Tag Archive for: Lake Geneva

Holiday Entertaining to Suit Your Mood

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Stop googling party ideas and start enjoying the holidays.   Plan a gathering that perfectly suits your mood, your resources and your level of holiday energy.  Low stress is the key.  Your friends and family will love you just for hosting any type of get-together.   Keep in mind, the most successful events will  take advantage of the special features in your home.

Start by making a list of every idea and recipe you’ve every wanted to try, then grab a cup of coffee and scratch off most of the ideas.  Save just a few items that will show your guests that you think they are special.  We have three entertainment modes for you to consider.  Match one up to your holiday mood and let the party flow naturally!

Cozy & Casual

This is a no-spanx-allowed fuzzy sweater gathering around your inviting fireplace.

Pairs well with . . .

Spiked Hot Cocoa and Charcuterie

Cocktails and Conversation

Your open floor plan lets everyone mingle as conversations flow around the unique touches you collected, like this floating magnetic cocktail table.

Pairs well with . . .

Mistletoe Margaritas and Cranberry Tarts

 

Dining and Delicacies

The ambiance of your formal dining area enchants guests for the ultimate dinner party experience.

Pairs well with . . .

Cranberry Champagne Mimosas and your finest china

 

In any mode, plan and prepare in advance as much as possible.  There are a surprising number of make-ahead recipes that look like you’ve been grinding away all day.  Then just choose one or two simple holiday decor ideas and your guests will feel welcomed.

 

 

Happy Holidays from all of us at

Lowell Custom Homes!

 

Building a new home or remodeling should be an exciting adventure and our team of experts is available to answer your questions and guide you every step of the way!

We always love hearing from you and are happy to discuss your personal home projects!

262.245.9030

 

 

 

 

Shower vs Tub Debate – Showers Wins!

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We are not going to get in the middle of any over/under toilet paper roll debate,  but when it comes to bathing we have the stats!

According to a recent Houzz survey,  outdated and and old bathrooms are highest on the renovation wish list.   And when it comes to building a new home, a luxurious walk-in shower is a must.  From a space planning perspective, the shower offers a versatile on-trend design opportunities.   It achieves high marks for ease and accessibility for young and old.  This makes it an  natural choice when planning for every stage of life, including aging-in-place.

Oh sure, there are plenty who admire a luxurious soaking tub, but real life demands are leading the trend towards ditching the bathtub in favor of sumptuous shower.  This is especially true if space is a factor.  When you consider that a shower will conserve water and time, along with the magnificent new plumbing fixtures, showers win.

If you need further convincing, browse through our collection of crave-worthy compartments!

Statement Tile

 

Fabulous Fixtures & Invisible Drains

 

Grab Hold & Have a Seat

 

Zero Threshold Safety

 

Artistic Installation

 

 

Spa Splendor

 

Vibrant Pattern

And Chromatherapy

 

In the past the real estate community insisted on at least one tub in the home for resale value, but that attitude is changing.  The bottom line is to determine what is best for your space and budget, then make the best decision for your lifestyle.

Building a new home or remodeling should be an exciting adventure and our team of experts is available to answer your questions and guide you every step of the way!

We always love hearing from you and are happy to discuss your personal home projects!

Lowell Custom Homes

262.245.9030

Projects feature tile from Bella Tile and Stone, Lake Geneva, WI

Photos by Shanna Wolf/S.Photography and Styling

 

Lowell Wins as Best of Walworth County!

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Update!

Thank you for all of your support and votes!  We won!

It is an honor to be nominated again this year for The Best of Walworth County in two categories!

New Home Builder & Home Remodeler

We are so thankful for all of the people who helped us win the past two years and would appreciate your support again in 2019!  You can click on this link through October 27th to vote for us and all of your favorite Walworth County businesses.  When you vote in at least 10 categories you will automatically be registered for a chance to win an Amazon Echo and $75 gift card.  This friendly completion results in a helpful guide for residents and visitors when the winners are listed in a special section of  The Gazette.

We invite you to visit our Project Gallery by clicking here to see the beautiful quality and design of each Lowell Custom Home.

Or  just take a minute to learn about us directly from Scott Lowell.

