Search results for "Community oriented environment" in Home Design Ideas

The homes in Heritage Hills in Chapel Hill, NC are representative of the popularity and explosive growth of American Home Ownership that occurred during the economic expansion that followed the end of WW II. They were designed and built to foster the benefits and sense of “community”, where families could come together and share theirs and their children’s lives. They are typically in very desirable locations within their larger communities, and remodeling them with modern amenities, increasing the performance and efficiency of them, and having them Green Certified (independent third-party verified) makes them extremely attractive to buyers, and helps to raise other property values within the neighborhood.
Green Certified Remodeled Homes offer significant value and advantage in the marketplace over similar homes in their area, which is especially important as a new, younger era of home buyers enter the market. Current trends suggest that younger (as well as many “seasoned”) homeowners are interested in smaller, more efficient (and thus affordable) homes situated closer to shopping, their work, entertainment opportunities, and access to the economic and environmental benefits of mass transit.
These older homes also offer an additional value that is continuing to gain visibility and appreciation in the market place. They were built from lumber from slower-growth trees (denser and harder wood), and as such offer superior structural support compared to the same home built using lumber from today’s faster-growing (softer and less-dense wood) trees.
Robin and Kent had lived in their 2-story Gambrel Roof home in Heritage Hills since 1994. The house was structurally sound, due in large part to the old-growth (and denser) yellow pine that was used in its framing. They loved the quiet neighborhood, its sense of community and amenities, and their home. It suited their life-style and needs; and they had decided that they would remain in the home. It was showing its age, and was in need of general repairs and maintenance, and its energy, water, and indoor air quality performance was continuing to increase their ongoing cost of ownership.
Robin loved the screen porch that looked out on their private and nicely landscaped back yard, but she wanted to be able to use it in the colder months of the year. She was unsatisfied with the kitchen and the mud room / laundry room, and the darkness of other living spaces. A previous water leak in the laundry room had resulted in a large patch of mold that had compromised flooring, wall board, and insulation and contributed to the homes reduced indoor air quality.
The home lacked insulation in the crawl, and inadequate insulation in the attic. The single HVAC unit had been replaced a few years earlier with a more efficient unit, but with a single programmable thermostat control on the first floor and aging and un-insulated ducting, the second floor was often over-heated in the summer months.
The original wood windows had begun to deteriorate and were drafty and inefficient, and the original wood-burning fireplace was an open conduit for escaping conditioned air as well as an inlet for wood-smoke smelling air being pulled into the home. The siding had been replaced a few years earlier with a cement-fiber product, but the exterior wood trim was compromised and beginning to look unsightly. Its original architecture had been altered over the years in ways that presented ongoing maintenance and durability issues, as well as disrupting the elegance of the original design.
Kent has worked for over 30 years in the Environmental Sciences field, and is considered to be a national expert in understanding the sources of, and human exposure to pollutants in indoor environments. He had always been very conscious and cautious about the effects on indoor air quality that the construction, furnishings, and products used in home had on him and his family.
Project Goals
Increase the performance of their home by improving energy efficiency by at least 40% and lowering their natural gas and electric utility costs.
Increase the performance of their home by reducing water usage by at least 40% and lowering the water utility costs.
Increase the comfort of their home that was being compromised by an inadequate HVAC design, inadequate insulation, inefficient and compromised wood windows, and copious air intrusions and drafts.
Improve the healthiness of the homes indoor air quality that was being compromised by an open wood-burning fireplace, and prior water intrusion that had allowed colonies of mold to thrive.
Create a new Kitchen, Family Room, Home Office, Mudroom, and Laundry Room that featured some of the latest designs and trends and harmonized with the rest of the homes charm.
Increase the usefulness and aesthetics of the screened porch by creating a warm and inviting semi-conditioned 3-Season Room that extended the times during the year that it was comfortable.
Introduce day-lighting into areas of the home that were dark and uninviting.
Brighten and harmonize all of the interior finishes.
Protect and restore the exterior of the home with superior-performing products and finishes.
Achieve Gold Level Green Home Certification in conformance with the ICC 700-2012 National Green Building Standards (NGBS).

LEED Certification Level: Platinum.
Builder: R & S Engineering & Construction.
