Design Ideas Archives - Page 5 of 6 - Lowell Custom Homes

Screened In Porch – Improving Nature

in Design Ideas, Indoor Outdoor Spaces, Outdoor Living, Trends/by Lowell Custom Homes

Does the idea of extending your summer sound appealing? A screened in porch will prolong your outdoor living season in the most civilized manner. No bugs, always a breeze from the ceiling fans, and overhead protection from the elements, what’s not to love! This cost effective feature lets you get a jump on summer and cling to every last day before winter arrives.

We build screened in porches and rooms where our homeowners can enjoy a close connection with nature. These areas deliver additional living space with the bonus of versatility. A place to unwind, entertain friends or shake up a boring dinnertime routine; the appeal is in its ability to become exactly what you need. The temporary charm of outdoor living releases you from the formalities created by four walls and encourages relaxation.
These screened-in fundamentals will guide you when setting up your own outdoor space.

Business in the front – party in the back.
Even the most stately homes can embrace the look of a screened in room. You’ll avoid the architectural mullet phenomenon by treating this feature with the same details as your home. Design your screened in space to reflect the overall character of your home.

Focus on the view

If you are fortunate enough to have a scenic view, take full advantage by positioning the location and elevation where you’ll have best perspective. When not emphasizing a long distance view, create an intimate view with the surrounding landscape.

Make a statement with the ceiling
Since transparent screening surrounds you with nature, the ceiling becomes a creative outlet for your style. Beadboard is one of our favorite treatments. Created from wood planking, this material can be rustic or polished in order to reflect your design aesthetic.

screened in porch lighting and ceiling fans

Ceiling Fans & Lighting for Mother Natures downtime
Well-placed ceiling fans will add a soft breeze to a motionless summer day. Use a fixture with contrasting finish to bring attention to a beautifully detailed ceiling. Match the ceiling color if you would like it to quietly disappear.
The same applies to lighting. But be sure to think beyond the typical porch fixture. Outdoor lighting technology offers stylish fixtures and even table lamps to satisfy all of your functional needs.

Take the chill off with a warm fire.
The fireplace is a natural gathering point and will transform your screened area into an extension of your home. The added warmth will allow you to truly extend your outdoor living season.

Furnishing for Comfort
Rugged or refined, your screened room should be finished off with the furniture pieces that will allow you to make the most of your outdoor season. Check our past post for tips on the most durable approach:
Low Maintenance Essentials for Easy Indoor-Outdoor Living

Summer Porch featuring a remote control ceiling fan

Master Your Bath: Planning Decisions

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

The bathroom is where you prepare for the day ahead and transition for a good nights rest. The typical American spends at least an hour a day on bathroom activities. That adds up to two weeks per year, or the amount of time spent on vacation. If you are thinking of building or remodeling your bath, consider all of the options that can make it a place worthy of your time.

Your Bathroom Profile
The essential fixtures are familiar, but the endless variety can be overwhelming when making decisions. Knowing the role a particular bath will play in your home helps narrow down the choices so you can focus on the best solution. Ask yourself the following questions to help identify the most beneficial features.

How many people live in the home and what are their ages?
What is the size of the bath?
How many bathrooms are available and how convenient is the location of each?
Will there be growth or reduction in number of people at home?
Are there any physical issues that need to be addressed for safety and comfort?
Is this bath private or will guests share it?
Is water quality or usage a concern?
Aside from normal activities, are their other ways you would like to use this space (e.g. spa shower, washer and dryer, beverage station)?

Layout
A good layout will makes the most of available space while providing for your personal and intimate needs. As an experienced builder we strive to maximize the efficiency of every square foot while introducing economies in the location of plumbing fixtures. Consider key usage matters in advance to alleviate daily congestion.

How many people will use the bath at the same time?
What plumbing fixtures or appliances will you use (e.g. number of sinks, soaking tub, towel warmer)?
How much counter surface is needed?
How much storage space will you need for linens and grooming products?
How many electric outlets are needed and what location would be best?
Would having an enclosed water closet allow multiple users privacy?
What is the most direct path between activity zones?
Would you be more likely to use a soaking tub or luxurious shower
Would adding Universal or Accessible design features allow for aging in place?

