Outdoor living space

Living Outdoors with Options

The forecast for outdoor living is bright.  Over the years space where you can connect with nature has evolved to include multiple options for a different experience in each sector. From a family playground to gatherings around the campfire, dedicated activity zones are on the rise.  As we bring many of our indoor comforts outdoors, the possibilities to enjoy a healthy lifestyle expands.

A Captivating View

Inviting View for outdoor living

The outdoor experience begins indoors with a view to encourage reaching out to nature.  This can often be directed and enhanced with the arrangement of garden elements, fencing, walls and trellises.

Blur the Boundaries

Retractable window wall for seamless transition outdoors

Oversized windows and glass doors ensure a year-round visual and emotional connection to nature.  This retractable wall disappears to admit fresh air and sunlight for a seamless transition.

Natural Materials Unify Indoor & Outdoor Spaces

outdoor living with options living room kitchen diningThe use of natural elements, like plants, wood beams and stone flooring, connect interior and outdoor spaces by subtly guiding the eye along.

Al Fresco Dining

outdoor living with options for dining

Living outdoors with options includes provisions for basic activities with a touch of style.  Alfresco dining is enjoyed around the world, so why not include space at home.  A location near the kitchen or outdoor kitchen is a plus.

Outdoor Living Rooms Extend the Day and the Season

outdoor living with options using natural materials for transition

Give everyone a reason to linger outdoors with a warm fire.  This cozy focal point is the ideal place to wrap up a day filled with adventure and will even extend your outdoor season by a few months each year.

Open Air Entertaining

living outdoors with options for entertaining

Multiple conversation areas are great for families and parties.  Encourage guests to mingle and move about with a variety of seating options throughout the space.

Swim Up Bar & Grill

living outdoors with options canopied kitchen

Create an at-home resort with features found at your favorite vacation destination.. A swim up bar and grill will keep guests cool on the sunniest day.  And hosting duties are a breeze under the canopied outdoor kitchen.

Private Retreat

living outdoors with private retreat area

A private outdoor area can be nestled into even the most compact space for an inviting sanctuary. This patio with swing is adjacent to the primary bedroom for quiet time as the day is winding down.

Fire Pit Lounge

outdoor fire pit overlooking lake view

Sunset chats and storytelling are magical when shared around the fire pit.  It’s where memories are made.

Visit our gallery for more outdoor inspiration.

 

Credits for this Lowell Custom Home

Interior Design Amy Storm & Company

Photo Stoffer Photography Interiors

Architect Michael Abraham Architecture

 

 

Hello Summer – Outdoor Living

The art of outdoor living embraces the comforts of home, with the added benefit of fresh air.   What better way to celebrate summer than stunning spaces where you can relax and share sunny days with friends and family.  We love the way our homeowners and their designers at North Shore Nest created versatile outdoor environments. The photos by Aimée Mazzenga beautifully capture their new Lowell Custom Home on Geneva Lake.  We hope to inspire you to build your own outdoor living retreat!

Go With The Flow

The secret to a great open-air experience is space that transitions seamlessly from indoors to outdoors. This upper porch is accessed directly from the living room and surrounded with neoclassic railing which integrates the home’s coastal architecture.  It transforms the deep covered porch to an outdoor lounge with ample protection from the elements.  Furnished with comfortable seating and a casual dining area, homeowners can move outdoors with ease.

Enjoy the View

Of course, location is everything in a lake home and this vantage point opens to a relaxing panoramic view.

Al Fresco Dining

Fine food and refreshing drinks can easily accompany the al fresco experience with an outdoor kitchen and dining patio overlooking the lake.

A Gathering Space

The lower level finds a covered patio with cushy weather resistant seating and a swinging daybed for afternoon naps.

Poolside Paradise

And just steps away poolside umbrella seating offers sun or shade options along with a dip in the infinity pool.

Staycation Motivation

At a time when vacation and travel plans are often up in the air, the most reassuring alternative for summer fun can be your own backyard.

To see more of the stunning details of this Lowell Custom Home visit Poolside Paradise in our Featured Home Gallery.