The Cavanaugh Residence is a contemporary split level with a split personality. Totally designed from the ground up to minimize impact and maximize energy and water efficiency, its beautiful facade belies its hard-working, high-producing systems, earning it a LEED Platinum score of 116.5, and a HERS rating of minus 22. The 2774 square foot home produces over 100 per cent of its power with a 10.8 kw pv system, and captures 100 per cent of its freshwater needs from the curved metal roofs through an engineered collection and purification system, stored in an integrated concrete cistern.
Constructed of locally made SIP panels on an infill waterfront lot, the home is oriented to maximize the production of the pv panels. Six inch SIP panels work together with a highly reflective, highly emmisive cool standing seam roof, icynene insulation in ceiling and floors, and carefully placed high efficiency windows and doors to create a tightly sealed environment. The 17-seer Trane heat pump variable speed compressors and TAM 7 air handlers, along with a whole house dehumidifier and fresh air intake provide a comfortable, clean indoor environment while using little energy. In the shoulder seasons, natural ventilation cools the home with fresh breezes drawn from lower windows in each room flowing through the curved ceilings to clerestory windows at the top of the house.
Natural daylighting, with windows placed in corners and high clerestories, bounce the abundant natural light so that the owners use the interior LED lighting primarily at night. Windows were sited to frame views of the neighboring park and water, and capture the light, but represent a very low percentage of glazing to wall to conserve energy.
Primarily native, xeriscaped turfless landscaping sips reclaimed water from its drip and bubbler irrigiation system, and requires little trimming or chemicals. Established trees, protected during construction, shade the home, FSC certified decks, and yard, providing a cool place to enjoy the outdoors at any time of the day, even in Florida's summer heat.
Rainwater is diverted from the bay through the engineered collection and filtration system to an integrated concrete cistern hidden beneath the decks. Abundant Florida rainwater supplies 100 per cent of the home's needs, including drinking, bathing, and cleaning. Naturally soft, the highly filtered and UV purified water requires no chemical treatment or water softener. Coupled with minimal hardscape and permeable drive and walkways, almost all ground water remains on the lot, and out of storm sewers and bay runoffs.
Designed as a forever home for this active retired couple, an open floor plan provides diagonal interior views along with great circulation space. Wide hallways and doors, curbless showers, an elevator, and extra blocking in the walls for grab rails insures the couple of being able to use their home even if physical disabilities arise.
The home's footprint is minimized by building over the conditioned crawlspace and over-sized garage, and the finished floor height, at least two feet above flood code requirements, significantly reduces insurance costs while maximizing storage space for camping and water sports equipment.
Materials, fixtures and appliances were carefully selected for energy and water efficiency, local production where possible, recycled content/recyclability, durability, and cost-effectiveness. The owners were very involved in vetting and materials selections, and assisted in just-in-time purchasing to minimize waste. Scrap materials were sorted daily for re-use elsewhere in the project (blocking, concrete forms, drywall scraps as acoustical insulation in interior walls, etc.), resulting in a tiny waste pile at the end of a dumpster-free project. Concrete waste was hauled to a local recycler to become road base, and extra useable materials were returned to the vendor or donated to Habitat Restore.
Cost-effective choices, and careful planning, saved significant dollars in construction cost as well as landfill space.
One of the biggest challenges was finding qualified subcontractors who would work within the guidelines. With the help of our LEED consultant and meetings and explanations, most subcontractors not only bought into the ideas readily, but offered up new ideas. Highly skilled and professional, the team of subs, LEED consultant, and contractor proved that LEED construction is excellent construction.
The team, the owners, and I also found that LEED construction makes great economic sense. Most materials (other than increased insulation and photovoltaic panels) cost no more, and sometimes less, than those employed in construction of a lesser standard. The owners have been living in the home for a year now, and are thrilled with the results. No power bill. No water bill. Extremely low insurance bill. Minimal ground maintenance. No fabric softener. Reduced use of soap, detergents, and shampoos and cleaning supplies. Less time cleaning with spot-free rainwater. Careful planning and materials selection brought the project in under budget, and the home operates at an extremely low cost, both to the homeowners, and the environment. Who wouldn't be thrilled?

Envision Virtual Tours, Stuart Wade
Envision Virtual Tours and High Resolution Photography is your best choice to find just what you are looking for in the Blairsville Area . Knowing the areas and resources of Lake Nottely is our specialty. Whether you're looking for fishing on Lake Nottely, information and history of Blairsville, Ga. Learn all about Blairsville, Ga. here!
