Home Design Lesson: Living in Harmony

in Building a New Home, Custom Builder, Decorating ideas, Design Ideas, Home Ideas, How To, Trends/by Lowell Custom Homes

How is it that some homes overflow with lovely feelings of contentment while others are just “meh”? Often it is the result of an elusive quality known as harmony. Harmony is one of the most essential principles of design, but it often defies description. To achieve harmony, a delicate balance is needed between all of the other elements and principles of design.

While we were gushing over Gussie at the latest photo shoot, we couldn’t help but notice the natural sense of harmony that flows throughout this home. As the fluffiest member of the family, she too fits right in with the welcoming composition. While we work closely with clients on architecture and material selections, the credit for achieving the complete sense of harmony goes to our brilliant homeowners! But . . . we are happy to tell you how it’s done.
Harmony is a complex formula that we can start to understand by looking at the basic elements of design. Individual factors like color, line, and proportion, can be described as either creating unity through sameness, or adding variety through contrast. Well balanced elements bring the most pleasing sense of order and relevance to the exterior and interior design of a home.

Harmony through Unity

When every part of a home has a general sense of order and belonging it is referred to as unity. In this home it starts with the consistent use of unsaturated light and airy colors to create a palette that is visually soothing.

Maintaining a consistent character will further the sense of harmony in home design. As a lakeside retreat, this home uses references to the nautical theme as well as natural materials to be beautifully in sync with the lake front setting. Playful details, like the porthole pantry window, lighting and hardware, join the guest bunk-room concept to lend a refreshing vacation atmosphere to this home.

Harmony through Variety

A subtle contrast in material selection plays an important role in alleviating monotony. This allows the eye to pause on areas of interest, without a jarring transition. Here the light ash flooring and weathered wood furnishings play well against the matt wall surface. While the color palette and character remain consistent, this contrast offers a healthy balance for the overall sense of harmony of the room.

Visual texture will also enhance the harmony of a home. Here architectural elements add moments of importance with a light hand that is consistent with the homes lake front character. The woodworking details include shiplap paneling, cabinetry and crown molding which all serve to introduce contrast to the smooth quartz countertops, shapely glass light fixtures and hardware. Every accessory is refined and displayed in keeping with a harmonious approach.

Most importantly, the exterior of this home is thoughtfully planned to be in complete harmony with its lakefront setting. The natural stone foundation is a mix of lighter natural shades to support the refined selection of washed gray shingles and silvery white trim. And just as nature likes to surprise us with pop of color, the peaceful exterior of this home is gently accented by a lovely shade of blue to reflect the sky and nearby waters.

You can see more of this delightful getaway in our last blog were we take you through the process of building, from the Tear down to Tranquility. See our Houzz Portfolio for a complete tour! For a limited time the entire step-by-step process of this home’s evolution will be shown on the Lowell Custom Homes Project Gallery!

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!

We have been nominated for the

Best of Walworth County Award in the

New Home Builder and Home Remodeler categories!

We would appreciate your vote – just click here – Vote for Lowell Custom Homes!

Voting is open until October 15, 2017

Lowell Custom Homes

262.245.9030

Photography by S.Photography & Styling, Lake Geneva, WI

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Should You Remodel or Tear Down & Rebuild Your Home?

in Architecture, Building a New Home, Remodeling/by Lowell Custom Homes

Does your home need a little TLC or a bulldozer? The final decision often comes down to budget. But the cost to renovate can be deceiving. It rarely includes as much space, or all of the sought after features of your dream home. Before you start tearing down walls, we encourage you to consider these questions for guidance.

Do you love the property?

Location, Location, Location! When the location is ideal and vacant land is limited, tearing down clears the site for a fresh start. Many older homes in the communities surrounding Geneva Lake, WI are ideal candidates. Lake property is at a premium and surrounding homes support the investment of rebuilding.

Does the home have good bones?

Have the home inspected by an experienced contractor, one who really knows what they’re doing and gets dirty in the process. When repairs to the foundation or structural elements are needed beware of the escalation of commitment, commonly known as the money pit. Building from the ground up eliminates the hazards and physical constraints of an existing structure. Starting fresh also opens up a world of design possibilities.

Is the home architecturally appealing?

Not to be unkind, but all old homes are not charming. When the architecture is historic or has great character, by all means renovate! Even a quirky kind of appeal is ok, but nostalgia can quickly loses its attraction when cost intensifies. To invest and not have the perks of completely new construction could lead to renovator’s remorse.

Is the floor plan to your liking?

