bedroom design inspired by boutique hospitality suites

Bedroom Inspiration from Boutique Hospitality

in Bed and Bath, Design Ideas/by Lowell Management

We have come full circle. At first, we wanted our hotel rooms to have all of the comforts of home. Now that boutique hotels have perfected suite design, we are borrowing their ideas for bedroom inspiration at home. Especially in the primary suite.

Contained and comfortable, the bedroom is your personal sanctuary. Using the model set by spa and wellness retreats can transform your space into an intimate cocoon. Imagine a tranquil environment that places all necessities within easy reach.

Position for Privacy

Lowell Custom Homes, Photo by Shanna Wolf/S.Photography

A custom home has the advantage of creating floorplans where the bedroom suite is located away from busy traffic patterns. We love the idea of a separate vestibule for the suite. It’s a subtle message to the rest of the family that you are in a do-not-disturb zone.

The Perfect Pieces

Lowell Custom Homes, Interior Design by Elizabeth Drake, Photo by Victoria McHugh

The Bed – Of course the centerpiece of the room deserves special attention. Start by choosing a headboard of distinction with a sturdy frame for support. Mattresses and bedding are determined by personal preference. Our recommendation would be to choose the most natural materials. This will sustain good air quality and limit chemical inhalants in an area where you spend several consecutive hours.

Side Tables or Chest – Choose tabletops that are within easy reach of the mattress height. The standard is 2 to 4 inches higher or lower than the top of the mattress. If space is tight, a side table will do. For more generous rooms use a chest to expand storage.

Ottoman or Bench – Anchor the foot of your bed with a bench when space allows. You will appreciate the convenience when dressing or preparing for bedtime. Models with storage are ideal for pillows, blankets, and linens.

Accent Seating – You will want a chair or two for a complete immersive experience in your bedroom suite. Think comfort for mindful meditation or curling up with a good book.

Lighting – Start with a stunning overhead fixture placed on a dimmer to control any harsh shadows. Then layer in bedside lamps or sconces for tasks and setting a flattering mood.

Flooring & Window Covering

Lowell Custom Homes, Photo by Shanna Wolf/S.Photography

Flooring – Hardwood and has become the standard in many custom homes. It is luxurious, durable, easy to clean and reduces allergens. In the bedroom you will appreciate a large area rug to soften the feel underfoot and absorb sound.

Window Coverings – Elevate the quality of your sleep with layered window treatments. Light control shades are perfect under breezy sheers or luxurious drapery with bump interlining for sound absorption.

Adjoining Bath

While the hospitality industry tries, they simply do not have the space for a luxurious bathroom suite by Lowell Custom Homes. Envision 12 feet of counter space with ample storage below to house everything you need for a stress-free start to your day.

Lowell Custom Homes, Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo by Shanna Wolf/S.Photography

See this for more information on bath design and then watch this for a peek at the design and installation process.

Personalized Closet

Our bedroom inspiration spills over to the adjoining spaces of a bedroom suite. Organized and efficient, a personalized closet system will declutter and destress your life. This can incorporate drawers and save on the purchase of bedroom furniture. When clothing is well organized and protected, you will avoid replacing damaged items or simply forgetting about pieces scrunched to the back of your closet.

Dressing Table

Reminiscent of more glamorous times, the bedroom or closet dressing table is an ideal drop zone. The additional storage will free up space in the bathroom and help organize makeup, beauty products and accessories.

Mini Beverage & Beauty Bar

Lowell Custom Homes, Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo by Shanna Wolf S.Photography

Morning coffee without facing family demands. Midnight snacks with no witnesses. There are so many advantages to tucking in a bedroom mini bar. It can be used for beverages, snacks and satisfying the latest trend for a Skincare fridge.

Bedroom inspiration from hospitality environments will help us create practical comforts at home. To explore more ideas from Lowell Custom Homes visit our Gallery and be inspired!

Connect with Lowell Custom Homes here

or call 262-245-9030

Home Design Lesson – Color Flow

in Color, Design Ideas, Interior Design/by Lowell Management

Color is one of our favorite techniques for creating beautiful flow to a home. The skillful application of color will unify interiors for a cohesive design statement. Here are a few ideas to help you establish a color palette, all accompanied by examples from talented designers used by Lowell homeowners.