Blairsville, the county seat of Union County, was incorporated on December 26,1835 and remains the sole incorporated community in the county. At the heart of Downtown Blairsville is the Historic Union County Courthouse, constructed in 1899, and now home to everything from the Union County Historical Society and Friday Night Concerts to a military museum and dollhouse collection. Nearby is the Blairsville City Hall (formerly the "old" jail built in 1934). Both historical buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places.
Blairsville's Town Square is frequently the venue for annual events such as the Downtown Spring Arts & Crafts Festival, the Memorial Day Parade, the Green Bean Festival, the Bluegrass Festival, the Sorghum Parade, Hometown Halloween on the Square, and the Christmas Parade. Everyone is invited to these family orientated celebrations!
Just south of the Square, the Historical Society develops and maintains the Mountain Life Museum. It is home to the 1906 Grapel Mock House, the 1861 Payne Cabin, and annual events such as the Mountain Market and Heritage Festival. Look for live animals, heritage demonstrations, and hands-on activities such as panning for gold.
There are many exciting destinations in and around Blairsville. Meeks Park, Butternut Creek Golf Course, Lake Nottely, Helton Creek Falls, and the Appalachian Trail are a few of the most well-known attractions.
Blairsville is the place to be for outdoor fun. Nearly two-thirds of Union County is in the Chattahoochee National Forest. It includes Georgia's highest point, Brasstown Bald (with a visitors' center at the summit), Vogel State Park (the oldest and most popular state park in Georgia), and the Richard Russell Scenic Byway.
In 2011, Blairsville was designated as an official Appalachian Trail Community. This designation recognizes Blairsville for its part in promoting awareness of the Appalachian Trail as an important national and local resource.
In 2007 Blairsville was recognized as a Georgia Better Hometown, largely due to the community volunteer efforts of the Downtown Development Authority of Blairsville. Blairsville has many dedicated individuals and organizations that work together to make the city a great place to live (and to visit). Welcome to Blairsville, Georgia!
Find the right local pro for your project

Envision Virtual Tours, Stuart Wade
Envision Virtual Tours and High Resolution Photography is your best choice to find just what you are looking for in the Blairsville Area . Knowing the areas and resources of Lake Nottely is our specialty. Whether you're looking for fishing on Lake Nottely, information and history of Blairsville, Ga. Learn all about Blairsville, Ga. here!
Blairsville, the county seat of Union County, was incorporated on December 26,1835 and remains the sole incorporated community in the county. At the heart of Downtown Blairsville is the Historic Union County Courthouse, constructed in 1899, and now home to everything from the Union County Historical Society and Friday Night Concerts to a military museum and dollhouse collection. Nearby is the Blairsville City Hall (formerly the "old" jail built in 1934). Both historical buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places.
Blairsville's Town Square is frequently the venue for annual events such as the Downtown Spring Arts & Crafts Festival, the Memorial Day Parade, the Green Bean Festival, the Bluegrass Festival, the Sorghum Parade, Hometown Halloween on the Square, and the Christmas Parade. Everyone is invited to these family orientated celebrations!
Just south of the Square, the Historical Society develops and maintains the Mountain Life Museum. It is home to the 1906 Grapel Mock House, the 1861 Payne Cabin, and annual events such as the Mountain Market and Heritage Festival. Look for live animals, heritage demonstrations, and hands-on activities such as panning for gold.
There are many exciting destinations in and around Blairsville. Meeks Park, Butternut Creek Golf Course, Lake Nottely, Helton Creek Falls, and the Appalachian Trail are a few of the most well-known attractions.
Blairsville is the place to be for outdoor fun. Nearly two-thirds of Union County is in the Chattahoochee National Forest. It includes Georgia's highest point, Brasstown Bald (with a visitors' center at the summit), Vogel State Park (the oldest and most popular state park in Georgia), and the Richard Russell Scenic Byway.
In 2011, Blairsville was designated as an official Appalachian Trail Community. This designation recognizes Blairsville for its part in promoting awareness of the Appalachian Trail as an important national and local resource.
