2024 Emerging Home Design Trends

in Custom Home, Decorating ideas, Interior Design, Trends/by Lowell Management

Emerging home design trends for 2024 are part of a greater movement for well-being.

As a custom home builder, we design and build beautiful homes to provide life comfort, stability and balance. We believe many of the latest trends will fulfill the desire for wellness and enhance everyday comforts.

As you browse through the up-and-coming ideas, we advise you to make decisions about your home based on what feels right for you. Look at each emerging trend and evaluate how it would work in your home. Trends come and go, but making decisions based on what feels good will result in timeless design.

Self-Expression Trending

Emerging Home Design Trend of Self Expression Lowell Custom Homes, Michael Abraham Architecture, Amy Storm & Company Interior Design, Stoffer Photography Interiors

Lowell Custom Homes, Michael Abraham Architecture, Amy Storm & Company Interior Design, Stoffer Photography Interiors

The overarching trend for the future of home design is self-expression. Building steam for several years, this attitude is firmly in place. It began with the Quiet Luxury movement and continues to expand as homeowners become more confident with choices that reflect an appreciation for quality. Longevity is inherent when a design direction truly reflects the distinctive perspective of each homeowner.

Allure of Authenticity

Walnut island countertop from trees felled while clearing property for home

Intersecting with self-expression, we see a leaning towards authentic materials and hand craftsmanship. While fine craftsmanship is the hallmark every Lowell Custom Home, elements sourced locally or through artisans are growing in popularity when building, furnishing or accessorizing a home. Authentic materials express a patina and aged quality that cannot be duplicated.

Craving Outdoor Connections

Emerging home design trend outdoor connections Builder Lowell Custom Homes, Architect Michael Abraham Architecture, Interior Design Amy Storm &Company, Photo Stoffer Photography Interiors

Lowell Custom Homes, Michael Abraham Architecture, Amy Storm & Company Interior Design, Stoffer Photography Interiors

We have been fans of seamless transitions for years. The psychological impact of an uninterrupted view is pure bliss. When barriers are removed, the interior expands visually, along with the flow of clean fresh air.

Natural Light Shines In

Lowell Custom Homes, Conservatory Craftsmen, Shanna Wolf Photography

Trending in 2024 is the desire to maximize natural light throughout the home. As an extension of Biophilic design, this trend expresses the inherent desire for humans to connect with nature. An expansive wall of windows, the addition of skylights, or reflective surfaces like mirrors or tiles will be a plus. When building new, the potential to position the home just right will maximize natural elements.

Emerging Color Trends

Color of the Year

2024 Colors of the Year

The “Color of the Year” is announced by several different entities, especially paint companies. Final selections are based on expert research and encompass fashion, travel, international influence and home elements. The extensive examination helps manufacturers of household products predict popular colorways before production. This year it’s noteworthy to see several winners from the blue family. Blue is often seen as the color for tranquility, stability and yes, well-being.

Neutrals Warming

Click to Benjamin Moore for full selection of neutrals

Current gurus are telling us that the movement will be away from cool based neutrals (right side of chart) towards warm based neutrals ( left side of chart). Don’t let this forecast ruin your day. Refer back to our opening comments,

“Trends come and go, but making decisions based on what feels good will result in timeless design.”

While there are a number of general rules for choosing the best colors for you home, a professional interior designer will be invaluable. It’s not just about warm vs cool, a professional knows how color will behave based on pigment, lighting and the size and shape of the space. When you build with Lowell Custom Home, an interior designer is an essential part of your team.

Circular Design Movement

Lowell Custom Homes, Heritage Beam & Board, Shanna Wolf Photography

The circular design concept celebrates the aged character of materials while also reducing waste. In the project above, reclaimed brick from the streets of Iowa is renewed as flooring in a classic herringbone pattern. The team at Heritage Beam and Board created work benches from rescued lumber and a vintage copper sink completes the theme.

Integrated Home Storage

Lowell Custom Homes, Geneva Cabinet Company, Shanna Wolf Photography

Organization and storage are front and center in 2024. No longer a behind-the-scenes afterthought, today we like to design rooms and walls with built-ins and cabinetry for easy access everyday items. A clutter-free environment is possible when storage is designed into every space. We are seeing a comeback of scullery kitchens, enlarged walk-in pantries and room size closets with dressing areas. Floor to ceiling cabinetry and shelving take advantage of every inch to deliver functional living with necessities in view.

