Should You Remodel or Tear Down & Rebuild Your Home?

in Architecture, Building a New Home, Remodeling/by Lowell Custom Homes

Does your home need a little TLC or a bulldozer? The final decision often comes down to budget. But the cost to renovate can be deceiving. It rarely includes as much space, or all of the sought after features of your dream home. Before you start tearing down walls, we encourage you to consider these questions for guidance.

Do you love the property?

Location, Location, Location! When the location is ideal and vacant land is limited, tearing down clears the site for a fresh start. Many older homes in the communities surrounding Geneva Lake, WI are ideal candidates. Lake property is at a premium and surrounding homes support the investment of rebuilding.

Does the home have good bones?

Have the home inspected by an experienced contractor, one who really knows what they’re doing and gets dirty in the process. When repairs to the foundation or structural elements are needed beware of the escalation of commitment, commonly known as the money pit. Building from the ground up eliminates the hazards and physical constraints of an existing structure. Starting fresh also opens up a world of design possibilities.

Is the home architecturally appealing?

Not to be unkind, but all old homes are not charming. When the architecture is historic or has great character, by all means renovate! Even a quirky kind of appeal is ok, but nostalgia can quickly loses its attraction when cost intensifies. To invest and not have the perks of completely new construction could lead to renovator’s remorse.

Is the floor plan to your liking?

Sometimes you just can’t get there from here. When the floor plan is divided into small rooms without logical flow, the overall function of the home suffers. Even when an addition increases space, the original structure often needs to be upgraded to offer support and satisfy codes. There is a point where the architectural benefits of tall ceilings and a spacious open plan will actually save money.

Does the home have good plumbing, electrical and mechanical systems?

Renovation is about more than increasing space. Older homes have dated systems. Upgrades to plumbing and electrical are often needed to support new design features. Unexpected expense is not uncommon when problems are exposed during partial demolition. It is heartbreak when a homeowner has to give up something on the wish list because of unforeseen expenses.

How energy efficient is the existing structure?

Construction materials have advanced in recent years and bring added savings to a new home. Improved insulation, energy efficient windows, and smart systems for heating and cooling improved the quality of life and reduce operating expense.

Does the home compliment your lifestyle?

The real question is, how do you want to live in your home and is it possible in the existing structure? A completely private master suite, indoor-outdoor great room, whole house accessibility – these and many other lifestyle amenities are difficult to retrofit into the footprint of an old home. No need to compromise when the investment will justify new construction.

Over the years we have been involved in numerous renovations as well as new home construction after a tear down. Every home is unique and the right decision weighs all of the influencing factors. This includes the homeowners personality, budget and tolerance for disruption.

We enjoy the entire process and are here to help. When you are ready to look at all of the possibilities, talk to Lowell Custom Homes for an experienced and professional evaluation.

Browse our Gallery of Homes & call us at 262-245-9030

Our lovely photography was done by Shana Wolf S, Photography and Styling

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Battle of the Bunks – Bunk Beds and Bunkrooms defeat the blow-up mattress!

1 Comment/in Custom Builder, Design Ideas, Guest Rooms, Home Ideas, Trends/by Lowell Custom Homes

The latest trend making its way into the most stylish homes of Lake Geneva is reminiscent of pillow fights and childhood sleepovers. Bunk beds and even bunkrooms are becoming the guest quarters of choice. There is an appealing social factor to this trend that blends sleeping arrangements with the ability to spend quality time together. You are never too old for a sleepover!

Even boutique hotels are introducing bunk options. Not only is this attractive to families, but the luxurious feather bedding and 300+ thread count sheets draw big kid pajama parties and friend getaways.
For the Lake Geneva homeowner, bunks are the best way to maximize space without compromising style. Children, grandchildren and long-lost cousins can all have a place to rest for round-the-clock togetherness and good times.
Which bunk bed concept is the best fit for your home? Let’s look at the possibilities . . .

An open and airy space with built-in bunks will transform one bedroom into a space for 4 – 6 houseguests. Keep the base bunk low to allow extra headroom for your full-grown bunkmates.