In 2007 Blairsville was recognized as a Georgia Better Hometown, largely due to the community volunteer efforts of the Downtown Development Authority of Blairsville. Blairsville has many dedicated individuals and organizations that work together to make the city a great place to live (and to visit). Welcome to Blairsville, Georgia!

The intention behind the canyon is to create community - a place for people to walk, hang out, and visit with neighbors. The canyon, separating the 7 homes, ranges from 10 to nearly 18 feet wide, and is oriented north south, with a spur to the west. This orientation permits people to walk in from either 19th Avenue or E. Pine Street, or in from their car, which is discreetly tucked at the edge of the site. Here, the auto knows its place, and neighbors have a chance to interact in an informal setting.
The canyon's orientation allows for southern light and air to reach all of the units and penetrate the site. Entries are accessed from the pedestrian canyon. The massing allows roof decks with views back into the canyon and to the Cascade Mountains to the east for all homes. Parking is covered under a trellis.
Urban Canyon was selected as a Future Shack Award Winner by AIA Seattle in 2010 and a Project of the Month by AIA Seattle in 2009.

The homes in Heritage Hills in Chapel Hill, NC are representative of the popularity and explosive growth of American Home Ownership that occurred during the economic expansion that followed the end of WW II. They were designed and built to foster the benefits and sense of “community”, where families could come together and share theirs and their children’s lives. They are typically in very desirable locations within their larger communities, and remodeling them with modern amenities, increasing the performance and efficiency of them, and having them Green Certified (independent third-party verified) makes them extremely attractive to buyers, and helps to raise other property values within the neighborhood.
Green Certified Remodeled Homes offer significant value and advantage in the marketplace over similar homes in their area, which is especially important as a new, younger era of home buyers enter the market. Current trends suggest that younger (as well as many “seasoned”) homeowners are interested in smaller, more efficient (and thus affordable) homes situated closer to shopping, their work, entertainment opportunities, and access to the economic and environmental benefits of mass transit.
These older homes also offer an additional value that is continuing to gain visibility and appreciation in the market place. They were built from lumber from slower-growth trees (denser and harder wood), and as such offer superior structural support compared to the same home built using lumber from today’s faster-growing (softer and less-dense wood) trees.
Robin and Kent had lived in their 2-story Gambrel Roof home in Heritage Hills since 1994. The house was structurally sound, due in large part to the old-growth (and denser) yellow pine that was used in its framing. They loved the quiet neighborhood, its sense of community and amenities, and their home. It suited their life-style and needs; and they had decided that they would remain in the home. It was showing its age, and was in need of general repairs and maintenance, and its energy, water, and indoor air quality performance was continuing to increase their ongoing cost of ownership.
Robin loved the screen porch that looked out on their private and nicely landscaped back yard, but she wanted to be able to use it in the colder months of the year. She was unsatisfied with the kitchen and the mud room / laundry room, and the darkness of other living spaces. A previous water leak in the laundry room had resulted in a large patch of mold that had compromised flooring, wall board, and insulation and contributed to the homes reduced indoor air quality.
The home lacked insulation in the crawl, and inadequate insulation in the attic. The single HVAC unit had been replaced a few years earlier with a more efficient unit, but with a single programmable thermostat control on the first floor and aging and un-insulated ducting, the second floor was often over-heated in the summer months.
The original wood windows had begun to deteriorate and were drafty and inefficient, and the original wood-burning fireplace was an open conduit for escaping conditioned air as well as an inlet for wood-smoke smelling air being pulled into the home. The siding had been replaced a few years earlier with a cement-fiber product, but the exterior wood trim was compromised and beginning to look unsightly. Its original architecture had been altered over the years in ways that presented ongoing maintenance and durability issues, as well as disrupting the elegance of the original design.
Kent has worked for over 30 years in the Environmental Sciences field, and is considered to be a national expert in understanding the sources of, and human exposure to pollutants in indoor environments. He had always been very conscious and cautious about the effects on indoor air quality that the construction, furnishings, and products used in home had on him and his family.
Project Goals
Increase the performance of their home by improving energy efficiency by at least 40% and lowering their natural gas and electric utility costs.
Increase the performance of their home by reducing water usage by at least 40% and lowering the water utility costs.
Increase the comfort of their home that was being compromised by an inadequate HVAC design, inadequate insulation, inefficient and compromised wood windows, and copious air intrusions and drafts.
