Tag Archive for: builder

Outdoor living space

Living Outdoors with Options

in , /by

The forecast for outdoor living is bright.  Over the years space where you can connect with nature has evolved to include multiple options for a different experience in each sector. From a family playground to gatherings around the campfire, dedicated activity zones are on the rise.  As we bring many of our indoor comforts outdoors, the possibilities to enjoy a healthy lifestyle expands.

A Captivating View

Inviting View for outdoor living

The outdoor experience begins indoors with a view to encourage reaching out to nature.  This can often be directed and enhanced with the arrangement of garden elements, fencing, walls and trellises.

Blur the Boundaries

Retractable window wall for seamless transition outdoors

Oversized windows and glass doors ensure a year-round visual and emotional connection to nature.  This retractable wall disappears to admit fresh air and sunlight for a seamless transition.

Natural Materials Unify Indoor & Outdoor Spaces

outdoor living with options living room kitchen diningThe use of natural elements, like plants, wood beams and stone flooring, connect interior and outdoor spaces by subtly guiding the eye along.

Al Fresco Dining

outdoor living with options for dining

Living outdoors with options includes provisions for basic activities with a touch of style.  Alfresco dining is enjoyed around the world, so why not include space at home.  A location near the kitchen or outdoor kitchen is a plus.

Outdoor Living Rooms Extend the Day and the Season

outdoor living with options using natural materials for transition

Give everyone a reason to linger outdoors with a warm fire.  This cozy focal point is the ideal place to wrap up a day filled with adventure and will even extend your outdoor season by a few months each year.

Open Air Entertaining

living outdoors with options for entertaining

Multiple conversation areas are great for families and parties.  Encourage guests to mingle and move about with a variety of seating options throughout the space.

Swim Up Bar & Grill

living outdoors with options canopied kitchen

Create an at-home resort with features found at your favorite vacation destination.. A swim up bar and grill will keep guests cool on the sunniest day.  And hosting duties are a breeze under the canopied outdoor kitchen.

Private Retreat

living outdoors with private retreat area

A private outdoor area can be nestled into even the most compact space for an inviting sanctuary. This patio with swing is adjacent to the primary bedroom for quiet time as the day is winding down.

Fire Pit Lounge

outdoor fire pit overlooking lake view

Sunset chats and storytelling are magical when shared around the fire pit.  It’s where memories are made.

Visit our gallery for more outdoor inspiration.

 

Credits for this Lowell Custom Home

Interior Design Amy Storm & Company

Photo Stoffer Photography Interiors

Architect Michael Abraham Architecture

 

 

the den makes a comeback

The Den Revival

in , /by

As much as we love an open floorplan, the occasional quest for quiet space opens the way for a den revival.   Our homes evolve and adapt to lifestyle changes, and recent years have seen countless adjustments. The den emerges as the answer to our need for privacy and flexibility.

Home Office

Home Office, Plato Cabinetry, Josh Z Photography

Home Office, Geneva Cabinet Company, Josh Z Photography

Post pandemic, working from home and hybrid work options have multiplied.   Efficiency, work-life balance and worker-controlled hours are popular advantages. The key to productivity is having a private space with abundant storage and sound control.  We installed custom cabinetry with open shelving and pull-outs for convenient access to files and printer.  At the end of a busy workday, the equipment is tucked away and the room functions as a peaceful study.

Custom Storage, Plato Cabinetry, Josh Z Photography

Custom Storage, Geneva Cabinet Company, Josh Z Photography

Zen Den

Sanctuary Den, Photo by Shanna Wolf

Sanctuary Den, Shanna Wolf Photography

Paneled in luxury, this den is the perfect setting for video conferencing or restoring your energy.  The modern pendant light focuses on the workspace, while recessed and sparkling pin lights accent with a gallery effect.  This sanctuary features a library wall with open shelving for favorite books and family mementos.

Den Sanctuary, Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo by Shanna Wolf

Den Sanctuary, Geneva Cabinet Company, Shanna Wolf Photography

 

Den Versatility

Multi purpose den Photography Shanna Wolf

Versatile Den, Shanna Wolf Photography

More intimate than the living room, this cozy space invites the whole family to stop by and unwind.  Knotty alder paneling lines the room with a nautical barrel vault ceiling inspired by the homes Lake Geneva location.  Business is compactly conducted on one end of the room with file drawers and cabinetry to house equipment.  The other side features a welcoming fireplace and intimate seating for cocktails or conversation.