Contact the experts at Lowell Custom Homes to help plan your new home or remodeling project.

 

Connect here

or call 262-245-9030

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Custom Home by Lowell Custom Homes

Interior Design by North Shore Nest

Photos by Aimée Mazzenga

Remodeling to Make it Yours

The most exciting part of a new home is the opportunity to make it truly yours.  Our homeowners responded to the challenge after purchasing this classic lake front home.   With the help of their designer Phillip Sassano, The Design Coach  this classic beauty received a makeover that put the past 40 years behind.  Each design and remodeling decision honored the traditional aesthetic, then advanced the design with a modern spin to reflect the refreshing attitude of its new homeowners.   Compare these before-and-after pictures to see the dramatic results.   Then follow along to see how the outdoor environment was brought to life.

This home was reimagined and remodeled to fully appreciate and enjoy its lake front location.

 This luxurious property on the Geneva Lake was always impressive, but the new design establishes a more impressive link between the interior and exterior worlds.

First Impressions

A good first impression always says welcome.  We love the symmetry of the main house and how cheerful blue awnings and shutters unite the extensions.  Notice how the walkway to the main entrance has been reconfigured for a clean view of the front elevation.  Painting the exterior brick white was a bold and successful move.  Adding  blue accents nods towards a relaxed Mediterranean point of view.

Door Detail

A stunning new entry door with leaded glass sidelights not only updates, but elevates the style.

Party in the Back

 

While the front elevation maintains a refined character, a walk around back tells a relaxed fun-loving story.

Outdoor Rooms

Aligned perfectly with the coast of Geneva Lake, each of the outdoor spaces has a special purpose, while all offer stunning views.

Outdoor Kitchen

Location is everything when adding an outdoor kitchen.  Here it is positioned perfectly to serve multiple outdoor and indoor dining areas.

Screened In Room

The screened in room offers a protected option with easy flow between indoor and outdoor living spaces.

Pool or Spa Day

No need to decide when using efficient one-piece swimming pool construction and dropping in a spa to the side.

Big Little Details

New windows, awnings, and roof shingles work together to boost energy efficiency for the home

Architectural Elements

New lighting, a spiral staircase and corbels add to the refined elegance of this architecture.

Pop of Color

Colorful accents from the floral landscape to the back door fuse the overall outdoor experience.

Step inside by following this link to see even more of this delightful home remodel.

To see this full home inside and out click here.

Contact the experts at Lowell Custom Homes to help plan your next new home or remodeling project.

Contact us here

or call 262-245-9030

 

Photography by S.Photography/Shanna Wolf

 

Porch Appeal

Front or back, the porch has a timeless charm that encourages relaxation and conversation.  While the architectural appeal is timeless, we find ourselves truly  enamored during the spring and summer months.  Whatever the size of your home, there is always room to incorporate this welcoming respite.

The Entry Porch

This architectural feature will protect your entry from the elements while directing guests to the front door.  It is a familiar option compatible with most home styles while lending a flattering first impression.

The Overhang Alcove

The extension of your roof line will create an intimate niche where you can enjoy the view and unwind.

Feelin’ the Breezeway

Linking spaces with a semi-enclosed area is a structural treat.  It creates a place to catch a breeze without full exposure to the elements.  Furnish with comfortable chairs or your outdoor kitchen equipment.

Wrap-Around Charm

There is not a better spot for an iconic pair of rocking chairs.  Reminiscent of the good old days, the wrap around porch is ideal for escape or entertaining at home.

Protected Paradise

Protected with screening or Plexiglas panels, an Indoor-Outdoor living area creates an easy transition to you outdoor activities.  To see some of our favorite indoor/outdoor spaces click here.

 

Sleeping Porch Arrangements

Popular in the early 20th century before air conditioning became the norm, these semi enclosed areas provided the most comfortable nights sleep.  Now they are nostalgic additions, usually on the second floor, where you can catch a breeze or enjoy a peaceful nap.

Whether you’re looking to add character or expand living space, be sure to consider all of the possibilities a porch has to offer.

