Tag Archive for: Scott Lowell

Bunks Room Lowell Custom Homes

Battle of the Bunks – Bunk Beds and Bunkrooms defeat the blow-up mattress!

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The latest trend making its way into the most stylish homes of Lake Geneva is reminiscent of pillow fights and childhood sleepovers. Bunk beds and even bunkrooms are becoming the guest quarters of choice. There is an appealing social factor to this trend that blends sleeping arrangements with the ability to spend quality time together. You are never too old for a sleepover!

Bunk Bed room at luxury hotel start trend in homes for guest room accommodations
Even boutique hotels are introducing bunk options. Not only is this attractive to families, but the luxurious feather bedding and 300+ thread count sheets draw big kid pajama parties and friend getaways.
For the Lake Geneva homeowner, bunks are the best way to maximize space without compromising style. Children, grandchildren and long-lost cousins can all have a place to rest for round-the-clock togetherness and good times.
Which bunk bed concept is the best fit for your home? Let’s look at the possibilities . . .
Lowell Custom Homes Bunk Room with open concept and built in bunk beds to sleep 4 to 6 people
An open and airy space with built-in bunks will transform one bedroom into a space for 4 – 6 houseguests. Keep the base bunk low to allow extra headroom for your full-grown bunkmates.

Playing with themes can add an element of intrigue for your guests.  We created enclosed bunks with The Design Coach, Phillip Sassano, to be more Orient-Express than summer camp. Each is like a mini room with privacy curtains, storage and individual lighting, all wrapped up in plushy velvet comfort.
Lowell Custom Homes Unused space can be transformed into a guest area when fitted with freestanding or built-in bunk beds.
Unused space can be transformed into a guest area when fitted with freestanding or built-in bunk beds. Consider an open niche, attic space, or even a generous hallway that can be lined with bunks.  Each cozy little cocoon will attract kids of all ages when it’s time to take a snooze.
Lowell Custom Homes
Encourage camp-like comradely, minus the swirlies, with an adjoining locker and shower room. Beautifully detailed bunks feature specialized lighting and easy access steps instead of a ladder for ageless appeal.

We have a dedicated staff of professionals including an AIA architect, Interior Designers & Construction Superintendents who  are all pleased to help you with your home projects!

We are just a call away at 262-245-9030

Lowell Custom Homes

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Outdoor Living Spaces – The Best Ideas for Your Home

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The great outdoors is calling. Alfresco dining, entertaining friends or just lounging under a clear sky . . . the best home design will create gracious indoor-outdoor living space where you can truly embrace the spring and summer months.
Get inspired by stunning outdoor ideas from these Lowell Custom Homes, and then create a space to complement your personal indoor-outdoor lifestyle.

  • Align interior and exterior spaces for a seamless extension of your main living area. A fluid transition between indoor and outdoor rooms can be created with a disappearing wall of glass doors. An easily accessible patio will draw everyone outdoors, enlarge your living space, and extend your spring and summer season with gentle protection from the elements.

Balance your outdoor space with large open and private areas

  • Balance your options with both open and intimate space. Just as a good interior space plan will provide areas for private and social activities, your outdoor rooms can offer alternatives that adapt to your needs throughout the day. Sun vs. Shade – Active vs. Restful – Entertainment vs. Retreat.  You select the most suitable outdoor environment to match your mood.

Lowell Custom Homes Outdoor living furniture position

  • Get in position to enjoy the view. Use your natural surroundings to create a focal point.  Arrange outdoor furniture where everyone can appreciate the scenery. A beautiful garden, swimming pool, or outdoor fireplace can all serve as appealing points of interest.

Lowell Custom Homes Outdoor living areas zones for activity

  • Locate zones on your property according to use. No need to cram all outdoor living space against the house.  Just anchor each zone with its own useful focal point.  A boathouse services lake front activities, a cabana offers poolside convenience and an upscale shed will store hobby or gardening equipment.

Lowell Custom Homes Outdoor Living areas

  • Create an outdoor hub where essentials are clustered for convenience.  Food preparation, dining table and entertainment equipment in one outdoor zone will let you enjoy the fresh air while hosting friends and family. An outdoor shower and self-serve refreshment bar can eliminate messy indoor traffic patterns and keep your home tidy.

Lowell Custom Homes Outdoor Living Cozy Fire pit

  • Introduce a fire feature to cozy up your outdoor space after dark. S’mores and story telling around the fire pit or outdoor fireplace will create memories and start traditions to be passed on for generations.

Lowell Custom Homes Outdoor Living Space Best Ideas

  • Dress up your space with weather resistant products to compliment your indoor style and color palette. Create visual interest with light fixtures, fans, area rugs, and accessories to add indoor comfort to your outdoor experience.