Playing with themes can add an element of intrigue for your guests. We created enclosed bunks with The Design Coach, Phillip Sassano, to be more Orient-Express than summer camp. Each is like a mini room with privacy curtains, storage and individual lighting, all wrapped up in plushy velvet comfort.

Unused space can be transformed into a guest area when fitted with freestanding or built-in bunk beds. Consider an open niche, attic space, or even a generous hallway that can be lined with bunks. Each cozy little cocoon will attract kids of all ages when it’s time to take a snooze.

Encourage camp-like comradely, minus the swirlies, with an adjoining locker and shower room. Beautifully detailed bunks feature specialized lighting and easy access steps instead of a ladder for ageless appeal.

We have a dedicated staff of professionals including an AIA architect, Interior Designers & Construction Superintendents who are all pleased to help you with your home projects!

We are just a call away at 262-245-9030

Lowell Custom Homes

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Outdoor Living Spaces – The Best Ideas for Your Home

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

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Top 5 Tips for Picking the Perfect Paint Color for Your Home

in Color, Design Ideas/by Lowell Custom Homes

Back away from the paint chips until you consider our Top 5 Tips for picking the perfect paint color. The first impression of your home is greatly influenced by color. In fact, humans have an actual physiological response to color which is known to influence emotions. Get it right with our easy guidelines and capture the ultimate feel-good at home!

Lowell Custom Homes How to Pick a Paint Color Mood

Tip #1 Choose Your Mood

Think about the mood and feeling you want for each space. The color scheme of your home can lead you through the day with bright colors for high energy areas or subtle colors in relaxed spaces. This brief overview on Color Psychology & Your Moods will help you decide with colorful room images.

Tip #2 Inspiration

Every great artist works from inspiration. Begin with something you love and expand on the idea to create a color palette. Develop a harmonious flow from the exterior to the interior and throughout your entire home with an appealing common thread. You can even use a home from the Lowell Custom Homes Gallery as inspiration.

Tip #3 Lighting

Hold on to your paintbrush, these three spaces are all painted with the same color, Benjamin Moore #962 Gray Mist. The difference is lighting. For this reason it is critical that you choose your color in the actual room where it will be used, or at least in a space with identical light. The following are key factors for how color is perceived.
1. natural light
2. artificial light
3. room size and
4. architecture
Our Interior Detail Gallery has wonderful examples to demonstrate the interplay of natural and artificial light in a variety of spaces.

Tip #4 White is a Color Too

There is no such thing as “just paint it white”. White is actually one of the most difficult colors to get right. Trim and ceiling colors must have compatible undertones to the wall color. While you’re thinking about undertone, be sure to also apply this concept to the stained finishes in every rooms.

If you are searching for the whitest white possible, take a look at the recommendations from Land of Color.

CR-BG-Paint-Neutral-Wall-Swatch Benjamin Moore

Tip #5 Always Test Your Color in the Exact Finish You Need

You know the drill, paint swatches on sections of your walls around the room. Check the swatches out at various times during the day and be sure you can live with any variation caused by changes in natural light. *Time Saving Tip – Often a designer or the paint store will be able to order larger paint sample sheets that you can tape directly to the walls.
Be sure to test the color sample in the finish you will be using. Matt, eggshell or gloss finishes all reflect light differently and will influence the final color impression.

Don’t be afraid of color, but respect the pitfalls of a rushed decision. Start with these 5 Top Tips. If you need extra confidence, definitely rely on the opinion of experts.

Lowell Custom Homes

The Secrets to Timeless Design for Your Home

in Architecture, Building a New Home, Child-Friendly Home, Custom Builder, Custom Detailing & Millwork, Decorating ideas, Design Ideas, Empty Nester, Home Ideas, Trends/by Lowell Custom Homes

A well designed home has staying power. It transcends a specific architectural style to focus on an emotional connection, lifestyle and comfort. The secret to creating this type of timeless design starts with a collaboration of experts who truly understand the homeowner’s aesthetic.
This getaway home embodies the relaxed Lake Geneva lifestyle while integrating the homeowner’s appreciation for tradition and creativity. We worked with Architect John A. Hagenah and Interior Designer Elizabeth Drake as well as our talented craftsmen and quality resources to build a home that is both timeless and inviting.

