If the weather cooperates, the months of July and August are all about relaxing by the lake. But imagine owning a home with a water view that you can enjoy all year round. Lakefront lodgings in southwest Michigan and northern Indiana have always been popular with Chicagoans. And let’s not forget about the lake life in Wisconsin. Needless to say, these houses do not come cheap, but who wouldn’t want to watch the sunset views from your own digs in Michigan? Or live in an architecturally significant building by a famous Chicago designer? To own one of these lakefront homes is living the dream!
39292 Wilderness Dunes Ln, Covert, MI, $2,900,000
Let’s start inside the gated community of the 150-acre development known as Wilderness Dunes in Michigan’s Harbor Country. You’ll find 25 homes located here, which includes this 1980s sleek beach-inspired design that overlooks 250 feet of a private beach and sea grass-covered dunes. It comes with sweeping views of Lake Michigan from every imaginable place including the rooftop terrace. This ultimate weekend getaway is perfect for entertaining (it comes with a guesthouse). But it will cost a pretty penny at its nearly $3 million sale price.
3201 South Shore DRIVE, Delavan, WI, $2,750,000
There is nothing better than summering on one of the thousands of freshwater lakes found in Wisconsin. Last year we saw the former 40-acre estate owned by the late Richard Driehaus broke real estate records in the state. Though not as expensive, this impressive property on nearly three acres with 140 feet of lake frontage on Lake Delavan is still pricey at $2.7 million. The main house plus an additional guest building have five bedrooms and five full bathrooms — and it comes fully furnished. Enjoy the lake from the sunroom, multiple decks, and the firepit.
9704 W Raintree Dr S, Columbus, IN, $819,900
Although a small city, Columbus, Indiana, is known for its unexpected collection of architecture created by some of the world’s most notable architects. So it should come as no surprise that there is a 1950s modernist Harry Weese residential design located on Harrison Lake that’s currently for sale. Some of its architecturally interesting details include red cedar paneled walls, cherry wood built-ins, and exposed wood beams in the ceiling. Priced at $819,900, the 3,765-square-foot four-bedroom, four-bathroom home was updated with solar panels and a new roof in 2019. And the lakefront home comes with a boat slip.
19 S Shore Ave, Michigan City, IN, $899,000
Staying in Indiana for a cool midcentury modern design that’s not directly on the lakefront but still worth sharing. Located just two blocks from the beach in Beverly Shores, the 3,158-square-foot single-family residence has intricate brickwork inside and out. I really like the floating staircase that goes down to the lower level. Currently on the market for $899,000, the home comes with three bedrooms and two full bathrooms, as well as two half-bathrooms. While the property might not be right on the water, the outdoor space still looks fairly serene as it is surrounded by lots of mature trees.
5294 Pine Lane Path, Stevensville, MI, $1,799,000
Just over the border in Michigan is this renovated 1960s single-family residence that would make a great second home for city dwellers, or even a possible short-term rental. The makeover of this five-bedroom, three-bathroom home incorporates all of today’s design and open concept trends. And the best part is the finished basement, which provides additional living and sleeping space for guests. Not only does the property come with amazing water views, but it is close to the nearly 1,000-acre Grand Mere State Park, known for its sand dunes, trails, and several inland lakes.