Good Things Come in Small Packages

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This old proverb traces back to early French literature, and we find it especially meaningful during the holiday season. Whether applied to gift giving, people or even homes, the lesson is one of genuine appreciation.

Good Things Come In Small Packages

We build homes with a smaller footprint for a variety of homeowner needs. Empty nesters, second homes, lot restrictions, or the need for easy accessibility, are all factors that can play into the square footage equation.

But don’t confuse smaller with a lack of luxury. In fact,  scaled down homes like this little gem often emphasize details that define a new type of luxury.  Quality, craftsmanship and a perfect fit are more significant than size for many of today’s homeowners.

Good things come in small packages Lowell Custom Homes detail tall windows craftsmanship

And small certainly does not mean subtle when applied to architecture and design. Open floor plans with high ceilings give the illusion of unlimited space. Cue the soaring windows and the home expands beyond actual proportions.

Good things come in small packages Lowell Custom Homes Floor to ceiling built in storage and cabinets

A smaller home permits manageable splurges on elements that are most meaningful to each homeowner. Hand-scraped wood flooring, floor-to-ceiling built-in storage, and connoisseur appliances are all realistic investments when the square footage is moderate.

The reputation of Lowell Custom Homes was built on high quality construction, superior craftsmanship and detailed woodworking. The same standards of excellence are used on every home, regardless of size. Your needs may run towards a smaller package, but know that all of the good things you value will be inside.

We appreciate the opportunity to build homes that become part of the lives and memories of our homeowners.

Homeowner thank you for their new home Lowell Custom Homes Good things come in small packages

Note from the owners of this cozy little cottage.


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The Secrets to Timeless Design for Your Home

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A well designed home has staying power. It transcends a specific architectural style to focus on an emotional connection, lifestyle and comfort. The secret to creating this type of timeless design starts with a collaboration of experts who truly understand the homeowner’s aesthetic.
This getaway home embodies the relaxed Lake Geneva lifestyle while integrating the homeowner’s appreciation for tradition and creativity. We worked with Architect John A. Hagenah and Interior Designer Elizabeth Drake as well as our talented craftsmen and quality resources to build a home that is both timeless and inviting.

1-exterior-lowell-custom-homes-pixGet In Sync with Your Setting

The Craftsman architecture utilizes wide gabled rooflines, tapered stone columns, and minimalist ornamentation for an intriguing relationship with the countryside. Cedar shingles and horizontal siding introduce subtle pattern with gable details that expose rafter beams. A screened in room and sleeping porch provide protected connections to the outdoors.  The back elevation of the home features a wall of windows and French doors where indoor-outdoor activities can flow effortlessly.
 

2-lowell-custom-homes-entry-and-music-room-pixRely on Classic Lines

The entry features a Mahogany Dutch Door inviting guests to the refined elegance of the Music Room. Classic lighting and traditional woodworking are relaxed with the warmth of grass cloth wall covering and medium wood tones.
 

3-lowell-custom-homes-living-room-fireplace-divider-dr-pixUse Neutrals or Classic Colors for Permanent Elements, Have Fun with Easy to Alter Elements.

The living room relies on Craftsman elements for its inviting character created with the low profile of a  beamed ceiling, custom stone mix on the fireplace wall, stone mantel and conversational seating area. All of the permanent architectural features in this home are timeless, neutral, and versatile.   The dramatic surprise of coral paint for the walls is actually an on trend element that can be easily changed should the homeowners ever feel the need for a different mood.
 
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Right-size the  Floor Plan for Effortless Traffic Flow

The dining room is adjacent to the entry hall and features another stone fireplace. Coffered ceiling and traditional moldings step up formality that is then relaxed with the rustic texture of stone. A built-in wine and refreshment bar is located at this mid-point of the home for easy entertaining with a convenient connection to the outdoor pool area.
 
