Designing for Comfort

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

This is the season to prioritize comfort. The evenings come early, and the morning air can be brutal. Instead of just hunkering down, it’s the ideal time to celebrate home life with some extra attention to our well-being. The Danish call this attitude Hygge, we call it the essence of home.

You can heighten the feeling of comfort in small ways or go big with a whole house refresh. Either way, here are some of our favorite ideas to up the cozy-factor this winter.

Natural Materials

Natural and authentic materials help us feel grounded. A stone fireplace, architectural beams, and natural wood tones are soothing. Even accessories added to your kitchen counter or cocktail table will create a mood. One of our favorite places for cozy touches is Summer Made in Lake Geneva.

Soft Furnishings

Simple additions go a long way to warm up a room. Bulky knit throws, area rugs, toss pillows and overstuffed furniture all nurture the spirit. A good place to start your shopping for the Lake Geneva winter vibe is Paper Dolls Home Furnishings.

Warm Color & Texture

Natural colors tend to lean warmer and when combined with the texture of knotty wood paneling, the effect surrounds you in security.

Layering Pattern

Pattern fills a room, and when layer upon layer is applied the comfort factor rises. Upholstered headboards and lush layers of bedding compound the visual effect.

Quiet Moments

When everyone is forced to stay close to home, it pays off to have an at-home-retreat. A quiet place where you can hang a do-not-disturb sign and enjoy a bath, sauna, or favorite chair with a good book. You’ll love this list of book club favorites.

Fireplace Gatherings

Taking the chill off around the fireplace is a time honored tradition. Arranging comfy furniture in a cluster around the hearth will facilitate warm and friendly conversations.

Inviting Spaces

Rooms that are pulled together are always more inviting. Coordinated by color and designed with good circulation space, people will not hesitate to enter and put their feet up.

Scented Spaces

Engage all of the senses with a fragrance that will enhance memories. Evergreen, bayberry, zesty orange, and cinnamon will keep you filled with warmth.

Embrace Friluftsliv – The Outdoor Extension of Hygge

Friluftsliv follows the Danish Hygge trends with the Norwegian cultural concept that promotes “free air life”. Spending time outdoors during the winter season has been shown to improve physical and mental health and reduce stress. Even if you’re not up for a long walk, a warm cup of cocoa on your screened porch will do wonders to reduce stress.

Daily Rituals

Relying on daily routine can give structure to otherwise endless days. Light a candle, call a friend, have an afternoon tea . . . taking the time to tune into your sense of calm during the winter will provide a sense of balance throughout the season.

So, stopping fighting the urge to ward off winter and start working with it to enjoy the warmhearted memories you’re now creating.

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

262-245-9030

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Porch Appeal

in Home Ideas, Outdoor Living, Porch/by Lowell Custom Homes

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

The Entry Porch

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

The Overhang Alcove

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

Feelin’ the Breezeway

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

Wrap-Around Charm

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

Protected Paradise

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

Sleeping Porch Arrangements

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

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

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

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

262.245.9030

Screened in porch interior Lowell Custom Homes in Lake Geneva WI

Screened Porches – Bug Free Outdoor Bliss

in Indoor Outdoor Spaces, Outdoor Living/by Lowell Custom Homes

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

Ideal Location for Your Porch

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

The Anatomy of a Screened Porch

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

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

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

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

Final Touches

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

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

Fun facts about this home:

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

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

Photography is by Shanna Wolf, S.Photography and Styling

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

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

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

Lowell Custom Homes

262.245.9030

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

Curb Appeal

in Architecture, Building a New Home, Custom Builder, Custom Detailing & Millwork, Design Ideas, Remodeling/by Lowell Custom Homes

Curb appeal is that “wow factor” that begins with the design of every home. One of the secrets to our success is the attention we give to details during every phase of design and construction. We want to share some of those details we consider so you too can elevate your home to neighborhood celebrity status.
You will have them at “hello” with a stunning drive that paves the way to your entry. The driveway material and configuration should compliment the overall character of your home. Straight drives support formality while curved hardscaping encourages a relaxed atmosphere. Pavers, stone and decorative concrete can all elevate an imposing necessity to captivating pathway.