The team at Lowell Custom Homes support homeowners in the gratifying journey of designing and building a new home. Our in-house experts are aligned with emerging home design trends as well as the timeless classics. The entire staff is dedicated to ensuring a rewarding and stress-free homebuilding experience.

We love hearing from you and are happy to discuss your home projects!
Building a new home or remodeling can be an exciting adventure and our team of experts
is available to answer your questions and guide you every step of the way!
Lowell Custom Homes
262.245.9030

Pause for a Design Moment

in Architecture, Decorating ideas, Interior Design/by Lowell Management

It’s the small details that create your home’s overall atmosphere. Each element is a design moment that encourages you to pause and appreciate your living space. Every quiet corner or special vignette will contribute to the overall character in a discreet but commanding manner. Unique details come together to influence the overall character and quality of your home life.

Here we share a few of our favorites from a recently completed home in Lake Geneva. The designers at North Shore Nest demonstrate a mastery for design composition that can stand alone as well as support the overall luxurious expression of this home. Every design moment is captured by Photographer Aimée Mazzenga.

Depth Reduction

The crown molding, wallpapered ceiling and lantern lighting all rescue this hallway from obscurity. Creating a print gallery on the back wall invites passage and creates a welcoming perspective.

Architectural Emphasis

Adding personality to a stairwell makes it more than a pass through. Board and batten walls are classic simplicity.

Artistic Still Life

Layering desirable shapes and objects appeals to our curious side creating a relaxed pause to investigate further.

Collectors Niche

Whether priceless artifacts or a beloved collection of objects, when gathered together in a niche their importance is elevated.

Bathed In Light

A metallic finish is famous for bouncing light around a room and reflecting objects for a mystic Monet moment.

Exit Strategy

Make that first and last impression noteworthy with a vignette that is attractive and useful. Hooks and a bench make good use of space while playful wallcovering and deep contrasting trim keep it memorable.

Contact Lowell Custom Homes for help planning your new home or remodeling project.

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Custom Home by Lowell Custom Homes

Interior Design by North Shore Nest

Photos by Aimée Mazzenga

Designing the Perfect Entry

in Architecture, Building a New Home, Custom Builder, Decorating ideas, Design Ideas/by Lowell Management

A little effort goes a long way when creating a beautiful first impression. We like to start with curb appeal and carry it on through the entry of your home. The entry is often passed over with design efforts jumping right into living spaces. But keep in mind that the entry is highly visible. It is the perfect spot to create a memorable moment for you and your visitors.

Start with the Door

The character of your entry door carries from the exterior to the interior of your home. It must coordinate with both points of view, so choose wisely. It should be architecturally compatible with your home design and provide the security and insulation appropriate for your location.

Light the Way

Illuminate this space with options that allow versatility. A stunning chandelier is always appropriate, then consider adding sconces and even tabletop lighting to allow you to adjust the levels of light according to your needs and mood.

Define with Area Rugs

Add warmth with the texture of area rugs and runners. They will define the entry and move people in the right direction down the hall.

Include a Statement Piece

One piece can set the stage for the entire home by introducing the style and mood of your rooms. Keep the entry open and unfussy but don’t be afraid to use a substantial furniture piece when space allows. A mirror is always nice for allowing last minute touch ups when coming or going.

Provide Seating

This is a small courtesy for guests, especially in the midwest where visitors often come weighed down with boots, coats or umbrellas. It can be a chair, bench or even a small settee. All that is required is a place to rest a person or package once entering your home.

Share A Bit of Yourself

Make it your own by including bits and pieces of your favorite things. This is a peek into your personality with favorite collections, art or decor.

Ample Storage

The need for entry storage is a given, and the standard closet provides nicely. Also consider solutions to expand storage with built-ins or furniture that provides storage drawers.

Don’t Forget Secondary Points of Entry

Don’t neglect the more common entry that you and your family use on a daily basis. It should be just as appealing as the guest entry, and even more functional with storage for coats, shoes and packages.

For more ideas to add curb appeal of your home check here

and here.

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Designing for Comfort

in Decorating ideas, Design Ideas, Home Ideas, Trends/by Lowell Management

This is the season to prioritize comfort. The evenings come early, and the morning air can be brutal. Instead of just hunkering down, it’s the ideal time to celebrate home life with some extra attention to our well-being. The Danish call this attitude Hygge, we call it the essence of home.

