
Amy and Bobby Tursi transformed their Stevens Cove cottage. This beautiful Lake Home in Iowa is now a true family sanctuary. They have deep roots in Spirit Lake. Bobby’s parents owned a home there for years. Many wonderful family memories were made. When his mother sold that cherished spot, they wanted to continue the tradition. So, they created their own. This Lake Home Interior Design project was a labor of love.

The Tursis are no strangers to hard work. They once owned and operated Tursi’s Latin King Restaurant in Des Moines. Now, they run Exile Brewing Company with their son, RJ. Despite their busy schedules, they know how to relax. Furthermore, their business and personal spaces always showcase thoughtful, beautiful design. We knew this project would be special.

Amy drew inspiration from many stunning lake homes. She also brought countless ideas of her own. We had collaborated before. Plus, we owned a Spirit Lake cottage for two decades. Therefore, we understood the desired vibe immediately. Amy loves the color blue. She truly appreciates its power in a lake cottage design. We wanted to feature blues prominently. This was easy with the gorgeous lake glistening nearby.

Both Bobby and Amy enjoy cooking. Consequently, they wanted a large dining table. It needed extensions to accommodate their big family. Amy also loves a touch of Americana. This style blends wonderfully with the cottage and Lake Home Interior Design aesthetic. It was truly a match made in heaven.


The central living space demanded versatility. Therefore, we created ample seating in a cozy area. Two Sally chairs face a Copley sectional. An Aston Reinvented Recliner complements these pieces. Extending from both the dining and living spaces is a stunning, window-wrapped seating area. It features a white, waterfall skirt sofa. A warm leather Brooks lounge chair adds comfort.

This home offers even more. An amazing outdoor room beckons. It boasts a brick floor and a recycled wood ceiling. A stone fireplace adds rustic charm. A stunning retracting screen wall completes the space. They built the gorgeous outdoor fireplace with stones from local farms. The landscaping walls also feature this natural stone. Bobby and Amy even applied the grout themselves. Bobby personally transported used bricks from Des Moines for the floor. This home is a testament to their dedication.



Imagine sitting in this room as evening falls. A touch of a button raises the screen. Light still glints off the waves. Lights twinkle across the lake. The wood fire casts a warm glow. You are left with one question: How can you ever leave this Beautiful Lake Home?
How can you ever leave this beautiful lake home?

The Tursis have a large, loving family. They adore entertaining. Their daughter, Gina, lives in Nashville. She visits often with her husband and children during the summer. RJ, his wife, and their kids are also frequent guests. Grandparents, of course, always wish for more visits! This is what lake living is truly about.