Sometimes you just can’t get there from here. When the floor plan is divided into small rooms without logical flow, the overall function of the home suffers. Even when an addition increases space, the original structure often needs to be upgraded to offer support and satisfy codes. There is a point where the architectural benefits of tall ceilings and a spacious open plan will actually save money.

Does the home have good plumbing, electrical and mechanical systems?

Renovation is about more than increasing space. Older homes have dated systems. Upgrades to plumbing and electrical are often needed to support new design features. Unexpected expense is not uncommon when problems are exposed during partial demolition. It is heartbreak when a homeowner has to give up something on the wish list because of unforeseen expenses.

How energy efficient is the existing structure?

Construction materials have advanced in recent years and bring added savings to a new home. Improved insulation, energy efficient windows, and smart systems for heating and cooling improved the quality of life and reduce operating expense.

Does the home compliment your lifestyle?

The real question is, how do you want to live in your home and is it possible in the existing structure? A completely private master suite, indoor-outdoor great room, whole house accessibility – these and many other lifestyle amenities are difficult to retrofit into the footprint of an old home. No need to compromise when the investment will justify new construction.

Over the years we have been involved in numerous renovations as well as new home construction after a tear down. Every home is unique and the right decision weighs all of the influencing factors. This includes the homeowners personality, budget and tolerance for disruption.

We enjoy the entire process and are here to help. When you are ready to look at all of the possibilities, talk to Lowell Custom Homes for an experienced and professional evaluation.

Browse our Gallery of Homes & call us at 262-245-9030

Our lovely photography was done by Shana Wolf S, Photography and Styling

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Good Things Come in Small Packages

in Accessibility, Aging, Building a New Home, Custom Builder, Downsizing, Empty Nester, Trends/by Lowell Custom Homes

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Secrets to Timeless Design for Your Home

in Architecture, Building a New Home, Child-Friendly Home, Custom Builder, Custom Detailing & Millwork, Decorating ideas, Design Ideas, Empty Nester, Home Ideas, Trends/by Lowell Custom Homes

A well designed home has staying power. It transcends a specific architectural style to focus on an emotional connection, lifestyle and comfort. The secret to creating this type of timeless design starts with a collaboration of experts who truly understand the homeowner’s aesthetic.
This getaway home embodies the relaxed Lake Geneva lifestyle while integrating the homeowner’s appreciation for tradition and creativity. We worked with Architect John A. Hagenah and Interior Designer Elizabeth Drake as well as our talented craftsmen and quality resources to build a home that is both timeless and inviting.

Get In Sync with Your Setting

The Craftsman architecture utilizes wide gabled rooflines, tapered stone columns, and minimalist ornamentation for an intriguing relationship with the countryside. Cedar shingles and horizontal siding introduce subtle pattern with gable details that expose rafter beams. A screened in room and sleeping porch provide protected connections to the outdoors. The back elevation of the home features a wall of windows and French doors where indoor-outdoor activities can flow effortlessly.

Rely on Classic Lines

The entry features a Mahogany Dutch Door inviting guests to the refined elegance of the Music Room. Classic lighting and traditional woodworking are relaxed with the warmth of grass cloth wall covering and medium wood tones.

Use Neutrals or Classic Colors for Permanent Elements, Have Fun with Easy to Alter Elements.

The living room relies on Craftsman elements for its inviting character created with the low profile of a beamed ceiling, custom stone mix on the fireplace wall, stone mantel and conversational seating area. All of the permanent architectural features in this home are timeless, neutral, and versatile. The dramatic surprise of coral paint for the walls is actually an on trend element that can be easily changed should the homeowners ever feel the need for a different mood.

Right-size the Floor Plan for Effortless Traffic Flow

The dining room is adjacent to the entry hall and features another stone fireplace. Coffered ceiling and traditional moldings step up formality that is then relaxed with the rustic texture of stone. A built-in wine and refreshment bar is located at this mid-point of the home for easy entertaining with a convenient connection to the outdoor pool area.

The dining area of this open floor plan flows directly to the kitchen with its large island seating for casual dining and entertaining. Here Wood-Mode cabinetry from Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC is done in a custom color with Quartzite countertops. Appliances include a Wolf range, Miele Oven, Steam Oven, Warming Drawer, and Sub Zero refrigerator. An artistic tile backsplash from Bella Tile and Stone, grounds this area with handcrafted appeal.

Provide Accessibility and Privacy

The first floor Master Bedroom Suite is a key feature for a timeless home plan. This area is designed with such grace and style that you may not notice the accessibility features that allow for future aging-in-place. The compartmentalized Master Bath, with double vanity and spacious shower, is detailed with classic tile patterns using basket weave and hexagon mosaics. Interior windows provide shared light and privacy while a tiled wall performs as an easy to maintain backsplash for the vanity area.