You can heighten the feeling of comfort in small ways or go big with a whole house refresh. Either way, here are some of our favorite ideas to up the cozy-factor this winter.

Natural Materials

Natural and authentic materials help us feel grounded. A stone fireplace, architectural beams, and natural wood tones are soothing. Even accessories added to your kitchen counter or cocktail table will create a mood. One of our favorite places for cozy touches is Summer Made in Lake Geneva.

Soft Furnishings

Simple additions go a long way to warm up a room. Bulky knit throws, area rugs, toss pillows and overstuffed furniture all nurture the spirit. A good place to start your shopping for the Lake Geneva winter vibe is Paper Dolls Home Furnishings.

Warm Color & Texture

Natural colors tend to lean warmer and when combined with the texture of knotty wood paneling, the effect surrounds you in security.

Layering Pattern

Pattern fills a room, and when layer upon layer is applied the comfort factor rises. Upholstered headboards and lush layers of bedding compound the visual effect.

Quiet Moments

When everyone is forced to stay close to home, it pays off to have an at-home-retreat. A quiet place where you can hang a do-not-disturb sign and enjoy a bath, sauna, or favorite chair with a good book. You’ll love this list of book club favorites.

Fireplace Gatherings

Taking the chill off around the fireplace is a time honored tradition. Arranging comfy furniture in a cluster around the hearth will facilitate warm and friendly conversations.

Inviting Spaces

Rooms that are pulled together are always more inviting. Coordinated by color and designed with good circulation space, people will not hesitate to enter and put their feet up.

Scented Spaces

Engage all of the senses with a fragrance that will enhance memories. Evergreen, bayberry, zesty orange, and cinnamon will keep you filled with warmth.

Embrace Friluftsliv – The Outdoor Extension of Hygge

Friluftsliv follows the Danish Hygge trends with the Norwegian cultural concept that promotes “free air life”. Spending time outdoors during the winter season has been shown to improve physical and mental health and reduce stress. Even if you’re not up for a long walk, a warm cup of cocoa on your screened porch will do wonders to reduce stress.

Daily Rituals

Relying on daily routine can give structure to otherwise endless days. Light a candle, call a friend, have an afternoon tea . . . taking the time to tune into your sense of calm during the winter will provide a sense of balance throughout the season.

So, stopping fighting the urge to ward off winter and start working with it to enjoy the warmhearted memories you’re now creating.

We always love hearing from you and are happy to discuss your personal home projects. Building a new home or remodeling can be an exciting adventure and our team of experts is available to answer your questions and guide you every step of the way.

262-245-9030

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Pet Friendly Meets Style at Home

in Decorating ideas, Pet-Friendly Home/by Lowell Management

Can you lead a chic and stylish life with pets? Of course you can! There is no need to give up good looks for durability. And your efforts will be rewarded with endless love and daily snuggles!

Studies by Mayo Clinic show that pet ownership and cardiovascular health have a highly positive correlation. At the very least, our pets offer us hours of entertainment! Follow these tips for a home that will be comfortable for everyone with two to four legs.

Safe Space

We love the idea of this beautiful dutch door that allows fresh air flow while hampering any escape plans for pets (and children). This is a high interest area with the daily anticipation of Amazon and mail deliveries. A window near the door, like this transom, will provide a good view and a nice warm spot to sunbath. Of course, be sure pets are microchipped for an added layer of protection.

Transition Zone

Some days are just muddier than others. Having a transition space with a bench and hooks will help you suit up for every outdoor adventure. The tile and slab bench are ideal for easy clean up. Hooks created from novelty hardware hang leashes and jackets so you’re ready to grab-and-go. The under bench cubbies would be a great place to tuck in a basket of towels and even the water bowl.

Protective Wall Finish

Make the right choice in paint finish. At times your fur baby will need to just shake-it-off after a walk or bath, that’s when you’ll regret that flat paint. Choose eggshell or a satin for easy clean surfaces that will resist paw prints and slobber. Semi-gloss is tempting, but keep in mind that every scare or dent will show.

Pet Friendly Flooring

Hard surfaces are superior for their dirt and oops-resistant qualities. Stone, ceramic and laminate floors are all good choices. If you decide on the beauty of natural wood, stick to Oak or Mahogany for hardness. Be sure to have them sealed with a durable finish to minimize scratching. With carpeting or area rugs, use the best quality for your budget. Nylon and wool have solid reputations for a long life with easy cleaning. Even the most well-trained pet can have a sick day. Be prepared with a clean up kit and consider the latest washable indoor-outdoor area rugs.