The experts at Lowell Custom Homes can help you plan a home with the most natural flow between your indoor and outdoor environments.

 

401 GENEVA NATIONAL AVENUE SO. – LAKE GENEVA, WISCONSIN 53147 – 262.245.9030

Lowell Custom Homes is Featured in a Spotlight Interview

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Screen Shot 2017-04-18 at 8.17.10 AMJust click here to read the full story!

[houzz=https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/84047885/thumbs/pro-spotlight-get-a-home-for-the-empty-nester-lifestyle w=620]
 

It's an honor just to be nominated – Lowell Custom Homes receives Best of Houzz Award

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It’s awards season and the winners have been announced for the Golden Globes, Grammys, and our personal favorite, The Best of Houzz.
Best of Houzz Award 2017 Customer ServiceLowell Custom Homes won “Best Of Customer Service” on Houzz®, the leading platform for home building, remodeling and design. It is truly an honor to receive this award for the second year in a row. Customer Service awards are based on several factors, including the number and quality of client reviews a professional received in 2016.

Best in Houzz award 2017With the largest residential design database in the world and a vibrant community empowered by technology, Houzz is the easiest way for people to find inspiration, get advice, buy products and hire the professionals they need to help turn their ideas into reality.BEST OF HOUZZ 2017 MILWAUKEE AREA STAIRCASE

In addition to Best of Houzz Customer Service award, Lowell’s work was further recognized with the Best In Milwaukee – 2017 – Staircase Award. Houzz enthusiasts saved this winning staircase to over 43,000 Ideabooks!
 
LOWELL BEST IN HOUZZ STAIRCASE MILWAUKEE WISCONSIN AREA
As one of Lake Geneva’s most respected and celebrated builders, we are often asked to contribute to Houzz by advising and participating on their research panels. We are always delighted to take part and share information with the community.  A special thank you to Houzz for recognizing us with the Influencer and Industry Research Barometer badges for these contributions.

We always love to hear your comments and want to thank our homeowners for these wonderful reviews!

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Join us as we move into the next year of sharing our best in design, architecture and home building ideas on our Houzz Portfolio.

 

We Predict the 2017 Home Design Trends with Staying Power

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We love the direction home design is taking and you will too! The special features we are building into homes are all about enhancing lifestyle. Say goodbye to cookie-cutter plans and welcome in the latest features that will have real staying power for your new or remodeled home.
Lowell Custom Home Curate Your Personal Space

Curate Your Personal Space

Pick and choose exactly what makes you smile. This home for an avid auto collector creates a showcase where it can be enjoyed and shared effortlessly. Forget neatly stacking your treasured collections in a closet; use these special interests as a springboard for developing a home style that is meaningful to you.
 
Lowell Custom Homes Curb Appeal with New features

Curb Appeal With New Dimension

We have always designed homes to be appreciated from every perspective, and now the appeal for 360o detailing is catching on. When equal attention is given to the side and back elevations, your everyday home experience becomes richer. While you’re at it, be sure stunning architecture does not get lost in the shadows. Landscape and exterior lighting is an essential element for any home plan.
 
Lowell Custom Homes Natural charm in the kitchen

Kitchen Comforts

Natural charm and flow characterize kitchens today where we like to cluster cabinet storage along one wall to keep the floor plan open and accessible. Popular Farmhouse and Industrial trends merge to create highly functional spaces for living and entertaining. Materials here and throughout the home blend natural honed surfaces with polished finishes.  The interplay of texture is spellbinding and creates the perfecting setting for gatherings.
 
Lowell Custom Homes Energy Efficient

Stealth Energy Systems

Smart features go undercover while serving up substantial savings. Energy efficient windows and insulation work with zoned heating and cooling systems to maximize a homes mechanical productivity. Automated and voice-activated systems monitor comfort levels with the added convenience of off-site monitoring.
 
Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva Wisconsin

Outdoor Amenities

We work hard, so creating playful outdoor space at home lets everyone enjoy free time without traveling to another location. Screened-In porches and outdoor kitchens are often joined by even more personalized features like putting greens and movie screens.
 
Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva Wisconsin

Bar and Beverage Centers

At home entertaining is on the rise and a central hub allows the host to be a part of the action. Whether your preferences leans towards a fully stocked cocktail bar, coffee bar or ice-cream social bar, the mission is convenience. A dedicated area with storage and proper supplies will turn a simple beverage into a special indulgence.
 
Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva Wisconsin

Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva WisconsinColor Turns Warm and Moody

HGTV and Pottery Barn may have caused you to forget about the warmer side of the color wheel, but that is about to change. Cool grays will still be important, but neutrals will move forward by including warm beige tones and occasionally a bit of brown. The freshest effects will be achieved when these colors are accented with saturated hues like Benjamin Moore’s 2017 Color of the Year – Shadow, and Pantones 2017 Color of the Year – Greenery.
 
Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva Wisconsin

No Guilt Splurges on Functional Spaces

Luxury takes a turn towards practical when it comes to indulging ourselves at home. Oh sure, a spa bath is nice, but nothing compares to a laundry room with a potting station or a mudroom lined with exquisite locker storage. Those highly functional areas can be fitted to perfection turning everyday chores into a delightful escape.
 
 
The majority of rooms featured in this post were photographed by Victoria McHugh Photography
Interior Design for the home featured is by The Design Coach Phillip Sassone
Interior Design for the laundry room and potting area featured in the last image and the Beverage Bar with metallic tile backsplash is by Elizabeth Drake of Drake Interiors, Ltd.
 
 

Good Things Come in Small Packages

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

Good Things Come In Small Packages

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Note from the owners of this cozy little cottage.


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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.

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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

Top 10 Home Trends for 2016

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Fads come and go, but trends in homebuilding can last for generations. These develop over time and respond to changes in lifestyle, innovations in materials and new technology. With this in mind, our goal is to bring you the latest trends that are sure to become timeless classics.

Top 10 Home Trends 2016 downsized luxury entry with display shelvingEffortless Luxury for Homes of All Sizes

The well appointed home is in demand for homes of all sizes. Downsizing does not mean giving up the beautiful features empty nesters are accustomed to,  even starter home buyers want to feel pampered. Open floorplans, custom woodwork, gourmet kitchens and statement lighting all detail the homes that are sized according to lifestyle needs, not neighborhoods.

Top 10 Home Trends for 2016 screened in porch, sunroom, indoor outdoor livingSeasonal Living Spaces

Move from the sunroom, to screened-in porch, to the pergola-covered patio with ease. Fluid transitions between indoor and outdoor living space has the ability to extend seasons for the year long appreciation of nature. These spaces often include fireplaces, entertainment technology, conversational seating, dining area and outdoor kitchens.

Top 10 Trends for Homes in 2016 Multigenerational Space, multiple master bedrooms Multigenerational Space with Flexibility and Inclusive Design

Extended families under one roof are giving rise to homes with multiple bedroom suites for the comfort of everyone from aging parents or boomerang children. These homes are designed with large shared space to enhance family connections.  Personalized private areas often features showers with seats and grab rails to insure safety and open space for easy navigation.

Top 10 Trends for Homes in 2016, kitchen design, State of the Art Kitchen storage, range, range hood stainless steel, large island

State-of-the-Art Kitchens with Integrated Living Space

Today’s kitchens are connected to family life more than ever. The super-sized island is a multitasking essential with cabinetry in furniture-like finishes and smart appliances. Integrated equipment lends a streamline look to open floor plans. Luxury niche appliances satisfy the most serious chefs and include high performance ranges, steam ovens, warming drawers, metal range hoods and wine coolers. Emerging trends include kimchi refrigerators for preserving vegetables in keeping with Korean traditions and cultivators like the Urban Cultivator for fresh herbs.
Urban cultivator, indoor herb garden
Kitchen by Geneva Cabinet Company
 
 
 
 

Top 10 Trends for Homes in 2016, Clean Healthy Living, quartz, large tile, no grout onesHealthy Homes – Clean Living

A clean aesthetic is highly desirable and designs are evolving to incorporate low maintenance finishes that advance the cause. Quartz countertops with antibacterial properties are growing in popularity along with stainless steel countertops and large-scale tile with fewer grout lines. Air and water purification systems and natural materials work together to reduce toxins in the home along with streamline design where dust can’t hide.

Top 10 Trends for Homes in 2016, decorating idea, entry storage, cubbiesRelaxed and Farmhouse Entries

The farmhouse tradition of practicality is driving the trend for relaxes entries that focus on convenience. Open cubbies provide visible storage that eliminates the frantic search for keys. Additional storage under built-in benches keep shoes and boots tidy while preventing outside dirt from being tracked inside. Charging stations are often included to keep electronics in sight and ready to go.

Top 10 Trends for 2016 home design and decorating, Flexible Dining rooms, open floorpan, Lowell Management Services Lake Geneva WIFlexible Dining Room

Dining is an art to be shared with friends and family.    For this reason many are not willing to give up on the idea of a formal dining room. We have the perfect solution with open floor plans where the dining area can be adjusted to suite an intimate dinner party or grand affair.

Top 10 Trends for 2016 in home decorating and design, mix and match finishes, kitchen cabinet mix finished, quartz, soapstone, metalLowell Management Lake Geneva WIEclectic Mash Up

Mix and match principles apply throughout the home and are most evident in the kitchen. Combinations feature complimentary styles and colors for cabinetry along with various countertop materials assigned by use. Quartz, soapstone and hand scraped woods compete with granite for the most popular position. Metallic finishes for hardware and tile inserts includes gold, copper and platinum along with the traditional chrome and steel.