Include Versatile Rooms

The Guest Suites include bathrooms for privacy and access to the second story Sleeping Porch. Each suite features a seating area and a full wall of windows for natural lighting , ventilation and views of the countryside.

Recognize the Value of Functional Spaces

Even the highly functional spaces of this home are treated with timeless details and easy transitions to the outdoors. A clever open combination space blends the laundry, creative studio and mudroom. It includes a workstation with stainless steel countertop and sink that can serve as a Butler’s Pantry or potting area for gardening. Another space with direct access to the pool performs as a cabana like dressing room with stacked washer/dryer and locker storage.

You can see more of this beautiful home with larger detail pictures on Houzz.

Clean Building Improves Air Quality

in Building a New Home, Custom Builder, Healthy Living, How to Select a Builder/by Lowell Custom Homes

Every cloud of dust has a grubby lining.

That is why alleviating dust on every one of our home projects is a top priority at Lowell. We use the most advanced system in the industry, BuildClean, to trap and contain dust, and then virtually eliminate it. This system removes dust particles that result from common construction activities, like demolition, drywall and sanding. We actually trap the dust within the work area and then “scrub” the air. This maintains a high quality of indoor air and prevents construction dust from lingering.

Dust isn’t just a nuisance; it can have adverse effects on the health of your family and pets. Particles can trigger asthma attacks, allergic reactions and problems for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Lowell will not allow any of these potentially harmful particles to settle and be sealed into the walls and crevices of your home.

Maintaining a high standard of air quality is even more critical on remodeling projects. About 90% of homeowners stay in their homes during construction. Using this BuildClean system provides a “livable remodeling” environment with quiet and continuous highly efficient air filtration.On an average day most rooms will contain 30,000 to 50,000 particles of dust larger than .05 microns. Remodeling activities can increase that to 700,000. Within 30 minutes of running our air scrubber the particles return to the normal 30,000 level. In one hour it is even lower at 16,000 particles.

There are substantial benefits to our clean building policy:

A more livable environment
Healthier home conditions for you, your family and pets
Protection for sensitive electronics like computers, TVs, and smart home systems
Virtual elimination of lingering dust issues

Also, since the dust is contained within the work area for scrubbing, potentially harmful particles are never released into the environment. It is part of the good neighbor policy we establish on every construction site.

Before & After photos are wonderful, but we also believe in sharing our “During” photos. You can follow the complete construction process for all of our projects by clicking here: Lowell Construction Process Gallery. This gallery will show your how we manage every detail of construction on every Lowell home.

Lake Retreat Built by Lowell, Lake Geneva, WI

in Architecture, Building a New Home, Custom Builder, Custom Detailing & Millwork, Decorating ideas, Design Ideas, Home Ideas, Trends/by Lowell Custom Homes

Click here to tour this remarkable Lowell Custom Home!

Take a minute to enjoy a video tour of one of our custom homes on 336 acres surrounded by a 1000 acre nature preserve in Wisconsin. This property includes a 9,000 square foot main house, a guest house the sleeps six, tennis courts and a lighthouse clubroom.

Pet-Friendly Home Ideas

in Building a New Home, Child-Friendly Home, Custom Builder, Design Ideas, Home Ideas, Pet-Friendly Home, Trends/by Lowell Custom Homes

We love to indulge our pets, but our home doesn’t have to go to the dogs! Our pet-friendly home ideas will help you maintain a stylish standard, while making your furry family members right at home.

No matter what their age or level of training, “things” happen. So, our number one tip is to select durable and washable finishes when building or remodeling your home. Choose hard surface flooring in main traffic areas for easy clean up with classic style.

Create a pet-friendly entry area. Use easy to clean hard surface flooring and provide storage for everything needed on your daily outings. Leashes, treats, water bottles and even a supply of small towels for muddy paws.

Don’t worry about your playful pet damaging walls; use a washable surface from the start. Active areas will benefit from a semi-gloss paint finish. Better yet, shiplap and beadboard paneling are on-trend and super-durable.

Safety first on the stairs, consider carpeting them or use a runner to eliminate slipping and scratches in this high traffic area. When selecting carpet, look for brands that use the most advanced fiber technology, like Smart Strand.

Area rugs are the perfect way to protect hardwood flooring while providing a soft and cozy spot for afternoon naps. The newest indoor-outdoor rugs feel soft, repel stains and can even be hosed down. Choose multi-color rugs with a lively pattern to disguise any mishaps between cleanings.