Durable Fabrics

The smartest choice you can make for furnishings will include high performance fabric. In this day and age it’s easy with the choices available from reputable companies (Hello Sunbrella). The possibilities for your home are exciting and endless, like this nubby upholstery from Thibaut Design . One last tip on fabrics, skip the velvets and chenilles, then match up the color of your pets fur to your upholstery for stress-free maintenance.

Kitchens

The kitchen is an appealing exploration zone for our pets. Prevent mishaps by keeping counters and floors clear of food and breakables. Some foods are toxic for pets so it’s best to exercise extreme caution when they are in the home.

Bath Time

Depending on the size of your pet, you may undertake their grooming at home. Smaller dogs do well in a farmhouse sink, but our favorite solution for larger pets is this stainless steel walk in tub from Bath Tubs for Pets.

Yes You Can Have Nice Things

The secret to style is a durable finish and space for your furry friends to travel through the room with a path about the width of their tail swing. It’s a good idea to establish a play zone in your home with more open space. Store favorite toys and initiate play time here so your pets will learn that this is their happy place.

We invite you to stay in touch by signing up for our blogs where we cover the latest design ideas and inspirational projects!

(There are no affiliated links in any of our posts and we never share your personal information.)

262.245.9030

Holiday Curb Appeal for Your Home

1 Comment/in Decorating ideas, Holiday Decorating/by Lowell Management

We know . . . you’re busy! But we don’t want you to miss this delightfully simple way to boost your homes holiday curb appeal!

It’s the wreath! In humble simplicity or embellished glory, the wreath is a lovely way to let visitors know you’re happy to see them.

We like to spread a little holiday cheer around every home that we have under construction. It’s a Lowell tradition to greet work crews and homeowners with a wreath to show our appreciation throughout the holiday season. (Our wreaths are from the Boy Scouts!)
Our favorite inspiration comes from natural greenery. You can easily personalize your wreath with a few quick items from a craft store. Whether you do a full on Martha and make it from scratch, or just add to an au natural wreath from Costco, the results will be stunning!

Personalize curb appeal with decor to complement your home’s architecture and style. Gather your clippers, some floral wire and be inspired!

Natural Beauty

Add pinecones, holly and juniper branches, secure with floral wire.

White Christmas

All of the above with a can of flocking spray.

Traditional Welcome

Ok, this one takes a little more work, but the end result justifies the effort. Use twine to wrap bundles of cinnamon, pine cones and berries. Then choose the easy road with Trader Joe’s Dried Orange Slices or do a Martha and dry your own.

Glamour Road

There is never too much sparkle for the holidays, so add ornaments with sprigs of greenery for a little more glitz.

Once you get started you’ll see that adding greenery is a lovely touch that can be accomplished in no time at all. Gather the parts you need and just wait for the sun to shine for a pleasant installation.
You can even take it to the next level, like our homeowners, by adding a bit more greenery at architectural points of interest.

We love this because it highlights the stone monument at the homes entry with greenery that draws attention to custom etched copper plaques. These were designed by our homeowners talented daughter using a brushed finish background and recessed lettering which was then given an overall oxidized copper finish. The graphic symbolizes the wetlands and turtles surrounding their new home and makes this first holiday even more memorable!

We always love hearing from you and are happy to discuss your personal home projects! Building a new home or remodeling can be an exciting adventure and our team of experts will answer all of your questions to guide you every step of the way!

Lowell Custom Homes

262.245.9030

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Home Design Lesson: Living in Harmony

in Building a New Home, Custom Builder, Decorating ideas, Design Ideas, Home Ideas, How To, Trends/by Lowell Management

How is it that some homes overflow with lovely feelings of contentment while others are just “meh”? Often it is the result of an elusive quality known as harmony. Harmony is one of the most essential principles of design, but it often defies description. To achieve harmony, a delicate balance is needed between all of the other elements and principles of design.

While we were gushing over Gussie at the latest photo shoot, we couldn’t help but notice the natural sense of harmony that flows throughout this home. As the fluffiest member of the family, she too fits right in with the welcoming composition. While we work closely with clients on architecture and material selections, the credit for achieving the complete sense of harmony goes to our brilliant homeowners! But . . . we are happy to tell you how it’s done.
Harmony is a complex formula that we can start to understand by looking at the basic elements of design. Individual factors like color, line, and proportion, can be described as either creating unity through sameness, or adding variety through contrast. Well balanced elements bring the most pleasing sense of order and relevance to the exterior and interior design of a home.

