Tag Archive for: interior design

quiet luxury in Lake Geneva Wi

Quiet Luxury at Home

From runway to home, the quiet luxury movement is intensifying!

Quiet luxury is defined by Vogue Magazine as a “non-trend trend” or “elevated basics”.   The aesthetic in fashion features the highest quality pieces with an understated presence. When applied to homes, this attitude is easy to understand by watching Lowell Custom Homes construction in action.  The focus is on superior materials and expert craftsmanship.

When citing this style, marketing analyst Pam Dazinger references the Succession series and explains,

“True luxury whispers, it never shouts.”

With that in mind we identified the elements that will help you communicate quiet luxury in your home.

Quiet Luxury is Always Appropriate

Interior Design by North Shore Nest, Photo by Aimee Mazzenga

LCH, Interior Design by North Shore Nest, Photo by Aimee Mazzenga

This entire movement is in sync with the principles of Elsie de Wolfe, founder of the interior design profession.    De Wolfe’s philosophy started with a goal, “A house that is like the life that goes with it, a house that gives us beauty as we understand it.”  She also famously warned, “You will express yourself in your house whether you want to or not.”  With that in mind, the first recommendation for quiet luxury is to create a home suitable for your lifestyle and location.

Prioritize Quality & Craftsmanship

Quiet luxury showcases natural materials, artistry and simplicity of style.  Sustainability is achieved by investing in craftsmanship that will survive generations.  Palettes are curated by combining personally soothing colors without interruption from showy displays.

Quiet Luxury is in the Details

Quiet Luxury LCH, Interior Design by Ann Kottler Home, Photo by Shanna Wolf

LCH, Interior Design by Ann Kottler Home, Photo by Shanna Wolf

Subtlety is an art. When it comes to architectural and interior design, details speak without shouting.  Quality materials and impeccable craftsmanship differentiate design in an understated manner.  This mood is about embracing the things you love in an environment that is relaxed and inviting.

Connection to Nature

quiet luxury Interior Design by Ann Kottler Home, Photo by Shanna Wolf Photography

LCH, Interior Design by Ann Kottler Home, Photo by Shanna Wolf Photography

The nurturing influence of the environment is key to this effort.  Creating a seamless flow between interior and exterior rooms lends a sense of tranquility.

Quiet Luxury is Confidence

Quiet Luxury, LCH, Interior Design by Ann Kottler Home, Photo by Shanna Wolf Photography

LCH, Interior Design by Ann Kottler Home, Photo by Shanna Wolf Photography

A well curated design reads as confidence.   There is no need to rely on the latest designer label or “it” item when decisions are based on desirable attributes.  This is one of the reasons we have relationships that span generations.  A Lowell Custom Home reflects an appreciation for quality and the discerning taste of our homeowners.

Visit our Gallery to be inspired.

Connect with Lowell Custom Homes here

or call 262-245-9030

Home Design Lesson – Color Flow

Color is one of our favorite techniques for creating beautiful flow to a home.  The skillful application of color will unify interiors for a cohesive design statement.  Here are a few ideas to help you establish a color palette, all accompanied by examples from talented designers used by Lowell homeowners.

Introduce Your Color Palette at the Entry

Interior Design and Photography by The Design Coach Phillip Sassano

We love the idea of introducing a home color palette at the entry.  This can be one favorite color to set the tone, or a colorful area rug introducing a variety of colors soon to make an appearance.  Interior Design by The Design Coach

Use a Thread Color

Interior Design by Elizabeth Drake, Photography by Victoria McHugh

Using a thread color will unify your design.  Taken from Greek mythology, the red thread was used by Theseus as a connection that guided him to safety through a labyrinth of rooms.  Today, interior designers often use the concept to unite space by weaving a common color room-to-room.  This creates a stunning visual transition.   Using the thread color, in diverse proportions, will add variety and interest.  Interior Design by Elizabeth Drake

Consider Sightlines

Interior Design by Homeowner, Photography by Shanna Wolf

Be aware of the view as you gaze across your space.  Aim for continuity in every direction within your line of sight.  This can be achieved with a consistent wall color or furnishings and accessories that express your color palette.

