Best Of 87+ Breathtaking Waterfront Small House Design Satisfy Your Imagination

Gone are the days when owning a small house near a waterfront was an economical, unappealing affair. Modern waterfront homes feature affluent décor, uninterrupted line of sight to the lake, river or ocean and, of course, tasteful architectural features. Drawing inspiration from art deco styles, many of these modern waterfront dwellings possess an old world charm while still delivering all the conveniences associated with modern living. Take a look at some of these amazing modern waterfront small house designs sure to leave you dreaming of your own future cottage!

Modern waterfront small house designs may include unique cabinetry, glossy flooring, bright colors, and floor-to-ceiling windows. A filament, leaf-like railings may embrace the wrap-around porch, while luxurious lighting fixtures may add to the home's modernistic style. Many of these homes are clad in cedar siding and jazzed up with eclectic fixtures such as Mulco Eletele exterior door handles for an extra touch of class.

Though modern styles are becoming increasingly popular, coastal waterfront small house designs remain a classic favorite due to their amazing versatility. Incorporating colors from sand to navy blue, many of these waterfront houses evoke a feeling of a time gone by, providing a reposeful alternation from the hecticness of everyday life. These fabulous designs may include a series of low-hanging wooden beams, and the home may consist of a one-story building with a wrap-around porch. Cottage-style window shutters, wainscoting, and whitewashed wooden claddingetry often feature in these homes.

Typically lit up at night by nautical-inspired fixtures, such as a schoolhouse ceiling-mounted gazebo, these waterfront homes paint a picture-perfect portrait. Moreover, these houses are typically well-equipped when it comes to entertaining as well. Outside of the house, a nearby pool or patio area may be the ideal place for an outdoor gathering, while a firepit serves as a cozy place for the family to come together in the evening.

Rustic waterfront designs occupy a special place in people’s hearts. These cottages are typically dwarfed by their lush, green surroundings and offer rainbowed comfort through their weathered colors and natural materials. As such, these little dwellings beautifully mediate between modern and traditional styles. Wooden log cabin-style homes that blend into their lush surroundings are favored options for those seeking rustic waterfront small house designs. Finishes such as out-of-the-box log cabin shingles, stone accents, and green-tiled roofing may be seen in many rustic waterfront homes.

As far as amenities go, many of these rustic, waterfront designs come with a quaint outdoor seating area, a nearby dock, or camping area. While some of these homes may sport an additional story or two, the main focus of such dwellings typically appears to be offering its family members peace and serenity, rather than offering an abundance of living space.

Eco-friendly waterfront small house designs do away with any need to Enjoy the luxury of living near a waterfront without harming the environment. Drawing inspiration from a variety of sources, many of these eco-friendly homes full of modern amenities yet promote a healthier lifestyle through their features. Many of these waterfront homes are engineered using recycled materials and boast low-energy heating, cooling, and water management systems.

These intelligent designs may feature an energy-efficient roof, windows, and thermal system that helps keep the structure cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Solar panels may be seen on top of many of these cottages, allowing the occupants to gaze in awe of the star-filled night sky outside while still benefiting from clean energy. Well-maintained wooden furnishings and warm colors are often used to portray a sense of comfort and relaxation.

Minimalist waterfront small house designs make for a great getaway of those seeking an abode with a tranquil, uncluttered interior. By stripping away all the excess from the design, these dwellings evoke a sense of serenity and peace. Uplighing the dwellings’ modernistic and classy stylings, large windows that opened out towards the lake allow for an uninterrupted line of sight to the waterfront. Mirrored features, used to multiply the amount of available light, and darkly-tinted flooring and furniture may often be seen in these dwellings.

Pristine designs may feature a balcony, which comes completes with a hammock or two for occupants to relax in. A well-manicured courtyard may be found at the entrance of the house, while an open-floor plan interior with glass panel doors and stainless steel appliances helps convey a feeling of modernity.

Modern, contemporary waterfront small house designs are immensely popular due to their airy and luxurious feel. Combining the style of a boutique with the atmosphere of a cottage getaway, these modern waterfront homes boast an array of amenities that help make occupancy a truly pleasurable experience. Imagined in penthouse-like perfection, the truth is that these homes may often have been designed with a level of craftsmanship that defies most expectations.

A plethora of inspiring features may be seen in these designs, such as a sit-out balcony with an amazing view of the waterfront, large bookcases for an impressive library or collection of vintage artwork, or even a fireplace to keep the interior of the cottage cosy. Interior finishes may include polished floors, neutral colors, and expansive room layout.

Traditional waterfront small house designs offer a picture perfect description of the American dream. Descended from a rich New England tradition, these rustic dwellings feature clapboard siding, wood shingles, and exposed beams that help speak to a much-valued architectural heritage. Colorful shutters, bright windows, and quaint flower boxes add to the design’s artistic appeal, while the outdoor area surrounding the house may feature a wildflower garden or herb garden for those who seek a return to nature.

The interior of these traditional waterfront houses may feature a charming living room with wood-panelled walls and warm colors. An expansive study area, featuring chequered wooden desks and a stone fireplace, may often offer a cozy respite from the world outside, while a bay window lined with cozy cushions and a recliner may help occupants take in the amazing views.

Revolutionary waterfront small house designs featuring rotating walls have been gaining popularity amongst those wishing to get the most out of having a waterfront home. These designs utilize large rotational walls or dividers to show off the home in different directions, allowing occupants to take in the lush scenery no matter the season. At the center of these designs is the courtyard, which serves both as an attractive entrance to the home and an area for entertaining guests.

The home’s rotating walls may be of a variety of sizes and reservable as needed. The walls may be opened and shut to divide the house into different sections such as the dining room, living room, kitchen, and bedroom. As the walls rotate, occupants can take in the full splendor of the waterfront scenery and blue skies from the comfort of their own home.

Sustainability is key to any modern, waterfront small house design. For those who want an eco-friendly home but still seek the luxury of living near the waterfront or lake, sustainable homes offer a perfect compromise. Reclaimed building materials and double-glazed windows that reduce energy consumption often feature in sustainable waterfront properties, while newer technologies such as solar panels and geothermal heating add to a home’s self-sufficiency.

Even more, sustainable designs often incorporate green roofs and water management features to reduce the amount of water usage and increase the home’s environmental resiliency. Furnishings and features, such as bamboo ceiling panels or upcycled furniture, may also be part of the décor.

The more luxurious waterfront small house designs provide the ultimate escape to the wealthy. From massive penthouses to executive cottages, wealthy holidaymakers can take refuge in a dreamy waterfront home unlike any other. Such homes may come with private balconies, attractive courtyards, and infinity pools that overlook the waterfront.

The design of the home may also include technical features such as floor-to-ceiling windows that add to the design’s luxury. Smart technologies may also be integrated into the design of the home, such as high-end digital entertainment systems and wireless remote control systems. Finally, for the truly luxurious, many waterfront homes may also come with a personal chef, fully-stocked wine cellar, and even custom furniture pieces.