Tag Archive for: Casual Elegance

quiet luxury in Lake Geneva Wi

Quiet Luxury at Home

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From runway to home, the quiet luxury movement is intensifying!

Quiet luxury is defined by Vogue Magazine as a “non-trend trend” or “elevated basics”.   The aesthetic in fashion features the highest quality pieces with an understated presence. When applied to homes, this attitude is easy to understand by watching Lowell Custom Homes construction in action.  The focus is on superior materials and expert craftsmanship.

When citing this style, marketing analyst Pam Dazinger references the Succession series and explains,

“True luxury whispers, it never shouts.”

With that in mind we identified the elements that will help you communicate quiet luxury in your home.

Quiet Luxury is Always Appropriate

Interior Design by North Shore Nest, Photo by Aimee Mazzenga

LCH, Interior Design by North Shore Nest, Photo by Aimee Mazzenga

This entire movement is in sync with the principles of Elsie de Wolfe, founder of the interior design profession.    De Wolfe’s philosophy started with a goal, “A house that is like the life that goes with it, a house that gives us beauty as we understand it.”  She also famously warned, “You will express yourself in your house whether you want to or not.”  With that in mind, the first recommendation for quiet luxury is to create a home suitable for your lifestyle and location.

Prioritize Quality & Craftsmanship

Quiet luxury showcases natural materials, artistry and simplicity of style.  Sustainability is achieved by investing in craftsmanship that will survive generations.  Palettes are curated by combining personally soothing colors without interruption from showy displays.

Quiet Luxury is in the Details

Quiet Luxury LCH, Interior Design by Ann Kottler Home, Photo by Shanna Wolf

LCH, Interior Design by Ann Kottler Home, Photo by Shanna Wolf

Subtlety is an art. When it comes to architectural and interior design, details speak without shouting.  Quality materials and impeccable craftsmanship differentiate design in an understated manner.  This mood is about embracing the things you love in an environment that is relaxed and inviting.

Connection to Nature

quiet luxury Interior Design by Ann Kottler Home, Photo by Shanna Wolf Photography

LCH, Interior Design by Ann Kottler Home, Photo by Shanna Wolf Photography

The nurturing influence of the environment is key to this effort.  Creating a seamless flow between interior and exterior rooms lends a sense of tranquility.

Quiet Luxury is Confidence

Quiet Luxury, LCH, Interior Design by Ann Kottler Home, Photo by Shanna Wolf Photography

LCH, Interior Design by Ann Kottler Home, Photo by Shanna Wolf Photography

A well curated design reads as confidence.   There is no need to rely on the latest designer label or “it” item when decisions are based on desirable attributes.  This is one of the reasons we have relationships that span generations.  A Lowell Custom Home reflects an appreciation for quality and the discerning taste of our homeowners.

Visit our Gallery to be inspired.

Connect with Lowell Custom Homes here

or call 262-245-9030

Traditional Design Is Back!

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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

Designing for Comfort

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This is the season to prioritize comfort.  The evenings come early, and the morning air can be brutal.  Instead of just hunkering down, it’s the ideal time to celebrate home life with some extra attention to our well-being.  The Danish call this attitude Hygge, we call it the essence of home.

You can heighten the feeling of comfort in small ways or go big with a whole house refresh. Either way, here are some of our favorite ideas to up the cozy-factor this winter.

Natural Materials

Natural and authentic materials help us feel grounded. A stone fireplace, architectural beams, and natural wood tones are soothing.  Even accessories added to your kitchen counter or cocktail table will create a mood.  One of our favorite places for cozy touches is Summer Made in Lake Geneva.

Soft Furnishings

Simple additions go a long way to warm up a room.  Bulky knit throws, area rugs, toss pillows and overstuffed furniture all nurture the spirit. A good place to start your shopping for the Lake Geneva winter vibe is Paper Dolls Home Furnishings.

Warm Color & Texture

Natural colors tend to lean warmer and when combined with the texture of knotty wood paneling, the effect surrounds you in security.

Layering Pattern

Pattern fills a room,  and when layer upon layer is applied the comfort factor rises.  Upholstered headboards and lush layers of bedding compound the visual effect.

Quiet Moments

When everyone is forced to stay close to home, it pays off to have an at-home-retreat.  A quiet place where you can hang a do-not-disturb sign and enjoy a bath, sauna, or favorite chair with a good book.  You’ll love this list of book club favorites.

 

Fireplace Gatherings

Taking the chill off around the fireplace is a time honored tradition.  Arranging comfy furniture in a cluster around the hearth will facilitate warm and friendly conversations.

 

Inviting Spaces

Rooms that are pulled together are always more inviting.  Coordinated by color and designed with good circulation space, people will not hesitate to enter and put their feet up.

Scented Spaces

Engage all of the senses with a fragrance that will enhance memories.  Evergreen, bayberry, zesty orange, and cinnamon will keep you filled with warmth.

