Tag Archive for: design

How To Light Your Home in 8 Steps

Need a little pick-me-up? Adjust your home lighting for a refreshing new attitude.

Home lighting is the foundation of good design.  It’s a powerful element that will influence the flow and ambiance of your home.  Success starts with a plan to help you function in every room.  For cost efficiency, it’s best to develop a lighting plan before construction.  But even if you’re already moved in, we have an 8-Step plan for improvement.

Step 1: Determine Function

A good start point is to decide on your basic needs for each room.  Kitchens need higher light levels for tasks that involve sharp knives and hot flames.  Bedrooms, on the other hand, are usually driven by the need for a relaxed environment to trigger your natural circadian rhythms.

Step 2: Evaluate Natural Light

Next it’s important to evaluate the quality of natural light for each space.  This will be influenced by the north, south, east or west orientation as well as window size. Remember that natural light will change throughout the day, so plan additional lighting based on the time of day each room is typically used. A northern exposure will need more assistance than a sunny southern room. This  is also a good time to plan wall and ceiling colors.  Keep in mind, lighter colors will reflect and bounce light around while deep colors absorb light.   When choosing deep colors be sure to supplement with extra light fixtures.

Step 3: Create A Mood

Envision a mood for each space.  Cozy. Relaxed. Lively. Energizing.  Work with your natural circadian rhythms, increasing light will encourage alertness during the day while lower levels are calming before bedtime.

Light for atmosphere.   Using fixtures with dimmers will add versatility to the plan.  Chandelier lighting can be adjusted after dinner to a soft glow which can then be accented by wall sconces for a nightcap.

Step 4: Plan in Layers

A layered approach offers the most versatility throughout the day.  The ultimate goal is to establish a balance within each room for the best functional comfort level.  Not every room should be the same, variety is what helps create intriguing moods as you move room to room.

Traditionally, designers speak of 3 types of lighting.

Ambient

Task

Accent

Combining these will create beautiful layers of adjustable light that can adapt to your mood.

Step 5. Select Ambient Lighting

To accomplish the perfect plan, start with a base layer of ambient lighting.  Think about the time of day the room is used and the amount of natural light, then place fixtures for even coverage to eliminates dark areas.   This base layer should be uniform with the ability to dim or turn off when accent or task lighting is desired.

Work with Natural Light

Natural Light through floor to ceiling windows

 Dramatic windows lend abundant natural light to this home office.  The central chandelier provides adjustable light levels throughout the day while the desk lamp delivers task light for the desktop.

Multiple Fixtures Balance Coverage

  Often kitchens and lower level spaces don’t have the benefit of natural lighting.  This is where recessed light fixtures are the ideal solution.  By evenly spacing them across the room, a baseline of good lighting is established and you can add task or accent fixtures as needed.

Think Style

Now it’s time to truly express your style.  When not in use fixtures work as artistic sculpture for the room.   Add dimmers to overhead lighting to help you control the brightness as needed.  Take the time to learn about the bulbs that are suitable for each fixture.  LED’s are popular, just watch the color temperature by selecting a warm-white light, (about 2,700-3,000 kelvin)  The LED bulbs noted as “daylight” are most appropriate for garage and workshop spaces.

Step 6. Place Task Lighting

The work surfaces within any room will need a high level of lighting for safety and efficiency.  These can be discreet under cabinet lights or spot lights that focus on the task at hand.  But they don’t have to look utilitarian. Kitchens, baths and laundry spaces can use task lights as another opportunity to express style.

 

Step 7. Add Accent Lighting

So many areas of the home can benefit from the subtle touch of an accent light.  Use this type of lighting to point out a special architectural moment or a cherished piece of artwork.

Accent lighting can also be a stylish means of guidance in otherwise dark areas like the hallway, staircase, or home theater.

Step 8: Stand Back and Review

The bottom line is, how do you want to feel in your home?  Once the main fixtures are in place, add decorative sconces, uplighting, or table top lighting for extra emphasis or utility.

