How a Wisconsin family built a lake house big enough for everyone
When you have six kids who are all grown up with their own partners and kids, finding a spot where everyone can actually fit gets tricky. Instead of trying to squeeze into a cramped cabin, one Wisconsin couple decided to go big on a lake near Oconomowoc, building a massive place where the whole crew can hang out together.
The main living space
The living room sets a comfortable tone right away with striped sofas and a brick fireplace that gets plenty of use when the weather turns chilly.
A kitchen made for feeding a crowd
You cannot host a massive family without a serious kitchen. This one features blue cabinets and a giant island where people can gather while dinner is being made.
They even integrated a coffee station and built-in appliances directly into the cabinetry to keep the countertops clear.
Right off the main kitchen is a walk-in pantry complete with its own island and a rolling library ladder to reach the high cabinets.
Casual spots to eat and chat
The dining table is right nearby, surrounded by light blue walls and red lampshades that add a fun pop of color.
For smaller groups or quiet mornings, this built-in banquette feels incredibly cozy with its wood paneling and patterned ceiling.
Lounges for every mood
If you want to feel like you are sitting outside without dealing with the breeze, the sunroom with stone walls is the place to be.
Further inside, the billiards room offers a darker, moodier vibe that is perfect for late-night games.
The walls are painted in a deep teal hue, and the custom built-ins hold books and games for rainy days.
And if you know where to look, there is even a secret bar hidden behind the paneling, fully stocked with bourbon.
Playful details in the small spaces
Even the powder room gets a bold treatment with patterned wallpaper and a red mirror frame.
The primary suite
The main bedroom keeps things relaxed with soft tan walls and a green bed frame set into an arched alcove.
A built-in bench under the window gives you a quiet spot to read while looking out at the water.
The main bathroom feels incredibly spacious under its vaulted ceiling and wood beams.
Green vanities with marble tops flank the room, adding an earthy touch to the space.
Fun zones for the kids
Upstairs, the younger generation has plenty of space to hang out, starting with this attic nook perfect for board games.
The bunk room features sturdy beds painted in a rich blue, with drawers underneath for extra storage.
To make clean-up easy after a day on the lake, the kids’ bathroom has a massive trough sink with multiple faucets.
Practical spaces for lake life
The mudroom has blue lockers where everyone can drop their gear as soon as they walk inside.
Finally, the lakeside porch lets you sit back and enjoy the breeze while watching the boats go by.
