Home Remodeling with Emerging Trends

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

The Brady’s may have restored their home to its 1970’s glory, but most home remodels look to the future of design for inspiration. Lifestyle changes over the years have placed new demands on the home environment. Our goal is to help homeowner’s make updates that will evolve along with their ever changing needs.

Whether you’re remodeling to maximize the sale price of your home or stay in place with every conceivable comfort, these are the freshest home ideas to consider.

Nature with a Modern Vibe

Large windows and open spaces expand a room by letting the outdoors in. A stunning approach is to contrast nature with sleek modern forms that lend a sculpture- in-the-garden mood to the interior.

The Golden Touch

Gold tones have been resurrected in recent years and show no sign of phasing out. We are seeing it used throughout the home design in light fixtures, hardware and interior accent pieces. This warm metallic works very well with the predicted vibrant, neutral and warm tones seen on the latest Pantone color forecast for 2020.

Bold Beautiful Color

A step toward deep rich color is the perfect contrast to our modern neutral interiors. Save this look for extra impact in the intimate areas like the library, home office or even powder room.

Textured Elements

One of our favorite elements of interior design is often overlooked. The presence of texture in a room provides a rich backdrop for living. Subtle visual patterns on contrasting material play together beautifully to define a space. Wall paneling, fireplace stone and herringbone floors all add to the refined casual character of this room.

Tile Envy

We just can’t leave our subway tile alone when there are so many beautiful options available to artfully accent its classic appeal. Mixing and blending tile shapes and colors will take the common bath to the next level.

Leisure Spaces

There is no slow down in the trend to create entertainment areas in and around the home. These include spaces for the pursuit of specialized hobbies as well as escape and relaxation.

Small Rooms, Big Ideas

Whether it’s a powder room or laundry area, every space within the home deserves design attention. The intimate size gives you more freedom to venture outside of the box without fear.

Watch this video to see the dramatic before and after changes that resulted in a thoroughly modern makeover!

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

We always love hearing from you and are happy to discuss your personal home projects!

Lowell Custom Homes

262.245.9030

Call or Click Here to Contact Us

Interior Design for the featured home is by StephMusur.com & 610HomeGeneva.com

Home Trends from High Point Market

in Home Ideas, Trends/by Lowell Custom Homes

. . . and what they mean for your home!

While our expertise is building homes with timeless appeal, we always have an eye out for trends that can lend a refreshing note. This spring High Point Market in North Carolina introduced furnishings that will make their way into stores next season. We see a leaning towards products that express a strong personal point of view. Here are a few of the standout trends and what they mean for home design.

Modern and Classic Unite

Robert James Collection Coronado Bed

Applied to your home, this means traditional shapes with a clean modern edge. Here we show the look in a library with classic details refined by a linear perspective .

Laid Back Elegance

thibault showroom high point market 2019

Thibaut High Point Showroom – New Fabrics and Wallcoverings

At home this trend is expressed with a more casual mix of materials like rustic stone on the fireplace, finely detailed woodworking and a mixed media chandelier.

Artisan & Handcrafted

Abigails.net Feathered Vase

Components with an artisan touch are more and more popular at home. This hand hammered copper freestanding bathtub will develop a patina to accompany its sculptured shape. To see the entire home click here.

Natural Influence

Howard Elliott Antique Brass Faux Bois Coffee Table

Natural elements are a major influence in decor and construction. This kitchen island stands out with a scraped and distressed natural wood countertop by Grothouse from Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC in Lake Geneva. To enjoy this entire home click here.

Strong Color

Caracole Furniture Showroom at High Point Market

Thankfully the era of the accent wall is over. We are no longer afraid to experience strong color either skillfully wrapped around the walls or artfully applied to cabinetry and furniture, as demonstrated in this lovely home. You can see the rest of the color story by clicking here.

Interior Design by Elizabeth Drake

Some of our favorite pieces are highlighted on this mood board, follow the numbered links for source information. For even more inspiration visit Instagram for High Point Market.

One of our past blogs described how a home can hold the secret to happiness (read more about that here). One last part of the process is establishing a personal point of view, these latest trends will help with that.

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

Gatherings Making memories at home for the holidays

Gatherings – A Time When Memories Are Made

in Home Entertainment, Trends/by Lowell Custom Homes

Memorable gatherings, great and small, begin in a home that radiates warmth. Sharing the comforts of your home is one of the most meaningful gifts you can give for the holidays. While daily lifestyle takes precedence in home design, here are a few features that are truly appreciated by guests.