 

Lowell Custom Homes is known for building and remodeling homes with a creative and customized approach.  We invite you to stay in touch by signing up for our blogs where we cover the latest design ideas and inspirational projects!

(There are no affiliated links in any of our posts and we never share your personal information.)

262.245.9030

 

Outdoor Living Checklist for Your Home

When warm weather rolls around there is nothing like relaxing outdoors.  And when you have a special area at home dedicated to this pursuit, all is well with the world.  Take your outdoor living to the next level by following our checklist to fully enjoy your well deserved leisure time.

√  Start with the perfect backdrop for outdoor space, your home.  Wrap the same look around front to back with a cohesive mix of materials for a unified style message. Achieve this by repeating elements used in the foundation, siding and roof, as well as the architecture.  By this we mean don’t skimp on the back of your home, it all deserves the same attention to fine detail.

√  Let the outdoor experience begin by establishing views from the interior that will draw you outdoors.   Of course a lake helps, but even framing views of the lawn and landscape with distinctive windows is inviting.

 

√  Take your color cues from the natural surrounds and also from your home interior. Here a classic Blue and White combination is the perfect fit for a lakefront for home.

√  Go ahead and add a theme like this nautical motif.  Your outdoor space is the place to introduce a carefree  sense of whimsy.

√  Be sure to position your living area where you will experience the best views in every direction.  This could very well be to the side or even the front of your home in order to capture a “wow” moment. We have more tips on positioning your outdoor space here.

√  Include space for lounging alone or with friends and family.  Here the fire pit is upgraded to full fireplace status in an outdoor living room.  Extra backup from heat lamps will keep this area cozy into the evening and well throughout the chilly seasons.  This room even features retractable motorized screens for pest-free extension of your home.

√  When creating an outdoor room think of  protecting the area from the elements with partial walls or ceilings.  Here again choose compatible elements to create a visual flow from the interior while blending with the home exterior.  Keep it all low maintenance with durable outdoor fabrics and furnishing made to withstand the elements.

√  Set up a place for dining in close proximity to your outdoor kitchen and with easy access to the indoor kitchen.  A convenient flow between cooking and dining zones will allow the guests and chef to enjoy more quality time together.

√  Include rain-or-shine provisions for your indoor-outdoor area.    Gliding glass door panels and french doors create an easy transition between spaces so you can enjoy the outdoors even when the weather isn’t perfect.

 

We do also love a screened porch as an outdoor living option, read more about that here!

And a few more ideas for entertaining outdoors here!

To see more of the details for this lovely home click here.

Photography is by Shanna Wolf, S.Photography and Styling

 

We always love hearing from you and are happy to discuss your personal home projects! Building a new home or remodeling can be an exciting adventure and our team of experts is available to answer your questions and guide you every step of the way!

Lowell Custom Homes

262.245.9030

 

Screened in porch interior Lowell Custom Homes in Lake Geneva WI

Screened Porches – Bug Free Outdoor Bliss

The fine art of “porching” may have been introduced in the south, but here in the Midwest we expand the tradition with protective panache.   Even the official Porch Sitters Union approves of the screened-in variety.  It is a highly respected option offering a laid back defense against bugs and weather conditions.

Lowell Custom Homes screened in porch exterior

Ideal Location for Your Porch

To help you identify the perfect location for your screened porch click here..  The idea is to achieve a seamless indoor-outdoor connection where you can enjoy nature without pesky bugs or excessive heat.   Depending on construction, this could be a year round extension of your home’s living and entertaining space.

Lowell Custom Homes screened porch with access from kitchen

The Anatomy of a Screened Porch

Overhead – The most appealing roof design is an extension of your home architecture.  A well constructed roof will offer protection from the elements with a shed, hip or gabled style.  The materials should be high quality as well as compatible with the main structure. This home received all new roofing that features long lasting composition shake shingle from DaVinci Roofscapes.

most appealing roofline by Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva WI

Enclosure – Full screening will promote a lovely cross breeze while the addition of windows can provide year round comfort for the space.  A large variety of window styles will work.   One of the latest trends is to install a glass wall of windows that folds back for an unobstructed view.

