Tag Archive for: remodeling

Top Home Design Trends

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Several factors influence the direction of home design.   When the predictions from multiple sources agree,  we know we have the winning ideas!  Ultimately, it’s not about trends, but about how people really want to live.   Our trend list includes the ideas that we feel will add value, style and comfort to your home.

Function First

Convenience is critical.  After a year of adapting our homes to serve us in a variety of unforeseen circumstances, most agree to the power of versatility.  Future home design will allow for flexibility while providing a balance between open and private spaces.

Curves Ahead

Curves made a big impression at High Point Furniture Market this year. We see the softened lines as a way to take the hard edge off of furniture and architecture for a more inviting presentation.

Keep It Natural

Natural materials remind us of our connection to the environment.  They are often responsible for beautiful texture in the most eco-friendly way.

Cocktail Hour

From bar carts to dedicated space, we’ve developed a new appreciation for the home bar experience.  In the Geneva Lakes area,  it’s the perfect way to wind down or turn up the fun.

Classic Minimalism

This trend is part of movement to simplify and focus on one artistically designed shape.  The intention is to promote calm and allow space to breath.

 

Working From Home

We’ve learned how to integrate work and homework into our space.   The best solutions involve a quiet space with some privacy as well as ergonomic comfort.

Bold Color Used As A Neutral

Neutrals are here to stay, but we are redefining the category.   A large dose of one bold color can softened the edges of a room and read as a neutral.

Seamless Indoor Outdoor Transitions

We mentioned this trend in last months blog and are happy to see its continued growth.  This Nana window opens up the kitchen to the screened in porch with endless entertaining possibilities.

This beautiful home is brought to you by our delightful homeowners

and

the dedicated team at Lowell Custom Homes!

Cabinetry by Geneva Cabinet Company

Photography by Shanna Wolf/S Photography

Contact the experts at Lowell Custom Homes to help plan your next new home or remodeling project.

401 GENEVA NATIONAL AVENUE SO. – LAKE GENEVA, WISCONSIN 53147 – 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

 

 

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

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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Remodeling – A Story with a Fairy Tale Ending

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Do you get a kick out of those remodeling horror stories?  Then stop reading because this is more of a remodeling fairy tale!

Lowell Custom Homes remodel in Lake Geneva Exterior Elevations Before and After
It all begins in a not so far away land near Lake Geneva. A stately but dated home starts it’s transformation at the entry by correcting a medieval door which was completely exposed to the elements.   (While medieval works in fairy tales, it’s not ideal for a lake house.)  A new welcoming covered porch completes the front elevation with other gracious architectural details.
2 entry door .jpg
On the interior an equally impressive makeover was in progress.  In the kitchen, walls were taken down to open up the space to the family room.
3 kitchen before and during.jpg
The dark 80’s oak cabinets were replaced with bright white and gray painted cabinetry from Medallion Cabinetry with kitchen design by Geneva Cabinet Company.
4 kitchen after
A small walk-in pantry flanked by two tall glass-front cabinets provide additional storage and eliminate the need for wall cabinets in order to maximize lake views.
6 living room before and during
Meanwhile the formal living room was taken down to the studs.  The load-bearing wall was removed and a new I-beam installed.  The fireplace was trimmed to the ceiling and the dark brick painted pale gray.
7 living room after
On the second story the guest bedroom had a ceiling that was just too spectacular to remove.   We preserved it and updated it with high gloss white paint for a fresh look in keeping with the new character of the home.
8 bedroom ceiing

All drywall and floor sheathing on this 2nd floor was replaced before new wool carpet was laid.  The crowning accent was a delicate chandelier to replace the tired ceiling fan.
5 family room
The family room and staircase were not neglected during this enchanting makeover.
9 stairs
But the real drama is saved for the lake side elevation of the home’s exterior.
10 screened porch
More than a cosmetic makeover was needed.  This exterior suffered damage from water that had seeped in under the siding and all soffits and facia.  Once repaired a screened porch was added to the back of the house with access to the family room and kitchen.  This allowed for a balcony off of the 2nd floor master bedroom.  A delightful outdoor kitchen by Danver was added to complete the lakeside living space.
11 screened porch after with kit and shower

We are happy to report that homeowners and the entire Lowell team lived happily ever after! lowell team at More

Special thanks to our homeowners for the pleasure of working together (and the pizza parties) !

When it’s time to build or remodel, just ask us how you can create your own fairy tale ending.