Color Inspired by the View

Interior Design by North Shore Nest, Photography by Aimée Mazzenga

When the view is amazing, it’s natural to want to bring outdoor colors in.  A  scheme can evolve organically by duplicating colors found in nature. Selecting the watery blues from Geneva Lake or relaxing greens from woodland property is lovely inspiration for a home palette. Interior Design by North Shore Nest

Color to Reflect a Mood

Interior Design by North Shore Nest, Photography by Aimée Mazzenga

Color can express a mood. Blues and greens naturally cool and relax.  Reds and oranges and warmth and vitality.  When applied to a suite of rooms, the color scheme will unify and define the space.  Interior Design by North Shore Nest

Color to Energize

Interior Design by Michelle Hackworthy of Zander’s Interiors, Photography by Shanna Wolf

When you live for color, we encourage you to use it with abandon!  Try out bold colors with small pops in artwork or accessories on a neutral background.  When ready for a grand color statement, splash it on the walls or commit with larger furniture or fixtures.  Interior Design by Michelle Hackworthy of Zander’s Interiors

Add Wood Tones to the Mix

Interior Design by Lowell Custom Homes, Photography by Shanna Wolf

Don’t forget that woods have undertones of color. While matching wood from room to room is not the goal, keep in mind that common undertones can help you establish a warm and inviting flow.

 

Just remember, there is no longer one color-trend that everyone must follow.  Your home palette should work with your very personal color preferences.

For more tips on choosing your home paint colors visit our past blog by clicking here.

Connect with Lowell Custom Homes here

or call 262-245-9030

 

 

 

Photography by Aimée Mazzenga

Photography by Shanna Wolf

Photography by Victoria McHugh

A Cozy Home Welcomes Winter

It’s time to fill your home with cozy charm!   As the days become shorter, we naturally migrate indoors and reconnect with everything we love about our homes.   A positive mindset is the key to breezing through winter, and a welcoming home will support you in the frosty months ahead.   So, resist the urge to hibernate and include some of these soothing ideas to truly embrace the season!

Soften the Light

cozy home lighting

Lighting is a dramatic architectural feature that can help us adapt to short winter days.  No need to flood rooms with artificial lighting.   Enjoy indirect, low levels of light for a relaxed mood.  Some favorite strategies are outlined here.  And our friends at Geneva Cabinet Company share some of their techniques to effectively layer your lighting here.

Start a Fire

cozy home fireplace seating

Winter gives us permission to slow down and reflect.   A fireplace with cozy seating is just the place to do that.   The latest technology offers several options to bring this feature within reach.  New eco-friendly fireplaces offer easy installation and run on ethanol or electric.  EcoSmart even has portable fire tables to help set the mood.

Go Deep

cozy home surround yourself in bold color

Wrap yourself in comfort with a bold color choice for the walls. Don’t be afraid of deep color, as you can see here it is expertly applied by North Shore Nest with an exquisite balance of furnishings.

Escape Within

cozy home library wall

Grab your fuzzy blanket and curl up with a favorite book.  We love the idea of this library wall featured in a well-traveled hallway.  Just passing your collection will remind you to slow down and decompress.

Dig Into a Hobby

cozy home potting shed for hobby time

Weather-out a chilly winter by indulging in your favorite hobby.  This indoor potting shed was created with repurposed street pavers and vintage timbers from Heritage Beam & Board.  Such a nice reminder that spring is around the corner.

Enjoy Culinary Capers

cozy home kitchen gatherings

Trying new recipes, baking, or even just teaching yourself to use a salad spinner are delightful ways to pass the time.  The kitchen is a natural gathering place and perfect for culinary exploration.

Pump Up Your Jam

home gym workout room

No need to battle foul weather just to get a workout in.  An in-home space can be as simple as a yoga mat or as high profile as this inspirational gym.  Having the area set up in advance is all the motivation you need for your spring fitness goals.

Have One On The House

Winter is a natural time to reconnect with friends and family.  A home bar can serve up your favorite cocktails, green smoothies or specialty coffees.  What counts is a space, large or small, where entertaining is easy and effortless.  Gather your ingredients, add comfortable seating, and enjoy!

 

Connect with Lowell Custom Homes here

or call 262-245-9030

 

Stay in touch by signing up for our blog alerts at the top of this page.  You will be notified by email when we publish our next article with the latest design ideas and inspirational projects!

(of course, we never share your personal information)

Pause for a Design Moment

It’s the small details that create your home’s overall atmosphere.  Each element is a design moment that encourages you to pause and appreciate your living space.  Every quiet corner or special vignette will contribute to the overall character in a discreet but commanding manner.  Unique details come together to influence the overall character and quality of your home life.