Join in the fun as we race win The Best of Walworth County

New Home Builder

&

Home Remodeler!

 

 

Stay tuned for the exciting results & best of luck to all of the participants!

Lowell Custom Homes

262.245.9030

Call or Click Here to Contact Us

Home Remodeling with Emerging Trends

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The Brady’s may have restored their home to its 1970’s glory,  but most home remodels look to the future of design for inspiration.  Lifestyle changes over the years have placed new demands on the home environment.  Our goal is to help homeowner’s make updates that will evolve along with their ever changing needs.

Whether you’re remodeling to maximize the sale price of your home or stay in place with every conceivable comfort, these are the freshest home ideas to consider.

Nature with a Modern Vibe

Large windows and open spaces expand a room by letting the outdoors in.  A stunning approach is to contrast nature with sleek modern forms that lend a sculpture- in-the-garden mood to the interior.

The Golden Touch

Gold tones have been resurrected in recent years and show no sign of phasing out.  We are seeing it used throughout the home design in light fixtures, hardware and interior accent pieces.  This warm metallic works very well with the predicted vibrant, neutral and warm tones seen on the latest Pantone color forecast for 2020.

 

Bold Beautiful Color

A step toward deep rich color is the perfect contrast to our modern neutral interiors.   Save this look for extra impact in the intimate areas like the library, home office or even powder room.

 

Textured Elements

One of our favorite elements of interior design is often overlooked.  The presence of texture in a room provides a rich backdrop for living.  Subtle visual patterns on contrasting material play together beautifully to define a space.  Wall paneling, fireplace stone and herringbone floors all add to the refined casual character of this room.

 

Tile Envy

We just can’t leave our subway tile alone when there are so many beautiful options available to artfully accent its classic appeal.   Mixing and blending tile shapes and colors will take the common bath to the next level.

Leisure Spaces

There is no slow down in the trend to create entertainment areas in and around the home.   These include spaces for the pursuit of specialized hobbies as well as escape and relaxation.

Small Rooms, Big Ideas

Whether it’s a powder room or laundry area, every space within the home deserves design attention.  The intimate size gives you more freedom to venture outside of the box without fear.

 

 

Watch this video to see the dramatic before and after changes that resulted in a thoroughly modern makeover!

Building a new home or remodeling should be an exciting adventure and our team of experts is available to answer your questions and guide you every step of the way!

We always love hearing from you and are happy to discuss your personal home projects!

Lowell Custom Homes

262.245.9030

Call or Click Here to Contact Us

 

Interior Design for the featured home is by StephMusur.com & 610HomeGeneva.com

 

 

Lake Appeal! Featured in Great Lakes By Design

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Hot off the press!

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!

Great Lakes by Design Lowell Custom Home

 

Great Lakes By Design Lowell Custom Homes page 4

 

You can see many more of our homes in and around Lake Geneva and by clicking here.

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

Home Improvements Lift Your Spirit & Home Value

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Of course, home improvements will increase the value of your home, but the lift to your spirit is priceless!

 

Subtle factors in our environment have a huge impact on the way we feel.  At times the color of the wall, or just the fact that there is a wall, can dump us into a bad mood.  Studies have shown that our feel-good endorphins increase when we are attracted to our environment.  So get the positive feelings flowing with some home improvements!

Start with a review of our article Should You Remodel to see if it makes sense to update your current home.  Then browse through these popular and often cost effective ideas.

 

Remove a Wall – Expand Your Space

 

Open floor plans are at the top of everyone’s wish list because they create a natural flow between key living spaces.   Reworking the existing floorplan can provide an unrestricted social feel.    In this case the kitchen was expanded by removing a wall to allow the homeowners a seamless connection between the kitchen and living room.  The new space feels enormous without the old confining kitchen enclosure.  Of course, you should seek the opinion of an expert before making any structural changes. For a few guidelines click here.

Updating Cabinetry & Countertops

 

Nothing dates a home more than a dingy and cramped kitchen.  This fresh new layout designed by Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC. provides more efficient storage and open circulation.  New cabinetry is  by Shiloh with countertops by Cambria.  A lovely stone backsplash from Bella Tile and Stone and artisan hardware complete the look with an air of sophistication for this newly efficient floorplan.