 
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The dining area of this open floor plan flows directly to the kitchen with its large island seating for casual dining and entertaining. Here Wood-Mode cabinetry from Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC is done in a custom color with Quartzite countertops. Appliances include a Wolf range, Miele Oven, Steam Oven, Warming Drawer, and Sub Zero refrigerator. An artistic tile backsplash from Bella Tile and Stone, grounds this area with handcrafted appeal.
 

6-lowell-custom-homes-master-bedroom-and-bath-pixProvide Accessibility and Privacy

The first floor Master Bedroom Suite is a key feature for a timeless home plan. This area is designed with such grace and style that you may not notice the accessibility features that allow for future aging-in-place. The compartmentalized Master Bath, with double vanity and spacious shower, is detailed with classic tile patterns using basket weave and hexagon mosaics. Interior windows provide shared light and privacy while a tiled wall performs as an easy to maintain backsplash for the vanity area.
 

7-guest-rooms-sleeping-porch-and-bathInclude Versatile Rooms

The Guest Suites include bathrooms for privacy and access to the second story Sleeping Porch.   Each suite features a seating area and a full wall of windows for natural lighting , ventilation and views of the countryside.
 
 

8-laundry-craft-room-cabanna-dressing-area-from-pool-pixRecognize the Value of Functional Spaces 

Even the highly functional spaces of this home are treated with timeless details and easy transitions to the outdoors. A clever open combination space blends the laundry, creative studio and mudroom. It includes a workstation with stainless steel countertop and sink that can serve as a Butler’s Pantry or potting area for gardening. Another space with direct access to the pool performs as a cabana like dressing room with stacked washer/dryer and locker storage.
 

You can see more of this beautiful home with larger detail pictures on Houzz.

 

Hello Shadow! The 2017 Color of The Year from Benjamin Moore

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Color of the Year 2017 Benjamin Moore paints
Flashback October 2015: Benjamin Moore names Simply White as the Color of the Year and we experienced a visual cleansing of the palette.   We were swept away with the elegant simplicity of white. But this year, to remind us that there is no one-size-fits-all solution; Shadow, a deep amethyst, is named the 2017 Color of the Year. It is a sultry hue that will drive our sensibilities in a new direction for 2017.
Don’t worry if you’re not the dark brooding type, there is a full palette of complimentary colors introduced by Benjamin Moore to work beautifully with Shadow. And those of us who are clinging to the light airy ambiance of white will be pleased to note that it has not disappeared from our color radar.
Benjamin Moore 2017 color trends
While Benjamin Moore uses a dramatic entrance photo to entice us with Shadow’s moody nature, don’t let it frighten you. This sophisticated color can be introduced in small ways for an on-trend update. In fact the complex color composition of Shadow allows it to act as a neutral to be paired with colors you may already have at home.
The complete 2017 color direction includes delicate hues that can be accented by the gem stone qualities found at the deeper end of the palette. If you love drama, go ahead and wrap a room in you favorite passionate shade. For those of us who can’t commit, refresh your colors with accent and accessory pieces.
We’re not telling you to be a slave to fashion, in fact we love the classics. Think of this as a heads-up for colors that will be popping up in stores in 2017. Use what you love and give the others a knowing nod of recognition. Remember, every color and idea we know as a classic, began as a trend.

Color Trends 2017 Benjamin Moore Shadow

Shopping Links below


Adjust your eye to Benjamin Moore’s  Shadow by introducing artwork, area rugs or an accessory piece for an instant update. The entry door is an ideal place to go deep for major impact.
2017 Color Trends Benjamin Moore color of the year
If you are completely infatuated with the 2017 palette, make a stronger commitment with granite, tile or cabinetry. This selection of cabinet finishes from Wood-Mode is available from Geneva Cabinet Company. They are true classics that take on a trendy attitude when paired with Shadow and the other deep companion hues.
Benjamin Moore Color Trends 2017 Shadow Color of the Year
Benjamin Moore shares this video to explain some of the research behind this year’s choice for Color of the Year.
When you build or remodel with Lowell a team of experts will guide you through every detailed decision. Whether your style is timeless or trendy, our AIA architect and interior designer will support you with the latest updates and information for everything from architecture to color.