After that initial Ahhh moment, your homes details will come into focus. We are especially fond of interesting roof lines that engage the eye. Doors, windows, and woodworking must all be true to a homes overall style. While function is a priority, there is no need to ignore good principles of balance and proportion when placing architectural features. The exterior material selections offer an opportunity to further your stunning impression with a tasteful blends of color and texture.

The walkway should also support the general style of your home. The same formality rules apply, along with an additional opportunity to include new statement materials. Natural stone at this point will create a gentle transition for the eye as it moves from nature to the built environment.

The planted softscaping of shrubbery, lawn and flowers will strengthen that lasting impression. The layout should help identify the path for visitors and lead them to your entry or entertainment destinations on the property. Plantings can intrigue as they allow the view to slowly unfold or present an instant Ta-DA moment. Hearty plants are a wise choice near driveways to withstand winter clearing activities.

Features like columns, canopies, and porches all create points of reference and more opportunity to carry through on your homes period style. Copulas, trellis and window boxes can be added in accordance with modern or traditional architecture. When canopies or awnings are used to cover windows and doors there can be an energy saving bonus as they buffer sun and wind.

Curb appeal is enhanced at night with the tasteful illumination of architecture and landscape features. Defining pathways and entry points with lighting is a safe and considerate way to welcome friends. The added security is a noteworthy benefit for the entire neighborhood.

Finally we saved the most adaptable feature of every home for last. The front door is the personality point to tell the world a little bit about who you are. It can be a sneak peek at your homes interior style or a charming landmark for neighbors out on an evening stroll.
If you have a difficult time deciding on a door color, try this fun quiz for some guidance.
http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/23794956/list/Houzz-Quiz–What-Color-Should-Your-Front-Door-Be-

Here at Lowell we are known for building beautiful homes that make memorable first impressions. Our key to captivating curb appeal is a consistent vision and we are here to share that expertise with you when you are ready to build or remodel.

Creating Attractive Outdoor Living Spaces

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

“Spring is nature’s way of saying, ‘Let’s Party!'” Robin Williams

Longer days and calmer temperatures signal a return to outdoor living. Using nature as a backdrop, the open-air space surrounding your home can provide hours of delight and relaxation. Multiple studies have shown that just looking outdoors will activate the part of the brain related to thoughts of balance and happiness. Take advantage of natures feel-good with the creation of al fresco spaces that will also enhance the square footage and value of your home.

The most successful outdoor space will be an extension of your homes interior style while blending with the surroundings. A perfect plan will provide appealing and useful outdoor “rooms” as well as beautiful scenes when you look out the window.

Where do you start?

Our recommendation is to first make a list of any daily activities that would be pleasurable if moved outdoors. Often relaxation tops the list, with entertainment, cooking and play space following closely.

Take inventory of your property and the available options to create outdoor rooms. Consider exposure to the elements, the direction of sunlight and your desire for privacy vs. neighborhood interaction. This will guide the placement of your outdoor living space to the front, side or back yard of your home.

Next evaluate your floor plan and the most logical points for moving from indoors out. The more convenient this transition, the more you will use your outdoor areas. When building or remodeling, we like to feature specialty Nano (folding) or French Doors to visually diminish the indoor/outdoor line and encourage fluid movement.

An informal sketch of your property showing home placement will allow you to designate logical active and calm areas. Allow for entertaining and family fun as well quiet activities like reading, napping and gardening.

Consider ways to lengthen the time you can enjoy spring and summer months by including the protection of a covered porch or three season room.

Connect your outdoor living areas with landscaping, walkways and privacy screening than integrates the outdoor space with the overall architecture of your home.

Finally, remember that there are experts, like those at Lowell Management, with the expertise and ability to guide you in the planning and execution of your new home and remodeling projects.

Tag Archive for: screened in porch

Natural Materials

Soft Furnishings

Warm Color & Texture

Layering Pattern

Quiet Moments

Fireplace Gatherings

Inviting Spaces

Scented Spaces

Embrace Friluftsliv – The Outdoor Extension of Hygge

Daily Rituals

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

262-245-9030

The Entry Porch

The Overhang Alcove

Feelin’ the Breezeway

Wrap-Around Charm

Protected Paradise

Sleeping Porch Arrangements

262.245.9030

Ideal Location for Your Porch

The Anatomy of a Screened Porch

Final Touches

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

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

Lowell Custom Homes

262.245.9030

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