262-245-9030

Photography by Josh Zuelke Josh Z Photography
Kitchen by Joyce Zuelke for Geneva Cabinet Company
Superintendent Rich Kinter for Lowell Custom Homes
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before and after kitchen remodel by lowell custom homes

The Most Popular Rooms to Renovate

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Move over kitchen and bath, this year living quarters will dominate home remodeling requests according to the Houzz & Home Renovation Report. Houzz is one of the leading home and design resource sites in the country. Lowell Custom Homes is a regular contributor to many of the Houzz studies evaluating trends and the latest news in home building and remodeling.
This year’s research reveals the unexpected popularity of improvements to general living areas. The forecast for 2018 also predicts that homeowners will tackle multiple room renovations at one time.  Surprisingly, the master bedroom and laundry are leading the way with a growth in average spending of 23% and 24% respectively.

Kitchen Renovation
kitchen renovation by Lowell Custom Homes Before and After

While the desire for kitchen and bath renovations remains consistent, a shift in homeowner thinking places the new focus on living spaces that will have real lifestyle impact.

Renovation of Living Space

Living room remodel Before and After by Lowell Custom Homes in Lake Geneva
Before and After Living room remodel by Lake Geneva Builder Lowell Custom Homes
The study reveals, and we can confirm based on our current projects, that the main motivation to remodel is improved design and function.   Customization is at the top of everyone’s list when making design decisions. It is about making the space personal and relatable for the needs of each homeowner.

Renovation of Master Bedroom Suite

Master Bedroom suite remodel by lake geneva builder lowell custom homes
Remodeling the master bedroom and the master suite is moving further in the direction of comfort and privacy. While the concept is not new, the increased demand for an at home getaway is noteworthy. More and more homeowners are craving privacy within their home. There is a high desire for what can be seen as an in-home mental health escape for writing, meditation or just some quality me-time.

Laundry Room Renovation

remodel laundry room by lake geneva builder lowell custom homes
Laundry room renovations are becoming more extensive and the space devoted to this utility is growing larger. It has evolved into a multi-purpose area that just happen to have the laundry located inside. Easy access is a key factor for updates to this workspace along with the ability to share storage and countertops for projects.

Exterior Renovation
Before and After exterior home remodel by lake geneva builder lowell custom homes

Exterior improvements closely follow interior renovations in popularity.  Curb appeal, or lake appeal in this case, is a priority.  Remodeling often includes indoor-outdoor living space with special amenities like an outdoor kitchen or even an outdoor shower.
Outdoor shower remodeled home exterior by lake geneva builder lowell custom homes
From first-time buyers to seasoned homeowners, remodeling has become the way to have a home that will provide for all of your needs, without having to move.
You can read more about how to decide if you should build or remodel here  and here .

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 will answer all of your questions and guide you every step of the way!

Lowell Custom Homes

262.245.9030

Interior Design of Laundry Room by Elizabeth Drake Interiors

Photography Credits Josh Z Photography and Victoria McHugh Photography

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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!

 

The Home Construction Process

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A Step-by-Step Guide

Building or remodeling a home is one of life’s most rewarding experiences. The more you know about the process, the more you will enjoy the journey.
This overview will walk you through the home building stages, step-by-step, with images from one of our stunning new homes. Then visit the LOWELL Process Page to view more of our homes in various stages of construction.

CROPPED blueprint-964629 copyStep 1.  Design & Pre-Construction

So much work is going on behind the scenes before construction even begins. This is the time to gather a team of experts to help you address your wish list in a way that supports well-informed decisions. The in-house team at Lowell has an AIA architect, interior designer, project manager and full supportive staff on hand to guide homeowners through the entire process.
 

1 Blog Step 2 Home Construction Step by StepStep 2.  Site Preparation and Foundation Work

Clearing growth, rocks and debris from the lot allows the building site to be properly leveled and excavated. Utilities will be run to the home site at this time. Foundation footings are formed and poured, followed by the foundation walls. Once concrete is cured, waterproofing is applied, and drains are installed. Sewer and water will be tapped before the basement or first floor slab is poured.
 

1 Blog Step 3 Home Construction Step by Step framing windowsStep 3.  Framing

Walls, floor and roof systems are constructed to form a shell for the home. Sheathing is used to cover the exterior walls and roof. A moisture shielding house wrap is used to form a protective barrier. Exterior windows and doors are installed allowing for interior work to begin. This is the first opportunity to actually experience the size and shape of each new room.
 

Step 4.  Interior Rough-In Plumbing, Electric & HVAC

With the protective shell complete, a schedule is masterminded. Multiple trades people will operate simultaneously to build the inner workings of each home. Undercover mechanical systems are installed for electric, plumbing, heating and air conditioning. Computer and entertainment networks, security systems and smart home wiring are placed at this time.
 

1 Blog Step 5 Home Construction Step by Step insulation drywall tapingStep 5.  Insulation, Drywall, Taping

Insulation is installed on exterior walls, attics, basements and crawl spaces to maximize the thermal performance (R-value) of each home. Once the rough-in of plumbing and electric is complete, drywall is hung and seams are taped and sanded. A prime coat of paint is applied to walls.
 

