Tag Archive for: summer entertaining

Backyard Resort

Why count down the days until your next vacation when you can relax in your own private backyard resort every day to summer!

 After spending several blissful years in their Lowell Custom Home these homeowners decided to take it to the next level with some enticing property improvements.   Take a look at how they created the perfect spot for relaxing and entertaining at home!

The Big Picture

It starts with a plan that includes space for your favorite pastimes.  Use your most memorable resort as inspiration and then personalize the ideas to create a space where you can truly live your best life on a daily basis.

Outdoor Pool or Water Feature

Backyard Resort Outdoor Pool and spa

A water feature will set the mood for relaxation.  It can be a pool, spa or even a fountain for a multisensory experience that includes the cascading sounds of water.

See more outdoor living ideas here.

Multiple Seating Areas

Sun or shade, active or quiet, multiple seating areas are the ideal way to accommodate the days activities with options to suit your mood.

Outdoor Kitchen

Backyard resort outdoor kitchen

No one wants to be confined to the kitchen and miss summertime fun, so keep meals simple and bring the cook outdoors.  This outdoor kitchen was created with cabinetry from Danver Luxury Stainless Steel Outdoor Kitchens and designed by Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC.  We love the summer cool-down tips on the Geneva Cabinet blog, read them here!

AlFresco Dining

One of the most satisfying part of a resort vacation is dining outdoors.  This protected dining niche is conveniently located near the outdoor kitchen and acts as an extension of the indoor living room.   It even has motorized retractable screens from Midwest Screen that are there when you need them and disappear when you don’t.

Warm It Up Outdoors

The outdoor fire pit or fireplace is perfect for extending your day .  Take the chill out of the air with an intimate seating arrangement then get ready to toast s’mores.  A fire feature will extend your fair-weather season while keeping the bugs away.  This cozy gas fire pit is low maintenance and well integrated into the landscape.

Light the Way

Backyard Resortlandscape lighting

Subtle lighting along the way lends a resort feel to your property by adding ambiance while guiding you safely along the path.

Enjoy Your Favorite Pastimes

Backyard Resort Golf Tee

Feel like a pro with your own backyard putting green, bocce ball court or croquet court.  The idea is to make space in your life for the things you love, and then create a convenient space where you can enjoy them more often.

Quality Outdoor Time At Home

You will start relaxing as soon as you pull in the driveway when you have an outdoor space like this!

For a complete outdoor living checklist click here!

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

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

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.Extend a warm welcome to houseguests when they first arrive Interior Design by Elizabeth Drake

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.
Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva Wisconsin Interior Design by Elizabeth Drake

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.
Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva Wisconsin Interior Design by Elizabeth Drake
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.
Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva Wisconsin Interior Design by The Design Coach

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.
Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva Wisconsin Interior Design by Elizabeth Drake

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.Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva Wisconsin

Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva Wisconsin

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.
Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva Wisconsin Cabinetry by Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC

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.
Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva Wisconsin

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.
Lowell Custom Homes Lake Geneva Wisconsin

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.

Print and frame for your houseguests

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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