Daydreamers and neighborhood watchdogs love windows. Keep the windowsills low or add a built-in window seat for hours of viewing pleasure.

When selecting toys, consider how they will look when laying around on the floor. Choose colors that coordinate with your home and entertaining shapes that will make you smile when you step on the squeaky.

If your little buddy sheds, match the shades in your upholstery to his fur color. Extra brushing during shedding season and a handy lint roller will keep it looking good.

Choose washable fabrics for your home when possible, especially on bedding.

Consider adding “Pet Parlor” features to your laundry or mudroom. These cabinets by Wood-Mode feature convenient storage for everything from large bags of dog food to bath supplies. Wood-Mode Fine Custom Cabinetry is available at Geneva Cabinet Company

Keep a dedicated drawer or cabinet for toys in the same room where everyone hangs out. Open them up at playtime so you pets can help themselves to favorites.

No need to banish the water bowl, just select one that is as pretty as your other home accessories.

Pets need a safe haven. Built-in kennels or a quiet corner can become their sanctuary when household activity is overwhelming. For peace of mind when you’re away, add a pet-cam. A personalized bed made to just the right size will complete the space.

Architectural Attraction – How to choose the architecture and style of your home

in Architecture, Building a New Home, Custom Builder, Custom Detailing & Millwork, Decorating ideas, Design Ideas, Home Ideas, Remodeling, Trends/by Lowell Custom Homes

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

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

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

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 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

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

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

European style homes suggest features from Country French and English Tudor homes dating back to the 18^th 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

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!

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

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

in Building a New Home, Custom Builder, Custom Detailing & Millwork, Decorating ideas, Design Ideas, Home Ideas, How to Select a Builder, Remodeling, Step-by-Step Home Construction/by Lowell Custom Homes

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.

Step 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.

Step 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.

Step 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.

Step 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.

Step 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.

Step 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.

Step 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.

Step 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.

Step 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.

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.

Design & Pre-Construction
Site Preparation & Foundation Work
Framing
Interior Rough-In Plumbing, Electric & HVAC
Insulation, Drywall, Taping
Exterior Finishing
Interior Millwork & Finish Materials
Kitchen & Bath
Interior Details & Finish Work
Final Walkthrough

Home Design to Lose Weight & Get Fit

in Architecture, Building a New Home, Custom Builder, Decorating ideas, Design Ideas, Healthy Living, Home Ideas, Remodeling, Trends/by Lowell Custom Homes

What if the design of your home could increase your potential for success?
In his book Slim By Design author and behavioral scientist, Brian Wansink, explains how changes to your environment can change your behavior.
With this approach in mind, we present some of our award-winning homes to demonstrate the best design ideas for a healthy lifestyle.

A well-organized kitchen is your base camp for success. An uncluttered environment is inviting and lets you feel in control. Store food out of sight except for a bowl filled with a variety of fresh fruit on the counter.

Food preparation and clean up is a breeze when you have innovative products to speed things along.

You will be more motivated to prepare healthy meals when cooking and clean up is a breeze! Innovative products and appliances will increase your efficiency and decrease the time you spend in the kitchen.

Drink more water! Easy to do when a beverage station keeps it icy cold, within reach, and removed from the tempting snacks in the refrigerator.

Drink more water! It’s easy with a beverage station to keep it icy cold, and far away from the tempting snacks in the refrigerator.

A dedicated planning desk will help you coordinate nutritional meals and keep track of your progress.

Take advantage of color psychology, blue is known to promote weight loss because it is not associated with food.

Take advantage of color psychology by using kitchen colors that do not stimulate the appetite. Blue is known to promote weight loss because it is not associated with food. But notice how appealing the contrasting bowl of oranges becomes!

Sit down and enjoy every bite. Studies show that a relaxed dining area without the distraction of television will increase your satisfaction for every meal.

Sit down and enjoy every bite in a dedicated dining area. Studies show that eating without distraction will increase your satisfaction during every meal.

Take the stairs! You do not have to dedicate a full hour at the gym, just make a conscious effort to move more and avoid shortcuts.

Take the stairs! You do not have to commit to a full hour at the gym, just make a conscious effort to move more often and avoid shortcuts.

Remind yourself of your commitment by surround yourself with healthy choices. Keep your workout equipment visible and ready to use.

Focus on your commitment by surrounding yourself with active options. Create a colorful visual display of your workout equipment that is ready to go.

Lack of sleep leads to low energy and poor choices throughout the day. A restful bedroom will help you get the sleep you need for success.

Lack of sleep leads to low energy and poor choices throughout the day. A restful bedroom will help you get the sleep you deserve.

