The Secrets to Timeless Design for Your Home

 
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.

1-exterior-lowell-custom-homes-pixGet 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.
 

2-lowell-custom-homes-entry-and-music-room-pixRely 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.
 

3-lowell-custom-homes-living-room-fireplace-divider-dr-pixUse 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.
 
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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.
 
 
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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.
 

6-lowell-custom-homes-master-bedroom-and-bath-pixProvide 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.
 

7-guest-rooms-sleeping-porch-and-bathInclude 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.
 
 

8-laundry-craft-room-cabanna-dressing-area-from-pool-pixRecognize 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.

 

Back-to-School Tips for Your Home

1 BACK TO SCHOOL FACEBOOK PARENTS FROM BETTER HOMES PIX

Back-to-School Mom

Parents have always documented their children’s back-to-school day with pictures, but this year the photos going viral are all about the parents!   We want you to have just as much fun celebrating the joy of missing  your children.  Our favorite tips and ideas will prepare your home for a full year of blissful and stress-free school mornings.

Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva WiParent Command & Communication Station

A centrally located planning area is essential for keeping track of schedules and back-to-school paperwork. Add a bulletin board, to keep it free from clutter, and a calendar where everyone can synchronize activities for the day.

 
4 BACK TO SCHOOL personalized room Lowell Lake Geneva, WI PIX

Kids Rooms with Personality

Children will always wake up on the right side of the bed when they love their room. Decorate with colors and accessories that speak to their special interests.   Hooks or pegs will help them keep their room tidy and a whimsical alarm clock is a fun way to teach the value of waking up on time.

 
5 BACK TO SCHOOLbath with locker Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva, WI PIX

Prevent Bathroom Bottleneck

Prevent  morning bickering with a bathroom that allows for multiple users.  The classic Jack-and-Jill layout or a double-bowled vanity will increase efficiency during the morning rush.  Bath lockers provide great storage and visibility for toiletries and towels.   Plenty of hooks keep the floor clothing and towel free.

 
5 BACK TO School Closet organization

Eliminate Wardrobe Wars

An organized closet is helpful for both parent and child. Include shelving and hanging space to keep clothing and personal treasures visible. Let kids help select their complete outfits for every day of the week. These appealing printable labels will encourage them to dress themselves and leave the early morning drama behind.

 
6 BACK TO School Great Kitchen before and after schoot spot Lowell Lake Geneva, WI PIX

Before and After School Huddle

The concept of the Great Kitchen (open family room-kitchen) is ideal for Before and After school family connections. With open space children are in the line of sight for parents to check on everyones status for departure.  An oversized island can multi-task as a dining bar, work surface, or even a desktop when the home has Wi-Fi. This is a great place to include a charging station behind flip-down panels or on the inside of cabinet drawers.

 
7 Back to school chaulkboard list Lowell Management Lake Geneva WI Geneva Cabinet PIX

The Launch Pad

Ease the morning rush with a staging area where backpacks, shoes and show-and-tell treasures are ready to grab-and-go. This is also the drop off point at the end of each day.  A basket or clip board for each child can hold special notes and permission slips.  This is another good spot for a family calendar and electronics charging station.

 
3 BACK TO SCHOOL BACK UP SUPPLY STORAGE LOWELL LAKE GENEVA WI PIX

School Supply Stash

A designated storage place for school supplies should be close to the Launch Pad.  Built-in cabinets keep the area clutter free.  Pull out shelves with labeled bins or storage boxes will make it easy to access and inventory supplies. Keep the basics organized to eliminate last minute  trips to the store and wasteful spending for duplicate supplies lost somewhere in the back of a closet.

8 BACK TO School Study Lounge Lowell Lake Geneva, WI PIX

Homework Zone

No need to banish children to their rooms to study. The study lounge concept will help parents monitor homework progress and the child’s use of the Internet. Built-in cabinetry and shelving provide orderly storage for long-term projects.

 
9 BACK TO School Snack shack Lowell Lake Geneva, WI PIX

Healthy Snack Station

Encourage healthy choices for snacking with a designated area filled with grab-and-d0 treats.  Stock up on single serving snacks and individual  water or 100% juice drinks.  This is a  good place to store lunch supplies and packed lunch boxes. Companies like Goodbyn have colorful, reusable containers that make healthy snacks even more appealing. Their “Spork” is a real lunch box space saver.

 
10 BACK TO SCHOOL quiet study Lowell Lake Geneva, WI PIX

Bedroom Study Getaway

A study area tucked into a corner of a bedroom is great for reading and quiet study. Shelving provides a place to display special mementos and awards. Built-in cabinetry is helpful for sorting and organizing school projects and after-school hobbies.

 
11 BACK TO SCHOOL Aftr School Activities & Unwind Lowell Lake Geneva, WI PIX

Time to Unwind

Studies show that children who are active after school have improved concentration and learning ability. Areas of the home equipped for safe physical activity or a special place to pursue hobbies will make it more likely for children to choose activity instead of television.

 

The entire team at Lowell  is ready to help you with your plans for a beautiful and well thought-out home for back-to-school  . . .

. . . or any other time of year.

Here’s to all of the wonderful parents, you get a gold star!

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Pet-Friendly Home Ideas

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.

1 Pet friendly home ideas Lowell Custom Builder and tips pet friendly entry PIX

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.

1 Pet friendly home ideas Lowell Custom Builder and tips shiplap and beadboard paneling PIX

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.

1 Pet friendly home ideas Lowell Custom Builder and tips carpet stairs forever clean PIX

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.

1 Pet friendly home ideas Lowell Custom Builder and tips area rugs indoor outdoor PIX

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.

1 Pet friendly home ideas Lowell Custom Builder and tips low windowsills PIX

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

1 Pet friendly home ideas Lowell Custom Builder and tips toys to match decor PIX

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.

1 Pet friendly home ideas Lowell Custom Builder and tips washable bedding for both PIX

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

1 Pet friendly home ideas Lowell Custom Builder and tips wood mode pet parlor PIX

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

1 Pet friendly home ideas Lowell Custom Builder and tips dog toy storage in drawers PIX

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.

1 Pet friendly home ideas Lowell Custom Builder and tips dog bowls in kitchen PIX

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

1 Pet friendly home ideas Lowell Custom Builder and tips kennel with video phone and bed PIX

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.

Shopping Links

David Adler Treat Cannister
Jenna MICHELE Dog Collars & Leash
Aplomb Designs Leash Holder
Karastan Smart Strand Carpeting
Company C Samantha Rug
BarkShop Toys
Kravet Furniture Allegro Chair 
Fresh America by Annie Selke
Wood-Mode Cabinetry Pet Parlor
Wood-Mode available at Geneva Cabinet Company Lake Geneva, WI
Uncommon Goods Pet Toys
Indigo Home Chinoiserie Dog Bowls
Adore Custom Pet Beds
Pet Chatz Greet & Treat Videophone