Get In Sync with Your Setting

The Craftsman architecture utilizes wide gabled rooflines, tapered stone columns, and minimalist ornamentation for an intriguing relationship with the countryside. Cedar shingles and horizontal siding introduce subtle pattern with gable details that expose rafter beams. A screened in room and sleeping porch provide protected connections to the outdoors. The back elevation of the home features a wall of windows and French doors where indoor-outdoor activities can flow effortlessly.

Rely on Classic Lines

The entry features a Mahogany Dutch Door inviting guests to the refined elegance of the Music Room. Classic lighting and traditional woodworking are relaxed with the warmth of grass cloth wall covering and medium wood tones.

Use Neutrals or Classic Colors for Permanent Elements, Have Fun with Easy to Alter Elements.

The living room relies on Craftsman elements for its inviting character created with the low profile of a beamed ceiling, custom stone mix on the fireplace wall, stone mantel and conversational seating area. All of the permanent architectural features in this home are timeless, neutral, and versatile. The dramatic surprise of coral paint for the walls is actually an on trend element that can be easily changed should the homeowners ever feel the need for a different mood.

Right-size the Floor Plan for Effortless Traffic Flow

The dining room is adjacent to the entry hall and features another stone fireplace. Coffered ceiling and traditional moldings step up formality that is then relaxed with the rustic texture of stone. A built-in wine and refreshment bar is located at this mid-point of the home for easy entertaining with a convenient connection to the outdoor pool area.

The dining area of this open floor plan flows directly to the kitchen with its large island seating for casual dining and entertaining. Here Wood-Mode cabinetry from Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC is done in a custom color with Quartzite countertops. Appliances include a Wolf range, Miele Oven, Steam Oven, Warming Drawer, and Sub Zero refrigerator. An artistic tile backsplash from Bella Tile and Stone, grounds this area with handcrafted appeal.

Provide Accessibility and Privacy

The first floor Master Bedroom Suite is a key feature for a timeless home plan. This area is designed with such grace and style that you may not notice the accessibility features that allow for future aging-in-place. The compartmentalized Master Bath, with double vanity and spacious shower, is detailed with classic tile patterns using basket weave and hexagon mosaics. Interior windows provide shared light and privacy while a tiled wall performs as an easy to maintain backsplash for the vanity area.

Include Versatile Rooms

The Guest Suites include bathrooms for privacy and access to the second story Sleeping Porch. Each suite features a seating area and a full wall of windows for natural lighting , ventilation and views of the countryside.

Recognize the Value of Functional Spaces

Even the highly functional spaces of this home are treated with timeless details and easy transitions to the outdoors. A clever open combination space blends the laundry, creative studio and mudroom. It includes a workstation with stainless steel countertop and sink that can serve as a Butler’s Pantry or potting area for gardening. Another space with direct access to the pool performs as a cabana like dressing room with stacked washer/dryer and locker storage.

You can see more of this beautiful home with larger detail pictures on Houzz.

Refreshing Spring Updates for your Home

in Color, Decorating ideas, Design Ideas, Home Ideas, Outdoor Living, Trends/by Lowell Custom Homes

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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Top 10 Home Trends for 2016

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

Fads come and go, but trends in homebuilding can last for generations. These develop over time and respond to changes in lifestyle, innovations in materials and new technology. With this in mind, our goal is to bring you the latest trends that are sure to become timeless classics.

Effortless Luxury for Homes of All Sizes

The well appointed home is in demand for homes of all sizes. Downsizing does not mean giving up the beautiful features empty nesters are accustomed to, even starter home buyers want to feel pampered. Open floorplans, custom woodwork, gourmet kitchens and statement lighting all detail the homes that are sized according to lifestyle needs, not neighborhoods.

Seasonal Living Spaces

Move from the sunroom, to screened-in porch, to the pergola-covered patio with ease. Fluid transitions between indoor and outdoor living space has the ability to extend seasons for the year long appreciation of nature. These spaces often include fireplaces, entertainment technology, conversational seating, dining area and outdoor kitchens.

Multigenerational Space with Flexibility and Inclusive Design

Extended families under one roof are giving rise to homes with multiple bedroom suites for the comfort of everyone from aging parents or boomerang children. These homes are designed with large shared space to enhance family connections. Personalized private areas often features showers with seats and grab rails to insure safety and open space for easy navigation.

