Today’s Lake Houses Ain’t What They Used To Be and This Cedar Creek Beauty Is Proof

For any Millennials and GenZers out there reading, you should know lake houses haven’t always been what they are today.

This author personally recalls many summers in the ‘90s at a family friend’s converted Army barracks “lake house,” which was essentially one giant room with linoleum floors, 14 cots, a kitchen, one bath with a curtain door, and an umbrella stand full of fishing poles by the door. What else could you possibly need when you had 16,000+ acres of water as your playground with boats, jet skis, and kayaks as your toys? (Besides obviously needing a pallet of sunscreen. Now that you mention it, a hoe came in handy, too, for the occasional sssssslithering sssssstranger who found a way inside.)

We’ve come a long way in a short time, ever since COVID accelerated our desire to get out of the city and into the lake life. With D-FW surrounded by several wonderful lake choices within 1.5 hours’ drive, luxury developers at each have been busy meeting the demand. 

Many of today’s lake houses look more like they’re out of a magazine and less like the aforementioned barracks. So picture perfect, you might bristle at the thought of a wet towel coiled up on the hardwoods or of anyone eating anywhere but outside or over the kitchen sink. That’s no way to live at the lake! 

This featured Cedar Creek Lake property though is the very definition of livable luxury. 127 XIT Ranch Road, listed by Ebby Halliday Cedar Creek agent Janice Haney, is a 6-bedroom, 5-bathroom marvel that’s actually less of a home, and more of an experience. 

“Intelligent design,” says Haney. “That’s a great way to summarize the very essence of this amazing place. Surprises are around every thoughtful corner so I know it will appeal to anyone who values both quality and livability. Whether it will be a weekend escape or a primary home for someone, it functions as beautifully as it looks.”

From the moment you step foot inside, a glorious lightness of being washes over you via the numerous floor-to-ceiling doors and windows (assuming it’s daytime when you step in). While there are designer touches like the backsplash tile in the kitchen and themed wallpaper in the powder bath, all are tastefully appropriate for the location. And shiplap and natural elements like stone and wood ensure any possibility for pretension is kept at bay. So whether you’re entertaining your mahjong group, engaging in quality time with the family, or simply unwinding after a long week’s work, this 2022 home is the place to do any and all of it.

The chef’s kitchen comes equipped with top-of-the-line appliances and elegant finishes that will make even a grilled cheese or a smoothie feel like a 5-star meal. Its cabinets are the most beautiful, soothing green. According to a Psychology Today article on the benefits of this particular shade, “pale greens are great for putting us in the right place mentally to socialize with others and do whatever mental work we need to accomplish.” You mean mental work like… staring out the windows at the water? (Note: side effects may include feeling incredibly successful afterward.)

As evening falls, cozy up by the stone fireplace in the central living area, where stories will be shared, games played, and memories made. Just off the kitchen is a luxurious primary suite complete with a private patio, and in the bath, a steam shower and soaking tub. Also on this level, an additional bedroom and bath for special guests.

Venture upstairs where you’ll find a second primary suite, along with two more bedrooms and baths, ensuring that everyone has their own slice of this paradise. The south “wing” contains an oversized bedroom (perfect for a bunk room that looks nothing like a barracks) and its own bath, plus a second living area for endless entertainment possibilities.

This property’s many delights don’t end with the indoors. The covered confines of a screened and heated patio await, protecting you from any whipping winter winds or sizzling summer sun. Dip your toes into the waterside pool with its inviting wading area and rejuvenating spa, or grab an ice cold brew and climb up to the top of the oversized boat house with party deck, where panoramic views are the best way to end the day. 

Not your family friend’s ‘90s lake house, right?
Ready to make this exquisite retreat, priced at $2.50 million, your own? Reach out to Janice at 972-529-0551 | [email protected] today.