Reward yourself with treats that are not related to food, like a stress reducing start to every day in a spa bath.

Reward yourself with treats that are not related to food. A spa bathroom will help you start every day stress-free.

Take a moment for inspirational reading or meditation to keep you on track and committed.

Take a moment for inspirational reading or meditation to keep yourself on track for success.

Harmony through Unity

Harmony through Variety

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!

We have been nominated for the

Best of Walworth County Award in the

New Home Builder and Home Remodeler categories!

We would appreciate your vote – just click here – Vote for Lowell Custom Homes!

Voting is open until October 15, 2017

Lowell Custom Homes

262.245.9030

Do you love the property?

Does the home have good bones?

Is the home architecturally appealing?

Is the floor plan to your liking?

Does the home have good plumbing, electrical and mechanical systems?

How energy efficient is the existing structure?

Does the home compliment your lifestyle?

Browse our Gallery of Homes & call us at 262-245-9030

Our lovely photography was done by Shana Wolf S, Photography and Styling

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

Get In Sync with Your Setting

Rely on Classic Lines

Use Neutrals or Classic Colors for Permanent Elements, Have Fun with Easy to Alter Elements.

Right-size the Floor Plan for Effortless Traffic Flow

Provide Accessibility and Privacy

Include Versatile Rooms

Recognize the Value of Functional Spaces

You can see more of this beautiful home with larger detail pictures on Houzz.

Every cloud of dust has a grubby lining.

There are substantial benefits to our clean building policy:

A more livable environment

Healthier home conditions for you, your family and pets

Protection for sensitive electronics like computers, TVs, and smart home systems

Virtual elimination of lingering dust issues

Also, since the dust is contained within the work area for scrubbing, potentially harmful particles are never released into the environment. It is part of the good neighbor policy we establish on every construction site.

Click here to tour this remarkable Lowell Custom Home!

Take a minute to enjoy a video tour of one of our custom homes on 336 acres surrounded by a 1000 acre nature preserve in Wisconsin. This property includes a 9,000 square foot main house, a guest house the sleeps six, tennis courts and a lighthouse clubroom.

We love to indulge our pets, but our home doesn’t have to go to the dogs! Our pet-friendly home ideas will help you maintain a stylish standard, while making your furry family members right at home.

No matter what their age or level of training, “things” happen. So, our number one tip is to select durable and washable finishes when building or remodeling your home. Choose hard surface flooring in main traffic areas for easy clean up with classic style.

Create a pet-friendly entry area. Use easy to clean hard surface flooring and provide storage for everything needed on your daily outings. Leashes, treats, water bottles and even a supply of small towels for muddy paws.

Don’t worry about your playful pet damaging walls; use a washable surface from the start. Active areas will benefit from a semi-gloss paint finish. Better yet, shiplap and beadboard paneling are on-trend and super-durable.

Safety first on the stairs, consider carpeting them or use a runner to eliminate slipping and scratches in this high traffic area. When selecting carpet, look for brands that use the most advanced fiber technology, like Smart Strand.

Area rugs are the perfect way to protect hardwood flooring while providing a soft and cozy spot for afternoon naps. The newest indoor-outdoor rugs feel soft, repel stains and can even be hosed down. Choose multi-color rugs with a lively pattern to disguise any mishaps between cleanings.

Daydreamers and neighborhood watchdogs love windows. Keep the windowsills low or add a built-in window seat for hours of viewing pleasure.

When selecting toys, consider how they will look when laying around on the floor. Choose colors that coordinate with your home and entertaining shapes that will make you smile when you step on the squeaky.

If your little buddy sheds, match the shades in your upholstery to his fur color. Extra brushing during shedding season and a handy lint roller will keep it looking good.

Choose washable fabrics for your home when possible, especially on bedding.

Consider adding “Pet Parlor” features to your laundry or mudroom. These cabinets by Wood-Mode feature convenient storage for everything from large bags of dog food to bath supplies. Wood-Mode Fine Custom Cabinetry is available at Geneva Cabinet Company

Keep a dedicated drawer or cabinet for toys in the same room where everyone hangs out. Open them up at playtime so you pets can help themselves to favorites.

No need to banish the water bowl, just select one that is as pretty as your other home accessories.

Pets need a safe haven. Built-in kennels or a quiet corner can become their sanctuary when household activity is overwhelming. For peace of mind when you’re away, add a pet-cam. A personalized bed made to just the right size will complete the space.

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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?

Cape Cod

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Craftsman

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Farmhouse

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Victorian

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Shingle Style

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Dutch Colonial

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Traditional

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European Influence

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Cottage Style

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