Here we share a few of our favorites from a recently completed home in Lake Geneva.  The designers at North Shore Nest demonstrate a mastery for design composition that can stand alone as well as support the overall luxurious expression of this home.  Every design moment is captured by Photographer Aimée Mazzenga.

Depth Reduction

The crown molding, wallpapered ceiling and lantern lighting all rescue this hallway from obscurity.  Creating a print gallery on the back wall invites passage and creates a welcoming perspective.

Architectural Emphasis

Adding personality to a stairwell makes it more than a pass through. Board and batten walls are classic simplicity.

Artistic Still Life

Layering desirable shapes and objects appeals to our curious side creating a relaxed pause to investigate further.

Collectors Niche

Whether priceless artifacts or a beloved collection of objects, when gathered together in a niche their importance is elevated.

Bathed In Light

A metallic finish is famous for bouncing light around a room and reflecting objects for a mystic Monet moment.

Exit Strategy

Make that first and last impression noteworthy with a vignette that is attractive and useful.  Hooks and a bench make good use of space while playful wallcovering and deep contrasting trim keep it memorable.

Contact Lowell Custom Homes for help planning your new home or remodeling project.

Connect here

or call 262-245-9030

 

Stay in touch by signing up for our blog alerts at the top of this page.  You will be notified by email when we publish our next article with the latest design ideas and inspirational projects!

(of course, we never share your personal information)

Custom Home by Lowell Custom Homes

Interior Design by North Shore Nest

Photos by Aimée Mazzenga

The Future of Home Design Post Covid-19

The comforts of home have never been so appealing!  When uncertainty causes us to feel a little off-balance, our homes provide the security and serenity we need.  The Covid-19 derailment will eventually be resolved, but its valuable lessons have influenced home design for the future.   Our homes are evolving to provide the perfect solutions for a balanced life.  Here are some of our favorite ideas.

Floor Plan Versatility

The intelligence of open concept floorplans has been confirmed by their ability to adapt and be reconfigured.  Areas to work, study or exercise will be nestled into our most active rooms.  When our needs change, the rooms can revert back to their original plan.

More Storage for Self-Sufficiency

When your home becomes an island it’s critical to have provisions on hand.  A walk-in pantry has plenty of space for your latest Costco run while providing an organized space for storage.  Drawer allows for easy sorting and accessibility while open shelving keeps everything in sight.

Zoom Meeting Backdrop

When it’s possible to dedicate space for a home office, consider the acoustics, lighting and a sophisticated impression for video conferencing.

Private Outdoor Space

The popularity of outdoor living space will continue to soar and include luxury features like pools, spas and kitchens. Indoor-outdoor connections will always serves to calm, refresh and satisfy us.

Sanitation Station

While outdoor-to-indoor transitional space has always been desirable, the focus is now on surfaces that are easy to clean and disinfect.

Room for a Workout

You may find that less of a commute to work or school leaves more time for your daily workout.  As a self-care reminder set up a space with you favorite equipment to make it happen naturally.

Your Personal Getaway

When togetherness becomes overrated, create an in-home escape to help you get through the day.  It doesn’t have to be in the traditional sense of a man cave or she shed.    Everyday spaces, like this closet,  can become more inviting and luxurious with a little special treatment.

Nesting Details

Endless hours within your four walls may result in boredom unless you are looking at something beautiful.  There is a renewed interest in design and architecture as we now have more time to thoroughly examine our homes.  Finely crafted details will wrap you up in comfort.

 

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

 

Cabinetry by Geneva Cabinet Company

Photography by S.Photography/Shanna Wolf

Lowell Wins Houzz 2020!

We are beyond excited to announce that Lowell Custom Homes was awarded the Best Of Houzz 2020.

Just 3% of the 2.5 million home design and building professionals on Houzz receive a Best of Houzz Award each year. This is five years in a row that Lowell has received such special recognition!  We thank all of the participants for choosing our projects!

Here are our most loved and inspirational pictures of the year!

A nostalgic Potting Shed using reclaimed material from Heritage Beam and Board

See the full home here.

An Idyllic Screened in Porch

See the full home here.

This Open and Inviting Living Room

See the full home here.

A Home with Street and Lake Appeal

See the full home here.

A Lakeside Conservatory

See the full home here.

This Nautical Guest Bunk Room

See the full home here.

A Chic & Relaxing Library

See the full home here.

This Kitchen Collaboration with Geneva Cabinet Company

See the full home here.

