Tag Archive for: home decor

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

 

 

 

Top Home Design Trends

Several factors influence the direction of home design.   When the predictions from multiple sources agree,  we know we have the winning ideas!  Ultimately, it’s not about trends, but about how people really want to live.   Our trend list includes the ideas that we feel will add value, style and comfort to your home.

Function First

Convenience is critical.  After a year of adapting our homes to serve us in a variety of unforeseen circumstances, most agree to the power of versatility.  Future home design will allow for flexibility while providing a balance between open and private spaces.

Curves Ahead

Curves made a big impression at High Point Furniture Market this year. We see the softened lines as a way to take the hard edge off of furniture and architecture for a more inviting presentation.

Keep It Natural

Natural materials remind us of our connection to the environment.  They are often responsible for beautiful texture in the most eco-friendly way.

Cocktail Hour

From bar carts to dedicated space, we’ve developed a new appreciation for the home bar experience.  In the Geneva Lakes area,  it’s the perfect way to wind down or turn up the fun.

Classic Minimalism

This trend is part of movement to simplify and focus on one artistically designed shape.  The intention is to promote calm and allow space to breath.

 

Working From Home

We’ve learned how to integrate work and homework into our space.   The best solutions involve a quiet space with some privacy as well as ergonomic comfort.

Bold Color Used As A Neutral

Neutrals are here to stay, but we are redefining the category.   A large dose of one bold color can softened the edges of a room and read as a neutral.

Seamless Indoor Outdoor Transitions

We mentioned this trend in last months blog and are happy to see its continued growth.  This Nana window opens up the kitchen to the screened in porch with endless entertaining possibilities.

This beautiful home is brought to you by our delightful homeowners

and

the dedicated team at Lowell Custom Homes!

Cabinetry by Geneva Cabinet Company

Photography by Shanna Wolf/S Photography

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

Traditional Design Is Back!

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

Bunks Room Lowell Custom Homes

Battle of the Bunks – Bunk Beds and Bunkrooms defeat the blow-up mattress!

The latest trend making its way into the most stylish homes of Lake Geneva is reminiscent of pillow fights and childhood sleepovers. Bunk beds and even bunkrooms are becoming the guest quarters of choice. There is an appealing social factor to this trend that blends sleeping arrangements with the ability to spend quality time together. You are never too old for a sleepover!

Bunk Bed room at luxury hotel start trend in homes for guest room accommodations
Even boutique hotels are introducing bunk options. Not only is this attractive to families, but the luxurious feather bedding and 300+ thread count sheets draw big kid pajama parties and friend getaways.
For the Lake Geneva homeowner, bunks are the best way to maximize space without compromising style. Children, grandchildren and long-lost cousins can all have a place to rest for round-the-clock togetherness and good times.
Which bunk bed concept is the best fit for your home? Let’s look at the possibilities . . .
Lowell Custom Homes Bunk Room with open concept and built in bunk beds to sleep 4 to 6 people
An open and airy space with built-in bunks will transform one bedroom into a space for 4 – 6 houseguests. Keep the base bunk low to allow extra headroom for your full-grown bunkmates.

Playing with themes can add an element of intrigue for your guests.  We created enclosed bunks with The Design Coach, Phillip Sassano, to be more Orient-Express than summer camp. Each is like a mini room with privacy curtains, storage and individual lighting, all wrapped up in plushy velvet comfort.
Lowell Custom Homes Unused space can be transformed into a guest area when fitted with freestanding or built-in bunk beds.
Unused space can be transformed into a guest area when fitted with freestanding or built-in bunk beds. Consider an open niche, attic space, or even a generous hallway that can be lined with bunks.  Each cozy little cocoon will attract kids of all ages when it’s time to take a snooze.
Lowell Custom Homes
Encourage camp-like comradely, minus the swirlies, with an adjoining locker and shower room. Beautifully detailed bunks feature specialized lighting and easy access steps instead of a ladder for ageless appeal.

We have a dedicated staff of professionals including an AIA architect, Interior Designers & Construction Superintendents who  are all pleased to help you with your home projects!

We are just a call away at 262-245-9030

Lowell Custom Homes

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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

Top 5 Tips for Picking the Perfect Paint Color for Your Home

Back away from the paint chips until you consider our Top 5 Tips for picking the perfect paint color. The first impression of your home is greatly influenced by color. In fact, humans have an actual physiological response to color which is known to influence emotions. Get it right with our easy guidelines and capture the ultimate feel-good at home!

