Tag Archive for: Lowell Custom Homes

Pet Friendly Meets Style at Home

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Can you lead a chic and stylish life with pets?  Of course you can! There is no need to give up good looks for durability.  And your efforts will be rewarded with endless love and daily snuggles!

Studies by Mayo Clinic  show that pet ownership and cardiovascular health have a highly positive correlation.  At the very least, our pets offer us hours of entertainment!    Follow these tips for a home that will be comfortable for everyone with two to four legs.

Safe Space

 We love the idea of this beautiful dutch door that allows fresh air flow while hampering any escape plans for pets (and children).  This is a high interest area with the daily anticipation of Amazon and mail deliveries.   A window near the door, like this transom, will provide a good view and a nice warm spot to sunbath.   Of course, be sure pets are microchipped for an added layer of protection.

Transition Zone

Some days are just muddier than others.  Having a transition space with a bench and hooks will help you suit up for every outdoor adventure.  The tile and slab bench are ideal for easy clean up.    Hooks created from novelty hardware hang leashes and jackets so you’re ready to grab-and-go.  The under bench cubbies would be a great place to tuck in a basket of towels and even the water bowl.

Protective Wall Finish

Make the right choice in paint finish.  At times your fur baby will need to just shake-it-off after a walk or bath, that’s when you’ll regret that flat paint.   Choose eggshell or a satin for easy clean surfaces that will resist paw prints and slobber.   Semi-gloss is tempting, but keep in mind that every scare or dent will show.

Pet Friendly Flooring

Hard surfaces are superior for their dirt and oops-resistant qualities.  Stone, ceramic and laminate floors are all good choices.  If you decide on the beauty of natural wood, stick to Oak or Mahogany for hardness.   Be sure to have them sealed with a durable finish to  minimize scratching.  With carpeting or area rugs, use the best quality for your budget.  Nylon and wool have solid reputations for a long life with easy cleaning.  Even the most well-trained pet can have a sick day.  Be prepared with a clean up kit and consider the latest washable indoor-outdoor area rugs.

Durable Fabrics

The smartest choice you can make for furnishings will include high performance fabric.  In this day and age it’s easy with the choices available from reputable companies (Hello Sunbrella).  The possibilities for your home are exciting and endless, like this nubby upholstery from Thibaut Design .  One last tip on fabrics, skip the velvets and chenilles, then match up the color of your pets fur to your upholstery for stress-free maintenance.

 

Kitchens

The kitchen is an appealing exploration zone for our pets.  Prevent mishaps by keeping counters and floors clear of food and breakables.  Some foods are toxic for pets so it’s best to exercise extreme caution when they are in the home.

Bath Time

Depending on the size of your pet, you may undertake their grooming at home.  Smaller dogs do well in a farmhouse sink, but our favorite solution for larger pets is this stainless steel walk in tub from Bath Tubs for Pets. 

Yes You Can Have Nice Things

The secret to style is a durable finish and space for your furry friends to travel through the room with a path about the width of their tail swing.   It’s a good idea to establish a play zone in your home with more open space.  Store favorite toys and initiate play time here so your pets will learn that this is their happy place.

 

We invite you to stay in touch by signing up for our blogs where we cover the latest design ideas and inspirational projects!

(There are no affiliated links in any of our posts and we never share your personal information.)

262.245.9030

 

 

Lowell Wins Houzz 2020!

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We are beyond excited to announce that Lowell Custom Homes was awarded the Best Of Houzz 2020.

Just 3% of the 2.5 million home design and building professionals on Houzz receive a Best of Houzz Award each year. This is five years in a row that Lowell has received such special recognition!  We thank all of the participants for choosing our projects!

Here are our most loved and inspirational pictures of the year!

A nostalgic Potting Shed using reclaimed material from Heritage Beam and Board

See the full home here.

An Idyllic Screened in Porch

See the full home here.

This Open and Inviting Living Room

See the full home here.

A Home with Street and Lake Appeal

See the full home here.

A Lakeside Conservatory

See the full home here.

This Nautical Guest Bunk Room

See the full home here.

A Chic & Relaxing Library

See the full home here.

This Kitchen Collaboration with Geneva Cabinet Company

See the full home here.

Finally a Basement Renovation with years of popularity on Houzz.

See the full home here

Follow us on Houzz to view all of our custom home and remodeling projects.  Remember to create Ideabooks where you can save your Lowell favorites!  This is our favorite way to fashion a personal Look Book for inspiration with future design and remodeling projects.

Houzz is the largest residential database in the USA and around the world.  They connect millions of people with ideas and resources for their home projects, large and small.  We love being a part of this network and hope you’ll visit our Houzz portfolio right here.

We invite you to also stay in touch by signing up for our blog where we cover the latest design ideas and inspirational projects!

(of course we never share your personal information)

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

 

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

 

 

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

 

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

 

Home Trends from High Point Market

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. . . and what they mean for your home!

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.

Modern and Classic Unite

Robert James Collection Coronado bed

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 .

Modern classic home trend

 

Laid Back Elegance

thibault showroom high point market 2019

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.

laid back elegance

 

Artisan & Handcrafted

Abigails Feathered_Vase

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.artisan and hand craftsmanship

 

Natural Influence

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.

natural influence for home trends

 

Strong Color

Caracole Furniture at High Point Market

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.

bold color wrapped around walls

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.

  1. Robert James Collection
  2. Hudson Valley Lighting
  3. John-Richard 
  4. James by Jimmy Delaurentis
  5. Abigails
  6. Thibaut
  7. Howard Elliott

 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.

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