Finally a Basement Renovation with years of popularity on Houzz.

See the full home here

Follow us on Houzz to view all of our custom home and remodeling projects.  Remember to create Ideabooks where you can save your Lowell favorites!  This is our favorite way to fashion a personal Look Book for inspiration with future design and remodeling projects.

Houzz is the largest residential database in the USA and around the world.  They connect millions of people with ideas and resources for their home projects, large and small.  We love being a part of this network and hope you’ll visit our Houzz portfolio right here.

We invite you to also stay in touch by signing up for our blog where we cover the latest design ideas and inspirational projects!

(of course we never share your personal information)

Building a new home or remodeling can be an exciting adventure and our team of experts is available to answer your questions and guide you every step of the way!

Lowell Custom Homes

262.245.9030

 

The Secrets to Timeless Design for Your Home

 
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.

1-exterior-lowell-custom-homes-pixGet 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.
 

2-lowell-custom-homes-entry-and-music-room-pixRely 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.
 

3-lowell-custom-homes-living-room-fireplace-divider-dr-pixUse 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.
 
4-lowell-custom-homes-dining-room-bar-pix

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.
 
 
5-lowell-custom-homes-kitchen-pix
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.
 

6-lowell-custom-homes-master-bedroom-and-bath-pixProvide 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.
 

7-guest-rooms-sleeping-porch-and-bathInclude 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.
 
 

8-laundry-craft-room-cabanna-dressing-area-from-pool-pixRecognize 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.

 

Hello Shadow! The 2017 Color of The Year from Benjamin Moore

Color of the Year 2017 Benjamin Moore paints
Flashback October 2015: Benjamin Moore names Simply White as the Color of the Year and we experienced a visual cleansing of the palette.   We were swept away with the elegant simplicity of white. But this year, to remind us that there is no one-size-fits-all solution; Shadow, a deep amethyst, is named the 2017 Color of the Year. It is a sultry hue that will drive our sensibilities in a new direction for 2017.
Don’t worry if you’re not the dark brooding type, there is a full palette of complimentary colors introduced by Benjamin Moore to work beautifully with Shadow. And those of us who are clinging to the light airy ambiance of white will be pleased to note that it has not disappeared from our color radar.
Benjamin Moore 2017 color trends
While Benjamin Moore uses a dramatic entrance photo to entice us with Shadow’s moody nature, don’t let it frighten you. This sophisticated color can be introduced in small ways for an on-trend update. In fact the complex color composition of Shadow allows it to act as a neutral to be paired with colors you may already have at home.
The complete 2017 color direction includes delicate hues that can be accented by the gem stone qualities found at the deeper end of the palette. If you love drama, go ahead and wrap a room in you favorite passionate shade. For those of us who can’t commit, refresh your colors with accent and accessory pieces.
We’re not telling you to be a slave to fashion, in fact we love the classics. Think of this as a heads-up for colors that will be popping up in stores in 2017. Use what you love and give the others a knowing nod of recognition. Remember, every color and idea we know as a classic, began as a trend.

Color Trends 2017 Benjamin Moore Shadow

Shopping Links below


Adjust your eye to Benjamin Moore’s  Shadow by introducing artwork, area rugs or an accessory piece for an instant update. The entry door is an ideal place to go deep for major impact.
2017 Color Trends Benjamin Moore color of the year
If you are completely infatuated with the 2017 palette, make a stronger commitment with granite, tile or cabinetry. This selection of cabinet finishes from Wood-Mode is available from Geneva Cabinet Company. They are true classics that take on a trendy attitude when paired with Shadow and the other deep companion hues.
Benjamin Moore Color Trends 2017 Shadow Color of the Year
Benjamin Moore shares this video to explain some of the research behind this year’s choice for Color of the Year.
When you build or remodel with Lowell a team of experts will guide you through every detailed decision. Whether your style is timeless or trendy, our AIA architect and interior designer will support you with the latest updates and information for everything from architecture to color.

Lowell Custom HomesShopping Links:

Benjamin Moore Paints Color of the Year 2017
Geneva Cabinet Company
Trowbridge GalleryCharlotte Morgan Watercolour Tulips
Surya Rugs
Macy’s Bradbury Sofa
Ultimate Globe
LeCreuset Braiser in Amethyst
KitchenAid Mixer
Wood-Mode Cabinetry
Notting Hll Hardware
Merlin Glass
 

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