A Refined Grand Lake Retreat

Inspired by the surrounding treetops, sweeping lake views, and the natural hospitality of the homeowners themselves, the home unfolds with subtle French influence, natural materials, and thoughtfully layered details that strike the balance between refined and approachable. The homeowners originally discovered Mel Bean Interiors through social media, and the collaboration quickly became something special. Design presentations were shared with the homeowner and her two daughters—and before long, the entire family was invested in the process.

From the very beginning, the team was involved far beyond finishes and furnishings. Working from architectural floor plans, Mel Bean Interiors helped refine exterior proportions, rooflines, window sizes, and material placement to ensure the architecture and interiors felt seamlessly connected.

Design: Mel Bean Interiors | Photography: Laurey Glenn

The Kitchen

The kitchen serves as both the visual and emotional center of the home. A custom patinated steel hood with antiqued brass strapping anchors the space, creating an elegant focal point without overwhelming the room. Paired with a dramatic marble slab backsplash and countertops, the materials quietly set the color palette for the entire house.

Softly warm cabinetry in Sherwin-Williams Alpaca is layered against Benjamin Moore White Dove walls, while oak accents and woven barstools bring in texture and a sense of ease. Subtle curves—seen in the backsplash detail, cabinet feet, and stool profiles—add sophistication without tipping into formality.

Function was just as important as beauty. Every inch of cabinetry was custom designed, from pull-out spice and utensil storage flanking the range to full-height dish cabinets and fully integrated appliances. An apron-front sink introduces just enough character to keep the space from feeling overly new.

The Living Room

With tall ceilings and generous proportions, the living room was designed to feel expansive yet unmistakably comfortable. Botanical elements, soft blue ceramics, and warm leather accents gently reference the lake and landscape just outside the windows.

The homeowners’ one request for the entire project was simple: recliners. Mel Bean Interiors selected tailored leather recliners that read more like lounge chairs, offering real comfort while blending seamlessly into the design.

A custom cast stone fireplace provides architectural weight, flanked by Mr. Brown Home dressers to maintain cozy proportions within the large volume. A Loom & Co rug grounds the seating area, while raffia and leather details subtly repeat materials found throughout the kitchen and adjoining spaces.

The Primary Bedroom

Calm, layered, and quietly elegant, the primary bedroom captures the heart of the “refined retreat” concept. A gold-finished bed with delicate detailing becomes the room’s focal point, while rustic bedside dressers and relaxed slipcovered chairs soften the overall feel.

Textiles do much of the storytelling here—patterned drapery, layered bedding, and a custom Loom & Co rug add depth without heaviness. Vaulted ceilings and large windows keep the space airy and light.

Scale played a key role in the room’s success. Rather than traditional nightstands, wide dressers were used on either side of the bed and paired with generously sized lamps, creating visual balance that feels tailored to the room’s generous footprint.

The Card Room

The most dramatic and personality-driven space in the home is the card room. Fully wrapped in Benjamin Moore Hale Navy—including the cabinetry and coffered ceiling—the room feels intimate despite its generous size.

Beveled antique mirror tiles line the wall above the bar, reflecting light and adding depth and texture. Designed as both a lounge and game room, the space has quickly become part of the homeowners’ daily rhythm. It’s where they sit each morning with coffee and call their grown children—an everyday ritual that perfectly reflects the spirit of the home.

With views through the living room toward the lake and west-facing windows that capture sunset light, the card room brings together hospitality, comfort, and a sense of connection—making it the true heartbeat of this lake retreat.

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