 

Embrace Friluftsliv – The Outdoor Extension of Hygge

 

Friluftsliv follows the Danish Hygge trends with the Norwegian cultural concept that promotes “free air life”.   Spending time outdoors during the winter season has been shown to improve physical and mental health and reduce stress.  Even if you’re not up for a long walk, a warm cup of cocoa on your screened porch will do wonders to reduce stress.

 

Daily Rituals

Relying on daily routine can give structure to otherwise endless days.  Light a candle, call a friend, have an afternoon tea  . . .   taking the time to tune into your sense of calm during the winter will provide a sense of balance throughout the season.

 

So, stopping fighting the urge to ward off winter and start working with it to enjoy the warmhearted memories you’re now creating.

 

 

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

262-245-9030

 

There are no affiliated links in any of our posts and we never share your personal information.  You can subscribe to our blog updates with no concerns.

Easy Elegance Leads Home Trends

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Luxury has been redefined for the coming decade.  People now want luxury to be a part of their everyday life in small comforting ways.   This means something different for each home, but all must have high quality construction as the foundation.    Discover how this new idea luxury can guide you to making the home improvement decisions that you will love for a lifetime.

Easy elegance

Lowell is in the midst of redefining luxury living. Their homes strike the perfect balance between stunning architecture and seamless operation.  This often includes a welcoming floorplan with easy transitions, especially between indoor and outdoor spaces.

It’s not about creating a single Instagram moment, the goal is an exquisite and durable home so everyone can focus on the fun side of living in the Geneva Lake area.

Functional Beauty

The design of a Lowell home is never forced or out of character with lifestyle.  Each has a unique appeal that conforms to the functional needs of its family.  This can mean anything from dripping wet kids and pets running in and out of the house to a sophisticated cocktails party around the outdoor fireplace.  Kitchens with luxury appliances are about value, not status.  Upscale amenities offer efficiency and timesaving contributions for the entire household.  Flexi-fridges have compartments that switch back and forth from refrigerator to freezer to easily accommodate party platters.  Advanced refrigeration keeps food fresh longer for weekend to weekend visitors. And more efficient ranges and convection ovens speed up cook time so there is more time for fun.

 A Story of Wellness

A sense of calm and wellness is at the core of Geneva Lake living and Lowell answers this desire by manifesting a comforting atmosphere in their homes.  Open spaces, charming vistas and organic materials that are sustainable, as well as attractive, all play a role.  Lowell homes incorporate an abundance of natural light, high performance air and water systems and ample kitchens designed to be the hub of a healthy way of life.  These homes are tuned-in for the freshest approach to wellness including tech-free zones to that encourage togetherness and physical activity.

 Conscientious Construction & Deconstruction

There are many old homes and cabin properties in and around Geneva Lake.  When these don’t meet present day building codes or suit the needs of the homeowner, Lowell is proud to be a part of the process that includes deconstruction with the donation of good materials before rebuilding on the property.

Deconstruction, Reuse, Recycle – The Alternative to Demolition.

Our team coordinates with Habitat for Humanity on behalf of our homeowners to arrange for deconstruction and material donation.   We even like to give the community a heads up when highly desirable materials like this Pecky Cypress are on their way to the sales floor at Milwaukee Restore

Recognizing that sustainable design is not just about recycled material, it is about building high quality lasting structures that will stand the test of time.  We do this by having our homes built by the finest local craftsman featuring locally sourced materials when possible.

The team at Lowell supports homeowner’s in the gratifying journey of designing and building a new home.  Our in-house experts include an AIA architect, interior designer, project manager and full support staff, all working to ensure a stress-free and rewarding homebuilding experience.

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

Lowell Custom Homes

262.245.9030

 

 

Gatherings Making memories at home for the holidays

Gatherings – A Time When Memories Are Made

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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.

Lowell Custom Homes entry door

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!

Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva Wi Interior entry door

Balance

Guests are reassured by a sense of balance.  The beautiful symmetry of this living room plays a gracious role communicating comfort.

Lowell Custom Homes a entry flow into open living

Inviting Flow

Unobstructed views and an open floor plan encourage a relaxed flow throughout the home.

Lowell Custom Homes open concept floor plan

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.

owell Custom Homes options for intimacy cozy den

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.

Lowell Custom Homes versitility open or close spaces versitility

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.

Lowell Custom Homes island party in front business in the back

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.

Lowell Custom Homes behind the scenes convenience and staging area

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.

Lowell Custom Homes indoor outdoor

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.

Lowell Custom Homes place to rejuvanate after entertaining and careing for others

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.

We send our heartfelt thanks

to our customers and all of those who follow

our activities as we build these lovely homes,

always,

and especially this holiday season!

 

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.

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Tag Archive for: Casual Elegance