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

Connect here

or call 262-245-9030

Featured designers

North Shore Nest

Steph Musur Designs

Elizabeth Drake Interiors

Photography by

Shanna Wolf Photography

Victoria McHugh Photography

 

 

 

The Future of Home Design Post Covid-19

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

Porch Appeal

Front or back, the porch has a timeless charm that encourages relaxation and conversation.  While the architectural appeal is timeless, we find ourselves truly  enamored during the spring and summer months.  Whatever the size of your home, there is always room to incorporate this welcoming respite.

The Entry Porch

This architectural feature will protect your entry from the elements while directing guests to the front door.  It is a familiar option compatible with most home styles while lending a flattering first impression.

The Overhang Alcove

The extension of your roof line will create an intimate niche where you can enjoy the view and unwind.

Feelin’ the Breezeway

Linking spaces with a semi-enclosed area is a structural treat.  It creates a place to catch a breeze without full exposure to the elements.  Furnish with comfortable chairs or your outdoor kitchen equipment.

Wrap-Around Charm

There is not a better spot for an iconic pair of rocking chairs.  Reminiscent of the good old days, the wrap around porch is ideal for escape or entertaining at home.

Protected Paradise

Protected with screening or Plexiglas panels, an Indoor-Outdoor living area creates an easy transition to you outdoor activities.  To see some of our favorite indoor/outdoor spaces click here.

 

Sleeping Porch Arrangements

Popular in the early 20th century before air conditioning became the norm, these semi enclosed areas provided the most comfortable nights sleep.  Now they are nostalgic additions, usually on the second floor, where you can catch a breeze or enjoy a peaceful nap.

Whether you’re looking to add character or expand living space, be sure to consider all of the possibilities a porch has to offer.

 

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

 

Lowell Wins Houzz 2020!

We are beyond excited to announce that Lowell Custom Homes was awarded the Best Of Houzz 2020.

Just 3% of the 2.5 million home design and building professionals on Houzz receive a Best of Houzz Award each year. This is five years in a row that Lowell has received such special recognition!  We thank all of the participants for choosing our projects!

Here are our most loved and inspirational pictures of the year!

A nostalgic Potting Shed using reclaimed material from Heritage Beam and Board

See the full home here.

An Idyllic Screened in Porch

See the full home here.

This Open and Inviting Living Room

See the full home here.

A Home with Street and Lake Appeal

See the full home here.

A Lakeside Conservatory

See the full home here.

This Nautical Guest Bunk Room

See the full home here.

A Chic & Relaxing Library

See the full home here.

This Kitchen Collaboration with Geneva Cabinet Company

See the full home here.

Finally a Basement Renovation with years of popularity on Houzz.

See the full home here

Follow us on Houzz to view all of our custom home and remodeling projects.  Remember to create Ideabooks where you can save your Lowell favorites!  This is our favorite way to fashion a personal Look Book for inspiration with future design and remodeling projects.

Houzz is the largest residential database in the USA and around the world.  They connect millions of people with ideas and resources for their home projects, large and small.  We love being a part of this network and hope you’ll visit our Houzz portfolio right here.

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

(of course we never share your personal information)

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

 

Home Remodeling with Emerging Trends

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

 

 

Plan for the Future with Livable Design

Livable design is a fresh approach to architecture and design that is all about ergonomics and versatility. It incorporates elements of Accessible Design, Aging-in-Place and Safety but takes it to the next level with a beautiful look that is stylish and convenient for all ages and abilities.
The Lowell team is dedicated to building high quality homes that will gracefully cater to your evolving needs. “Accessibility doesn’t mean an institutional look anymore,” says Scott Lowell. “Roll-in showers can feel more spa-like with designer grab bars, benches, sleek linear drains and custom tile designs.”
While the kitchen and bath areas typically benefit from a Livable Design approach, Lowell is applying its principles to the entire home. These are some of our favorite tips for adding more human-centric, Livable Design to your home.
Zero step covered entry with ramp and stairs for accessible Livable Design