Lowell Custom HomesShopping Links:

Benjamin Moore Paints Color of the Year 2017
Geneva Cabinet Company
Trowbridge GalleryCharlotte Morgan Watercolour Tulips
Surya Rugs
Macy’s Bradbury Sofa
Ultimate Globe
LeCreuset Braiser in Amethyst
KitchenAid Mixer
Wood-Mode Cabinetry
Notting Hll Hardware
Merlin Glass
 

Lake Retreat Built by Lowell, Lake Geneva, WI

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 Click here to tour this remarkable Lowell Custom Home!

Lowell homes

Take a minute to enjoy a video tour of one of our custom homes on 336 acres surrounded by a 1000 acre nature preserve in Wisconsin.   This property includes a 9,000 square foot main house, a guest house the sleeps six, tennis courts and a lighthouse clubroom.

 
lowll estate PIX
 
 

Pet-Friendly Home Ideas

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We love to indulge our pets, but our home doesn’t have to go to the dogs!   Our pet-friendly home ideas will help you maintain a stylish standard, while making your furry family members right at home.

No matter what their age or level of training, “things” happen. So, our number one tip is to select durable and washable finishes when building or remodeling your home. Choose hard surface flooring in main traffic areas for easy clean up with classic style.

1 Pet friendly home ideas Lowell Custom Builder and tips pet friendly entry PIX

Create a pet-friendly entry area. Use easy to clean hard surface flooring and provide storage for everything needed on your daily outings. Leashes, treats, water bottles and even a supply of small towels for muddy paws.

1 Pet friendly home ideas Lowell Custom Builder and tips shiplap and beadboard paneling PIX

Don’t worry about your playful pet damaging walls; use a washable surface from the start. Active areas will benefit from a semi-gloss paint finish.   Better yet, shiplap and beadboard paneling are on-trend and super-durable.

1 Pet friendly home ideas Lowell Custom Builder and tips carpet stairs forever clean PIX

Safety first on the stairs, consider carpeting them or use a runner to eliminate slipping and scratches in this high traffic area.   When selecting carpet, look for brands that use the most advanced fiber technology, like Smart Strand.

1 Pet friendly home ideas Lowell Custom Builder and tips area rugs indoor outdoor PIX

Area rugs are the perfect way to protect hardwood flooring while providing a soft and cozy spot for afternoon naps. The newest indoor-outdoor rugs feel soft, repel stains and can even be hosed down. Choose multi-color rugs with a lively pattern to disguise any mishaps between cleanings.

1 Pet friendly home ideas Lowell Custom Builder and tips low windowsills PIX

Daydreamers and neighborhood watchdogs love windows. Keep the windowsills low or add a built-in window seat for hours of viewing pleasure.

1 Pet friendly home ideas Lowell Custom Builder and tips toys to match decor PIX

When selecting toys, consider how they will look when laying around on the floor. Choose colors that coordinate with your home and entertaining shapes that will make you smile when you step on the squeaky.

If your little buddy sheds, match the shades in your upholstery to his fur color. Extra brushing during shedding season and a handy lint roller will keep it looking good.

1 Pet friendly home ideas Lowell Custom Builder and tips washable bedding for both PIX

Choose washable fabrics for your home when possible, especially on bedding.

1 Pet friendly home ideas Lowell Custom Builder and tips wood mode pet parlor PIX

Consider adding “Pet Parlor” features to your laundry or mudroom. These cabinets by Wood-Mode feature convenient storage for everything from large bags of dog food to bath supplies.  Wood-Mode Fine Custom Cabinetry is available at Geneva Cabinet Company

1 Pet friendly home ideas Lowell Custom Builder and tips dog toy storage in drawers PIX

Keep a dedicated drawer or cabinet for toys in the same room where everyone hangs out.  Open them up at playtime so you pets can help themselves to favorites.

1 Pet friendly home ideas Lowell Custom Builder and tips dog bowls in kitchen PIX

No need to banish the water bowl, just select one that is as pretty as your other home accessories.