Harmony through Unity

When every part of a home has a general sense of order and belonging it is referred to as unity. In this home it starts with the consistent use of unsaturated light and airy colors to create a palette that is visually soothing.

Maintaining a consistent character will further the sense of harmony in home design. As a lakeside retreat, this home uses references to the nautical theme as well as natural materials to be beautifully in sync with the lake front setting. Playful details, like the porthole pantry window, lighting and hardware, join the guest bunk-room concept to lend a refreshing vacation atmosphere to this home.

Harmony through Variety

A subtle contrast in material selection plays an important role in alleviating monotony. This allows the eye to pause on areas of interest, without a jarring transition. Here the light ash flooring and weathered wood furnishings play well against the matt wall surface. While the color palette and character remain consistent, this contrast offers a healthy balance for the overall sense of harmony of the room.

Visual texture will also enhance the harmony of a home. Here architectural elements add moments of importance with a light hand that is consistent with the homes lake front character. The woodworking details include shiplap paneling, cabinetry and crown molding which all serve to introduce contrast to the smooth quartz countertops, shapely glass light fixtures and hardware. Every accessory is refined and displayed in keeping with a harmonious approach.

Most importantly, the exterior of this home is thoughtfully planned to be in complete harmony with its lakefront setting. The natural stone foundation is a mix of lighter natural shades to support the refined selection of washed gray shingles and silvery white trim. And just as nature likes to surprise us with pop of color, the peaceful exterior of this home is gently accented by a lovely shade of blue to reflect the sky and nearby waters.

You can see more of this delightful getaway in our last blog were we take you through the process of building, from the Tear down to Tranquility. See our Houzz Portfolio for a complete tour! For a limited time the entire step-by-step process of this home’s evolution will be shown on the Lowell Custom Homes Project Gallery!

We always love hearing from you and are happy to discuss your personal home projects! Building a new home or remodeling can be an exciting adventure and our team of experts will answer all of your questions and guide you every step of the way!

We have been nominated for the

Best of Walworth County Award in the

New Home Builder and Home Remodeler categories!

We would appreciate your vote – just click here – Vote for Lowell Custom Homes!

Voting is open until October 15, 2017

Lowell Custom Homes

262.245.9030

Photography by S.Photography & Styling, Lake Geneva, WI

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The Secrets to Timeless Design for Your Home

in Architecture, Building a New Home, Child-Friendly Home, Custom Builder, Custom Detailing & Millwork, Decorating ideas, Design Ideas, Empty Nester, Home Ideas, Trends/by Lowell Management

A well designed home has staying power. It transcends a specific architectural style to focus on an emotional connection, lifestyle and comfort. The secret to creating this type of timeless design starts with a collaboration of experts who truly understand the homeowner’s aesthetic.
This getaway home embodies the relaxed Lake Geneva lifestyle while integrating the homeowner’s appreciation for tradition and creativity. We worked with Architect John A. Hagenah and Interior Designer Elizabeth Drake as well as our talented craftsmen and quality resources to build a home that is both timeless and inviting.

Get In Sync with Your Setting

The Craftsman architecture utilizes wide gabled rooflines, tapered stone columns, and minimalist ornamentation for an intriguing relationship with the countryside. Cedar shingles and horizontal siding introduce subtle pattern with gable details that expose rafter beams. A screened in room and sleeping porch provide protected connections to the outdoors. The back elevation of the home features a wall of windows and French doors where indoor-outdoor activities can flow effortlessly.

Rely on Classic Lines

The entry features a Mahogany Dutch Door inviting guests to the refined elegance of the Music Room. Classic lighting and traditional woodworking are relaxed with the warmth of grass cloth wall covering and medium wood tones.

Use Neutrals or Classic Colors for Permanent Elements, Have Fun with Easy to Alter Elements.

The living room relies on Craftsman elements for its inviting character created with the low profile of a beamed ceiling, custom stone mix on the fireplace wall, stone mantel and conversational seating area. All of the permanent architectural features in this home are timeless, neutral, and versatile. The dramatic surprise of coral paint for the walls is actually an on trend element that can be easily changed should the homeowners ever feel the need for a different mood.