Zero Step Covered Entry

Open floorplan LIVABLE DESIGN EASY ACCESSIBILITY

Open Floorpan

WIDE AMPLE PATHWAYS WIDE DOORS AND HALLWAYS EASY ACCESS ACCESIBILITY LIVABLE DESIGN NON SLIP FLOORING

Ample Pathways and Door Openings

EASY CARE NON SLIP FLOORING AND SURFACES FOR LIVABLE DESIGN

Easy Care Non Slip Flooring and Surfaces

 DOOR LEVERS EASY CABINET PULLS AND CABINET DRAWERS & PULL OUTS

Cabinetry with Easy Access Hardware, Drawers & Pull-Outs

Livable Design CURBLESS SHOWER GRAB BARS AND SHOWER SEAT

Curbless Showers with Seating and Grab Bars

Livable Design OUTDOOR ACCESSIBILITY AND SMOOTH PATHWAYS

Accessible Outdoor Spaces and Pathways

LIVABLE DESIGN Residential Elevator

Residential Elevators

Many home features originally designed for basic accessibility have evolved to make perfect sense for the typical home.  We simply apply high quality and style for a more enjoyable living experience.

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!

Lowell Custom Homes

262.245.9030

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

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Home Design Lesson: Living in Harmony

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.
Harmony at home Gussie pet fits perfectly into home design scheme
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

Harmony Principle of Design Home Unity color scheme and material selection
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.
Harmony Unity Character Bunkroom guest room lake home image Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva WI
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

Harmony home design principle unity of character Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva WI
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.
Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva Wi Harmony through variety of texture in a home
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.
Lowell Custom Homes Harmony principle of design in home exterior material selection
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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Outdoor Living Spaces – The Best Ideas for Your Home

The great outdoors is calling. Alfresco dining, entertaining friends or just lounging under a clear sky . . . the best home design will create gracious indoor-outdoor living space where you can truly embrace the spring and summer months.
Get inspired by stunning outdoor ideas from these Lowell Custom Homes, and then create a space to complement your personal indoor-outdoor lifestyle.

  • Align interior and exterior spaces for a seamless extension of your main living area. A fluid transition between indoor and outdoor rooms can be created with a disappearing wall of glass doors. An easily accessible patio will draw everyone outdoors, enlarge your living space, and extend your spring and summer season with gentle protection from the elements.

Balance your outdoor space with large open and private areas

  • Balance your options with both open and intimate space. Just as a good interior space plan will provide areas for private and social activities, your outdoor rooms can offer alternatives that adapt to your needs throughout the day. Sun vs. Shade – Active vs. Restful – Entertainment vs. Retreat.  You select the most suitable outdoor environment to match your mood.

Lowell Custom Homes Outdoor living furniture position

  • Get in position to enjoy the view. Use your natural surroundings to create a focal point.  Arrange outdoor furniture where everyone can appreciate the scenery. A beautiful garden, swimming pool, or outdoor fireplace can all serve as appealing points of interest.

Lowell Custom Homes Outdoor living areas zones for activity

  • Locate zones on your property according to use. No need to cram all outdoor living space against the house.  Just anchor each zone with its own useful focal point.  A boathouse services lake front activities, a cabana offers poolside convenience and an upscale shed will store hobby or gardening equipment.

Lowell Custom Homes Outdoor Living areas

  • Create an outdoor hub where essentials are clustered for convenience.  Food preparation, dining table and entertainment equipment in one outdoor zone will let you enjoy the fresh air while hosting friends and family. An outdoor shower and self-serve refreshment bar can eliminate messy indoor traffic patterns and keep your home tidy.

Lowell Custom Homes Outdoor Living Cozy Fire pit

  • Introduce a fire feature to cozy up your outdoor space after dark. S’mores and story telling around the fire pit or outdoor fireplace will create memories and start traditions to be passed on for generations.

Lowell Custom Homes Outdoor Living Space Best Ideas

  • Dress up your space with weather resistant products to compliment your indoor style and color palette. Create visual interest with light fixtures, fans, area rugs, and accessories to add indoor comfort to your outdoor experience.

The experts at Lowell Custom Homes can help you plan a home with the most natural flow between your indoor and outdoor environments.