Improve Lighting

Finish off every room with proper lighting.  It will instantly update and brighten the space.  Think in terms of a balanced blend of light sources.  Chandeliers are perfect for general lighting.  Add dimmers to alter the mood.  Supplement with recessed cans to focus on architectural features such as this fireplace wall.  They also serve well as task lighting when strategically spaced in the kitchen.  Note the additional sparkle added by crystals and the mirror!

 

 

Don’t forget the Bath

 

Baths can add an instant update, and one that is attractive will certainly improve your mood.  It’s much nicer to start and end each day in a fresh bright space with beautiful lighting and good storage.   Consider the various options for the redesign of your bath by reading this.

 

Here is a quick review of this latest project.  Let it inspire you and call us to discuss future updates to your home.

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

Call or Click Here to Contact Us

Outdoor Living Checklist for Your Home

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When warm weather rolls around there is nothing like relaxing outdoors.  And when you have a special area at home dedicated to this pursuit, all is well with the world.  Take your outdoor living to the next level by following our checklist to fully enjoy your well deserved leisure time.

√  Start with the perfect backdrop for outdoor space, your home.  Wrap the same look around front to back with a cohesive mix of materials for a unified style message. Achieve this by repeating elements used in the foundation, siding and roof, as well as the architecture.  By this we mean don’t skimp on the back of your home, it all deserves the same attention to fine detail.

√  Let the outdoor experience begin by establishing views from the interior that will draw you outdoors.   Of course a lake helps, but even framing views of the lawn and landscape with distinctive windows is inviting.

 

√  Take your color cues from the natural surrounds and also from your home interior. Here a classic Blue and White combination is the perfect fit for a lakefront for home.

√  Go ahead and add a theme like this nautical motif.  Your outdoor space is the place to introduce a carefree  sense of whimsy.

√  Be sure to position your living area where you will experience the best views in every direction.  This could very well be to the side or even the front of your home in order to capture a “wow” moment. We have more tips on positioning your outdoor space here.

√  Include space for lounging alone or with friends and family.  Here the fire pit is upgraded to full fireplace status in an outdoor living room.  Extra backup from heat lamps will keep this area cozy into the evening and well throughout the chilly seasons.  This room even features retractable motorized screens for pest-free extension of your home.

√  When creating an outdoor room think of  protecting the area from the elements with partial walls or ceilings.  Here again choose compatible elements to create a visual flow from the interior while blending with the home exterior.  Keep it all low maintenance with durable outdoor fabrics and furnishing made to withstand the elements.

√  Set up a place for dining in close proximity to your outdoor kitchen and with easy access to the indoor kitchen.  A convenient flow between cooking and dining zones will allow the guests and chef to enjoy more quality time together.

√  Include rain-or-shine provisions for your indoor-outdoor area.    Gliding glass door panels and french doors create an easy transition between spaces so you can enjoy the outdoors even when the weather isn’t perfect.

 

We do also love a screened porch as an outdoor living option, read more about that here!

And a few more ideas for entertaining outdoors here!

To see more of the details for this lovely home click here.

Photography is by Shanna Wolf, S.Photography and Styling

 

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

 

There’s Always Something . . .

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We encounter all types of building conditions, but this one was one of the most challenging!  We are grateful for the expertise and talent of Jeff Frohling, Senior Project Manager and the entire crew at Trinity River Construction, LLC  in Marengo, IL   They made it possible to overcome the difficulties of building on this beautiful, but demanding site.  This concrete shoring wall that runs the entire length of the property is our specialized solution.

Watch this!

Special thanks to our superintendent Tim Flynn for overseeing this extraordinary project!

Stay in touch with the progress on this beautiful custom home and all of our projects right here!

262.245.9030

 

Music: http://www.purple-planet.com

 

Knock Knock . . . Your Front Door Says “Hello”!

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From the Gates of Paradise in Florence to Monica’s framed peephole on Friends, the entry door has always told a story. It is an essential element in your home’s first impression and can add significantly to the value.