Express Your Style

No matter the size, every bath deserves a style statement. Since you need to purchase new components when building new or remodeling, this is the ideal time to apply a viewpoint to each selection. Consider all of these possibilities:

Plumbing fixtures that have a sculptural quality to advance your style.
Vanity styles from built in wall-to-wall to freestanding furniture pieces.
Trough and Vessel Sinks
Shapely tile in an unexpected pattern to add visual texture.
Hardware to act as a touch of jewelry accenting the overall look of your room
A bold wall color that makes you smile every time you walk in.
Countertop materials from man-made to natural to standout as statement piece.
Showstopping mirrors that set the tone for the entire bath.

This helpful quiz from Medallion Cabinetry will help you identify your style!

Cabinetry: Storage & Convenience

At the intersection of style and storage is your bathroom cabinetry. Interior cabinet and drawer organizers divide space for clutter-free access to daily essentials. These latest features will make the most of every inch.

Niches built-in above sinks and in showers keep necessities visible and within reach.
Cubbies and open shelving move into the bath to help organize and sort belongings.
Push-touch and soft-close features are worthy additions for quiet, smooth and safe cabinet operations.
Electric outlets on the interior of cabinets or drawers prevent tangles and dangerous dangling cords.
Vertical pullout organizers maximize space.
Above counter storage improves visibility and provides easy access.
Built-in step stools and laundry hampers free up floor space.

Lighting the way to a good mood
7 lighting image
Every room benefits from multiple sources of lighting, and the bath is no exception. A combination of fixtures and natural light will help you achieve balanced color rendition throughout the day and through the seasons. The mirror area is most critical. Good illumination from above and the sides will eliminate shadows during grooming. Using the correct lamp completes the picture by allowing you to see color accurately when doing hair and makeup.

This helpful guide from Energy Star will help you choose the best lighting!

The installation process
Like many contractors, we trust a cabinet showroom like Geneva Cabinet Company to assist with the proper layout and detailing of cabinetry. Their work was recently featured on the PBS home-improvement show, HOMETIME. Follow this link to watch the show as they discuss the important consideration for planning master bath and the installation of these beautiful Medallion Cabinets.

Cabinet Planning Video by Geneva Cabinet Company

Follow this link to view the entire episode of Hometime where you will also see how solid surface Cambria countertops are measured, fabricated and installed in the Master Bath.

Inviting Entries – Guidelines for your homes first impression

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

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 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
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
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 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.

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.

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.

Low Maintenance Essentials for Easy Indoor-Outdoor Living

in Decorating ideas, Design Ideas, Home Entertainment, Home Ideas, Indoor Outdoor Spaces, Outdoor Living, Trends/by Lowell Custom Homes

There is so much to look forward to at this time of year! Engaging outdoor spaces will help you celebrate the season, but not if you are burdened with upkeep. While indoor-outdoor living is a hot trend, low-maintenance design is essential for maximum enjoyment. Our tips for choosing the ideal location are listed in Creating Attractive Outdoor Living Spaces. Once that decision is made, these easy care ideas will add enough leisure time for you to truly enjoy your summertime happy place.

Lowell Management, Geneva Deck, Ecosmartfire, Brown Jordan Outdoor Furniture

Fold back doors and generous windows will create an invisible threshold that encourages a beautiful connection with nature. Keep the merger agreeable and reduce housekeeping concerns with durable flooring and a clear path of travel.

Geneva Deck, Zuri Deck, Sunbrella Fabrics, Surya Outdoor rugs and pillows

Geneva Deck, Surya Outdoor Textiles, Sunbrella Fabrics

Decking is a popular choice for delivering indoor/outdoor convenience with a level platform to accommodate activities. If easy care is your driver, new materials like Zuri® premium decking which is used by Geneva Deck will grant you the gift of time. The exotic hardwood appearance unites with remarkable durability for years of minimal maintenance.

Geneva Deck, Ecosmartfire, Brown Jordan Furniture

Round out your outdoor entertaining by introducing the element of fire. Whether the purpose is heat or light, fire creates a natural gathering place. Outdoor bioethanol fireplaces by Ecosmart are weather resistant, portable and self-contained. This renewable energy source produces no embers, ash or soot. There is virtually no clean up and they can even be placed on decks. When the focus is food preparation, outdoor kitchen equipment housed in Stainless Steel and Powder Coated Cabinetry is the weather resistant answer to your easy clean up dreams.