Top 10 Trends for 2016 in home decorating and design, entry with artisan craftsmanship, Lowell Management Services Lake Geneva WIAuthentic Materials and Craftsmanship

Appreciation for handcrafted work from local artisans and locally sourced material is on the rise. It goes beyond the sustainability factor and speaks to a newfound respect for the time-honored skills of our neighbors. Repurposed and locally sourced materials carry a highly trusted reassurance of quality.

Top 10 Trends for 2016 in home design and decorating, Leisure rooms, pool cabana, bar, kitchen, bath, barn door, Lowell Management Lake Geneva WILeisure Spaces and Getaway Rooms

When it’s time to relax we want a space that transports us from the daily grind to a relaxing retreat. Home hobby spaces can be as peaceful as a meditation room or as active an arcade. Many are self-sustaining with a refreshment area and private bath. These spaces vary from a basketball court that is just down the hall to a freestanding boathouse or poolside cabana.
Kitchen by Geneva Cabinet Company

Inviting Entries – Guidelines for your homes first impression

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You had me at hello!
It is scientifically proven that first impressions are lasting. A phenomenon refer to as thin-slicing demonstrates our powerful ability to make rapid decisions based on a narrow window of experience. No matter the size, the entry point is where you and your home will make a first impression. With thoughtful design guidelines, your foyer will make a stunning statement on your behalf.
Communicate Your Style
Create an “ahhh” moment at the point of transition between the great outdoors and your home interior. Ancient Feng Shui principles believe the entry is the gateway for your homes energy.   Use this idea of natural flow to heighten the anticipation for visitors with a well-curated selection that represents your style.

  • Focus on developing a mood that will set the stage for your entire home.
  • Connect to the exterior of your home by repeating an architectural element, color scheme or material.
  • Control the visual “thin-slice” with simplicity as your guide with a few well-chosen features.
  • Think of the entry as an introduction to your home with a story that will unfold room to room.
  • Hint at the level of formality to your lifestyle with the size and detailing of your space.

Consider all angles for Foyer design
Consider every angle
Your entry is experienced from several vantage points. Consider them all when making selections for this space. Start with the exterior approach to your entrance and take in 360 views while standing in the foyer. This space is often in the background of your daily activities.   Reach for an integrated design theme that can be referred to throughout your home.

  • Select an entry door that enhance the character your homes character.
  • Express your style and gain natural light by choosing from the variety of transoms, sidelights and windows.
  • Consider privacy needs during in the initial design process. Size, shape and architectural features can control exposure to the elements and unknown visitors.

Practical Matters in the Foyer and Entry
Practical matters
Comfort features will be greatly appreciated by guests and family. When the entry is reserved for visitors, a more streamline, statement focused on design is possible. However, don’t neglect these basics that are appreciated by everyone.

  • A Chair or bench for struggling with footwear
  • Closet or coat rack
  • A mirror for last minute check ups
  • A chest or console table to hold and store out-the-door items like keys and gloves.
  • Good general lighting with a task light option

Traffic flow directing traffic from foyer through home
Traffic Flow
An Architectural pivot point, the foyer often guides traffic through the home. Directional cues are helpful for guiding visitors and family to the path you would prefer they travel.

  • Increase the size of any openings that you want used more often.
  • Use the same type of flooring to encourage flow into adjacent areas.
  • Change the flooring or wall color to subtly suggest a boundary.
  • Minimize walls or hallways and use open space to establish a visual connection that will encourage everyone to move into that space.

Showcase your foyer and entry style
Showcase Your Style
The entry is an ideal location to showcase your style by displaying art or special collections. This placement allows you to share something special with visitors while the central location lets you appreciate it daily.

  • Build in shelving or niches to keep collectables out of harms way.
  • Use accent lighting to highlight your treasured pieces
  • Keep this area simple and streamline to create a gallery effect that elevates the value of art, area rugs or a statement light fixture.

Multipurpose foyer
Foyer Flexibility
Often various rooms within a home converge at the foyer or entry. The shared open space will facilitate traffic flow as well as create open space that you can transform as needed.

  • Place important pieces, like a baby grand piano, in this area to make a statement within easy view.
  • Free up family activity areas by moving large storage pieces to this transition space.
  • Expand into this space for special events with a beverage bar or dining tables.
  • Enjoy this space for music lessons, dance practice or reading corner.

Use foyer or entry to entice visitors and surprise the with style
Entice and Surprise
Complete your entry area in a way that will entice and surprise everyone including yourself. When all of the elements of this space are carefully selected, your first impression will be memorable.