Take a tour of this Scandi-inspired lake house that's a lesson in blending ultra-modern and quirky vintage style

The property

With its uninterrupted views over the bay, towering evergreen trees, and cozy cabin-like feel, you’d be forgiven for thinking this modern home was tucked away on some remote Scandinavian island. It’s actually suited on the shores of the beautiful Bellingham Bay in Washington state. However, the brief for interior designer, Lisa Staton was to create a home that had clear European influences. The owner, being originally from Sweden, wanted their home to be a balance of contemporary design and antique pieces they had collected from back home.

The result is a warm but elegant home, filled with modern shapes and quirky antique pieces. The colors – creams, warm cinnamon hues and olive greens – and layers of soft textures, give the rooms a lovely casual feel but there’s a sophistication to the design too. Let’s take a tour…

Kitchen

Modern rustic home designed by Lisa Staton

Modern, and streamlined but at the same time very warm and inviting, the kitchen was designed for big social gatherings, so guests and hosts could cook, eat and socialize in the relaxed, open-plan space.

The warm walnut cabinetry mirrors the wood found on the ceilings and screens throughout the property, giving the home an almost cabin-like feel. The classic Carrara marble tops give the rustic vibe a more luxurious look and the black accents add a modern twist.

Love this space? Find more wooden kitchen ideas in our gallery.

Living room

The living room is situated in the same open-plan space as the kitchen, with beautiful views across the bay. As with all of this home, it’s more about the textures than bold colors. The neutral scheme perfectly fits with the forest and water you can see beyond, but it’s all the lovely layers that add interest.

Leather, linen and natural textures with an antique oushak rug layered on top of a large wool flatweave give the room a warm, rustic feel. But there’s a contemporary elegance here too with the simple shapes of the furniture and the striking concrete fireplace.

Be inspired by more modern rustic living room ideas.

Dining area

The more formal dining area is part of this space too and is slightly separated by wooden screens. Again the colors are reflective of the nature that lies beyond the large sliding doors. Warm woods, soft creams and the hint of olive green.

The antique Swedish clock at the other end of the room adds the touch of antiquity that can be found in almost every room. Beyond the dining room, an old grand piano commandeers the sun-filled nook. Above it hangs a collection of antique paintings, again adding that slightly eclectic feel.

Master bedroom

The master bedroom is where the owner’s Scandi style really comes through. The light cream color pallet, the warm wooden furniture and all the soft textiles make the room feel both warm and elegant. And there’s a real mix of old and new here too.

The Baccarat chandelier was part of the owner’s antique collection and it looks wonderful as the focus of this minimalist space.

In the seating area, again old meets new with the client’s own antique Swedish dresser paired with a vintage leather mid-century reading chair a statement, contemporary plaster side table.

Master bathroom

The master bathroom features White Carrara Marble tiles behind the double sink and in the walk-in shower. The dark floor tiles are made from basalt, so there’s a lovely natural texture to them. The whole space is softened by the pink-toned rug.

Guest bedroom

The beautiful leather, wall-hung headboard is the main feature of the guest bedroom. Paired with soft grey, slubby bedlinen and the statement light fixture this room feels fresh and modern as well as cozy and welcoming.

Find more gorgeous guest bedroom ideas in our full gallery.

Guest bathroom

The guest bath may appear all modern and sleek, but look closely in the oversized mirror and you’ll see the second antique Baccarat chandelier that gives this room the same elegant, vintage edge that can be found throughout the rest of the home.

Powder room

Similarly, in the powder room a simple modern sink and contemporary black tiles and brought together with an unexpected antique gold mirror, adding that European flair that was so important to the client.