Welcoming Entry

Before the doorbell rings your home is making its first impression. The character of this home is reminiscent of a French Country Chateau with exterior lighting that glows to guide visitors forward. The richly stained and subtly arched entry doors are framed by curved corbels and surrounded by dimensional stone work. For more inviting exterior ideas click here!

Balance

Guests are reassured by a sense of balance. The beautiful symmetry of this living room plays a gracious role communicating comfort.

Inviting Flow

Unobstructed views and an open floor plan encourage a relaxed flow throughout the home.

Lovely Scale & Proportion

Scale is more important than size when creating a welcoming room. This floor to ceiling stone fireplace is perfectly at home in a room that can support its dramatic presence with ample ceiling volume. View more ideally proportioned interiors in our gallery by clicking here.

Options for Intimacy

Large formal rooms are lovely, but at times a scaled down room is just right for more intimate gatherings. Here, fine handcrafted details are perfectly proportioned for a more personal setting.

Versatile and Multifunctional

We all love an open kitchen, but at times you just want to pull the curtain, or in this case the pocket door, on the chaos. Built-in versatility is the key to spaces that perform day-to-day as well as when entertaining. This kitchen can be a place for meal preparations, casual dining, or mingling.

Party in the Front, Business in the Back

Function is a priority, especially in kitchen design. Here a dramatic oversized island is part of the design by Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC. At first glance you’ll notice show-stopping good looks, but a peek around to the back side exposes easy-to-access storage, wide open work surface and undercounted appliances.

Staging Area

Behind the scenes at any great event is a well executed plan. This spacious laundry room can double as a butler’s pantry while thoughtfully designed cabinet interiors are a thing of beauty every day.

Seasonal Transitions

A protected indoor-outdoor area is appreciated by many guests. This screened in room offers comfort and style along with a little fresh air.

Time to Unwind

And finally, after the last air-kiss good-night, every homeowner deserves a place to unwind and reminisce about the exciting events of the day.

That should include the privacy of a Master Bedroom and Bath Suite as the perfect place to rejuvenate for the next round of holiday festivities.

We send our heartfelt thanks

to our customers and all of those who follow

our activities as we build these lovely homes,

always,

and especially this holiday season!

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 Houzz portfolio 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.

The kitchen by Geneva Cabinet Company, LLC features cabinetry fromPlato Woodwork, Inc.

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Television Debates – We answer the age old question, where to put the TV

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

Back in the day, designers would disguise a big boxy television set with a big boxy piece of furniture. Thankfully the inventors of flat screen television (talk amongst yourselves to identify the first) put an end to the madness.
Flat screen television units eliminate the proverbial elephant in the room. Television placement has never been more liberated. We can now bring our attention back to business of design, without the burden of bulk.

Pay no attention to the television behind the picture

Often more traditional homes, or interiors that want to maintain a more formal appearance, will opt for complete concealment. Now this camouflage can be smoothly integrated into the design of any room. Just a slight recess in the wall or fireplace will provide an opportunity for doors or artwork to complete the disguise.

Tastefully absorbed by built-in paneling and shelving

Intimacy and comfort are heightened when the background wraps you in an undisturbed shell. The key to success is a light hand when accessorizing the nearby shelving in order to reduce distraction from your favorite program. Lighting should be adjustable to avoid glare that could cause eye strain.

Is it wrong to put the television above the fireplace?

Not anymore, especially when it’s hidden in plain sight. Dark tones on the wall prevent a large screen from visually intruding on your space. When placing your television at this height, be sure to use an adjustable arm that allows you to angle it downward for better viewing.

The great frame up

Building a frame around the screen is a streamline solution, especially when it’s balanced by black accents. The stone fireplace surround keeps the television from making the room top heavy.

Rise above the hustle and bustle

In the kitchen or office a high recessed niche is the perfect way to get your daytime television fix while keeping workspace clear.

It’s just another appliance

Your favorite programs line up perfectly on the backsplash providing an ever-changing design element to eliminate kitchen boredom.

The no excuses approach

Sometimes a TV just needs to be a TV, but this is no afterthought. Mounting directly to the wall saves space while knotty cedar paneling provides an interesting and unexpected contrast. The symmetrical arrangement of architectural features, like these flanking and clearstory window, will create balance for a serene effect.

Television as wall mural

An extra large screen acts as an ever-changing backdrop for your leisure activities. Conversation is encouraged when seating is versatile and viewers can face each other or the screen.

Indulge Yourself

Weather the urge is “all sports, all the time” or a battle of HGTV, BRAVO, and The Cooking Channel, a multiscreen arrangement will immerse you in entertainment.

One last tip

When choosing the placement of your television it really comes down to size. For comfort refer to his guide for viewing distance.

Happy Viewing!

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

We are just a call away 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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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.