Lowell Custom Homes How to Pick a Paint Color Mood

Tip #1 Choose Your Mood

  • Think about the mood and feeling you want for each space. The color scheme of your home can lead you through the day with bright colors for high energy areas or subtle colors in relaxed spaces.  This brief overview on Color Psychology & Your Moods will help you decide with colorful room images.

 

2 Inspiration PIX

Tip #2 Inspiration

  • Every great artist works from inspiration. Begin with something you love and expand on the idea to create a color palette.  Develop a harmonious flow from the exterior to the interior and throughout your entire home with an appealing common thread.  You can even use a home from the Lowell Custom Homes Gallery as inspiration.

 

3 Color and lighting PIX

Tip #3 Lighting

  • Hold on to your paintbrush, these three spaces are all painted with the same color, Benjamin Moore #962 Gray Mist. The difference is lighting. For this reason it is critical that you choose your color in the actual room where it will be used, or at least in a space with identical light.   The following are key factors for how color is perceived.
    1. natural light
    2. artificial light
    3. room size and
    4. architecture
  • Our Interior Detail Gallery has wonderful examples to demonstrate the interplay of natural and artificial light in a variety of spaces.

 

4 Whites with lowell entry

Tip #4 White is a Color Too

  • There is no such thing as “just paint it white”. White is actually one of the most difficult colors to get right. Trim and ceiling colors must have compatible undertones to the wall color. While you’re thinking about undertone, be sure to also apply this concept to the  stained finishes in every rooms.

 
whitest white land of color PIX

  • If you are searching for the whitest white possible, take a look at the recommendations from Land of Color.

 
 

CR-BG-Paint-Neutral-Wall-Swatch Benjamin Moore

Tip #5 Always Test Your Color in the Exact Finish You Need

  • You know the drill, paint swatches on sections of your walls around the room. Check the swatches out at various times during the day and be sure you can live with any variation caused by changes in natural light. *Time Saving Tip – Often a designer or the paint store will be able to order larger paint sample sheets that you can tape directly to the walls.
  • Be sure to test the color sample in the finish you will be using. Matt, eggshell or gloss finishes all reflect light differently and will influence the final color impression.

 
Don’t be afraid of color,  but respect the pitfalls of a rushed decision. Start with these 5 Top Tips.   If you need extra confidence, definitely rely on the opinion of experts.

Lowell Custom Homes 

Refreshing Spring Updates for your Home

1 Lowell Management FINAL pix Spring

Spring is nature’s time for renewal and the ideal time to bring your home out of hibernation. Celebrate the season by adding a few refreshing touches from our list of favorite home pick-me-ups.

  • Awaken your senses with flowers and scented candles for an instant lift. Use them generously in the most visible and well traveled areas of your home
  • Reposition furniture to take advantage of natural light and outdoor views
  • Brighten the bath by accenting with colorful towels and accessories
  • Lift heavy area rugs to enjoy the natural flooring or replace them with indoor/outdoor sisal
  • Use color and bold pattern in your toss pillows, throws and accessories for a lively accent
  • Lighten the look of your mantel and bookcases by storing away heavy accessories to keep the space open for a visual breath of fresh air
  • Spice up the kitchen with cheerful pops of color in cookware, tableware and serving pieces
  • Relate your home’s indoor and outdoor color palettes for a seamless connection to the exterior
  • Upgrade your standard entry fixture with one that makes a memorable style statement
  • Add a ceiling fan to covered porch or patio areas to create your own gentle breeze
  • Gather attractive trays for portable outdoor service with easy clean up
  • Display summer themed collections and playful activity equipment to set the mood for fun
  • Select outdoor furnishings based on the way you want to use your space. A daybed, outdoor bar or fire pit benches may serve you better than the customary umbrella table with chairs

For inspiration, take a look at some of these perky finds! 

Happy Spring!

 Shopping Links Below


1 /2/3/4/5/6/7/8/10//11/12//13/14/15/16/17/18/19
 
 

Top 10 Home Trends for 2016

Fads come and go, but trends in homebuilding can last for generations. These develop over time and respond to changes in lifestyle, innovations in materials and new technology. With this in mind, our goal is to bring you the latest trends that are sure to become timeless classics.

