Top 10 Tips for Choosing the Best Builder

in Building a New Home, Custom Builder, How to Select a Builder/by Lowell Custom Homes

People often wonder how to choose the right builder for their new home or home remodeling project. The best advice we have comes directly from our very own expert. This clip from the Today’s Builder TV Show features Scott Lowell discussing the qualities that make his company so highly sought-after and respected.

We created this Top 10 list to summarize the qualities you should look for when hiring a builder.

Experience – Nothing surpasses experience and longevity in the custom home industry. A builder must have a strong character built on the reputation of the experts within the company. Meet our experts right here.
Quality – High quality materials should be the standard for a custom home project. The infrastructure in a home is just as critical as the components that can be seen. This delivers a home that is solid, serenely quiet and finely detailed.
Responsiveness – The best builder is more than a good listener, he is a responsive innovator. The process of designing and building the perfect home requires an ongoing exchange between builder and homeowner in order to deliver a home that is truly distinctive.
Empowered Customer Experience – A fully transparent system allows homeowners to be comfortable with the process from day one. A builder should document every aspect of the project and its progress so the homeowners can have a clear understanding of every nuance. This results is happy customers like these and these!
Clear Communication – The right builder will have a designated point-person to establish a direct line of communication for the homeowner. At Lowell this is the Project Superintendent who is always available to update and respond promptly to questions and concerns. Without a doubt there will be unexpected circumstances that arise during any construction project, but a good builder will keep you informed and have them resolved without delay.
Established Timelines – A timeline for construction should be established before the project even begins and include a secure delivery date for the convenience of the homeowners. Common delays are avoidable when the builder has an in-house team that includes an architect, office staff and reliable contractors who are meticulous about staying on track throughout the construction process.
Established Budgets – A good builder will have an accurate budget that has been approved by the homeowner. The building process should include flexibility for some changes, but the builder must have a documented system where homeowners can approve variations. There should be no surprises.
Value Engineered – It is a balancing act to deliver the best value with uncompromising quality. You want your home to have every feature on your wish list, and an experienced builder will help you prioritize and allocate funds in order to deliver the perfectly customized home.
A Home Warranty – A quality builder will have a comprehensive home warranty that delivers complete peace of mind to the homeowner. Lowell Custom Homes is known for their exceptional commitment to the care of every home. Even after homeowners have moved in, the Lowell team never walks away. They even provide a warranty for the next owners if the home is ever sold.
Ongoing Relationships – A sure sign of a quality builder is when customers remain enthusiastic about their homes long after it has been completed. You can read about what Lowell customers have to say right here!

At Lowell Custom Homes we treat our clients like family.

It’s the reason generation after generation turns to Lowell when it’s time to build a home of their very own.

262-245-9030

What it’s like to be a Lowell Homeowner!

in Building a New Home, Custom Builder, How to Select a Builder, News/by Lowell Custom Homes

The one thing that makes every day more memorable is the people you encounter along the way.

We have had the honor of working with the most delightful clients over the years. While our slogan is “Building Memories You Can Come Home To” we are building memories of our own as we get to know and enjoy our homeowners throughout the building process.
If you wonder what it would be like to build with Lowell Custom Homes, just listen as our homeowners share their experience!

Thank you to all of our homeowners for becoming part of the Lowell family!

Lowell Custom Home Lake Geneva Wi Living Room remodeling

Lowell Wins Best of Houzz Awards 2018!

in Uncategorized/by Lowell Custom Homes

All of us at Lowell want to thank all of you and the fine people at Houzz for awarding Lowell Custom Homes the Best of Houzz 2018 awards for Best of Service and Best of Design! We were selected by the more than 40 million monthly unique users that comprise the Houzz community from among more than one million active home building, remodeling and design industry professionals.

Best of Service

Lowell Custom Homes has been awarded the Best of Service every year since joining Houzz in 2016. We owe that honor to all of our customers who took the time to submit a review about their experience working with our dedicated team.

Best of Design

This is our very first year to win the sought-after Best of Design award! Although Lowell homes have been featured in other award winning portfolios, this year viewers selected their favorites from the many projects we posted on our Lowell Custom Homes profile resulting in this 2018 award!
“The Houzz community selected a phenomenal group of Best of Houzz 2018 award winners, so this year’s recipients should be very proud,” said Liza Hausman, Vice President of Industry Marketing at Houzz. “Best of Houzz winners represent some of the most talented and customer-focused professionals in our industry, and we are extremely pleased to give them both this recognition and a platform on which to showcase their expertise.”
We invite you to continue to join us on Houzz where you can view our portfolio of lovely homes. Be sure to save your favorites to your very own Ideabook for future inspiration!