Improve the healthiness of the homes indoor air quality that was being compromised by an open wood-burning fireplace, and prior water intrusion that had allowed colonies of mold to thrive.
Create a new Kitchen, Family Room, Home Office, Mudroom, and Laundry Room that featured some of the latest designs and trends and harmonized with the rest of the homes charm.
Increase the usefulness and aesthetics of the screened porch by creating a warm and inviting semi-conditioned 3-Season Room that extended the times during the year that it was comfortable.
Introduce day-lighting into areas of the home that were dark and uninviting.
Brighten and harmonize all of the interior finishes.
Protect and restore the exterior of the home with superior-performing products and finishes.
Achieve Gold Level Green Home Certification in conformance with the ICC 700-2012 National Green Building Standards (NGBS).

Envision Virtual Tours, Stuart Wade
Envision Virtual Tours and High Resolution Photography is your best choice to find just what you are looking for in the Blairsville Area . Knowing the areas and resources of Lake Nottely is our specialty. Whether you're looking for fishing on Lake Nottely, information and history of Blairsville, Ga. Learn all about Blairsville, Ga. here!
Blairsville, the county seat of Union County, was incorporated on December 26,1835 and remains the sole incorporated community in the county. At the heart of Downtown Blairsville is the Historic Union County Courthouse, constructed in 1899, and now home to everything from the Union County Historical Society and Friday Night Concerts to a military museum and dollhouse collection. Nearby is the Blairsville City Hall (formerly the "old" jail built in 1934). Both historical buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places.
Blairsville's Town Square is frequently the venue for annual events such as the Downtown Spring Arts & Crafts Festival, the Memorial Day Parade, the Green Bean Festival, the Bluegrass Festival, the Sorghum Parade, Hometown Halloween on the Square, and the Christmas Parade. Everyone is invited to these family orientated celebrations!
Just south of the Square, the Historical Society develops and maintains the Mountain Life Museum. It is home to the 1906 Grapel Mock House, the 1861 Payne Cabin, and annual events such as the Mountain Market and Heritage Festival. Look for live animals, heritage demonstrations, and hands-on activities such as panning for gold.
There are many exciting destinations in and around Blairsville. Meeks Park, Butternut Creek Golf Course, Lake Nottely, Helton Creek Falls, and the Appalachian Trail are a few of the most well-known attractions.
Blairsville is the place to be for outdoor fun. Nearly two-thirds of Union County is in the Chattahoochee National Forest. It includes Georgia's highest point, Brasstown Bald (with a visitors' center at the summit), Vogel State Park (the oldest and most popular state park in Georgia), and the Richard Russell Scenic Byway.
In 2011, Blairsville was designated as an official Appalachian Trail Community. This designation recognizes Blairsville for its part in promoting awareness of the Appalachian Trail as an important national and local resource.
In 2007 Blairsville was recognized as a Georgia Better Hometown, largely due to the community volunteer efforts of the Downtown Development Authority of Blairsville. Blairsville has many dedicated individuals and organizations that work together to make the city a great place to live (and to visit). Welcome to Blairsville, Georgia!

The homes in Heritage Hills in Chapel Hill, NC are representative of the popularity and explosive growth of American Home Ownership that occurred during the economic expansion that followed the end of WW II. They were designed and built to foster the benefits and sense of “community”, where families could come together and share theirs and their children’s lives. They are typically in very desirable locations within their larger communities, and remodeling them with modern amenities, increasing the performance and efficiency of them, and having them Green Certified (independent third-party verified) makes them extremely attractive to buyers, and helps to raise other property values within the neighborhood.
Green Certified Remodeled Homes offer significant value and advantage in the marketplace over similar homes in their area, which is especially important as a new, younger era of home buyers enter the market. Current trends suggest that younger (as well as many “seasoned”) homeowners are interested in smaller, more efficient (and thus affordable) homes situated closer to shopping, their work, entertainment opportunities, and access to the economic and environmental benefits of mass transit.
These older homes also offer an additional value that is continuing to gain visibility and appreciation in the market place. They were built from lumber from slower-growth trees (denser and harder wood), and as such offer superior structural support compared to the same home built using lumber from today’s faster-growing (softer and less-dense wood) trees.