Cozy multi purpose den Photography Shanna Wolf

Cozy Versatile Den, Shanna Wolf Photography

A Personal Statement

Den for Self expression Photo by Shanna Wolf

Den for Self Expression, Shanna Wolf Photography

More than a workplace, the den can tell a personal story.  Surrounding yourself in a peaceful palette and favorite collections is the ideal way to position yourself for success.  Adding just one comfortable chair limits interruptions.

Showcase the things you love den Photo by Shanna Wolf

ShowcaseDen, Shanna Wolf Photography

Cozy Niche

Cozy niche, Geneva Cabinet Company, Shanna Wolf Photography

Cozy Niche, Geneva Cabinet Company, Shanna Wolf Photography

The den isn’t always a compartmentalized room. An intimate niche that flows from your main living space can showcase favorite books, games and music, a place to relax without isolation.

 

Visit our gallery for inspiration and call us to discuss your home building and remodeling plans.

Connect with us here

or call 262-245-9030

 

 

Plato Woodwork from Geneva Cabinet Company

Josh Z Photography

Shanna Wolf Photography 

Geneva Cabinet Company

 

quiet luxury in Lake Geneva Wi

Quiet Luxury at Home

in /by

From runway to home, the quiet luxury movement is intensifying!

Quiet luxury is defined by Vogue Magazine as a “non-trend trend” or “elevated basics”.   The aesthetic in fashion features the highest quality pieces with an understated presence. When applied to homes, this attitude is easy to understand by watching Lowell Custom Homes construction in action.  The focus is on superior materials and expert craftsmanship.

When citing this style, marketing analyst Pam Dazinger references the Succession series and explains,

“True luxury whispers, it never shouts.”

With that in mind we identified the elements that will help you communicate quiet luxury in your home.

Quiet Luxury is Always Appropriate

Interior Design by North Shore Nest, Photo by Aimee Mazzenga

LCH, Interior Design by North Shore Nest, Photo by Aimee Mazzenga

This entire movement is in sync with the principles of Elsie de Wolfe, founder of the interior design profession.    De Wolfe’s philosophy started with a goal, “A house that is like the life that goes with it, a house that gives us beauty as we understand it.”  She also famously warned, “You will express yourself in your house whether you want to or not.”  With that in mind, the first recommendation for quiet luxury is to create a home suitable for your lifestyle and location.

Prioritize Quality & Craftsmanship

Quiet luxury showcases natural materials, artistry and simplicity of style.  Sustainability is achieved by investing in craftsmanship that will survive generations.  Palettes are curated by combining personally soothing colors without interruption from showy displays.

Quiet Luxury is in the Details

Quiet Luxury LCH, Interior Design by Ann Kottler Home, Photo by Shanna Wolf

LCH, Interior Design by Ann Kottler Home, Photo by Shanna Wolf

Subtlety is an art. When it comes to architectural and interior design, details speak without shouting.  Quality materials and impeccable craftsmanship differentiate design in an understated manner.  This mood is about embracing the things you love in an environment that is relaxed and inviting.

Connection to Nature

quiet luxury Interior Design by Ann Kottler Home, Photo by Shanna Wolf Photography

LCH, Interior Design by Ann Kottler Home, Photo by Shanna Wolf Photography

The nurturing influence of the environment is key to this effort.  Creating a seamless flow between interior and exterior rooms lends a sense of tranquility.

Quiet Luxury is Confidence

Quiet Luxury, LCH, Interior Design by Ann Kottler Home, Photo by Shanna Wolf Photography

LCH, Interior Design by Ann Kottler Home, Photo by Shanna Wolf Photography

A well curated design reads as confidence.   There is no need to rely on the latest designer label or “it” item when decisions are based on desirable attributes.  This is one of the reasons we have relationships that span generations.  A Lowell Custom Home reflects an appreciation for quality and the discerning taste of our homeowners.

Visit our Gallery to be inspired.

Connect with Lowell Custom Homes here

or call 262-245-9030

bedroom design inspired by boutique hospitality suites

Bedroom Inspiration from Boutique Hospitality

in , /by

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lowell Custom Homes, Photo Shanna Wolf, S. Photography

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

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

 

 

The Character of a Home

in , , /by

In any community a property with character stands out.  Picturesque Geneva Lake is the location of the latest home to join the iconic collection of Lowell Custom Homes. The distinctive design radiates character and charm.  In the first of a series of articles we are sharing this inspirational home and its eloquent style.  Starting with an overview, future articles will be devoted to the finely tuned details that make it a masterpiece.

