Thank you Great Lakes By Design Magazine for featuring the stunning Lake Geneva home by Lowell Custom Homes in your latest issue. Working with our delightful homeowners and the talented Alexander Design Group, Inc. we think this home is the ultimate expression of timeless relaxed luxury in Lake Geneva.
Read it right here and enjoy all of the details that compose this lovely lakefront landmark!
While our expertise is building homes with timeless appeal, we always have an eye out for trends that can lend a refreshing note. This spring High Point Market in North Carolina introduced furnishings that will make their way into stores next season. We see a leaning towards products that express a strong personal point of view. Here are a few of the standout trends and what they mean for home design.
Robert James Collection Coronado Bed
Applied to your home, this means traditional shapes with a clean modern edge. Here we show the look in a library with classic details refined by a linear perspective .
Thibaut High Point Showroom – New Fabrics and Wallcoverings
At home this trend is expressed with a more casual mix of materials like rustic stone on the fireplace, finely detailed woodworking and a mixed media chandelier.
Abigails.net Feathered Vase
Components with an artisan touch are more and more popular at home. This hand hammered copper freestanding bathtub will develop a patina to accompany its sculptured shape. To see the entire home click here.
Howard Elliott Antique Brass Faux Bois Coffee Table
Natural elements are a major influence in decor and construction. This kitchen island stands out with a scraped and distressed natural wood countertop by Grothouse from Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC in Lake Geneva. To enjoy this entire home click here.
Caracole Furniture Showroom at High Point Market
Thankfully the era of the accent wall is over. We are no longer afraid to experience strong color either skillfully wrapped around the walls or artfully applied to cabinetry and furniture, as demonstrated in this lovely home. You can see the rest of the color story by clicking here.
Interior Design by Elizabeth Drake
Some of our favorite pieces are highlighted on this mood board, follow the numbered links for source information. For even more inspiration visit Instagram for High Point Market.
One of our past blogs described how a home can hold the secret to happiness (read more about that here). One last part of the process is establishing a personal point of view, these latest trends will help with that.
It turns out the key to happiness and the key to your front door is one in the same. Latest findings point to the well designed home as a significant factor in leading your best life. Home should be a sanctuary of self-care, and the team at Lowell Custom Homes has a few ideas to help you make that happen.
Most of our leisure time is fragmented by interruptions from an email, text, or simply caring for others. Since you cannot make more time, it makes sense to make the most of it. That’s where the homes from Lowell excel. Their forward thinking floorplans and distinctive features conserve your time and energy. Known for interiors that weave spaces together seamlessly, our homes will help you move efficiently throughout the day.
Nothing invites happiness like a well designed entry. From landscaping to architectural details, this is where the journey begins. Our video explains the artistry behind the entry doors in this show-stopping home, with Lulu Belle and Tucker extending a warm welcome.
You cannot make more time, but “time deepening” will make the most of what you have. Face-to-face interactions are an essential part of happiness. A home that supports togetherness can be more rewarding than screen time. We love open floor plans were the kitchen is at the heart of the home. When the layout is spacious and the appliances are luxurious, the kitchen becomes an ideal place for multitasking and gathering.
Speaking of luxurious appointments, a range from La Cornue USA and custom hood by Raw Urth turn this kitchen into a real happy place! Cabinetry by Geneva Cabinet Company.
The den can be another favorite setting for togetherness. This room wraps you in the warmth of knotty alder with its architectural barrel vault ceiling for an intimate cocoon.
A recommended approach to happiness is to decelerate and enjoy the ride. Home design should accommodate a variety of interests with space to rejuvenate. We think you’ll enjoy a tour of the specialty areas in this newly completed Lake Geneva area home.
A potting shed created with reclaimed materials from Heritage Beam & Board
The workout room is located on the main floor for top of mind awareness.
A master bath exudes luxury with the positive energy from copper finishes.
The conservatory is a natural retreat for the avid gardener, this one is from Minnesota’s Conservatory Craftsmen 
We are reminded of the great satisfaction of having guests when we browse the entertainment areas of this home. A nautical themed bunk and bath is perfect for Lake Geneva weekends. To see more of our favorite bunk rooms click here. And for tips on caring for your guests click here.
Even the tiniest guest receives a special place for precious overnight visits.
Did we leave anything out of this remarkable home? Oh yes, the wine cellar and sauna!
The home in this blog was featured on an interview with Todays Builder Television Show where builder Scott Lowell explains his “old-school” building methods that maintain the highest quality. Take a peek . . .
Photography by S. Photography & Styling – Shanna Wolf
Memorable gatherings, great and small, begin in a home that radiates warmth. Sharing the comforts of your home is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give for the holidays. While daily lifestyle takes precedence in home design, here are a few features that are truly appreciated by guests.
Welcoming Entry
Before the doorbell rings your home is making its first impression. The character of this home is reminiscent of a French Country Chateau with exterior lighting that glows to guide visitors forward. The richly stained and subtly arched entry doors are framed by curved corbels and surrounded by dimensional stone work. For more inviting exterior ideas click here!