Robin and Kent had lived in their 2-story Gambrel Roof home in Heritage Hills since 1994. The house was structurally sound, due in large part to the old-growth (and denser) yellow pine that was used in its framing. They loved the quiet neighborhood, its sense of community and amenities, and their home. It suited their life-style and needs; and they had decided that they would remain in the home. It was showing its age, and was in need of general repairs and maintenance, and its energy, water, and indoor air quality performance was continuing to increase their ongoing cost of ownership.
Robin loved the screen porch that looked out on their private and nicely landscaped back yard, but she wanted to be able to use it in the colder months of the year. She was unsatisfied with the kitchen and the mud room / laundry room, and the darkness of other living spaces. A previous water leak in the laundry room had resulted in a large patch of mold that had compromised flooring, wall board, and insulation and contributed to the homes reduced indoor air quality.
The home lacked insulation in the crawl, and inadequate insulation in the attic. The single HVAC unit had been replaced a few years earlier with a more efficient unit, but with a single programmable thermostat control on the first floor and aging and un-insulated ducting, the second floor was often over-heated in the summer months.
The original wood windows had begun to deteriorate and were drafty and inefficient, and the original wood-burning fireplace was an open conduit for escaping conditioned air as well as an inlet for wood-smoke smelling air being pulled into the home. The siding had been replaced a few years earlier with a cement-fiber product, but the exterior wood trim was compromised and beginning to look unsightly. Its original architecture had been altered over the years in ways that presented ongoing maintenance and durability issues, as well as disrupting the elegance of the original design.
Kent has worked for over 30 years in the Environmental Sciences field, and is considered to be a national expert in understanding the sources of, and human exposure to pollutants in indoor environments. He had always been very conscious and cautious about the effects on indoor air quality that the construction, furnishings, and products used in home had on him and his family.
Project Goals
Increase the performance of their home by improving energy efficiency by at least 40% and lowering their natural gas and electric utility costs.
Increase the performance of their home by reducing water usage by at least 40% and lowering the water utility costs.
Increase the comfort of their home that was being compromised by an inadequate HVAC design, inadequate insulation, inefficient and compromised wood windows, and copious air intrusions and drafts.
Improve the healthiness of the homes indoor air quality that was being compromised by an open wood-burning fireplace, and prior water intrusion that had allowed colonies of mold to thrive.
Create a new Kitchen, Family Room, Home Office, Mudroom, and Laundry Room that featured some of the latest designs and trends and harmonized with the rest of the homes charm.
Increase the usefulness and aesthetics of the screened porch by creating a warm and inviting semi-conditioned 3-Season Room that extended the times during the year that it was comfortable.
Introduce day-lighting into areas of the home that were dark and uninviting.
Brighten and harmonize all of the interior finishes.
Protect and restore the exterior of the home with superior-performing products and finishes.
Achieve Gold Level Green Home Certification in conformance with the ICC 700-2012 National Green Building Standards (NGBS).

Envision Virtual Tours, Stuart Wade
Envision Virtual Tours and High Resolution Photography is your best choice to find just what you are looking for in the Blairsville Area . Knowing the areas and resources of Lake Nottely is our specialty. Whether you're looking for fishing on Lake Nottely, information and history of Blairsville, Ga. Learn all about Blairsville, Ga. here!
Blairsville, the county seat of Union County, was incorporated on December 26,1835 and remains the sole incorporated community in the county. At the heart of Downtown Blairsville is the Historic Union County Courthouse, constructed in 1899, and now home to everything from the Union County Historical Society and Friday Night Concerts to a military museum and dollhouse collection. Nearby is the Blairsville City Hall (formerly the "old" jail built in 1934). Both historical buildings are on the National Register of Historic Places.
Blairsville's Town Square is frequently the venue for annual events such as the Downtown Spring Arts & Crafts Festival, the Memorial Day Parade, the Green Bean Festival, the Bluegrass Festival, the Sorghum Parade, Hometown Halloween on the Square, and the Christmas Parade. Everyone is invited to these family orientated celebrations!
Just south of the Square, the Historical Society develops and maintains the Mountain Life Museum. It is home to the 1906 Grapel Mock House, the 1861 Payne Cabin, and annual events such as the Mountain Market and Heritage Festival. Look for live animals, heritage demonstrations, and hands-on activities such as panning for gold.
