Home for the Holidays!

in Design Ideas, Holiday Decorating, Home Entertainment, Trends/by Lowell Custom Homes

How-To Create a Home for Entertaining & Celebrating

Home is the place where holiday celebrations begin. Whether you are entertaining a crowd or planning quiet family time, preparing your home with decorative touches will add meaning and special memories to the holiday season.
Today we are going take you through a LOWELL custom home to demonstrate opportunities and ideas you can use to set the mood in your own home.

Remember you can do as much or as little as you like, the intention is what makes it meaningful.

For “how-to” information on these ideas and more, go to our special Pinterest board:

Lowell Home for the Holidays!

Happy Holidays from Lowell!

Room images are from Lowell Management Services, Inc.

All other images are via Pinterest where you can locate the source, recipes and DIY information: Lowell Home for the Holidays!

Should You Build? How to decide if building a new home is right for you.

2 Comments/in Accessibility, Architecture, Building a New Home, Custom Builder, Design Ideas, Downsizing, Empty Nester, Home Ideas, How to Select a Builder, Trends, Uncategorized/by Lowell Custom Homes

There may come a time when you look around your house and start to think about breaking up. As any good Cosmo article will confirm, once you outgrow a relationship there is no long-term potential. So, how do you know if it’s time to move on?
Consider the benefits of building a new home:

Geographic Desirability
When building new, your choice of home style and location are independent decisions. You create the unique combination rather than settling for homes that happen to be on the market. As builders we actually reserve beautiful properties in anticipation of future customer needs. Lowell Management Properties

Get your perfect match
The biggest advantage to building a new home is getting exactly what you want. This is your dream, your way. It doesn’t matter if most homes have a 3-car garage, you can have as many as you want. When you build you choose the right size, the perfect floor plan and then fill it with features that are meaningful to you. You are able to fully express your style with architectural details, cabinetry, flooring, finish colors and all of the other dreams from your wish list.

Compliment your unique needs and interests
No compromise needed, when building a new home you can design every aspect. Eliminate the Formal Dining Room, add a Pool House, Outdoor Kitchen, or 2^nd Master Suite, it is all about you! Your unique preferences for comforts, like counter height or lighting, will be built-in. Universal Design features can even be incorporated allowing you to enjoy your home for years to come.

No Old Baggage – Cost Control & Savings
Building instead of remodeling offers a fresh start with major efficiencies in scheduling and purchasing. The problems with retrofitting an older structure are eliminated and the latest smart home technology integrated. Building allows you to balance your spending priority features, like a gourmet kitchen, with saving opportunities for low profile areas.

Quality & Trust
When you are working with a custom builder like Lowell Management, you witness firsthand the level of quality and craftsmanship going into your home. All components of your home are new and finely tuned to provide years of comfort before you need to think about replacements.

Saving Energy and Operating Costs
State of the art systems, with innovative technology, meet and exceed the latest codes for energy efficiency. Our HVAC, insulation, and windows are selected based on their ability to prevent energy waste. The latest appliances, and fixtures for plumbing and electric offer a substantial savings by operating at highly efficient levels.

Good for your health
Having a healthy home starts with good construction. The latest ventilation and air filtration systems are known to improve air quality while materials used for construction are designed to be non-toxic and sustainable. Cabinetry, carpet and paints now use fewer VOC (volatile organic compounds) to drastically reducing outgassing and allow everyone to breath easier.

Low maintenance
Modern construction uses materials that have been engineered for durability. Mechanical systems are more reliable and maintenance requirements have been simplified.

Satisfaction and Connection
There is a strong emotional connection to a home when you take part in its creation. It is a satisfying experience and the team at Lowell Management enjoys the process as much as their homeowners. Once you decide that you are ready for a change, we are happy to guide you in building a new home where you will live happily ever after.

Should You Remodel? How to decide if remodeling is right for you.

1 Comment/in Accessibility, Architecture, Building a New Home, Custom Builder, Custom Detailing & Millwork, Decorating ideas, Design Ideas, Downsizing, Empty Nester, Home Ideas, How to Select a Builder, Remodeling, Trends/by Lowell Custom Homes

Like many of life’s decisions, this one can cause sleepless nights. The financial bottom line is as significant as your readiness for change. How do you make the decision to remodel instead of moving?

Asking yourself a few key questions will help you evaluate your position and guide you in the right direction. Once you make the decision to remodel, join forces with a team like Lowell Management to create a fresh version of your home with experts who know how to make the process run smoothly.

Location, Location, Location!

Are you in a beautiful location with friendly neighbors?
Are you close to everyday conveniences?
Would you love your home if it just had a little more space or updated appearance?
Are the views from your home already stunning?
Is your home sitting on a beautiful lot?

Then why would you want to leave? Most homes can handle a renovation or addition. Remodeling will allow you to maintain your connections while adding considerable square footage. As a builder and remodeler we are familiar with zoning regulations and will help you create a new plan that satisfies all of your lifestyle needs.

Your Home’s Character

What about your home attracted you in the first place?
Does your home have a special “feel”?
Would it be impossible to recreate the atmosphere in another location?

Distinctive architecture, vintage-building materials, and exclusive views cannot be recreated. When you love so much about your home, making adjustments that will increase or update your space is the right decision.

Good Bones

Does your home have good bones?
Are you sitting on a solid foundation?
Can known issues be resolved easily?

Not every home should be remodeled. It must have good bones. A professional opinion is needed for proper evaluation of your home’s condition. Adding space, reconfiguring your floor plan and updating plumbing and electrical is logical when you are sitting on a solid foundation.

Budget Talks

Does remodeling suit your budget?
Would remodeling save you more than the expense of relocating and moving?
Would updating windows, roof or mechanical systems increase energy efficiency?

Of course you need a trusted professional to provide an accurate quote and detailed contract. Consider related costs that may be involved. Temporary living arrangements will often allow your contactor to complete your remodel more efficiently and furniture storage will protect your belongings.

We are always happy to hear from our homeowners at the end of a project!

Are you up for the experience?

Do you have the patience to tolerate some inconvenience for a worthwhile outcome?
Can you be flexible and adapt to change if construction uncovers any surprises?
Do you have a builder that you can trust?

Remodeling is an exciting undertaking and proper preparation will eliminate problems. Patience and versatility are good qualities that will make the entire process more enjoyable for you.
As builders we routinely expect the unexpected and are always ready to adapt. We approach every project with the understanding that this is a new experience for most homeowners and we keep it as stress free as possible.

Home Remodel by Lowell Management - Cabinetry by Geneva Cabinet Company

Cabinetry by Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC in Lake Geneva WI

There are countless options and decisions to consider throughout the remodeling process. Our best advice is to find a qualified professional like Lowell Management who is able to guide you through every major to detailed decision for a worry free experience.

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

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.