To learn more about building with Lowell Custom Homes

contact us at 262.245.9030

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Be Our Guest! – How To Create A Home That Welcomes Houseguests

in Architecture, Design Ideas, Guest Rooms, House Guest/by Lowell Custom Homes

Summer equals houseguests for many homeowners who live in beautiful resort communities, and Lake Geneva is no exception. The secret to effortless entertaining is a good plan and a home with versatility. As builders, we have become experts at designing and building homes that can feel like a private retreat, and then expand in a way that lets friends and family feel welcome.

It’s all about ease, for you as well as your guests.

Warm Welcome

Take a moment to reconnect and share refreshments on the porch or screened in room when first guests arrive. Cozy seating, fresh air and the gentle breeze will set a leisurely tone for the visit. This is the perfect opportunity to plan activities together and provide a tour to help them feel at home.

Guest Quarters

Size does not matter, but privacy does. A reserved space where guests can set up camp will help them feel comfortable. This can be a room that doubles as a home office or craft room with open space available for guest belongings. Visitors will appreciate the ability to organize themselves and you will be rewarded with the lack of clutter in your other rooms.

Often the homes we build include guest suites with private baths, and hospitality features like sitting areas, beverage bars and private porches. When the additional space is not available, clearing personal clutter from a common bath and living space is a thoughtful gesture.

Guest Storage

They may not be staying long, but fun filled days often demand several wardrobe changes. A bench at the foot of the bed is good place for luggage. But living out of a suitcase is clumsy, if possible clear some space in the closet or drawers and supply extra hangers. Lockers or cubbies are a great way to keep everyone’s belongings visible and within reach. Wall hooks are ideal for hang clothing, swimsuits and towels throughout the day.

An Inviting Bed

Think comfort and minimalism. Crisp, freshly laundered sheets, plump pillows and a simple blanket or duvet are appreciated over an avalanche of fussy toss pillows. Twin beds provide mix and match options for non-couples or children. One of the hottest trends is also incredibly practical, bunk beds to maximize the sleeping space in a guest room. More on Bunk Rooms A few essentials set up on a bedside table will go a long way to provide comfort for your guests. Frame your Wi-Fi access information to help guests stay connected.

We have a special template at the end of this blog, just add your own codes, print and frame.

Bathroom Privileges

Vanities with open shelving are a helpful way for guest to locate basic supplies without asking. Along with plenty of towels and toilet paper, consider stocking up on extra toothbrushes, toothpaste and shampoo. A hair dryer and basket filled with sample size lotions and cosmetics could save the day for your guest.

Snack Station

Encourage guests to help themselves with the grab-and-go convenience of a Snack Station. This is becoming a standard in many busy households. It is especially helpful during activity-packed summer months. You can easily create your own version by dedicating a section of your kitchen counter or the top of a cabinet or sideboard. Include a coffee maker, mugs, bowls and utensils along with a basket of drink pods, cereal, fruit and nutrition bars. Early risers can start their day without disturbing the hosts and everyone can grab an energy boost as needed throughout the day.

Alfresco Cooking & Dining

Outdoor dining can be casual or formal, but comfortable seating and good food are essential. An outdoor kitchen lets the cook socialize while preparing the meal and encourages guests to pitch in for a memorable group project.

Downtime & Guilt-Free Pleasures

Be sure to allow some downtime and a relaxing place to enjoy it. A shady hammock or restful view is the perfect antidote for vacation burnout. While there is no shortage of local attractions and fun activities, let guests set the pace to truly enjoy their stay. Relaxation and togetherness is the ultimate goal for both guests and hosts.

Print and frame this Wi-fi notice for your home.

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

Interior Design of Guest Rooms and Porches by Elizabeth Drake Interiors

Interior Design of Lockers by The Design Coach

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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

Lowell Custom Homes is Featured in a Spotlight Interview

in Accessibility, Aging, Downsizing, Empty Nester/by Lowell Custom Homes

Just click here to read the full story!

[houzz=https://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/84047885/thumbs/pro-spotlight-get-a-home-for-the-empty-nester-lifestyle w=620]

It's an honor just to be nominated – Lowell Custom Homes receives Best of Houzz Award

in Custom Builder, Trends/by Lowell Custom Homes

It’s awards season and the winners have been announced for the Golden Globes, Grammys, and our personal favorite, The Best of Houzz.
Lowell Custom Homes won “Best Of Customer Service” on Houzz®, the leading platform for home building, remodeling and design. It is truly an honor to receive this award for the second year in a row. Customer Service awards are based on several factors, including the number and quality of client reviews a professional received in 2016.

With the largest residential design database in the world and a vibrant community empowered by technology, Houzz is the easiest way for people to find inspiration, get advice, buy products and hire the professionals they need to help turn their ideas into reality.

In addition to Best of Houzz Customer Service award, Lowell’s work was further recognized with the Best In Milwaukee – 2017 – Staircase Award. Houzz enthusiasts saved this winning staircase to over 43,000 Ideabooks!