Balance
Guests are reassured by a sense of balance. The beautiful symmetry of this living room plays a gracious role communicating comfort.
Inviting Flow
Unobstructed views and an open floor plan encourage a relaxed flow throughout the home.
Lovely Scale & Proportion
Scale is more important than size when creating a welcoming room. This floor to ceiling stone fireplace is perfectly at home in a room that can support its dramatic presence with ample ceiling volume. View more ideally proportioned interiors in our gallery by clicking here.
Options for Intimacy
Large formal rooms are lovely, but at times a scaled down room is just right for more intimate gatherings. Here, fine handcrafted details are perfectly proportioned for a more personal setting.
Versatile and Multifunctional
We all love an open kitchen, but at times you just want to pull the curtain, or in this case the pocket door, on the chaos. Built-in versatility is the key to spaces that perform day-to-day as well as when entertaining. This kitchen can be a place for meal preparations, casual dining, or mingling.
Party in the Front, Business in the Back
Function is a priority, especially in kitchen design. Here a dramatic oversized island is part of the design by Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC. At first glance you’ll notice show-stopping good looks, but a peek around to the back side exposes easy-to-access storage, wide open work surface and undercounted appliances.
Staging Area
Behind the scenes at any great event is a well executed plan. This spacious laundry room can double as a butler’s pantry while thoughtfully designed cabinet interiors are a thing of beauty every day.
Seasonal Transitions
A protected indoor-outdoor area is appreciated by many guests. This screened in room offers comfort and style along with a little fresh air.
Time to Unwind
And finally, after the last air-kiss good-night, every homeowner deserves a place to unwind and reminisce about the exciting events of the day.
That should include the privacy of a Master Bedroom and Bath Suite as the perfect place to rejuvenate for the next round of holiday festivities.
This home was originally built by Lowell Custom Homes and designed by M & E Architects. The renovations in 2018 are by Lowell Custom Homes with architect Todd Cauffman and General Manager/Project Superintendent Rich Kinter.
To see more of the lovely details visit our Houzz portfolio by clicking here.
Photography is by Shanna Wolf, S.Photography and Styling
The new roof is by DaVinci Roofscapes and features a long lasting composition shake shingle.
The kitchen by Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC features cabinetry fromPlato Woodwork, Inc.
Move over kitchen and bath, this year living quarters will dominate home remodeling requests according to the Houzz & Home Renovation Report. Houzz is one of the leading home and design resource sites in the country. Lowell Custom Homes is a regular contributor to many of the Houzz studies evaluating trends and the latest news in home building and remodeling.
This year’s research reveals the unexpected popularity of improvements to general living areas. The forecast for 2018 also predicts that homeowners will tackle multiple room renovations at one time. Surprisingly, the master bedroom and laundry are leading the way with a growth in average spending of 23% and 24% respectively.
While the desire for kitchen and bath renovations remains consistent, a shift in homeowner thinking places the new focus on living spaces that will have real lifestyle impact.
The study reveals, and we can confirm based on our current projects, that the main motivation to remodel is improved design and function. Customization is at the top of everyone’s list when making design decisions. It is about making the space personal and relatable for the needs of each homeowner.
Remodeling the master bedroom and the master suite is moving further in the direction of comfort and privacy. While the concept is not new, the increased demand for an at home getaway is noteworthy. More and more homeowners are craving privacy within their home. There is a high desire for what can be seen as an in-home mental health escape for writing, meditation or just some quality me-time.
Laundry room renovations are becoming more extensive and the space devoted to this utility is growing larger. It has evolved into a multi-purpose area that just happen to have the laundry located inside. Easy access is a key factor for updates to this workspace along with the ability to share storage and countertops for projects.
Exterior improvements closely follow interior renovations in popularity. Curb appeal, or lake appeal in this case, is a priority. Remodeling often includes indoor-outdoor living space with special amenities like an outdoor kitchen or even an outdoor shower.
From first-time buyers to seasoned homeowners, remodeling has become the way to have a home that will provide for all of your needs, without having to move.
You can read more about how to decide if you should build or remodel here and here .
Interior Design of Laundry Room by Elizabeth Drake Interiors
Photography Credits Josh Z Photography and Victoria McHugh Photography
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Photography by S.Photography & Styling, Lake Geneva, WI
Back in the day, designers would disguise a big boxy television set with a big boxy piece of furniture. Thankfully the inventors of flat screen television (talk amongst yourselves to identify the first) put an end to the madness.
Flat screen television units eliminate the proverbial elephant in the room. Television placement has never been more liberated. We can now bring our attention back to business of design, without the burden of bulk.
Often more traditional homes, or interiors that want to maintain a more formal appearance, will opt for complete concealment. Now this camouflage can be smoothly integrated into the design of any room. Just a slight recess in the wall or fireplace will provide an opportunity for doors or artwork to complete the disguise.
Intimacy and comfort are heightened when the background wraps you in an undisturbed shell. The key to success is a light hand when accessorizing the nearby shelving in order to reduce distraction from your favorite program. Lighting should be adjustable to avoid glare that could cause eye strain.