1 Blog Step 6 Home Construction Step by Step exterior finishingStep 6.  Exterior Finishing

While the interior developments, the exterior materials and finishes are installed to further protect and define the structure.   Stone, masonry, shingles, siding and trim work all add to the architectural details that give a home its unique identity.
 

1 Blog Step 7 Home Construction Step by Step intereior finishingStep 7.  Interior Millwork & Finish Materials

Hardwood and hard surface flooring is now installed. Trim, moldings, interior doors and custom millwork will be completed. Specialty finishes and the final paint selections are applied. HVAC equipment and electrical systems are completed.
 

1 Blog Step 8 Home Construction Step by Step kitchen and bathStep 8.  Kitchen & Bath

Cabinetry, plumbing fixtures, and tile will be installed and connected. Shower doors, lighting and switches are placed, and trim details are applied.
 

1 Blog Step 9 Home Construction Step by Step Finish DetailingStep 9.  Interior Detailing & Finish Work

All of the beautiful decisions made before construction are now apparent as you see the finishing touches installed in each room. Lighting, hardware and millwork are finalized to complete the vision.
 

10 Blog Step 10 Home Construction Step by Step final walkthroughStep 10.  Final Walkthrough

This is the day everyone looks forward to! Lowell conducts ongoing inspections throughout the construction process while working with building code officials. Every home will meet and exceed all of the health and safety codes. The final walkthrough is an opportunity for us to explain the operation and maintenance features throughout the home. Any minor items in need of attention are placed on a Punch List to be completed a.s.a.p.

1-meacum-finals-for-blog-pix

We invite you to a drones-eye-view of one of our latest homes.  Just click here.

 
Summary of the Building Process for New Homes or Remodeling Projects.

  1. Design & Pre-Construction
  2. Site Preparation & Foundation Work
  3. Framing
  4. Interior Rough-In Plumbing, Electric & HVAC
  5. Insulation, Drywall, Taping
  6. Exterior Finishing
  7. Interior Millwork & Finish Materials
  8. Kitchen & Bath
  9. Interior Details & Finish Work
  10. Final Walkthrough

Should You Build? How to decide if building a new home is right for you.

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There may come a time when you look around your house and start to think about breaking up. As any good Cosmo article will confirm, once you outgrow a relationship there is no long-term potential. So, how do you know if it’s time to move on?
Consider the benefits of building a new home:
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Geographic Desirability
When building new, your choice of home style and location are independent decisions. You create the unique combination rather than settling for homes that happen to be on the market. As builders we actually reserve beautiful properties in anticipation of future customer needs.   Lowell Management Properties
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Get your perfect match
The biggest advantage to building a new home is getting exactly what you want. This is your dream, your way. It doesn’t matter if most homes have a 3-car garage, you can have as many as you want. When you build you choose the right size, the perfect floor plan and then fill it with features that are meaningful to you. You are able to fully express your style with architectural details, cabinetry, flooring, finish colors and all of the other dreams from your wish list.
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Compliment your unique needs and interests
No compromise needed, when building a new home you can design every aspect. Eliminate the Formal Dining Room, add a Pool House, Outdoor Kitchen, or 2nd Master Suite, it is all about you!   Your unique preferences for comforts, like counter height or lighting, will be built-in. Universal Design features can even be incorporated allowing you to enjoy your home for years to come.
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No Old Baggage – Cost Control & Savings
Building instead of remodeling offers a fresh start with major efficiencies in scheduling and purchasing. The problems with retrofitting an older structure are eliminated and the latest smart home technology integrated. Building allows you to balance your spending priority features, like a gourmet kitchen, with saving opportunities for low profile areas.
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Quality & Trust
When you are working with a custom builder like Lowell Management, you witness firsthand the level of quality and craftsmanship going into your home. All components of your home are new and finely tuned to provide years of comfort before you need to think about replacements.
Cabinets by Geneva Cabinet Company, Lake Geneva, WI
Saving Energy and Operating Costs
State of the art systems, with innovative technology, meet and exceed the latest codes for energy efficiency. Our HVAC, insulation, and windows are selected based on their ability to prevent energy waste. The latest appliances, and fixtures for plumbing and electric offer a substantial savings by operating at highly efficient levels.
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Good for your health 
Having a healthy home starts with good construction. The latest ventilation and air filtration systems are known to improve air quality while materials used for construction are designed to be non-toxic and sustainable. Cabinetry, carpet and paints now use fewer VOC (volatile organic compounds) to drastically reducing outgassing and allow everyone to breath easier.
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Low maintenance 
Modern construction uses materials that have been engineered for durability. Mechanical systems are more reliable and maintenance requirements have been simplified.

Satisfaction and Connection
There is a strong emotional connection to a home when you take part in its creation. It is a satisfying experience and the team at Lowell Management enjoys the process as much as their homeowners. Once you decide that you are ready for a change, we are happy to guide you in building a new home where you will live happily ever after.