Right-size the Floor Plan for Effortless Traffic Flow

The dining room is adjacent to the entry hall and features another stone fireplace. Coffered ceiling and traditional moldings step up formality that is then relaxed with the rustic texture of stone. A built-in wine and refreshment bar is located at this mid-point of the home for easy entertaining with a convenient connection to the outdoor pool area.

The dining area of this open floor plan flows directly to the kitchen with its large island seating for casual dining and entertaining. Here Wood-Mode cabinetry from Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC is done in a custom color with Quartzite countertops. Appliances include a Wolf range, Miele Oven, Steam Oven, Warming Drawer, and Sub Zero refrigerator. An artistic tile backsplash from Bella Tile and Stone, grounds this area with handcrafted appeal.

Provide Accessibility and Privacy

The first floor Master Bedroom Suite is a key feature for a timeless home plan. This area is designed with such grace and style that you may not notice the accessibility features that allow for future aging-in-place. The compartmentalized Master Bath, with double vanity and spacious shower, is detailed with classic tile patterns using basket weave and hexagon mosaics. Interior windows provide shared light and privacy while a tiled wall performs as an easy to maintain backsplash for the vanity area.

Include Versatile Rooms

The Guest Suites include bathrooms for privacy and access to the second story Sleeping Porch. Each suite features a seating area and a full wall of windows for natural lighting , ventilation and views of the countryside.

Recognize the Value of Functional Spaces

Even the highly functional spaces of this home are treated with timeless details and easy transitions to the outdoors. A clever open combination space blends the laundry, creative studio and mudroom. It includes a workstation with stainless steel countertop and sink that can serve as a Butler’s Pantry or potting area for gardening. Another space with direct access to the pool performs as a cabana like dressing room with stacked washer/dryer and locker storage.

You can see more of this beautiful home with larger detail pictures on Houzz.

Lake Retreat Built by Lowell, Lake Geneva, WI

in Architecture, Building a New Home, Custom Builder, Custom Detailing & Millwork, Decorating ideas, Design Ideas, Home Ideas, Trends/by Lowell Management

Click here to tour this remarkable Lowell Custom Home!

Take a minute to enjoy a video tour of one of our custom homes on 336 acres surrounded by a 1000 acre nature preserve in Wisconsin. This property includes a 9,000 square foot main house, a guest house the sleeps six, tennis courts and a lighthouse clubroom.

Architectural Attraction – How to choose the architecture and style of your home

in Architecture, Building a New Home, Custom Builder, Custom Detailing & Millwork, Decorating ideas, Design Ideas, Home Ideas, Remodeling, Trends/by Lowell Management

A stunning first impression is an invitation to consider who’s behind the front door.

Curb appeal or Rorschach test? What does the exterior of your home say about you?

When building a new home, choosing all of the parts and pieces that express your unique style is exciting. This can also be a bit overwhelming when you’re now sure about what you want your style to say. Having a good idea about the design and architecture you find appealing will help the entire process run smoothly.
A home can be architecturally faithful to a historic period, or reference a point in time with adaptations for modern lifestyles. We customize every home for the perfect balance of architecture, lifestyle and character. Browse through some of our favorite exteriors to help identify your style preferences. Then be sure to take the style quiz at the end to guide you in the selection of the perfect home for you and your family.

Cape Cod

This historic charmer has its roots in New England with inspiration from Britain’s thatched cottages. Its popularity grew post World War II as a modestly priced option in housing. This style is a classic and can be expanded in size with upscale amenities.

Style Features

Symmetrical exterior with centered front door
Steep roof with side gables and dormer windows
Clean lines with siding of clapboard, shingles or brick

Style Attraction

Simplified style can range from casual or moderately formal
Excellent choice as starter home or vacation home
Compact footprint adapts well to smaller lot size and lends itself well to future additions

Craftsman

An impressive comeback is in progress for the Craftsman Style, which emerged in 1905 from the Arts and Crafts Movement. This style is characterized by modest yet meaningful carpentry details and the use of natural materials. It is uniquely American with a nostalgic reference to the home kits sold in pattern books and catalogs.