Lowell Custom Homes collaborated with homeowners and designers at North Shore Nest to strike the perfect balance for lake home living.  The timeless coastal architecture is accentuated with impeccable design revealed in the photography of Aimée Mazzenga

Beginning with first impressions, this home promises relaxed luxury within.  Quality construction and authentic materials establish a foundation for the craftsmanship Lowell Custom Homes is known for.  Scott Lowell and his team explain it best here.

The character of a home is much more than the sum of its parts.  Each home is about feelings and emotional comfort.  It is about the right design in the right setting.  Architectural design should be unified with the natural environment and surrounding community.  Here the harmony begins at the point of entry as it eases from exterior to interior experience.  Detailed woodworking, feature ceilings and the spacious flow of rooms all contribute to a light and airy feel for the home.

Our response to a home is generated by how involved we become as we move through the space.  Shapes, lighting and color palette are all part of the character.  Here a sense of calm and order is expressed through the perfect symmetry of furnishings within the receptive living room space.

The living room merges seamlessly to a kitchen which features Das Holz Haus cabinetry from Geneva Cabinet Company. This truly is the heart of the home with beamed ceilings, custom range hood and an inviting island for meal prep and gatherings.  The custom cabinetry is furniture quality and offers abundant floor to ceiling storage with true divided mullioned glass.

The bright, uplifting feel is carried into the versatile dining area which serves throughout the day as an ideal place to feast and linger.  Friends and family can gather and set the mood from casual to formal while taking in the tranquil view of Geneva Lake.

Just beyond the main living space a change of pace is offered by an intimate study with wooded views.

Flooded with natural light, the bedroom suite is designed to start each day fully refreshed.

We leave you with this little teaser for the next article where we promise to feature the outdoor living spaces for this home.

Spoiler Alert – visit our Featured Gallery for a preview!

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)

Interior Design by North Shore Nest

Photos by Aimée Mazzenga

Lowell Wins Best of Walworth County!

in /by

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who voted for us for the Best of Walworth County in 2021!

We are excited to announce that we are declared the winner as both

The Best New Home Builder

&

Best Home Remodeling Contractor

This is the finest endorsement for our entire Lowell team!

Each and every person at Lowell plays an essential role in the beautiful homes we build and remodel.  With over 40 years of experience, we pride ourselves in having the most dedicated staff! We are so honored as a company to also be voted as the Best Place To Work in the Geneva Lake area!

 

This is our 5th win as Best New Home Builder and our 1st as Best Home Remodeling Contractor.  We appreciate your community support and look forward to serving you in the years to come.

This video tour will show you some of our latest homes, then visit our website to be inspired by even more design ideas!

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

Connect here

or call 262-245-9030

Lowell Wins Best of Walworth County 2020!

in , /by

Lowell Wins the Best of Walworth County!

It an honor to be selected again this year as Walworth County’s

Best New Home Builder!

 

We are so grateful to our entire team at Lowell, all of our wonderful homeowners and our friends who participated in the voting!

This makes 4 years in a row that we are honored with the title of Best New Home Builder in Walworth County, with a bonus of runner up for Best Home Remodeler!

We would like to share some of the most recognized homes from our inspiration galleries on the Lowell Custom Homes Website and Houzz

We tallied up the most popular pictures in 2020 and present them here to inspire your next project.

Our most popular picture in 2020 (drumroll please)

this lovely lakefront home in the Queen Ann Shingle style.  You will not want to miss the tour of this entire home here.

Closely followed by two outdoor spaces with stunning appeal.

A beautiful lakeside conservatory, see the entire home here.

And surrounded by nature, this immensely popular screened in room

 

Keeping with the unofficial theme for 2020, comfort-at-home, it is no wonder that these cozy rooms placed at the top of our most popular list.

A beautifully detailed and sunny reading room in the most traditional style, see the full home here.

 

An open concept floorplan that leads to a cozy room with more privacy for reading, study or working at home. View the full home here.

 

And this exquisitely detailed den that is the perfect backdrop for zoom calls, see more here.

 

And finally, because after all we are a community that loves to welcome guests, this whimsical lakefront bunk room just waiting for the right time to entertain.