Interior –  Architectural details can take this space from elementary to enchanting.  Here we feature a beadboard ceiling, arched corbels and versatile lighting for after sunset. Ceiling fans and fireplaces are popular additions as well.

screened porch interior Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva WI

Underfoot – Moisture seal is imperative as a base layer before construction begins.  From there the flooring material should be durable with a level and visually pleasing transition from interior rooms.

exterior view of screened porch with access to outdoor leisure

Final Touches

Comfortable seating will complete your indoor-outdoor space.   Use sturdy pieces and fabrics for easy care and stress-free entertaining and relaxation.  Durable fabrics like those from Sunbrella are a modern miracle that will help you weather the elements in style.  Be sure to include drink tables, a place to prop up your feet and some perky accents, plants and flowers.

Screened porch outdoor furniture Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva WI

Here’s to all of the ways our home can help us celebrate the spring & summer season!

Fun facts about this home:

This home was originally built by Lowell Custom Homes and designed by M & E Architects.  The renovations in 2018 are by Lowell Custom Homes with architect Todd Cauffman and General Manager/Project Superintendent Rich Kinter.

To see more of the lovely details visit our gallery by clicking here.

Photography is by Shanna Wolf, S.Photography and Styling

The new roof is by DaVinci Roofscapes and features a long lasting composition shake shingle.

Here is a better look at the new kitchen by Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC which features cabinetry from Plato Woodwork, Inc.

We always love hearing from you and are happy to discuss your personal home projects! Building a new home or remodeling can be an exciting adventure and our team of experts is available to answer your questions and guide you every step of the way!

Lowell Custom Homes

262.245.9030

Entertaining Outdoors

The best part of summer is taking your favorite activities outdoors, especially when it comes to entertaining.  We like to plan a home in advance with features that will help homeowners live a relaxed lifestyle that is at-one-with-nature.   Our favorite features encourage a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces.   Whether entertaining a crowd or squeezing in a little extra me-time, a well designed home will expand your space with outdoor areas where you can truly connect to the great outdoors.
Lowell Custom Homes Welcome entry with bright flowers

Start at the entry by rolling out the welcome mat with brightly colored flowers.

Infused water summer entertaining

Next offer your guests this summer’s beverage sensation, flavor infused water!  Yes, it is as easy as it looks with these recipes from the FoodNetwork.

Lowell Custom Homes open up to the outdoors retractable wall blur the lines to outdoorsBlur the indoor-outdoor line with architectural features like this retractable wall of glass.  It offers a seamless transition to the sunshine and fresh air.

Lowell Custom Homes Comfortable seating for outdoor entertaining

Be sure to include comfortable seating where conversations can flow.

Lowell Custom Homes outdoor kitchen

An outdoor kitchen lets the host enjoy the party while taking care of the culinary needs of the guests.  You’ll love this design guide from Geneva Cabinet Company.

Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva Wi outdoor activity zones

Create activity zones for dining, conversation and play-time in order to offer a variety of entertainment options.   Be sure to include an area with a bit of shade.

Lowell Custom Homes encourage mingling when entertaining outdoors

Keep it interesting by spreading the refreshments around your outdoor space, drinks on the porch, appetizers on the patio, deserts by fireplace  . . . mingle, mingle.

Lowell Custom Homes winding down around the fire pit

Wind the party down naturally with mood lighting, lanterns and a cozy fire pit for story-telling and reminiscing.

Lowell Custom Homes move it indoors to a screened in porch for mosquito free zone

Finally move the gathering to a screened in porch for a mosquito free night-cap.

The team at Lowell Custom Homes is full of ideas to help you enjoy your home from season to season.  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!

 

Lowell Custom Homes

262-245-9030

Photography by:
Shanna Wolf, Victoria McHugh, &  Josh Zuelke

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Outdoor Living Spaces – The Best Ideas for Your Home

The great outdoors is calling. Alfresco dining, entertaining friends or just lounging under a clear sky . . . the best home design will create gracious indoor-outdoor living space where you can truly embrace the spring and summer months.
Get inspired by stunning outdoor ideas from these Lowell Custom Homes, and then create a space to complement your personal indoor-outdoor lifestyle.