The material used on this interior-exterior element will impact your home’s energy-efficiency as well as style.  Doors are available in a variety of mediums, like wood, fiberglass, steel and composite materials.  But this video will demonstrate why we favor a beautifully crafted wood door.

In addition to the entry of this home, it’s important for the warmth and style of the entry door to be reflected on the adjacent garage.

Architect Todd Cauffman

 

Another lovely pairing expresses this same harmony with a carriage house aesthetic.

Entry door with complimentary garage doors carriage style

 

This Craftsman Style home is a stunning example of how doors can express architecture with something as subtle as the grid pattern.

arts and craft prarie style entry door and garage doors

Architect Todd Cauffman

 

When it’s all about the view, glass panel doors will reflect the natural surroundings via their mirror-like surface.

cape code lake home glass panel for reflection

Architect Todd Cauffman

 

For  slightly more privacy, you can always screen the entry with landscaping, #Snuffleupagus

entry door screened with landscape

Architect Robert Juris

 

Going Dutch will allow you to have a friendly open door policy.

dutch door with screen and sidelights

Architect Haganah

 

Once you have a door selected, add a bit of art in the form of a door knocker to truly make it your own!

crab door knocker

 

You can take a personality test to determine the perfect color for your front door by clicking  here.

 

To see more ideas for your home’s entry check out our Inviting Entries Ideabook on Houzz by clicking here.

Inviting Entries Ideabook on Houzz

 

Lowell Custom Homes

Creating Memories You Can Come Home To

262-245-9030

If you love our homes, please take a minute to Vote for Lowell Custom Homes as the Best of Walworth County!  We would deeply appreciate it!

Just click the button links below – You will be asked to enter your email address then you can vote for Lowell as

Best New Home Builder & Best Home Remodeler.

Be sure to pick at least 10 of your favorite Walworth County businesses to be entered to win an Amazon Echo.

 

 

Photography by Shanna Wolf, Josh Zuelke & Victoria McHugh

 

 

Geneva National by Lowell Custom Homes

How to Choose a Location When Building Your New Home

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The old adage “Location, Location, Location” has endured with good reason!

Where you build your home will determine your lifestyle.  It’s important to consider all of the variables for your future homesite and prioritize them with a list of the factors that are the most relevant to you.

The decision to build is a financial and emotional investment. Read this first to help you decide if building is the best way to have the home of your dreams.  When you know the timing is the right, we can help you search for the perfect location.

The Reserve Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva WI

What comes first, the home design or the homesite?

It’s best to select the community that you would love to live in and let that inspire your home design.  This allows you to create a home that takes full advantage of every positive element a site has to offer.

Community and Nearby Resources

When considering communities, the key is convenience.  This means something different for every buyer.  Important factors include proximity to

  • Work
  • Schools
  • City Resources
  • Entertainment and Restaurants
  • Family and Friends
  • Health Care Facilities
  • Leisure Activities – parks, pools, water sports, etc., like these in Lake Geneva

Private vs. Social

Would you like to wave to your neighbor every morning or do you prefer total privacy.  The lot you choose can facilitate either by its location or with the assistance of landscape screening.

Homesite Characteristics

The size of the lot and its topography will influence the design of your home.  Sloped sites have the advantage of beautiful views and multi-levels for indoor-outdoor living. A level lot appeals to those who enjoy gardening or are considering the installation of a pool or play area.

Home Orientation

When choosing your lot consider the benefits of generous lot lines.  They will increase versatility in home design.  This can allow you to take better advantage of the views, natural light and energy efficient placement of your home.

We have a limited number of homesites in three distinct neighborhoods of Geneva National .   This Award-Winning Gated Community offers a variety of resort-style living on 1,800 scenic acres that are in complete harmony with nature.   Year-round amenities including 54 holes of PGA-level golf and convenient proximity to Geneva Lake and downtown Lake Geneva for countless leisure activities.

The Wood Way Geneva National Lowell Custom Homes

Geneva National by Lowell Custom Homes

The Reserve Homesite Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva WI

 

Our specialists are here to assist with the many complicated decisions involved in selecting a homesite and designing a new home.

Lowell Custom Homes

Creating Memories You Can Come Home To

262-245-9030