Thank you to everyone who honored us with your vote for this years Best of Walworth County Award!

You can find the greatest inspiration for your home on our website gallery or our portfolio on Houzz

Be sure to subscribe to our blog!  You will receive a notification as soon as we publish the latest news or trends for your home!  

We do not share any of the information you provide.

 

 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

 

The Future of Home Design Post Covid-19

in , /by

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

Shower vs Tub Debate – Showers Wins!

in , , , , , /by

We are not going to get in the middle of any over/under toilet paper roll debate,  but when it comes to bathing we have the stats!

According to a recent Houzz survey,  outdated and and old bathrooms are highest on the renovation wish list.   And when it comes to building a new home, a luxurious walk-in shower is a must.  From a space planning perspective, the shower offers a versatile on-trend design opportunities.   It achieves high marks for ease and accessibility for young and old.  This makes it an  natural choice when planning for every stage of life, including aging-in-place.

Oh sure, there are plenty who admire a luxurious soaking tub, but real life demands are leading the trend towards ditching the bathtub in favor of sumptuous shower.  This is especially true if space is a factor.  When you consider that a shower will conserve water and time, along with the magnificent new plumbing fixtures, showers win.

If you need further convincing, browse through our collection of crave-worthy compartments!

Statement Tile

 

Fabulous Fixtures & Invisible Drains

 

Grab Hold & Have a Seat

 

Zero Threshold Safety

 

Artistic Installation

 

 

Spa Splendor

 

Vibrant Pattern

And Chromatherapy

 

In the past the real estate community insisted on at least one tub in the home for resale value, but that attitude is changing.  The bottom line is to determine what is best for your space and budget, then make the best decision for your lifestyle.

Building a new home or remodeling should be an exciting adventure and our team of experts is available to answer your questions and guide you every step of the way!

We always love hearing from you and are happy to discuss your personal home projects!

Lowell Custom Homes

262.245.9030

Projects feature tile from Bella Tile and Stone, Lake Geneva, WI

Photos by Shanna Wolf/S.Photography and Styling

 

Home Remodeling with Emerging Trends

in , , /by

The Brady’s may have restored their home to its 1970’s glory,  but most home remodels look to the future of design for inspiration.  Lifestyle changes over the years have placed new demands on the home environment.  Our goal is to help homeowner’s make updates that will evolve along with their ever changing needs.

Whether you’re remodeling to maximize the sale price of your home or stay in place with every conceivable comfort, these are the freshest home ideas to consider.

Nature with a Modern Vibe

Large windows and open spaces expand a room by letting the outdoors in.  A stunning approach is to contrast nature with sleek modern forms that lend a sculpture- in-the-garden mood to the interior.

The Golden Touch

Gold tones have been resurrected in recent years and show no sign of phasing out.  We are seeing it used throughout the home design in light fixtures, hardware and interior accent pieces.  This warm metallic works very well with the predicted vibrant, neutral and warm tones seen on the latest Pantone color forecast for 2020.

 

Bold Beautiful Color

A step toward deep rich color is the perfect contrast to our modern neutral interiors.   Save this look for extra impact in the intimate areas like the library, home office or even powder room.

 

Textured Elements

One of our favorite elements of interior design is often overlooked.  The presence of texture in a room provides a rich backdrop for living.  Subtle visual patterns on contrasting material play together beautifully to define a space.  Wall paneling, fireplace stone and herringbone floors all add to the refined casual character of this room.

 

Tile Envy

We just can’t leave our subway tile alone when there are so many beautiful options available to artfully accent its classic appeal.   Mixing and blending tile shapes and colors will take the common bath to the next level.

Leisure Spaces

There is no slow down in the trend to create entertainment areas in and around the home.   These include spaces for the pursuit of specialized hobbies as well as escape and relaxation.

Small Rooms, Big Ideas

Whether it’s a powder room or laundry area, every space within the home deserves design attention.  The intimate size gives you more freedom to venture outside of the box without fear.

 

 

Watch this video to see the dramatic before and after changes that resulted in a thoroughly modern makeover!

Building a new home or remodeling should be an exciting adventure and our team of experts is available to answer your questions and guide you every step of the way!

We always love hearing from you and are happy to discuss your personal home projects!

Lowell Custom Homes

262.245.9030

Call or Click Here to Contact Us

 

Interior Design for the featured home is by StephMusur.com & 610HomeGeneva.com