 

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

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

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 Architecture Lowell Management Lake Geneva WI

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 Architecture Lowell Management Lake Geneva WI

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

 
Meacum from Vicky from lake w logo -59-1x

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 Architecture Lowell Management Lake Geneva WI

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 Architecture Lowell Management Lake Geneva WI

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 Architecture Lowell Management Lake Geneva WI:

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 Architecture Lowell Management Lake Geneva WI

European Influence

European style homes suggest features from Country French and English Tudor homes dating back to the 18th 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 Architecture Whimsical Lowell Management Lake Geneva WI

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!

Style Quiz from Homegoods

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

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.

While you’re there, check out the Houzz Decorating Personality Quiz!

 

We enjoying hearing from you, so contact us for answers to your home building and remodeling questions!

 

Inviting Entries – Guidelines for your homes first impression

You had me at hello!
It is scientifically proven that first impressions are lasting. A phenomenon refer to as thin-slicing demonstrates our powerful ability to make rapid decisions based on a narrow window of experience. No matter the size, the entry point is where you and your home will make a first impression. With thoughtful design guidelines, your foyer will make a stunning statement on your behalf.
Communicate Your Style
Create an “ahhh” moment at the point of transition between the great outdoors and your home interior. Ancient Feng Shui principles believe the entry is the gateway for your homes energy.   Use this idea of natural flow to heighten the anticipation for visitors with a well-curated selection that represents your style.

  • Focus on developing a mood that will set the stage for your entire home.
  • Connect to the exterior of your home by repeating an architectural element, color scheme or material.
  • Control the visual “thin-slice” with simplicity as your guide with a few well-chosen features.
  • Think of the entry as an introduction to your home with a story that will unfold room to room.
  • Hint at the level of formality to your lifestyle with the size and detailing of your space.

Consider all angles for Foyer design
Consider every angle
Your entry is experienced from several vantage points. Consider them all when making selections for this space. Start with the exterior approach to your entrance and take in 360 views while standing in the foyer. This space is often in the background of your daily activities.   Reach for an integrated design theme that can be referred to throughout your home.

  • Select an entry door that enhance the character your homes character.
  • Express your style and gain natural light by choosing from the variety of transoms, sidelights and windows.
  • Consider privacy needs during in the initial design process. Size, shape and architectural features can control exposure to the elements and unknown visitors.

Practical Matters in the Foyer and Entry
Practical matters
Comfort features will be greatly appreciated by guests and family. When the entry is reserved for visitors, a more streamline, statement focused on design is possible. However, don’t neglect these basics that are appreciated by everyone.

  • A Chair or bench for struggling with footwear
  • Closet or coat rack
  • A mirror for last minute check ups
  • A chest or console table to hold and store out-the-door items like keys and gloves.
  • Good general lighting with a task light option

Traffic flow directing traffic from foyer through home
Traffic Flow
An Architectural pivot point, the foyer often guides traffic through the home. Directional cues are helpful for guiding visitors and family to the path you would prefer they travel.

  • Increase the size of any openings that you want used more often.
  • Use the same type of flooring to encourage flow into adjacent areas.
  • Change the flooring or wall color to subtly suggest a boundary.
  • Minimize walls or hallways and use open space to establish a visual connection that will encourage everyone to move into that space.

Showcase your foyer and entry style
Showcase Your Style
The entry is an ideal location to showcase your style by displaying art or special collections. This placement allows you to share something special with visitors while the central location lets you appreciate it daily.

  • Build in shelving or niches to keep collectables out of harms way.
  • Use accent lighting to highlight your treasured pieces
  • Keep this area simple and streamline to create a gallery effect that elevates the value of art, area rugs or a statement light fixture.

Multipurpose foyer
Foyer Flexibility
Often various rooms within a home converge at the foyer or entry. The shared open space will facilitate traffic flow as well as create open space that you can transform as needed.

  • Place important pieces, like a baby grand piano, in this area to make a statement within easy view.
  • Free up family activity areas by moving large storage pieces to this transition space.
  • Expand into this space for special events with a beverage bar or dining tables.
  • Enjoy this space for music lessons, dance practice or reading corner.

Use foyer or entry to entice visitors and surprise the with style
Entice and Surprise
Complete your entry area in a way that will entice and surprise everyone including yourself. When all of the elements of this space are carefully selected, your first impression will be memorable.