Lowell Custom Homes Photo @stofferphotographyinteriors

The Custom Approach to Home

Bookshelf Wealth, Urban Aunt, Quiet Luxury . . . every year we hear about the exciting new trends for your home.  Our last blog outlined Emerging Home Design Trends with ideas for 2024.  While trends are fun to explore, your home should essentially have more to do with who you are than any viral trends.   A well-designed space is homeowner-driven to align with lifestyle and personal preferences.  While popular trends aim to present the illusion of a lifestyle, working with a custom builder, on a new home or remodeling project, is the direct path to an authentic reflection of your lifestyle.

The Custom Home Exterior

Lowell Custom Homes, Michael Abraham Architecture, Amy Storm & Company Interior Design, Stoffer Photography Interiors

Lowell Custom Homes, Michael Abraham Architecture, Amy Storm & Company Interior Design, Stoffer Photography Interiors

The exterior architecture of a custom home creates an intriguing first impression.  When building it is possible to artfully blend the perfect windows, roofing, siding, and decorative trim for memorable street appeal.

A Floorplan Tailored to Your Needs

Home interior customized with view to Geneva Lake

Lowell Custom Homes, Michael Abraham Architecture, Amy Storm & Company Interior Design, Stoffer Photography Interiors

The floorplan and room layout should be dictated by lifestyle.  While certain elements have wide appeal, the flow in a custom home plays to the unique nature of each homeowner.  In this home, with a pristine view of Geneva Lake, that means an uninterrupted view.  Activity flows from the beautifully functional kitchen, through the casual dining area and on to the outdoor living room . . . .

Lowell Custom Homes, Michael Abraham Architecture, Amy Storm & Company Interior Design, Stoffer Photography Interiors

Lowell Custom Homes, Michael Abraham Architecture, Amy Storm & Company Interior Design, Stoffer Photography Interiors

. . . all before an inviting view of the pool.

Lowell Custom Homes, Michael Abraham Architecture, Amy Storm & Company Interior Design, Stoffer Photography Interiors

Lowell Custom Homes, Michael Abraham Architecture, Amy Storm & Company Interior Design, Stoffer Photography Interiors

Simplicity +

 Simplicity + special elements for customized presentation

Lowell Custom Homes, Michael Abraham Architecture, Amy Storm & Company Interior Design, Stoffer Photography Interiors

While simplicity is often endorsed for its timeless appeal, we like it paired with innovative elements for a distinctive statement.  Note how the sophisticated architecture of this home is enhanced with shapely lines in an arched doorway and the interplay of wood and metal texture from flooring, to ceiling, and lighting.

Curated Character of a Custom Home

den with architectural details and view

Lowell Custom Homes, Michael Abraham Architecture, Amy Storm & Company Interior Design, Stoffer Photography Interiors

The careful selection and thoughtful organization of unique elements work together to craft a custom home as an authentic expression of your lifestyle.

Lowell Custom Homes supports homeowners in the gratifying journey of designing and building a new home.  Lowell will work with your architect and designer or assemble a team of in-house experts to create a rewarding stress-free building experience.

Contact Lowell Custom Homes
262.245.9030

Home credits:

Lowell Custom Homes

Michael Abraham Architecture

Amy Storm & Company Interior Design

Stoffer Photography Interiors

Designing the Perfect Entry

A little effort goes a long way when creating a beautiful first impression.  We like to start with curb appeal and carry it on through the entry of your home.  The entry is often passed over with design efforts jumping right into living spaces.  But keep in mind that the entry is highly visible. It is the perfect spot to create a memorable moment for you and your visitors.

Start with the Door

The character of your entry door carries from the exterior to the interior of your home.  It must coordinate with both points of view, so choose wisely.  It should be architecturally compatible with your home design and provide the security and insulation appropriate for your location.

Light the Way

Illuminate this space with options that allow versatility.  A stunning chandelier is always appropriate, then consider adding sconces and even tabletop lighting to allow you to adjust the levels of light according to your needs and mood.

Define with Area Rugs

Add warmth with the texture of area rugs and runners.  They will define the entry and move people in the right direction down the hall.

Include a Statement Piece

One piece can set the stage for the entire home by introducing the style and mood of your rooms.  Keep the entry open and unfussy but don’t be afraid to use a substantial furniture piece when space allows.  A mirror is always nice for allowing last minute touch ups when coming or going.