Introduce Your Color Palette at the Entry

Interior Design and Photography by The Design Coach Phillip Sassano

We love the idea of introducing a home color palette at the entry. This can be one favorite color to set the tone, or a colorful area rug introducing a variety of colors soon to make an appearance. Interior Design by The Design Coach

Use a Thread Color

Interior Design by Elizabeth Drake, Photography by Victoria McHugh

Using a thread color will unify your design. Taken from Greek mythology, the red thread was used by Theseus as a connection that guided him to safety through a labyrinth of rooms. Today, interior designers often use the concept to unite space by weaving a common color room-to-room. This creates a stunning visual transition. Using the thread color, in diverse proportions, will add variety and interest. Interior Design by Elizabeth Drake

Consider Sightlines

Interior Design by Homeowner, Photography by Shanna Wolf

Be aware of the view as you gaze across your space. Aim for continuity in every direction within your line of sight. This can be achieved with a consistent wall color or furnishings and accessories that express your color palette.

Color Inspired by the View

Interior Design by North Shore Nest, Photography by Aimée Mazzenga

When the view is amazing, it’s natural to want to bring outdoor colors in. A scheme can evolve organically by duplicating colors found in nature. Selecting the watery blues from Geneva Lake or relaxing greens from woodland property is lovely inspiration for a home palette. Interior Design by North Shore Nest

Color to Reflect a Mood

Interior Design by North Shore Nest, Photography by Aimée Mazzenga

Color can express a mood. Blues and greens naturally cool and relax. Reds and oranges and warmth and vitality. When applied to a suite of rooms, the color scheme will unify and define the space. Interior Design by North Shore Nest

Color to Energize

Interior Design by Michelle Hackworthy of Zander’s Interiors, Photography by Shanna Wolf

When you live for color, we encourage you to use it with abandon! Try out bold colors with small pops in artwork or accessories on a neutral background. When ready for a grand color statement, splash it on the walls or commit with larger furniture or fixtures. Interior Design by Michelle Hackworthy of Zander’s Interiors

Add Wood Tones to the Mix

Interior Design by Lowell Custom Homes, Photography by Shanna Wolf

Don’t forget that woods have undertones of color. While matching wood from room to room is not the goal, keep in mind that common undertones can help you establish a warm and inviting flow.

Just remember, there is no longer one color-trend that everyone must follow. Your home palette should work with your very personal color preferences.

For more tips on choosing your home paint colors visit our past blog by clicking here.

Connect with Lowell Custom Homes here

or call 262-245-9030

Photography by Aimée Mazzenga

Photography by Shanna Wolf

Photography by Victoria McHugh

A Cozy Home Welcomes Winter

in Design Ideas, Trends/by Lowell Management

It’s time to fill your home with cozy charm! As the days become shorter, we naturally migrate indoors and reconnect with everything we love about our homes. A positive mindset is the key to breezing through winter, and a welcoming home will support you in the frosty months ahead. So, resist the urge to hibernate and include some of these soothing ideas to truly embrace the season!

Soften the Light

Lighting is a dramatic architectural feature that can help us adapt to short winter days. No need to flood rooms with artificial lighting. Enjoy indirect, low levels of light for a relaxed mood. Some favorite strategies are outlined here. And our friends at Geneva Cabinet Company share some of their techniques to effectively layer your lighting here.

Start a Fire

Winter gives us permission to slow down and reflect. A fireplace with cozy seating is just the place to do that. The latest technology offers several options to bring this feature within reach. New eco-friendly fireplaces offer easy installation and run on ethanol or electric. EcoSmart even has portable fire tables to help set the mood.

Go Deep

Wrap yourself in comfort with a bold color choice for the walls. Don’t be afraid of deep color, as you can see here it is expertly applied by North Shore Nest with an exquisite balance of furnishings.

Escape Within

Grab your fuzzy blanket and curl up with a favorite book. We love the idea of this library wall featured in a well-traveled hallway. Just passing your collection will remind you to slow down and decompress.

Dig Into a Hobby

Weather-out a chilly winter by indulging in your favorite hobby. This indoor potting shed was created with repurposed street pavers and vintage timbers from Heritage Beam & Board. Such a nice reminder that spring is around the corner.

Enjoy Culinary Capers

Trying new recipes, baking, or even just teaching yourself to use a salad spinner are delightful ways to pass the time. The kitchen is a natural gathering place and perfect for culinary exploration.

Pump Up Your Jam

No need to battle foul weather just to get a workout in. An in-home space can be as simple as a yoga mat or as high profile as this inspirational gym. Having the area set up in advance is all the motivation you need for your spring fitness goals.

Have One On The House

Winter is a natural time to reconnect with friends and family. A home bar can serve up your favorite cocktails, green smoothies or specialty coffees. What counts is a space, large or small, where entertaining is easy and effortless. Gather your ingredients, add comfortable seating, and enjoy!

Connect with Lowell Custom Homes here

or call 262-245-9030

Stay in touch by signing up for our blog alerts at the top of this page. You will be notified by email when we publish our next article with the latest design ideas and inspirational projects!

