Interior Design Archives - Lowell Custom Homes

2024 Emerging Home Design Trends

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

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

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

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

Self-Expression Trending

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

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

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

Allure of Authenticity

Walnut island countertop from trees felled while clearing property for home

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

Craving Outdoor Connections

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

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

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

Natural Light Shines In

Lowell Custom Homes, Conservatory Craftsmen, Shanna Wolf Photography

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

Emerging Color Trends

Color of the Year

2024 Colors of the Year

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

Neutrals Warming

Click to Benjamin Moore for full selection of neutrals

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

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

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

Circular Design Movement

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

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

Integrated Home Storage

Lowell Custom Homes, Geneva Cabinet Company, Shanna Wolf Photography

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

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

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

Home Design Lesson – Color Flow

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

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

Introduce Your Color Palette at the Entry

Interior Design and Photography by The Design Coach Phillip Sassano

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

Use a Thread Color

Interior Design by Elizabeth Drake, Photography by Victoria McHugh

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

Consider Sightlines

Interior Design by Homeowner, Photography by Shanna Wolf

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

Color Inspired by the View

Interior Design by North Shore Nest, Photography by Aimée Mazzenga

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

Color to Reflect a Mood

Interior Design by North Shore Nest, Photography by Aimée Mazzenga

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

Color to Energize

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

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

Add Wood Tones to the Mix

Interior Design by Lowell Custom Homes, Photography by Shanna Wolf

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

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

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

Connect with Lowell Custom Homes here

or call 262-245-9030

Photography by Aimée Mazzenga

Photography by Shanna Wolf

Photography by Victoria McHugh

Pause for a Design Moment

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

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

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

Depth Reduction

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

Architectural Emphasis

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

Artistic Still Life

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

Collectors Niche

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

Bathed In Light

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

Exit Strategy

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

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

Connect here

or call 262-245-9030

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

(of course, we never share your personal information)

Custom Home by Lowell Custom Homes

Interior Design by North Shore Nest

Photos by Aimée Mazzenga

More Than a Kitchen

in Home Ideas, Interior Design, Kitchen Design/by Lowell Management

More idyllic than a Nancy Meyers movie set, this fresh and fabulous kitchen design expresses the Lake Geneva lifestyle beautifully! We are excited to share the inspiring kitchen of a recently completed Lowell Custom Homes. A lake home aesthetic is firmly established by the talented interior designers at North Shore Nest. Photography by Aimée Mazzennga captures the rooms for all of us to appreciate.

The kitchen environment has evolved over time into a space where most of our home life happens. Square footage and amenities have both expanded. The result is a spacious design to accommodate our busy lifestyles. The freshest kitchen designs strike a balance between comfort and practicality.

Kitchen Design

Furniture quality cabinetry is the key to making it all work seamless. This home features custom cabinetry from Das Holz Haus, selected for their meticulous craftsmanship and superior finishing. Their motto, “. . . the most valuable tools are our hands” speaks to the integrity and construction of each piece.

Cooking is at the heart of any kitchen design and here a Lacanche range is the true centerpiece. Known for their superior performance among home cooks and professional chefs, these ranges are made to order deep in the Burgundy countryside of France. This work of art was created in French Blue with signature brass trim.

The range adds a distinctive charm to the kitchen along with a full height patterned backsplash. Reflecting the range finishes, a sophisticated blend of brass and nickel is applied throughout the kitchen for hardware, lighting, and trim.

Functionality in Kitchen Design

The kitchen has become the new living room. It is a family friendly space with designated areas for food prep, cooking, cleaning, working, and gathering together. It all began in the 80’s by taking down a wall. Now the open concept kitchen continues to mature with generous space permitting zones dedicated to specialized activities. This often includes expansive countertop work surfaces and a super-sized island or two.

The cabinetry is beautiful while supporting customized storage. A peek inside reveals expert planning by the kitchen designers at Geneva Cabinet Company in Lake Geneva. Impressive cabinet interiors house everything needed to keep a home running smoothly, even during the most hectic time of day.

The full height storage wall features (from left to right) a storage pantry with roll out shelving, the Miele Coffee System, multiple refrigerator drawers, built-in sideboard, and Sub Zero integrated 30″ refrigerator with 30″ freezer.

In addition to storage, the built-in niche presents a durable surface ideal for serving foods and beverages. The refrigerator drawers located in this section keep essentials like coffee cream, ice, and snacks within reach.

Floor to ceiling cabinetry takes advantage of the full wall height for storage while visually adding substance to this voluminous space. With cabinetry this efficient, every kitchen component is neatly tucked away to avoid clutter. Dexter has plenty of space to make himself comfortable while basking in a sunbeam.

Kitchen Islands

The kitchen island has progressed with the rest of the room to become a mainstay for family activity and entertaining.

In this home two very generous islands further define kitchen versatility. The inside island across from the range contains two dishwashers, two apron front sinks, a waste bin and compactor. The back of this unit boasts 18″ deep drawers for easy accessibility. The space between the two island is an entertainer’s dream. A microwave, warming drawer and more storage keeps everything within reach when serving friends and family. The public side of the outer island is finished with paneling and a countertop extension for casual dining and gathering.

And while the kitchen is an absolute dream, the adjacent dining room offers yet another dining alternative with sweeping views of the lake.

To see all of the impressive details of this Lowell Custom Home visit Poolside Paradise in our Featured Home Gallery.

Follow this link for more kitchen ideas.

The team at Lowell Custom Homes is ready to listen to your needs and help you develop the perfect plan for your lifestyle.

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

Connect here

or call 262-245-9030

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

(of course, we never share your personal information)

Custom Home by Lowell Custom Homes

Interior Design by North Shore Nest

Photos by Aimée Mazzenga

The Character of a Home

in Architecture, Custom Builder, Interior Design/by Lowell Management

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