Lowell Management, Varaschin, Anacara Company

Lowell Management, Anacara Company Furniture, Varaschin Furniture

Innovative materials are extending the life and upkeep of outdoor architectural details and furnishings. Powder coated metal, teak wood and aluminum-framed resin products add lasting color and texture to traditional pieces. Top designers are creating fabrics for Sunbella that can tolerate remarkable abuse and offer built in UV resistance. Even area rugs are venturing outdoors using these new technologies to warm up and define exterior rooms with the same detail we enjoy indoors.
Join us on Facebook all season for updates on our favorite products for your outdoor enjoyment.
Product Links:
http://genevadeck.com
http://www.sunbrella.com/en_us/
http://www.surya.com/outdoor/
http://www.ecosmartfire.com
http://www.anacaracompany.com/index.html
http://varaschin.it

Fashion Week Trends Inspire Home Decor for Spring

in Color, Design Ideas/by Lowell Custom Homes

Just in time for spring, reports from Fashion Week are announcing the latest trends from the runway! The desire to be surrounded at home by these same fresh style and color combinations is just natural. Fortunately the lag time that used to exist between fashion and home décor has almost vanished. Here we translate the top designer looks to help you achieve immediate gratification when refreshing your home this spring with runway inspiration.
As you browse keep in mind the words of fashion leader Diane Von Furstenberg, “The most important thing, in both fashion and your home, is to know who you are and be true to that”

Nautical Chic
Utility and ease inspire this look that works so well for homes in Lake Geneva or any area to achieve the style simplicity of resort chic. You can create the same nautical mood with non-traditional colors and stripes as reported on the runway by InStyle. Introducing graphic stripes with creative color schemes is a stylish way to bring this trend to homes where the traditional blue/red/white theme doesn’t fit. Detailing with accents that feature marine brass or shipyard riveting will further an authentic atmosphere.

White and Wood
Nothing says warm weather like crisp bright white. This season proper white was softened on the runway by Balenciaga with unexpected accents like gym shoes or deep leathers for a less serious mood. We are taking the same approach in homes with the intentional contrast of interesting woods to highlight interior white finishes. The kitchen above features Plato Woodwork cabinetry by Geneva Cabinet Company and uses natural walnut counters. This introduces a bit of warmth and edginess to reduce the formality of otherwise traditional décor.

Sunshine Yellow
Opting for attention, bright yellow was featured on the runway by designers like Tory Burch. Cheerful and optimistic, yellow never fails to get noticed. At small dose of bright lemon yellow in accessories achieves the effect, think daffodils. Softer versions will create a gentle background for lively or traditional color schemes. Our country kitchen above uses mustard yellow as the perfect color statement.
Versatile Denim
Never far from the fashion front line, denim maintained its position as the go to fabric for casual comfort. Creative washed finishes and tailored silhouettes ruled the runway in the Sonia Rykiel collection. The application at home invites comfort and introduces a bit of street savvy style. Upholstery and soft goods can reflect appealing washed finishes. Even choosing a paint color in the range between pale chambray and dark wash will maintain the comfort connection.
Floral & Gingham
Floral prints and gingham checks appeared in the Diane Von Furstenberg collection as well as many others. The key to this trend is the vibrant colors along with a stylized pattern approach. Bringing this idea home means introducing saturated color inspired by garden flowers. White is an important element in the success of this look, providing the proper context for the colors to breath.

Turn Up the Heat with a Variety of Fireplace Designs for Your Home

in Building a New Home, Design Ideas, Outdoor Living, Remodeling/by Lowell Custom Homes