As one of Lake Geneva’s most respected and celebrated builders, we are often asked to contribute to Houzz by advising and participating on their research panels. We are always delighted to take part and share information with the community. A special thank you to Houzz for recognizing us with the Influencer and Industry Research Barometer badges for these contributions.

We always love to hear your comments and want to thank our homeowners for these wonderful reviews!

Join us as we move into the next year of sharing our best in design, architecture and home building ideas on our Houzz Portfolio.

We Predict the 2017 Home Design Trends with Staying Power

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

We love the direction home design is taking and you will too! The special features we are building into homes are all about enhancing lifestyle. Say goodbye to cookie-cutter plans and welcome in the latest features that will have real staying power for your new or remodeled home.

Curate Your Personal Space

Pick and choose exactly what makes you smile. This home for an avid auto collector creates a showcase where it can be enjoyed and shared effortlessly. Forget neatly stacking your treasured collections in a closet; use these special interests as a springboard for developing a home style that is meaningful to you.

Curb Appeal With New Dimension

We have always designed homes to be appreciated from every perspective, and now the appeal for 360^o detailing is catching on. When equal attention is given to the side and back elevations, your everyday home experience becomes richer. While you’re at it, be sure stunning architecture does not get lost in the shadows. Landscape and exterior lighting is an essential element for any home plan.

Kitchen Comforts

Natural charm and flow characterize kitchens today where we like to cluster cabinet storage along one wall to keep the floor plan open and accessible. Popular Farmhouse and Industrial trends merge to create highly functional spaces for living and entertaining. Materials here and throughout the home blend natural honed surfaces with polished finishes. The interplay of texture is spellbinding and creates the perfecting setting for gatherings.

Stealth Energy Systems

Smart features go undercover while serving up substantial savings. Energy efficient windows and insulation work with zoned heating and cooling systems to maximize a homes mechanical productivity. Automated and voice-activated systems monitor comfort levels with the added convenience of off-site monitoring.

Outdoor Amenities

We work hard, so creating playful outdoor space at home lets everyone enjoy free time without traveling to another location. Screened-In porches and outdoor kitchens are often joined by even more personalized features like putting greens and movie screens.

Bar and Beverage Centers

At home entertaining is on the rise and a central hub allows the host to be a part of the action. Whether your preferences leans towards a fully stocked cocktail bar, coffee bar or ice-cream social bar, the mission is convenience. A dedicated area with storage and proper supplies will turn a simple beverage into a special indulgence.

Color Turns Warm and Moody

HGTV and Pottery Barn may have caused you to forget about the warmer side of the color wheel, but that is about to change. Cool grays will still be important, but neutrals will move forward by including warm beige tones and occasionally a bit of brown. The freshest effects will be achieved when these colors are accented with saturated hues like Benjamin Moore’s 2017 Color of the Year – Shadow, and Pantones 2017 Color of the Year – Greenery.

No Guilt Splurges on Functional Spaces

Luxury takes a turn towards practical when it comes to indulging ourselves at home. Oh sure, a spa bath is nice, but nothing compares to a laundry room with a potting station or a mudroom lined with exquisite locker storage. Those highly functional areas can be fitted to perfection turning everyday chores into a delightful escape.

The majority of rooms featured in this post were photographed by Victoria McHugh Photography
Interior Design for the home featured is by The Design Coach Phillip Sassone
Interior Design for the laundry room and potting area featured in the last image and the Beverage Bar with metallic tile backsplash is by Elizabeth Drake of Drake Interiors, Ltd.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

Tag Archive for: Lake Geneva

We created this Top 10 list to summarize the qualities you should look for when hiring a builder.

At Lowell Custom Homes we treat our clients like family.

It’s the reason generation after generation turns to Lowell when it’s time to build a home of their very own.

262-245-9030

The one thing that makes every day more memorable is the people you encounter along the way.

Best of Service

Best of Design

To learn more about building with Lowell Custom Homes

contact us at 262.245.9030

It’s all about ease, for you as well as your guests.

Warm Welcome

Guest Quarters

Guest Storage

An Inviting Bed

Bathroom Privileges

Snack Station

Alfresco Cooking & Dining

Downtime & Guilt-Free Pleasures

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

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.

Just click here to read the full story!

We always love to hear your comments and want to thank our homeowners for these wonderful reviews!

Join us as we move into the next year of sharing our best in design, architecture and home building ideas on our Houzz Portfolio.

Curate Your Personal Space

Curb Appeal With New Dimension

Kitchen Comforts

Stealth Energy Systems

Outdoor Amenities

Bar and Beverage Centers

Color Turns Warm and Moody

No Guilt Splurges on Functional Spaces

Shopping Links:

Lowell Custom Homes