State-of-the-Art Kitchens with Integrated Living Space

Today’s kitchens are connected to family life more than ever. The super-sized island is a multitasking essential with cabinetry in furniture-like finishes and smart appliances. Integrated equipment lends a streamline look to open floor plans. Luxury niche appliances satisfy the most serious chefs and include high performance ranges, steam ovens, warming drawers, metal range hoods and wine coolers. Emerging trends include kimchi refrigerators for preserving vegetables in keeping with Korean traditions and cultivators like the Urban Cultivator for fresh herbs.

Kitchen by Geneva Cabinet Company

Healthy Homes – Clean Living

A clean aesthetic is highly desirable and designs are evolving to incorporate low maintenance finishes that advance the cause. Quartz countertops with antibacterial properties are growing in popularity along with stainless steel countertops and large-scale tile with fewer grout lines. Air and water purification systems and natural materials work together to reduce toxins in the home along with streamline design where dust can’t hide.

Relaxed and Farmhouse Entries

The farmhouse tradition of practicality is driving the trend for relaxes entries that focus on convenience. Open cubbies provide visible storage that eliminates the frantic search for keys. Additional storage under built-in benches keep shoes and boots tidy while preventing outside dirt from being tracked inside. Charging stations are often included to keep electronics in sight and ready to go.

Flexible Dining Room

Dining is an art to be shared with friends and family. For this reason many are not willing to give up on the idea of a formal dining room. We have the perfect solution with open floor plans where the dining area can be adjusted to suite an intimate dinner party or grand affair.

Eclectic Mash Up

Mix and match principles apply throughout the home and are most evident in the kitchen. Combinations feature complimentary styles and colors for cabinetry along with various countertop materials assigned by use. Quartz, soapstone and hand scraped woods compete with granite for the most popular position. Metallic finishes for hardware and tile inserts includes gold, copper and platinum along with the traditional chrome and steel.

Authentic Materials and Craftsmanship

Appreciation for handcrafted work from local artisans and locally sourced material is on the rise. It goes beyond the sustainability factor and speaks to a newfound respect for the time-honored skills of our neighbors. Repurposed and locally sourced materials carry a highly trusted reassurance of quality.

Leisure Spaces and Getaway Rooms

When it’s time to relax we want a space that transports us from the daily grind to a relaxing retreat. Home hobby spaces can be as peaceful as a meditation room or as active an arcade. Many are self-sustaining with a refreshment area and private bath. These spaces vary from a basketball court that is just down the hall to a freestanding boathouse or poolside cabana.
Kitchen by Geneva Cabinet Company

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

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!

Tag Archive for: home

Do you love the property?

Does the home have good bones?

Is the home architecturally appealing?

Is the floor plan to your liking?

Does the home have good plumbing, electrical and mechanical systems?

How energy efficient is the existing structure?

Does the home compliment your lifestyle?

Browse our Gallery of Homes & call us at 262-245-9030

Our lovely photography was done by Shana Wolf S, Photography and Styling

We have a dedicated staff of professionals including an AIA architect, Interior Designers & Construction Superintendents who are all pleased to help you with your home projects!

We are just a call away at 262-245-9030

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

Get In Sync with Your Setting

Rely on Classic Lines

Use Neutrals or Classic Colors for Permanent Elements, Have Fun with Easy to Alter Elements.

Right-size the Floor Plan for Effortless Traffic Flow

Provide Accessibility and Privacy

Include Versatile Rooms

Recognize the Value of Functional Spaces

You can see more of this beautiful home with larger detail pictures on Houzz.

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.

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

Happy Spring!

Effortless Luxury for Homes of All Sizes

Seasonal Living Spaces

Multigenerational Space with Flexibility and Inclusive Design

State-of-the-Art Kitchens with Integrated Living Space

Healthy Homes – Clean Living

Relaxed and Farmhouse Entries

Flexible Dining Room

Eclectic Mash Up

Authentic Materials and Craftsmanship

Leisure Spaces and Getaway Rooms

Lowell Custom Homes