1 Pet friendly home ideas Lowell Custom Builder and tips kennel with video phone and bed PIX

Pets need a safe haven.  Built-in kennels or a quiet corner can become their sanctuary when household activity is overwhelming.  For  peace of  mind when you’re away, add a pet-cam.  A personalized bed made to just the right size will complete the space.

Shopping Links

David Adler Treat Cannister
Jenna MICHELE Dog Collars & Leash
Aplomb Designs Leash Holder
Karastan Smart Strand Carpeting
Company C Samantha Rug
BarkShop Toys
Kravet Furniture Allegro Chair 
Fresh America by Annie Selke
Wood-Mode Cabinetry Pet Parlor
Wood-Mode available at Geneva Cabinet Company Lake Geneva, WI
Uncommon Goods Pet Toys
Indigo Home Chinoiserie Dog Bowls
Adore Custom Pet Beds
Pet Chatz Greet & Treat Videophone

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

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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!

 

Refreshing Spring Updates for your Home

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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


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Top 10 Home Trends for 2016

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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

Home Design to Lose Weight & Get Fit

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What if the design of your home could increase your potential for success?
In his book  Slim By Design author and behavioral scientist, Brian Wansink, explains how changes to your environment can change your behavior.
With this approach in mind, we present some of our award-winning homes to demonstrate the best design ideas for a healthy lifestyle.

A well-organized kitchen is your base camp for success. An uncluttered environment is inviting and lets you feel in control. Store food out of sight except for a bowl filled with a variety of fruit on the counter.

A well-organized kitchen is your base camp for success. An uncluttered environment is inviting and lets you feel in control. Store food out of sight except for a bowl filled with a variety of fresh fruit on the counter.


 
Food preparation and clean up is a breeze when you have innovative products to speed things along.

You will be more motivated to prepare healthy meals when cooking and clean up is  a breeze!   Innovative products and appliances will increase your efficiency and decrease the time you spend in the kitchen.


 
Drink more water! Easy to do when a beverage station keeps it icy cold, within reach, and removed from the tempting snacks in the refrigerator.

Drink more water! It’s easy with a beverage station to keep it icy cold, and far away from the tempting snacks in the refrigerator.


 
A dedicated planning desk will help you coordinate nutritional meals and keep track of your progress.

A dedicated planning desk will help you coordinate nutritional meals and keep track of your progress.


 
Take advantage of color psychology, blue is known to promote weight loss because it is not associated with food.

Take advantage of color psychology by using kitchen colors that do not stimulate the appetite.  Blue is known to promote weight loss because it is not associated with food.  But notice how appealing the contrasting bowl of oranges becomes!


 
Sit down and enjoy every bite. Studies show that a relaxed dining area without the distraction of television will increase your satisfaction for every meal.

Sit down and enjoy every bite in a dedicated dining area.  Studies show that eating without  distraction will increase your satisfaction during every meal.


 
Take the stairs! You do not have to dedicate a full hour at the gym, just make a conscious effort to move more and avoid shortcuts.

Take the stairs!  You do not have to commit to a full hour at the gym, just make a conscious effort to move more often and avoid shortcuts.


 
Remind yourself of your commitment by surround yourself with healthy choices. Keep your workout equipment visible and ready to use.

Focus on your commitment by surrounding yourself with active options.  Create a colorful visual display of your workout equipment that is ready to go.


 
Lack of sleep leads to low energy and poor choices throughout the day. A restful bedroom will help you get the sleep you need for success.

Lack of sleep leads to low energy and poor choices throughout the day. A restful bedroom will help you get the sleep you deserve.


 
Reward yourself with treats that are not related to food, like a stress reducing start to every day in a spa bath.

Reward yourself with treats that are not related to food.  A spa bathroom will help you start every day stress-free.


 
Take a moment for inspirational reading or meditation to keep you on track and committed.

Take a moment for inspirational reading or meditation to keep yourself on track for success.


 

2016 Color of the Year for Your Home

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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.
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