Good Things Come in Small Packages

in Accessibility, Aging, Building a New Home, Custom Builder, Downsizing, Empty Nester, Trends/by Lowell Custom Homes

This old proverb traces back to early French literature, and we find it especially meaningful during the holiday season. Whether applied to gift giving, people or even homes, the lesson is one of genuine appreciation.

We build homes with a smaller footprint for a variety of homeowner needs. Empty nesters, second homes, lot restrictions, or the need for easy accessibility, are all factors that can play into the square footage equation.

But don’t confuse smaller with a lack of luxury. In fact, scaled down homes like this little gem often emphasize details that define a new type of luxury. Quality, craftsmanship and a perfect fit are more significant than size for many of today’s homeowners.

And small certainly does not mean subtle when applied to architecture and design. Open floor plans with high ceilings give the illusion of unlimited space. Cue the soaring windows and the home expands beyond actual proportions.

A smaller home permits manageable splurges on elements that are most meaningful to each homeowner. Hand-scraped wood flooring, floor-to-ceiling built-in storage, and connoisseur appliances are all realistic investments when the square footage is moderate.

The reputation of Lowell Custom Homes was built on high quality construction, superior craftsmanship and detailed woodworking. The same standards of excellence are used on every home, regardless of size. Your needs may run towards a smaller package, but know that all of the good things you value will be inside.

We appreciate the opportunity to build homes that become part of the lives and memories of our homeowners.

Homeowner thank you for their new home Lowell Custom Homes Good things come in small packages

Note from the owners of this cozy little cottage.

Architectural Attraction – How to choose the architecture and style of your home

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

A stunning first impression is an invitation to consider who’s behind the front door.

Curb appeal or Rorschach test? What does the exterior of your home say about you?

When building a new home, choosing all of the parts and pieces that express your unique style is exciting. This can also be a bit overwhelming when you’re now sure about what you want your style to say. Having a good idea about the design and architecture you find appealing will help the entire process run smoothly.
A home can be architecturally faithful to a historic period, or reference a point in time with adaptations for modern lifestyles. We customize every home for the perfect balance of architecture, lifestyle and character. Browse through some of our favorite exteriors to help identify your style preferences. Then be sure to take the style quiz at the end to guide you in the selection of the perfect home for you and your family.

Cape Cod

This historic charmer has its roots in New England with inspiration from Britain’s thatched cottages. Its popularity grew post World War II as a modestly priced option in housing. This style is a classic and can be expanded in size with upscale amenities.

Style Features

Symmetrical exterior with centered front door
Steep roof with side gables and dormer windows
Clean lines with siding of clapboard, shingles or brick

Style Attraction

Simplified style can range from casual or moderately formal
Excellent choice as starter home or vacation home
Compact footprint adapts well to smaller lot size and lends itself well to future additions

Craftsman

An impressive comeback is in progress for the Craftsman Style, which emerged in 1905 from the Arts and Crafts Movement. This style is characterized by modest yet meaningful carpentry details and the use of natural materials. It is uniquely American with a nostalgic reference to the home kits sold in pattern books and catalogs.

Style Features

Wide porch with tapered columns on shingled, stone or brick piers
Low-pitched roof with exposed rafter tails
Emphasis on rustic qualities using natural and local materials

Style Attraction

Relaxed atmosphere that encourages togetherness for families or entertaining
Organic quality with gentle transition between indoor and outdoor spaces
Open floorplans with built in niches for convenient storage

Farmhouse

Unpretentious and real, these homes are streamlined versions of Victorian or Colonial architecture. The pure form is based on need and efficiency rather than ornamentation. Uncomplicated lines make this style suitable for both country and urban aesthetics.

Style Features

Front or side gabled roof with tall windows and second story dormers
Signature wide or wraparound porch covered by roof overhang
Rectangular structure with additions, all covered in lap siding

Style Attraction

Casual comfort with sprawling, light, and airy spaces
Minimalist appeal balanced with the warmth of county styling
Large kitchen or gathering spaces that relate to the outdoors

Victorian

Complex and ornate, the Victorian home is rich with detail and covers popular styles from the Queen Ann, Gothic Revival, Italianate and Romanesque architectural periods.

Style Features

Asymmetrical with complex intersecting gabled or hipped roofs
Steep roof pitches with turrets, towers, and eyebrow dormers
Detailed, often with lacy ornamental work and decorative shingle patterns

Style Attraction

Romantic quality with whimsical details
Architectural details are complimented by multi-color schemes
Layout offers opportunity for privacy and special purpose rooms

Shingle Style

Uniquely American, the Shingle style incorporates Queen Ann and Colonial Revival architecture with the costal free form character that originated along the shores of New England.