(of course, we never share your personal information)

Seamless Indoor Outdoor Living for Wellness

in Design Ideas, Healthy Living, Indoor Outdoor Spaces/by Lowell Management

Nature and a connection to the outdoors is the best antidote for stress. The last Global Wellness Summit at the Breakers in Palm Beach focused on the benefits of looking outdoors to revitalize health. Nature and exterior environments can improve life balance. Building homes with seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces will encourage that connection. We don’t look at the outdoor space as separate when designing a home. It’s a continuation of the entire lifestyle concept. The most effective plans encourage fluidity between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Blurring the Lines with Retractable Walls

This home designed by architect Jason Bernard invites the outdoors in with a wall of folding glass doors.

Take Everyday Activities Outdoors to Prolong the Connection with Nature

Increasing your exposure to natural daylight is automatic when you move indoor activities outside. Cooking in this outdoor kitchen from Geneva Cabinet Company adds ambiance along with a delicious meal. Danver cabinetry is used for durability and good looks.

Outdoors is a Continuation of What’s Happening Indoors

Versatile seating arrangements can ease the flow of activity.

Incorporate Sensory Wellness

Capturing a beautiful view and fresh scents will provide an additional dimension to your outdoor experience.

Interior and Exterior Design

The scope of many interior design projects now includes outdoor spaces that support a unified look with fashionable weather-resistant furnishings.

Enjoy the natural flow of this entire Lowell Custom Home here.

For our favorite “how-to” tips when creating your outdoor living space click here.

Contact the experts at Lowell Custom Homes to help plan your next new home or remodeling project.

401 GENEVA NATIONAL AVENUE SO. – LAKE GENEVA, WISCONSIN 53147 – 262.245.9030

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.

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

(There are not affiliate links and of course we never share your personal information)

Traditional Design Is Back!

in Design Ideas, Trends/by Lowell Management

After two decades of Midcentury modern dominating the design universe, traditional is reemerging as a fresh and time-honored aesthetic. While design styles always go through cycles, the advantage of traditional is that it’s a classic. It is often the jumping off point for many other styles, so it blends easily when you are working towards a personally curated look.

Throughout history people are drawn to the familiar for security during uncertain times. That may be partly responsible for the current resurgence, but there is also a new generation being exposed for the first time to these very livable interiors. Many homeowners were not in the audience to appreciate the classic rooms of Mario Buatta or Sister Parish. Either way, this design movement is a refreshing way to incorporate planet-friendly elements with vintage and repurposed furnishings. This is the look that will be known as the New-Traditional or Neo-Traditional for the next decade and beyond. Sourcing favorites like 1st Dibs can provide unique character for these rooms.

But, just as today’s high waisted jeans are drastically different from 80’s Mom jeans, traditional design has evolved. We are keeping the comfort and pleasing shapes while lifting the mood with lighter treatments of color, pattern and material.

Elements of the New Traditional or Neo-Traditional Style

Traditional style is timeless and pulls inspiration from the 18th and 19th century.

Architectural details like crown molding, ceiling beams and wood paneling add a determined but comforting mood when applied with a light touch.

Often traditional style will reference European decor in its detailings. Featured here is one of our favorite homes showing traditional design with a French attitude. Formality can be taken up a notch or calmed down by the choice of furnishings.

Rooms will often have a beautiful focal point like a stunning fireplace seen above, or even a mantel range hood as show in the kitchen below.

Neo-traditional is certainly not fussy. In order to keep elements in check there will be a dash of modern with the European viewpoint. Finely finished pieces can easily co-exist with natural and relaxed materials like linen, bamboo and rush.

Beyond all visual combinations, the essence is comfort and easy living.

While the details may be finely crafted, the home will always respond to lifestyle demands.

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

(There are not affiliate links and of course we never share your personal information)

Photography by Shanna Wolf/S.Photography

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

There are no affiliated links in any of our posts and we never share your personal information. You can subscribe to our blog updates with no concerns.

Bedroom Design for a Good Night’s Sleep

in Design Ideas, Healthy Living, Home Ideas/by Lowell Management

A good night’s sleep is known to influence the quality of your day. Fortunately, studies show that the design of your bedroom can help you unwind and drift into a more restful sleep. Take advantage of our helpful tips to wake refreshed and ready to face the day!

Clutter Free Environment

Clear any clutter from your bedroom and make your bed every morning. Order and visual appeal go a long way to relieve stress and worry, the leading cause for sleepless nights. Even ancient Feng Shui principles point to the importance of clear space to enrich energy flow. You don’t want to block good energy (or air flow) with piles unnecessary clutter around the room or under the bed.