Blustery cold or slight chill, you can find us cuddled up around the warm glow of a fireplace throughout the seasons. It appeals to our natural instinct to seek warmth and our social desire for a cozy place to gather. Seattle architect Betty R Torrell has written about the architectural history of the fireplace and describes its contribution to our homes as “emotionally sustaining”.
Often identified as a family room fixture, the appeal of a fireplace is now found throughout the home. We use intentional variety when designing and constructing elements that define a style statement for each one we build. The mantel, hearth, surround, and type of firebox all contribute to the distinctive character. We invite you to browse through our fireplace compositions to find your own inspiration.The centerpiece of an open floor plan, this fireplace is an indulgence in natural stone which was inspired by the view of weathered silos down the road. The central placement delineates a cozy living space and sets the mood for a home that is modern and organic in nature.
A classic wood mantel respects tradition with refinement. Crafted with crown, dentil molding, and paneled legs, the appearance has a composed formality. The slip surrounding the actual firebox can further a formal or informal direction based on the type of non-combustible material. Here we use marble and stone to reflect the hearth and compliment the traditional direction.
The see through fireplace unites two areas with a shared focus. This minimalist approach is accomplished with a streamlined firebox. Flush tiled surfaces and hearth encourage the eye to focus on the simplicity of shape while revealing an invitation to the hearth room beyond. Raising the firebox to seated eye level opens the view between rooms when not in use and adds to the enjoyment when a fire is burning.
While some design purists are horrified, it is time to get over the whole TV vs Fireplace debate. The reality is that this arrangement just works. It is a clean fitted look and solves the problem of how to arrange furniture with comfortable seating in order to enjoy both views. Often this is an opportunity to add much needed storage without cluttering a room with heavy furnishings.
The direct vent gas or propane fireplace is energy efficient and streamline. It initiated the trend for clean linear ribbons of fire. Streamline units become a non imposing part of the wall. Here we maintain a restful horizontal landscape using stacked brick to present a relaxing retreat within the master bedroom. Often installed at eye level for greater appreciation, the surrounding wall can take on a variety of shapes.
The kitchen is the heart of many homes so the addition of a fireplace increases the draw while introducing the option to cook over a wood fire. Contrasting material creates warmth and emphasis while niches below provide convenient wood storage.
Extend your time outdoors by including a fireplace as part of your outdoor living space. Here a see through fireplace is placed on the exterior wall of an indoor/outdoor room for shared enjoyment for both perspectives. The latest weatherproof options available for electronics even allow the TV to be a part of the experience.
Whether you are building or remodeling, the experts at Lowell can help you envision the perfect character for your fireplace.

Built In Storage Ideas for Every Room

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

Are you dreaming of a beautiful clutter free home? Is storage something you only think about when your pots are toppling over or when you’re frantically looking for your keys?
LOWELL thinks about storage in the early planning stages of every building or remodeling project. It can’t be an afterthought; otherwise you end up with cookie cutter solutions that don’t work for most families. Our first step is listening and understanding the unique lifestyle needs of every client.
The latest trend for home design responds to modern living with designated storage space in every room for frequently used items. The beauty and practicality of kitchen and bath storage is expanding to every room. Accommodations for connecting to technology and convenient charging stations are finding multiple locations throughout the home.
Important questions we ask, you can ask yourself when planning a home improvement project:

How do I use each room?
What activities take place in each room most often?
What household or personal items are used for each activity in the room?

Out the door convenience is at the top of every list. The grungy mud room is a thing of the past when storage is included in the plan. Referred to as the “drop zone” or “landing pad” everyone has a place to sort their on-the-go necessities. Benches, hooks, cubbies and charging stations keep everyone organized for grab and go convenience.

Living Room, Family Room, Gathering Rooms, all need built in storage that contributes to the overall design aesthetic. The numerous electronic components and accessories need suitable housing. Storage for blankets, games and your pets squeaky toys should easily co-exist with decorative displays.

Dining rooms delight with built-ins that provide convenient storage for bulky serving pieces as well as a buffet surface. Glass front cabinetry will highlight collections while drawers and doors keep dining china and flatware organized and at your fingertips.

Window walls are an opportunity for storage in any room. A window seat with storage adds both seating with storage benefits. When wall space is generous a niche can be created for a window seat or vanity flanked by generous closet space. This solution can be a real space saver when space it tight. It also adds value when the need to purchase furniture for storage is eliminated.

Personal items find a home in closets that perform far beyond the recommended 48” hanging space per person. Coveted personal collections like purses or shoes can be featured for your enjoyment in glass front cabinets instead of stored in boxes. Include a vanity for delicate items like jewelery and lingerie. A mirror and good lighting are essential for pulling yourself together and getting on with your day.