Top 10 Home Trends 2016 downsized luxury entry with display shelvingEffortless Luxury for Homes of All Sizes

The well appointed home is in demand for homes of all sizes. Downsizing does not mean giving up the beautiful features empty nesters are accustomed to,  even starter home buyers want to feel pampered. Open floorplans, custom woodwork, gourmet kitchens and statement lighting all detail the homes that are sized according to lifestyle needs, not neighborhoods.

Top 10 Home Trends for 2016 screened in porch, sunroom, indoor outdoor livingSeasonal Living Spaces

Move from the sunroom, to screened-in porch, to the pergola-covered patio with ease. Fluid transitions between indoor and outdoor living space has the ability to extend seasons for the year long appreciation of nature. These spaces often include fireplaces, entertainment technology, conversational seating, dining area and outdoor kitchens.

Top 10 Trends for Homes in 2016 Multigenerational Space, multiple master bedrooms Multigenerational Space with Flexibility and Inclusive Design

Extended families under one roof are giving rise to homes with multiple bedroom suites for the comfort of everyone from aging parents or boomerang children. These homes are designed with large shared space to enhance family connections.  Personalized private areas often features showers with seats and grab rails to insure safety and open space for easy navigation.

Top 10 Trends for Homes in 2016, kitchen design, State of the Art Kitchen storage, range, range hood stainless steel, large island

State-of-the-Art Kitchens with Integrated Living Space

Today’s kitchens are connected to family life more than ever. The super-sized island is a multitasking essential with cabinetry in furniture-like finishes and smart appliances. Integrated equipment lends a streamline look to open floor plans. Luxury niche appliances satisfy the most serious chefs and include high performance ranges, steam ovens, warming drawers, metal range hoods and wine coolers. Emerging trends include kimchi refrigerators for preserving vegetables in keeping with Korean traditions and cultivators like the Urban Cultivator for fresh herbs.
Urban cultivator, indoor herb garden
Kitchen by Geneva Cabinet Company
 
 
 
 

Top 10 Trends for Homes in 2016, Clean Healthy Living, quartz, large tile, no grout onesHealthy Homes – Clean Living

A clean aesthetic is highly desirable and designs are evolving to incorporate low maintenance finishes that advance the cause. Quartz countertops with antibacterial properties are growing in popularity along with stainless steel countertops and large-scale tile with fewer grout lines. Air and water purification systems and natural materials work together to reduce toxins in the home along with streamline design where dust can’t hide.

Top 10 Trends for Homes in 2016, decorating idea, entry storage, cubbiesRelaxed and Farmhouse Entries

The farmhouse tradition of practicality is driving the trend for relaxes entries that focus on convenience. Open cubbies provide visible storage that eliminates the frantic search for keys. Additional storage under built-in benches keep shoes and boots tidy while preventing outside dirt from being tracked inside. Charging stations are often included to keep electronics in sight and ready to go.

Top 10 Trends for 2016 home design and decorating, Flexible Dining rooms, open floorpan, Lowell Management Services Lake Geneva WIFlexible Dining Room

Dining is an art to be shared with friends and family.    For this reason many are not willing to give up on the idea of a formal dining room. We have the perfect solution with open floor plans where the dining area can be adjusted to suite an intimate dinner party or grand affair.

Top 10 Trends for 2016 in home decorating and design, mix and match finishes, kitchen cabinet mix finished, quartz, soapstone, metalLowell Management Lake Geneva WIEclectic Mash Up

Mix and match principles apply throughout the home and are most evident in the kitchen. Combinations feature complimentary styles and colors for cabinetry along with various countertop materials assigned by use. Quartz, soapstone and hand scraped woods compete with granite for the most popular position. Metallic finishes for hardware and tile inserts includes gold, copper and platinum along with the traditional chrome and steel.

Top 10 Trends for 2016 in home decorating and design, entry with artisan craftsmanship, Lowell Management Services Lake Geneva WIAuthentic Materials and Craftsmanship

Appreciation for handcrafted work from local artisans and locally sourced material is on the rise. It goes beyond the sustainability factor and speaks to a newfound respect for the time-honored skills of our neighbors. Repurposed and locally sourced materials carry a highly trusted reassurance of quality.