Provide Seating

This is a small courtesy for guests, especially in the midwest where visitors often come weighed down with boots, coats or umbrellas.  It can be a chair, bench or even a small settee.  All that is required is a place to rest a person or package once entering your home.

 

Share A Bit of Yourself

Make it your own by including bits and pieces of your favorite things.  This is a peek into your personality with favorite collections, art or decor.

Ample Storage

The need for entry storage is a given, and the standard closet provides nicely.  Also consider solutions to expand storage with built-ins or furniture that provides storage drawers.

Don’t Forget Secondary Points of Entry

Don’t neglect the more common entry that you and your family use on a daily basis.  It should be just as appealing as the guest entry, and even more functional with storage for coats, shoes and packages.

For more ideas to add curb appeal of your home check here

and here.

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

(There are not affiliate links and of course we never share your personal information)

 

The Return of the Dinner Party and the Dining Room

The ideal step between Zoom entertaining and running out to a crowded restaurant is the at home dinner party.  And for that you need an attractive dining space!  No matter what your  style, the ideal dining area will help you host a gathering where friends and family can share good times and a great meal in privacy.  While an entire room dedicated for formal dining fell from grace in the 90’s, we have never been able to completely part with the concept.  We will always want an area where we can elevate the dining experience.  The newest ideas promise to lure us away from eating at the kitchen island and bring us together again around a table. The emphasis is on pleasure, not the preparation, for the freshest dining room concepts.

The Formal Dining Room

Lowell Custom Home Remodel with The Design Coach

Don’t confuse formal with stuffy.  A designated room just means that your guests will gather together and have conversations with few distractions.  Details like beamed ceilings and built in beverage bars create beautiful ambiance with ease.   Keep up the attitude but tone down the effort by ordering in your favorite cuisine from a local restaurant.

The Open Dining Area

Lowell Custom Home with Interior Design by Drake Interiors, LTD

When your style is free flowing, a dining room that is open to other living areas will suit you just fine.  This dining space welcomes guest from the home’s entry and joins with the kitchen for expanded entertainment opportunity.

The Hub

When versatility is needed, we love the idea of creating a space that is multi-purpose.  Floating a long table between the kitchen and living room encourages movement for entertainment and living options.

 

The Transitional Area

Lowell Custom Home with Architect Jason Bernard

Placing the dining table adjacent to a folding glass wall of windows will let you enjoy the fresh area with an easy transition to outdoor living space.

 

Blurring the Lines

Lowell Custom Homes with Conservatory Craftsmen

Year-round appreciation of nature is challenging in the Midwest, so adding a dining table to the conservatory or sunroom will expand your outdoor seasons.

The Outdoor Dining Experience

And when it’s finally time to celebrate the arrival of warm weather, an outdoor dining space that opens to indoor dining and kitchen prep zone is just what you need!

Lowell Custom Homes is known for building and remodeling homes with a creative and customized approach.  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

Shower vs Tub Debate – Showers Wins!

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

 

Lake Appeal! Featured in Great Lakes By Design

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

There’s Always Something . . .

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

Watch this!

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

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

262.245.9030

 

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

 

Geneva National by Lowell Custom Homes

How to Choose a Location When Building Your New Home

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

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

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

The Reserve Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva WI

What comes first, the home design or the homesite?

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

Community and Nearby Resources

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

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

Private vs. Social

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

Homesite Characteristics

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

Home Orientation

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

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

The Wood Way Geneva National Lowell Custom Homes

Geneva National by Lowell Custom Homes

The Reserve Homesite Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva WI

 

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

Lowell Custom Homes

Creating Memories You Can Come Home To

262-245-9030

Top 10 Tips for Choosing the Best Builder

People often wonder how to choose the right builder for their new home or home remodeling project. The best advice we have comes directly from our very own expert. This clip from the Today’s Builder TV Show features Scott Lowell discussing the qualities that make his company so highly sought-after and respected.

 We created this Top 10 list to summarize the qualities you should look for when hiring a builder.

