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

home design trends 2024

2024 Emerging Home Design Trends

Emerging home design trends for 2024 are part of a greater movement for well-being.

As a custom home builder, we design and build beautiful homes to provide life comfort, stability and balance.  We believe many of the latest trends will fulfill the desire for wellness and enhance everyday comforts.

As you browse through the up-and-coming ideas, we advise you to make decisions about your home based on what feels right for you.  Look at each emerging trend and evaluate how it would work in your home.   Trends come and go, but making decisions based on what feels good will result in timeless design.

Self-Expression Trending

Emerging Home Design Trend of Self Expression 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 overarching trend for the future of home design is self-expression.  Building steam for several years, this attitude is firmly in place. It began with the Quiet Luxury movement and continues to expand as homeowners become more confident with choices that reflect an appreciation for quality.  Longevity is inherent when a design direction truly reflects the distinctive perspective of each homeowner.

Allure of Authenticity

Home Design Trend Authenticity

Walnut island countertop from trees felled while clearing property for home

Intersecting with self-expression, we see a leaning towards authentic materials and hand craftsmanship.  While fine craftsmanship is the hallmark every Lowell Custom Home, elements sourced locally or through artisans are growing in popularity when building, furnishing or accessorizing a home.  Authentic materials express a patina and aged quality that cannot be duplicated.

Craving Outdoor Connections

Emerging home design trend outdoor connections Builder Lowell Custom Homes, Architect Michael Abraham Architecture, Interior Design Amy Storm &Company, Photo Stoffer Photography Interiors

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

We have been fans of seamless transitions for years.  The psychological impact of an uninterrupted view is pure bliss.  When barriers are removed, the interior expands visually, along with the flow of clean fresh air.  

Natural Light Shines In

Biophilic design and Natural light

Lowell Custom Homes, Conservatory Craftsmen, Shanna Wolf Photography

Trending in 2024 is the desire to maximize natural light throughout the home.  As an extension of Biophilic design, this trend expresses the inherent desire for humans to connect with nature.    An expansive wall of windows, the addition of skylights, or reflective surfaces like mirrors or tiles will be a plus.  When building new, the potential to position the home just right will maximize natural elements.

 

Emerging Color Trends

Color of the Year

 2024 Color trends

2024 Colors of the Year

The “Color of the Year” is announced by several different entities, especially paint companies.  Final selections are based on expert research and encompass fashion, travel, international influence and home elements.  The extensive examination helps manufacturers of household products predict popular colorways before production.  This year it’s noteworthy to see several winners from the blue family.   Blue is often seen as the color for tranquility, stability and yes, well-being.

Neutrals Warming

Benjamin Moore Paint Neutrals

Click to Benjamin Moore for full selection of neutrals

Current gurus are telling us that the movement will be away from cool based neutrals (right side of chart) towards warm based neutrals ( left side of chart).   Don’t let this forecast ruin your day. Refer back to our opening comments,

“Trends come and go, but making decisions based on what feels good will result in timeless design.”

While there are a number of general rules for choosing the best colors for you home, a professional interior designer will be invaluable.  It’s not just about warm vs cool, a professional knows how color will behave based on pigment, lighting and the size and shape of the space.  When you build with Lowell Custom Home, an interior designer is an essential part of your team.

 

Circular Design Movement

upcycling materials

Lowell Custom Homes, Heritage Beam & Board, Shanna Wolf Photography

The circular design concept celebrates the aged character of materials while also reducing waste.  In the project above, reclaimed brick from the streets of Iowa is renewed as flooring in a classic herringbone pattern.   The team at Heritage Beam and Board created work benches from rescued lumber and a vintage copper sink completes the theme.

Integrated Home Storage

integrated home storage Lowell Custom Homes, Geneva Cabinet Company, Shanna Wolf Photography

Lowell Custom Homes, Geneva Cabinet Company, Shanna Wolf Photography

Organization and storage are front and center in 2024.  No longer a behind-the-scenes afterthought, today we like to design rooms and walls with built-ins and cabinetry for easy access everyday items.  A clutter-free environment is possible when storage is designed into every space.  We are seeing a comeback of scullery kitchens, enlarged walk-in pantries and room size closets with dressing areas.  Floor to ceiling cabinetry and shelving take advantage of every inch to deliver functional living with necessities in view.

The team at Lowell Custom Homes support homeowners in the gratifying journey of designing and building a new home. Our in-house experts are aligned with emerging home design trends as well as the timeless classics.  The entire staff is dedicated to ensuring a rewarding and stress-free homebuilding experience.

We love hearing from you and are happy to discuss your 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

 

the den makes a comeback

The Den Revival

As much as we love an open floorplan, the occasional quest for quiet space opens the way for a den revival.   Our homes evolve and adapt to lifestyle changes, and recent years have seen countless adjustments. The den emerges as the answer to our need for privacy and flexibility.

Home Office

Home Office, Plato Cabinetry, Josh Z Photography

Home Office, Geneva Cabinet Company, Josh Z Photography

Post pandemic, working from home and hybrid work options have multiplied.   Efficiency, work-life balance and worker-controlled hours are popular advantages. The key to productivity is having a private space with abundant storage and sound control.  We installed custom cabinetry with open shelving and pull-outs for convenient access to files and printer.  At the end of a busy workday, the equipment is tucked away and the room functions as a peaceful study.

Custom Storage, Plato Cabinetry, Josh Z Photography

Custom Storage, Geneva Cabinet Company, Josh Z Photography

Zen Den

Sanctuary Den, Photo by Shanna Wolf

Sanctuary Den, Shanna Wolf Photography

Paneled in luxury, this den is the perfect setting for video conferencing or restoring your energy.  The modern pendant light focuses on the workspace, while recessed and sparkling pin lights accent with a gallery effect.  This sanctuary features a library wall with open shelving for favorite books and family mementos.

Den Sanctuary, Geneva Cabinet Company, Photo by Shanna Wolf

Den Sanctuary, Geneva Cabinet Company, Shanna Wolf Photography

 

Den Versatility

Multi purpose den Photography Shanna Wolf

Versatile Den, Shanna Wolf Photography

More intimate than the living room, this cozy space invites the whole family to stop by and unwind.  Knotty alder paneling lines the room with a nautical barrel vault ceiling inspired by the homes Lake Geneva location.  Business is compactly conducted on one end of the room with file drawers and cabinetry to house equipment.  The other side features a welcoming fireplace and intimate seating for cocktails or conversation.

Cozy multi purpose den Photography Shanna Wolf

Cozy Versatile Den, Shanna Wolf Photography

A Personal Statement

Den for Self expression Photo by Shanna Wolf

Den for Self Expression, Shanna Wolf Photography

More than a workplace, the den can tell a personal story.  Surrounding yourself in a peaceful palette and favorite collections is the ideal way to position yourself for success.  Adding just one comfortable chair limits interruptions.

Showcase the things you love den Photo by Shanna Wolf

ShowcaseDen, Shanna Wolf Photography

Cozy Niche

Cozy niche, Geneva Cabinet Company, Shanna Wolf Photography

Cozy Niche, Geneva Cabinet Company, Shanna Wolf Photography

The den isn’t always a compartmentalized room. An intimate niche that flows from your main living space can showcase favorite books, games and music, a place to relax without isolation.

 

Visit our gallery for inspiration and call us to discuss your home building and remodeling plans.

Connect with us here

or call 262-245-9030

 

 

Plato Woodwork from Geneva Cabinet Company

Josh Z Photography

Shanna Wolf Photography 

Geneva Cabinet Company