Top 10 Trends for 2016 in home design and decorating, Leisure rooms, pool cabana, bar, kitchen, bath, barn door, Lowell Management Lake Geneva WILeisure Spaces and Getaway Rooms

When it’s time to relax we want a space that transports us from the daily grind to a relaxing retreat. Home hobby spaces can be as peaceful as a meditation room or as active an arcade. Many are self-sustaining with a refreshment area and private bath. These spaces vary from a basketball court that is just down the hall to a freestanding boathouse or poolside cabana.
Kitchen by Geneva Cabinet Company

2016 Color of the Year for Your Home

How excited are you about the 2016 Color of the Year?
Even if you have not been breathless with anticipation, there is a value to watching as the 2016 Colors of the Year develop into trends that help you  freshen up the look of your home.
There is not much controversy between the two leading paint companies, Benjamin Moore and Sherwin Williams. Both select a version of white consistent with the current cultural desire for calm and simplicity.
bm and sw color of the year 2016
Benjamin Moore Simply White Video      Sherwin Williams Alabaster Video
From the standpoint of architectural integrity and composition, we agree with the importance of the color white in all of its variations.
However, when Pantone pioneered two interacting Colors of the Year 2016, Rose Quartz & Serenity, a new understanding of color direction emerged.

Screen Shot 2016-01-05 at 9.32.39 AM

Pantone Colors of the Year 2016 Video


Interplay or the interaction of color becomes the theme running through the 2016 color predictions.
Interplay is a technique we often use when creating interior and exterior architectural statements.  Here are some of our favorite ideas that will help you update the color impression of your home.
1 subtle layering nuance depth add fitterer millwork

Layer subtle shades of white to create dimension and refined nuance.


defining texture contrast white

Define architecture with white as a brilliant contrast to exterior color and material schemes.


Create restful space by applying the meditative quality of white or a pastel.


contrast with white trim on molding

Energize by contrasting a bold wall color with crisp white trim.


culbertson round staircase copy

Emphasize texture and enhance natural rustic materials with the calming contrast of white.


The Pantone 2016 Colors of the Year were selected with the intention of pairing calm harmonious hues. The specific color is not as significant as the fluidity of the pairing.    Keep balance in mind when applying color to your home and you will be on track for 2016.
Screen Shot 2016-01-05 at 9.27.18 AM

Screened In Porch – Improving Nature

Summer Porch
Does the idea of extending your summer sound appealing? A screened in porch will prolong your outdoor living season in the most civilized manner. No bugs, always a breeze from the ceiling fans, and overhead protection from the elements, what’s not to love! This cost effective feature lets you get a jump on summer and cling to every last day before winter arrives.
We build screened in porches and rooms where our homeowners can enjoy a close connection with nature.   These areas deliver additional living space with the bonus of versatility. A place to unwind, entertain friends or shake up a boring dinnertime routine; the appeal is in its ability to become exactly what you need. The temporary charm of outdoor living releases you from the formalities created by four walls and encourages relaxation.
These screened-in fundamentals will guide you when setting up your own outdoor space.
 
Screened in Exterior
Business in the front – party in the back.
Even the most stately homes can embrace the look of a screened in room. You’ll avoid the architectural mullet phenomenon by treating this feature with the same details as your home. Design your screened in space to reflect the overall character of your home.
 
View from screened in porch
Focus on the view
If you are fortunate enough to have a scenic view, take full advantage by positioning the location and elevation where you’ll have best perspective. When not emphasizing a long distance view, create an intimate view with the surrounding landscape.
 

screened in porch ceiling

Make a statement with the ceiling
Since transparent screening surrounds you with nature, the ceiling becomes a creative outlet for your style. Beadboard is one of our favorite treatments. Created from wood planking, this material can be rustic or polished in order to reflect your design aesthetic.
 
screened in porch lighting and ceiling fans
Ceiling Fans & Lighting for Mother Natures downtime
Well-placed ceiling fans will add a soft breeze to a motionless summer day. Use a fixture with contrasting finish to bring attention to a beautifully detailed ceiling. Match the ceiling color if you would like it to quietly disappear.
The same applies to lighting.   But be sure to think beyond the typical porch fixture.  Outdoor lighting technology offers stylish fixtures and even table lamps to satisfy all of your functional needs.
5d Blog inset fireplace

 

Take the chill off with a warm fire.
The fireplace is a natural gathering point and will transform your screened area into an extension of your home. The added warmth will allow you to truly extend your outdoor living season.
 
Furnishing for Comfort
Rugged or refined, your screened room should be finished off with the furniture pieces that will allow you to make the most of your outdoor season. Check our past post for tips on the most durable approach:
Low Maintenance Essentials for Easy Indoor-Outdoor Living