot for getting away from our everyday routines and enjoying the outdoors, as well as the comfort of your home-away-from-home. If your lake cabin, cottage or lodge needs an update, read these tips for planning a space you (and your guests!) can truly enjoy this season.

Natural Elements

Bring an authentic, cozy feel to your cabin by using natural materials throughout your cabin or lodge. From pine paneling to wood ceiling beams, natural materials on the walls, floors and ceiling will create a comfortable, rustic background for your lodge furniture and décor.

When it comes to cabin furniture, don’t skimp on the quality or style! Lodge furniture can offer both comfort and rustic style that will bring years of enjoyment. A reclaimed wood bedroom set with details such as a timeless barn door motif is perfect for the cabin’s master suite. It sets the tone for a relaxing weekend away from life’s hustle and bustle. Unique log furniture also brings a natural beauty to a bedroom, making it a classic choice for cabins and lodges.

Since much of our weekends away from home focus around entertaining and dining, a dining room table is another important piece of furniture for a cabin. Again, choosing a quality table and chairs made of beautiful reclaimed wood or other real wood will set the tone for hours of comfortable dining and fun around the dinner table.

Get the Most out of Your Space

Since many cabins, lodges and lake houses are small, it’s important to lay out your spaces smartly to accommodate summer tenants and guests. Furniture—especially big pieces—should be selected for versatility, along with comfort. If possible, choose pieces that serve multiple roles! A sleeper sofa provides comfortable seating by day and a perfect place for guests to sleep overnight. Full, queen and king options are available.

Choose Thoughtful Accessories

More than just fish mounted on the walls, cabin accessories can make your weekend dwelling feel like home. Choose wall art and other accessories to enhance your cabin experience. You can bring the outside in with paintings of water, sunsets and other landscapes. However, you aren’t limited to outdoor motifs. Flag framed wall art is perfect for your Memorial Day, Fourth of July and other summer gatherings at the lake cabin.

While lake life is all about relaxing and sometimes forgetting about the time, a large rustic clock makes a charming centerpiece for your living space. You’ll also want to make sure you have the proper lighting to enjoy time spent inside the cabin, whether it’s a dreary day playing board games with your family or a late evening spent reading a book and relaxing on a comfy recliner. A table lamp can help enhance your décor and provide the light needed for indoor enjoyment. Choose a rustic style, such as a lamp that replicates a vintage hanging lantern, to suit your cozy cabin style.

Comfort. Comfort. Comfort!

Make your cabin, lodge or lake house a perfect escape by focusing on comfort. A soft floor rug can add texture and warmth to a room. You can also add texture to your living space by choosing several thick knit or faux fur throw blankets to have on hand for chilly, rainy days. Don’t forget plenty of candles for sudden power outages or just to help create a relaxing environment in your home-away-from-home.