  • Align interior and exterior spaces for a seamless extension of your main living area. A fluid transition between indoor and outdoor rooms can be created with a disappearing wall of glass doors. An easily accessible patio will draw everyone outdoors, enlarge your living space, and extend your spring and summer season with gentle protection from the elements.

Balance your outdoor space with large open and private areas

  • Balance your options with both open and intimate space. Just as a good interior space plan will provide areas for private and social activities, your outdoor rooms can offer alternatives that adapt to your needs throughout the day. Sun vs. Shade – Active vs. Restful – Entertainment vs. Retreat.  You select the most suitable outdoor environment to match your mood.

Lowell Custom Homes Outdoor living furniture position

  • Get in position to enjoy the view. Use your natural surroundings to create a focal point.  Arrange outdoor furniture where everyone can appreciate the scenery. A beautiful garden, swimming pool, or outdoor fireplace can all serve as appealing points of interest.

Lowell Custom Homes Outdoor living areas zones for activity

  • Locate zones on your property according to use. No need to cram all outdoor living space against the house.  Just anchor each zone with its own useful focal point.  A boathouse services lake front activities, a cabana offers poolside convenience and an upscale shed will store hobby or gardening equipment.

Lowell Custom Homes Outdoor Living areas

  • Create an outdoor hub where essentials are clustered for convenience.  Food preparation, dining table and entertainment equipment in one outdoor zone will let you enjoy the fresh air while hosting friends and family. An outdoor shower and self-serve refreshment bar can eliminate messy indoor traffic patterns and keep your home tidy.

Lowell Custom Homes Outdoor Living Cozy Fire pit

  • Introduce a fire feature to cozy up your outdoor space after dark. S’mores and story telling around the fire pit or outdoor fireplace will create memories and start traditions to be passed on for generations.

Lowell Custom Homes Outdoor Living Space Best Ideas

  • Dress up your space with weather resistant products to compliment your indoor style and color palette. Create visual interest with light fixtures, fans, area rugs, and accessories to add indoor comfort to your outdoor experience.

The experts at Lowell Custom Homes can help you plan a home with the most natural flow between your indoor and outdoor environments.

 

401 GENEVA NATIONAL AVENUE SO. – LAKE GENEVA, WISCONSIN 53147 – 262.245.9030

Refreshing Spring Updates for your Home

1 Lowell Management FINAL pix Spring

Spring is nature’s time for renewal and the ideal time to bring your home out of hibernation. Celebrate the season by adding a few refreshing touches from our list of favorite home pick-me-ups.

  • Awaken your senses with flowers and scented candles for an instant lift. Use them generously in the most visible and well traveled areas of your home
  • Reposition furniture to take advantage of natural light and outdoor views
  • Brighten the bath by accenting with colorful towels and accessories
  • Lift heavy area rugs to enjoy the natural flooring or replace them with indoor/outdoor sisal
  • Use color and bold pattern in your toss pillows, throws and accessories for a lively accent
  • Lighten the look of your mantel and bookcases by storing away heavy accessories to keep the space open for a visual breath of fresh air
  • Spice up the kitchen with cheerful pops of color in cookware, tableware and serving pieces
  • Relate your home’s indoor and outdoor color palettes for a seamless connection to the exterior
  • Upgrade your standard entry fixture with one that makes a memorable style statement
  • Add a ceiling fan to covered porch or patio areas to create your own gentle breeze
  • Gather attractive trays for portable outdoor service with easy clean up
  • Display summer themed collections and playful activity equipment to set the mood for fun
  • Select outdoor furnishings based on the way you want to use your space. A daybed, outdoor bar or fire pit benches may serve you better than the customary umbrella table with chairs

For inspiration, take a look at some of these perky finds! 

Happy Spring!

 Shopping Links Below


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Screened In Porch – Improving Nature

Summer Porch
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.
 
Screened in Exterior
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.
 
View from screened in porch
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.
 

screened in porch ceiling

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.
5d Blog inset fireplace

 

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