Style Features

Asymmetrical forms featuring multi level eaves, towers, dormers and eyebrow windows
Rambling shapes unified by shingle siding, often on a rough-faced stone foundation
Wrapped porches, classic columns and expansive windows

Style Attraction

High style inspired by architects of New England’s seaside resort design
Relaxed formality with breezy rambling floor plans
Strong relationships between indoor and outdoor rooms

Dutch Colonial

With humble beginning as early American one-room houses, the Dutch Colonial hosts highly efficient floor plan. Resembling a barn, the gambrel roof creates extra living space without adding a second story.

Style Features

Gambrel roof structures adaptable to multiple architectural periods
Moderate roof pitch, dormer windows often with flared eaves
Round window on gable end of roof and covered entry often with pediment top

Style Attraction

Efficient personality making every square inch productive
Friendly human-scaled structure with intriguing curb appeal
Timeless design in a cost efficient structure

Traditional

This American icon is rooted in the 1600’s and continually adapts to lifestyle trends. Using classic Colonial or Tudor architecture as inspiration, these homes present a formal façade to the public while integrating comfortable living areas behind the scenes.

Style Features

Steep roof pitches allowing for volume ceilings and loft areas
Combination brick, stucco and siding exteriors
Symmetrical or Asymmetrical exteriors with covered entry

Style Attraction

A balance of formal public spaces with relaxed private areas
Gentle application of historically accurate details
Floor plans that are adaptable for modern lifestyles

European Influence

European style homes suggest features from Country French and English Tudor homes dating back to the 18^th century. The emphasis is on high quality finishes, and large scale spaces for a luxurious experience.

Style Features

Steeply pitched roofs with multiple generously sized chimneys
Brick and stucco exteriors with details trimmed in stone
Formalized balance to the ornamental and structural details

Style Attraction

Accommodates a highly formal to semi formal lifestyle
Well-appointed design with luxurious amenities
Highly attentive to historic accuracy in the architectural details

Cottage Style

Whimsical features often add to the storybook appeal of cottage style homes. The intimate scale features romantic details borrowed from medieval times. It is the perfect starter or vacation home that can be enlarged and still maintain its charm.

Style Features

Intimate scale with an abundance of picturesque details
Steep roof pitches, cross gables and arched doorways
Bright exterior color scheme surrounded by flower gardens

Style Attraction

Romantic character with an effortless country attitude
Meandering walkway to the main entry and throughout property
Cozy and inviting style that translates well to larger spaces

While these beautiful homes express some of today’s most popular architecture, we have a full team of designers and an AIA architect who will work with you to design a home that truly reflects your personal style and lifestyle.

You can start to discover your style personality with this fast and fun Style Quiz from Homegoods . It’s amazingly accurate!

Image Credit: Style Quiz from Homegoods

Next learn more about various architectural styles, by visiting this helpful guide from Realtor Magazine.

Image Credit: Realtor Magazine

Be sure to stop by the Lowell Website for more information about building and remodeling your home.

You can view the Lowell Gallery of Homes on our website

or visit our portfolio on Houzz.

While you’re there, check out the Houzz Decorating Personality Quiz!

We enjoying hearing from you, so contact us for answers to your home building and remodeling questions!

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

Tag Archive for: top home trends

Nature with a Modern Vibe

The Golden Touch

Bold Beautiful Color

Textured Elements

Tile Envy

Leisure Spaces

Small Rooms, Big Ideas

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

We always love hearing from you and are happy to discuss your personal home projects!

Lowell Custom Homes

262.245.9030

. . . and what they mean for your home!

Modern and Classic Unite

Laid Back Elegance

Artisan & Handcrafted

Natural Influence

Strong Color

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

We send our heartfelt thanks

to our customers and all of those who follow

our activities as we build these lovely homes,

always,

and especially this holiday season!

Pay no attention to the television behind the picture

Tastefully absorbed by built-in paneling and shelving

Is it wrong to put the television above the fireplace?

The great frame up

Rise above the hustle and bustle

It’s just another appliance

The no excuses approach

Television as wall mural

Indulge Yourself

One last tip

Happy Viewing!

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

We are just a call away 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

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

We appreciate the opportunity to build homes that become part of the lives and memories of our homeowners.

A stunning first impression is an invitation to consider who’s behind the front door.

Curb appeal or Rorschach test? What does the exterior of your home say about you?

Cape Cod

Style Features

Style Attraction

Craftsman

Style Features

Style Attraction

Farmhouse

Style Features

Style Attraction

Victorian

Style Features

Style Attraction

Shingle Style

Style Features

Style Attraction

Dutch Colonial

Style Features