Style Features

Wide porch with tapered columns on shingled, stone or brick piers
Low-pitched roof with exposed rafter tails
Emphasis on rustic qualities using natural and local materials

Style Attraction

Relaxed atmosphere that encourages togetherness for families or entertaining
Organic quality with gentle transition between indoor and outdoor spaces
Open floorplans with built in niches for convenient storage

Farmhouse

Unpretentious and real, these homes are streamlined versions of Victorian or Colonial architecture. The pure form is based on need and efficiency rather than ornamentation. Uncomplicated lines make this style suitable for both country and urban aesthetics.

Style Features

Front or side gabled roof with tall windows and second story dormers
Signature wide or wraparound porch covered by roof overhang
Rectangular structure with additions, all covered in lap siding

Style Attraction

Casual comfort with sprawling, light, and airy spaces
Minimalist appeal balanced with the warmth of county styling
Large kitchen or gathering spaces that relate to the outdoors

Victorian

Complex and ornate, the Victorian home is rich with detail and covers popular styles from the Queen Ann, Gothic Revival, Italianate and Romanesque architectural periods.

Style Features

Asymmetrical with complex intersecting gabled or hipped roofs
Steep roof pitches with turrets, towers, and eyebrow dormers
Detailed, often with lacy ornamental work and decorative shingle patterns

Style Attraction

Romantic quality with whimsical details
Architectural details are complimented by multi-color schemes
Layout offers opportunity for privacy and special purpose rooms

Shingle Style

Uniquely American, the Shingle style incorporates Queen Ann and Colonial Revival architecture with the costal free form character that originated along the shores of New England.

Style Features

Asymmetrical forms featuring multi level eaves, towers, dormers and eyebrow windows
Rambling shapes unified by shingle siding, often on a rough-faced stone foundation
Wrapped porches, classic columns and expansive windows

Style Attraction

High style inspired by architects of New England’s seaside resort design
Relaxed formality with breezy rambling floor plans
Strong relationships between indoor and outdoor rooms

Dutch Colonial

With humble beginning as early American one-room houses, the Dutch Colonial hosts highly efficient floor plan. Resembling a barn, the gambrel roof creates extra living space without adding a second story.

Style Features

Gambrel roof structures adaptable to multiple architectural periods
Moderate roof pitch, dormer windows often with flared eaves
Round window on gable end of roof and covered entry often with pediment top

Style Attraction

Efficient personality making every square inch productive
Friendly human-scaled structure with intriguing curb appeal
Timeless design in a cost efficient structure

Traditional

This American icon is rooted in the 1600’s and continually adapts to lifestyle trends. Using classic Colonial or Tudor architecture as inspiration, these homes present a formal façade to the public while integrating comfortable living areas behind the scenes.

Style Features

Steep roof pitches allowing for volume ceilings and loft areas
Combination brick, stucco and siding exteriors
Symmetrical or Asymmetrical exteriors with covered entry

Style Attraction

A balance of formal public spaces with relaxed private areas
Gentle application of historically accurate details
Floor plans that are adaptable for modern lifestyles

European Influence

European style homes suggest features from Country French and English Tudor homes dating back to the 18^th century. The emphasis is on high quality finishes, and large scale spaces for a luxurious experience.

Style Features

Steeply pitched roofs with multiple generously sized chimneys
Brick and stucco exteriors with details trimmed in stone
Formalized balance to the ornamental and structural details

Style Attraction

Accommodates a highly formal to semi formal lifestyle
Well-appointed design with luxurious amenities
Highly attentive to historic accuracy in the architectural details

Cottage Style

Whimsical features often add to the storybook appeal of cottage style homes. The intimate scale features romantic details borrowed from medieval times. It is the perfect starter or vacation home that can be enlarged and still maintain its charm.

Style Features

Intimate scale with an abundance of picturesque details
Steep roof pitches, cross gables and arched doorways
Bright exterior color scheme surrounded by flower gardens

Style Attraction

Romantic character with an effortless country attitude
Meandering walkway to the main entry and throughout property
Cozy and inviting style that translates well to larger spaces

While these beautiful homes express some of today’s most popular architecture, we have a full team of designers and an AIA architect who will work with you to design a home that truly reflects your personal style and lifestyle.

You can start to discover your style personality with this fast and fun Style Quiz from Homegoods . It’s amazingly accurate!

Image Credit: Style Quiz from Homegoods

Next learn more about various architectural styles, by visiting this helpful guide from Realtor Magazine.

Image Credit: Realtor Magazine

Be sure to stop by the Lowell Website for more information about building and remodeling your home.

You can view the Lowell Gallery of Homes on our website

or visit our portfolio on Houzz.