Not anymore, especially when it’s hidden in plain sight. Dark tones on the wall prevent a large screen from visually intruding on your space. When placing your television at this height, be sure to use an adjustable arm that allows you to angle it downward for better viewing.
Building a frame around the screen is a streamline solution, especially when it’s balanced by black accents. The stone fireplace surround keeps the television from making the room top heavy.
In the kitchen or office a high recessed niche is the perfect way to get your daytime television fix while keeping workspace clear.
Your favorite programs line up perfectly on the backsplash providing an ever-changing design element to eliminate kitchen boredom.
Sometimes a TV just needs to be a TV, but this is no afterthought. Mounting directly to the wall saves space while knotty cedar paneling provides an interesting and unexpected contrast. The symmetrical arrangement of architectural features, like these flanking and clearstory window, will create balance for a serene effect.
An extra large screen acts as an ever-changing backdrop for your leisure activities. Conversation is encouraged when seating is versatile and viewers can face each other or the screen.
Weather the urge is “all sports, all the time” or a battle of HGTV, BRAVO, and The Cooking Channel, a multiscreen arrangement will immerse you in entertainment.
When choosing the placement of your television it really comes down to size. For comfort refer to his guide for viewing distance.
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!
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 . . .
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.
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.
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.
It’s awards season and the winners have been announced for the Golden Globes, Grammys, and our personal favorite, The Best of Houzz.
Lowell Custom Homes won “Best Of Customer Service” on Houzz®, the leading platform for home building, remodeling and design. It is truly an honor to receive this award for the second year in a row. Customer Service awards are based on several factors, including the number and quality of client reviews a professional received in 2016.
With the largest residential design database in the world and a vibrant community empowered by technology, Houzz is the easiest way for people to find inspiration, get advice, buy products and hire the professionals they need to help turn their ideas into reality.
In addition to Best of Houzz Customer Service award, Lowell’s work was further recognized with the Best In Milwaukee – 2017 – Staircase Award. Houzz enthusiasts saved this winning staircase to over 43,000 Ideabooks!
As one of Lake Geneva’s most respected and celebrated builders, we are often asked to contribute to Houzz by advising and participating on their research panels. We are always delighted to take part and share information with the community. A special thank you to Houzz for recognizing us with the Influencer and Industry Research Barometer badges for these contributions.
We love the direction home design is taking and you will too! The special features we are building into homes are all about enhancing lifestyle. Say goodbye to cookie-cutter plans and welcome in the latest features that will have real staying power for your new or remodeled home.
Pick and choose exactly what makes you smile. This home for an avid auto collector creates a showcase where it can be enjoyed and shared effortlessly. Forget neatly stacking your treasured collections in a closet; use these special interests as a springboard for developing a home style that is meaningful to you.
We have always designed homes to be appreciated from every perspective, and now the appeal for 360o detailing is catching on. When equal attention is given to the side and back elevations, your everyday home experience becomes richer. While you’re at it, be sure stunning architecture does not get lost in the shadows. Landscape and exterior lighting is an essential element for any home plan.
Natural charm and flow characterize kitchens today where we like to cluster cabinet storage along one wall to keep the floor plan open and accessible. Popular Farmhouse and Industrial trends merge to create highly functional spaces for living and entertaining. Materials here and throughout the home blend natural honed surfaces with polished finishes. The interplay of texture is spellbinding and creates the perfecting setting for gatherings.
Smart features go undercover while serving up substantial savings. Energy efficient windows and insulation work with zoned heating and cooling systems to maximize a homes mechanical productivity. Automated and voice-activated systems monitor comfort levels with the added convenience of off-site monitoring.
We work hard, so creating playful outdoor space at home lets everyone enjoy free time without traveling to another location. Screened-In porches and outdoor kitchens are often joined by even more personalized features like putting greens and movie screens.
At home entertaining is on the rise and a central hub allows the host to be a part of the action. Whether your preferences leans towards a fully stocked cocktail bar, coffee bar or ice-cream social bar, the mission is convenience. A dedicated area with storage and proper supplies will turn a simple beverage into a special indulgence.
Color Turns Warm and MoodyHGTV and Pottery Barn may have caused you to forget about the warmer side of the color wheel, but that is about to change. Cool grays will still be important, but neutrals will move forward by including warm beige tones and occasionally a bit of brown. The freshest effects will be achieved when these colors are accented with saturated hues like Benjamin Moore’s 2017 Color of the Year – Shadow, and Pantones 2017 Color of the Year – Greenery.
Luxury takes a turn towards practical when it comes to indulging ourselves at home. Oh sure, a spa bath is nice, but nothing compares to a laundry room with a potting station or a mudroom lined with exquisite locker storage. Those highly functional areas can be fitted to perfection turning everyday chores into a delightful escape.
The majority of rooms featured in this post were photographed by Victoria McHugh Photography
Interior Design for the home featured is by The Design Coach Phillip Sassone
Interior Design for the laundry room and potting area featured in the last image and the Beverage Bar with metallic tile backsplash is by Elizabeth Drake of Drake Interiors, Ltd.
