Choosing a lake map starts with two things: the shoreline you want to remember and the place where you want to display it. Size, backplate and mounting choices affect how the finished piece looks in that space. Work through them in that order so you can compare the options on a product page with a clear picture of your room.
Measure the space before choosing the map
Measure the open wall area, including the space above furniture or between nearby windows. Then mark the proposed map outline with paper or removable tape that is suitable for your wall finish. Step back to where you normally view that wall. This makes the footprint easier to judge than a product photograph alone.
Different shorelines have different proportions. The Lake Norman map is listed at 23 × 33 inches, while the Lake Murray map is 23 × 47 inches. That extra length matters beside a doorway or over a small cabinet. Check both listed measurements and the orientation shown in the product photo; don’t assume every lake map uses the same rectangle.
Decide what should show through the shoreline
The cutout and the surface behind it work together. Without a backplate, your wall provides the background visible through the map. This can be a good starting point when you like the existing wall color and want the brushed metal to stand out against it.
A backplate is a second sheet of metal mounted behind the map. The standard choices on these product pages are no backplate, solid black or full color. Black creates a consistent dark background; a colored backplate adds color within the shoreline. Browse the customer gallery to compare the effect, keeping in mind that examples may also include separately selected personalization.
Choose the backplate option on the product page and review the displayed price before ordering. If you have a particular color or room scheme in mind, contact us to discuss it rather than assuming an example photo is the exact finish included.
Plan for the mounting surface and location
Our lake map layer is made from 1/8-inch aluminum. The included 3/4-inch stainless steel mounting standoffs hold the map away from the wall, creating its floating appearance. Wall anchors, screws and installation instructions are supplied. Follow those instructions and use fasteners suitable for the surface where the map will hang.
For an outdoor location, select the outdoor mounting option where offered and discuss the display position and finish before ordering. Colored backplates may fade with prolonged direct sunlight. A covered porch and a fully exposed wall present different conditions, so tell us where you intend to install the piece. The FAQ explains the materials and mounting details.
Ask about a different size before placing the order
If the listed size does not suit your wall, send us the lake name and your available dimensions. Making a detailed shoreline smaller can reduce the detail that is practical to include. Oversized custom maps are also available to discuss. Confirm a custom size and its quote before ordering; a photo of your intended display area can help explain the space.
Make a final check
Before checkout, confirm the lake, listed dimensions, backplate choice and any personalization you want. Keep those choices separate: selecting a backplate does not also select a family name or house pin. Check the shipping and payment information for production estimates, and contact us about a specific deadline. You will have a clearer order and fewer unanswered questions about how the map will fit your home.