Banish Electronics

Set a digital curfew for yourself. The artificial blue light from our devices is known to suppress the release of melatonin, making it more difficult to fall asleep. While it may be difficult to remove all electronics from the bedroom, make an effort to hide them away in a cabinet or bedside drawer. Use an old-fashioned book with nightlight to wind down at the end of the day.

Peaceful Color & Pattern

This is not the room for a “pop-of-color”. Cool colors are conducive to a peaceful night’s sleep. The cooler side of the color wheel is known to lower blood-pressure and heart-rate, both will help you sleep better. Blues, greens, and even pale yellows soon soft grey and beige tints to create a relaxing mood. When selecting patterns, keep the energy level low with soft and subtle contrasts.

Linen Liaisons

It is more satisfying to make your bed when you have beautiful linens. And turning down the bedding at the end of the day becomes part of your relaxation routine. This helpful guide explains why sheeting choices are about more than thread count. Choose the material and construction that satisfies your personal preference for a warm or cool nights sleep.

Do Not Disturb

Sound control will help you get to sleep and stay asleep. Fabric surfaces including rugs, upholstered headboards and window treatments will stop sound from bouncing around the room. High quality building materials, like the Rockwool insulation Lowell is known for, will reduce sounds from outdoors and adjacent rooms.

Light Control

Flexibility is the key to light management in the bedroom. If you do not want to be greeted by the morning light, a multi-layer treatment that includes a block out shade or drape will help you dream away to your hearts content.

Nightstand Essentials

Woodrow Nightstand, Pottery Barn

Once you get to bed, you want to stay there. Nothing is as peaceful as an uncluttered nightstand that holds all of your sleep time essentials. Water, a good book and a picture of your favorite travel destination will help you drift into a peaceful sleep. Keep a notepad nearby to jot down late-night thoughts instead of losing sleep about forgetting. Use the top drawer to store reading glasses, lavender essential oil, lotion, meds and that fancy new face roller.

Sweet Dreams

from

The Future of Home Design Post Covid-19

in Design Ideas, Healthy Living/by Lowell Management

The comforts of home have never been so appealing! When uncertainty causes us to feel a little off-balance, our homes provide the security and serenity we need. The Covid-19 derailment will eventually be resolved, but its valuable lessons have influenced home design for the future. Our homes are evolving to provide the perfect solutions for a balanced life. Here are some of our favorite ideas.

Floor Plan Versatility

The intelligence of open concept floorplans has been confirmed by their ability to adapt and be reconfigured. Areas to work, study or exercise will be nestled into our most active rooms. When our needs change, the rooms can revert back to their original plan.

More Storage for Self-Sufficiency

When your home becomes an island it’s critical to have provisions on hand. A walk-in pantry has plenty of space for your latest Costco run while providing an organized space for storage. Drawer allows for easy sorting and accessibility while open shelving keeps everything in sight.

Zoom Meeting Backdrop

When it’s possible to dedicate space for a home office, consider the acoustics, lighting and a sophisticated impression for video conferencing.

Private Outdoor Space

The popularity of outdoor living space will continue to soar and include luxury features like pools, spas and kitchens. Indoor-outdoor connections will always serves to calm, refresh and satisfy us.

Sanitation Station

While outdoor-to-indoor transitional space has always been desirable, the focus is now on surfaces that are easy to clean and disinfect.

Room for a Workout

You may find that less of a commute to work or school leaves more time for your daily workout. As a self-care reminder set up a space with you favorite equipment to make it happen naturally.

Your Personal Getaway

When togetherness becomes overrated, create an in-home escape to help you get through the day. It doesn’t have to be in the traditional sense of a man cave or she shed. Everyday spaces, like this closet, can become more inviting and luxurious with a little special treatment.

Nesting Details

Endless hours within your four walls may result in boredom unless you are looking at something beautiful. There is a renewed interest in design and architecture as we now have more time to thoroughly examine our homes. Finely crafted details will wrap you up in comfort.

Lowell Custom Homes is known for building and remodeling homes with a creative and customized approach. 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

Cabinetry by Geneva Cabinet Company

Photography by S.Photography/Shanna Wolf

Creating a Sense of Peace and Joy at Home

in Design Ideas, Healthy Living, Home Ideas/by Lowell Management

If you cross organizer Maria Kondo with Zen Buddhist Shunmyo Masuno you will come up with an ideal philosophy to get through difficult times with a sense of peace and joy. Add in a touch of wisdom from Anne Morrow Lindbergh’s Gift from the Sea and you’ll discover contentment that will guide you through challenging times, if not the rest of your life.

We were inspired by an excerpt from Masuno’s book The Art of Simple Living published on Houzz. Imagine the trickle down effect that tidying up your physical space can have on calming your mind and eventually shaping your home into a space where you can live a more peaceful and joyous lifestyle.