  1. Experience – Nothing surpasses experience and longevity in the custom home industry.  A builder must have a strong character built on the reputation of the experts within the company. Meet our experts right here.
  2. Quality – High quality materials should be the standard for a custom home project.  The infrastructure in a home is just as critical as the components that can be seen.  This delivers a home that is solid, serenely quiet and finely detailed.
  3. Responsiveness – The best builder is more than a good listener, he is a responsive innovator. The process of designing and building the perfect home requires an ongoing exchange between builder and homeowner in order to deliver a home that is truly distinctive.
  4. Empowered Customer Experience – A fully transparent system allows homeowners to be comfortable with the process from day one.  A builder should document every aspect of the project and its progress so the homeowners can have a clear understanding of every nuance. This results is happy customers like these and these!
  5. Clear Communication – The right builder will have a designated point-person to establish a direct line of communication for the homeowner.  At Lowell this is the Project Superintendent who is always available to update and respond promptly to questions and concerns.  Without a doubt there will be unexpected circumstances that arise during any construction project, but a good builder will keep you informed and have them resolved without delay.
  6. Established Timelines – A timeline for construction should be established before the project even begins and include a secure delivery date for the convenience of the homeowners.  Common delays are avoidable when the builder has an in-house team that includes an architect, office staff and reliable contractors who are meticulous about staying on track throughout the construction process.
  7. Established Budgets – A good builder will have an accurate budget that has been approved by the homeowner. The building process should include flexibility for some changes, but the builder must have a documented system where homeowners can approve variations. There should be no surprises. 
  8. Value Engineered – It is a balancing act to deliver the best value with uncompromising quality.  You want your home to have every feature on your wish list, and an experienced builder will help you prioritize and allocate funds in order to deliver the perfectly customized home.
  9. A Home Warranty – A quality builder will have a comprehensive home warranty that delivers complete peace of mind to the homeowner.  Lowell Custom Homes is known for their exceptional commitment to the care of every home.   Even after homeowners have moved in, the Lowell team never walks away.  They even provide a warranty for the next owners if the home is ever sold.
  10. Ongoing Relationships – A sure sign of a quality builder is when customers remain enthusiastic about their homes long after it has been completed.  You can read about what Lowell customers have to say right here!

At Lowell Custom Homes we treat our clients like family.

It’s the reason generation after generation turns to Lowell when it’s time to build a home of their very own.

262-245-9030

 

Lowell Custom Homes Homeowners

What it’s like to be a Lowell Homeowner!

The one thing that makes every day more memorable is the people you encounter along the way.

We have had the honor of working with the most delightful clients over the years.  While our slogan is “Building Memories You Can Come Home To” we are building memories of our own as we get to know and enjoy our homeowners throughout the building process.
If you wonder what it would be like to build with Lowell Custom Homes, just listen as our homeowners share their experience!

Thank you to all of our homeowners for becoming part of the Lowell family!

Lowell Custom Homes Featured on Today’s Builder TV March 31st!

Move over Norm Abram – Scott Lowell is coming to a screen near you!

Flashback – June 2017!  The film crew from Today’s Builder Television Show  was in Lake Geneva filming at Lowell Custom Homes.  It was a flurry of activity that was only contained by the ambitious efforts of Nadine Harris in Marketing.  The award winning television show has become the premier showcase for the finest custom builders in the industry . . . and next week it will feature an episode about Lowell Custom Homes!

Nadine Harris schedules film crew

Tune in! We think you will be completely charmed by the program!

For a sneak peak at the interview with Scott Lowell click right here

Scott Lowell interviewed on Today's Builder TV

Then listen here while our resident AIA Architect Todd Cauffman explains how we create beautiful flow throughout each home.Todd Cauffman AIA Architect Lowell Custom Homes

Next Up,  General Manager Rich Kinter explains how Lowell Custom Homes ensures complete customer satisfaction, right  here

Rich Kinter General Manager Lowell Custom Homes

Then click here so Superintendent Dennis Levine can fill you in on a few of the essential details that make every Lowell Custom Home better than the rest.

Superintendent Dennis Levine Lowell Custom Homes
On the program, which airs March 31st at 6:30 pm, you will also have the chance to see the Lake Geneva area featured from a lifestyle perspective.  Along the way many of our favorite craftsmen and vendors are showcased with their remarkable work.
The entire experience was wonderful, but we are most touched by our homeowners who opened their homes for photography and interviews while discussing their experience with Lowell Custom Homes.

A special thanks to our producer Tom Langdon and videographers Greg and Matt!

Greg and Matt Videographer for Today's Builder television

Please join us to view the Today’s Builder Television Show and learn all about what makes

Lowell Custom Homes so special!

Tune in on March 31st at 6:30 PM

CBS Channel 2 (WBBM)

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