To wrap up all of your storage dreams, the kitchen! The cabinets you know so well have evolved. This kitchen designed by Geneva Cabinet Company include specialized dividers and pull outs for ergonomic ease. We love a well thought out Kitchen Island for expanded storage. Drawers are another easy to reach storage solution for sorting kitchen necessities. Knowing your style of food prep from gourmet to short order cook will dictate your storage needs with no wasted space.
Consider this, having an organized home has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety! A study by Real Simple magazine shows that the average American spends 55 minutes a day looking for lost or misplaced items! There are a lot more pleasant things you could do with 55 minutes each day.

Home Color Trends for 2015

in Color, Design Ideas, Trends/by Lowell Custom Homes

While fun to speculate about the “it” color for 2015, conflicting predictions from major color experts can be puzzling. Marsala, Coral Reef, Blue Paisley? How do you know which color to choose for a fresh new look for your home that will not feel dated in a few years?
We take away the color confusion with this easy guide. It is based on our analysis of the 2015 Color of the Year predictions by experts like Pantone, Benjamin Moore, Sherwin Williams and Color Marketing Group. Using the color expertise we bring to every home we build, we created 4 key palettes for you to reference. Rather than focusing on just one fashion color, let these color collections help you create your scheme. Simply select colors from the collection that speaks to the mood you love!

COLOR WHISPER
These chalky sheer colors will restore balance and promote a peaceful and restful environment.

MODERN CLASSICS
Stabilize your interior by referencing historic color palettes then tweaking them for an updated feel.

NATURE PRESERVE
The infusion of earth elements and the colors they represent is a way of grounding and connecting with nature.

CELEBRATING HOME
A sure way to brighten your day is to introduce a kaleidoscope of optimistic hues inspired by global images and lively floral gardens.

For more ideas and examples of how we use color check out our Portfolio pages http://lowellmanagement.com/living.html

*Digital color swatches used to demonstrate trends are Benjamin Moore proprietary colors via Pintrest. When choosing colors you must selected from actual paint samples available at your local paint store.*

MARSALA Pantone’s Color of the Year 2015!

in Color, Design Ideas, Trends/by Lowell Custom Homes

Who is Pantone and why should you care?
Well, they are actually the international color authority on trends and color messages. Their research has been guiding the colors we see in fashion, architecture and home décor for over 40 years. Now that this earthy hue has been identified as the emerging “it” color, companies can refer to the Pantone system to be sure they are speaking a consistent color language. This helps in the development of new products so colors will be complimentary across industries.

At Lowell we often use this full bodied hue to ground neutral color schemes without overwhelming them. It also has the ability to add warmth to cooler schemes that feature blues and greens.

Watch for Marsala to act as a unifying element in 2015. It is a sophisticated and confident shade able to mix well with the existing colors you love. The nurturing aspect of this color makes it an ideal addition for kitchen and dining areas. We will see it featured prominently in new fabrics and tabletop items especially when floral patterns are featured. As new products are introduced the draw of Marsala is sure to intensify.

Secret Indulgence, True Luxury

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

Luxury isn’t about necessity; it’s about indulgence. It’s about the wonderful privilege of making a choice between everyday and extraordinary. For some this indulgence can be as simple as chocolate, for other it is a special place created for their personal pleasure. Part of the fun is the secret status. As custom builders we create beautiful homes with delightful secrets.

To the casual observer, this is just an incredibly beautiful transition with finely detailed woodworking, gently curved bookcases, paneling, coffered ceiling and accent sconces. But wait, there’s more! A touch of the bookcase reveals the secret access to a private den to be shared only with a chosen few.

The beauty of luxury is that you define it for yourself. However, what women isn’t captivated with the idea of her very own Carrie Bradshaw closet?

An under stair alcove presents the perfect opportunity for storage that displays a coveted collection.

Pay not attention to the gourmet kitchen behind the retractable stainless steel door! Only revealed when culinary inspiration strikes, this outdoor kitchen will impress and entertain when its secret is shared.

We cater to fantasies for all ages. This imaginative child’s play space brings new meaning to the term “Man Cave”.

While luxury is often defined in economic terms, we feel luxury is an emotional state as well. Loft spaces have inherent intrigue. Here we add a bit of romance with a rustic and intimate bedroom suggesting a tree house view.

Your “Happy Place” does not have to be limited to your imagination. Our expertise and creative ideas help you add a little mystery and fun to your home by tucking secretly indulgent spaces into the forgotten nooks and crannies.

True luxury is building a home that holds a few secrets. . . just for you!