There are many exciting destinations in and around Blairsville. Meeks Park, Butternut Creek Golf Course, Lake Nottely, Helton Creek Falls, and the Appalachian Trail are a few of the most well-known attractions.
Blairsville is the place to be for outdoor fun. Nearly two-thirds of Union County is in the Chattahoochee National Forest. It includes Georgia's highest point, Brasstown Bald (with a visitors' center at the summit), Vogel State Park (the oldest and most popular state park in Georgia), and the Richard Russell Scenic Byway.
In 2011, Blairsville was designated as an official Appalachian Trail Community. This designation recognizes Blairsville for its part in promoting awareness of the Appalachian Trail as an important national and local resource.
In 2007 Blairsville was recognized as a Georgia Better Hometown, largely due to the community volunteer efforts of the Downtown Development Authority of Blairsville. Blairsville has many dedicated individuals and organizations that work together to make the city a great place to live (and to visit). Welcome to Blairsville, Georgia!

Masterfully Crafted 4,200 SF Craftsman Home in Vibrant Community
Welcome to a pinnacle of craftsmanship in the heart of East Dallas. Nestled in the Belmont Addition Conservation District, this stunning 4,200 square foot Craftsman-style residence is a testament to sophisticated living and top-tier workmanship. This home sits on an 8,800 square foot elevated lot, offering not just a house, but a lifestyle.
Community & Lifestyle:
Embark on a life enriched by diversity and neighborhood camaraderie. The Belmont Addition is a tapestry of various cultures, creating a dynamic and inclusive environment. Residents enjoy frequent social events, fostering a uniquely warm and engaging community atmosphere. Positioned in the bustling Lower Greenville section, you’re at the epicenter of local boutiques, exquisite dining, and vibrant nightlife.
Uncompromised Quality:
Experience a home where every detail is a conversation piece, and no expense has been spared. From the foundational to the aesthetic, each aspect has been meticulously selected for quality, durability, and refinement.
Notable Features Include:
Outdoor Excellence: Immerse yourself in the outdoor splendor of a rare elevated lot, offering sweeping views of the meticulously landscaped yard from the vantage point of a generous front porch. Crafted with durable Trex Select Composite Decking, this space is designed for endless seasons of relaxation and social gatherings. Transition to the backyard, a private escape boasting a detached, oversized 2-car garage, providing not just storage but opportunities for a workshop or hobby space. Situated on Palo Pinto, one of the wider avenues in Lower Greenville, residents relish the tranquility afforded by limited through traffic, enhancing the property's peaceful character and creating a serene urban oasis amidst the vibrant city pulse.
Elegant Interiors: Bask in an interior defined by luxurious white oak wood flooring, solid core doors adorned with Baldwin hardware, and custom cabinetry that adds a personal touch to the sophisticated layout. Indulge in the convenience of a state-of-the-art wine cellar, accommodating over 300 bottles, and two stylish wet bars.
Gourmet Kitchen: A culinary enthusiast's dream, featuring high-end Subzero, Wolf, and Cove appliances, set against stunning Cambria Quartz countertops.
Efficient & Comfortable: Comprehensive foam insulation and a Navien gas condensing tankless water heater ensure consistent comfort throughout the seasons. The inclusion of a crawlspace dehumidifier and a whole-home generator provides uninterrupted tranquility.
Smart & Secure: From the motorized gate at the alley entrance to advanced pre-wiring for data and future AV options, security and technology are seamlessly integrated.
Structural Integrity: Geotechnical & Structural engineering anchors the home with a robust pier & beam foundation, safeguarded by a comprehensive 2-10 Home Warranty for ultimate peace of mind.

Masterfully Crafted 4,200 SF Craftsman Home in Vibrant Community
Welcome to a pinnacle of craftsmanship in the heart of East Dallas. Nestled in the Belmont Addition Conservation District, this stunning 4,200 square foot Craftsman-style residence is a testament to sophisticated living and top-tier workmanship. This home sits on an 8,800 square foot elevated lot, offering not just a house, but a lifestyle.
Community & Lifestyle:
Embark on a life enriched by diversity and neighborhood camaraderie. The Belmont Addition is a tapestry of various cultures, creating a dynamic and inclusive environment. Residents enjoy frequent social events, fostering a uniquely warm and engaging community atmosphere. Positioned in the bustling Lower Greenville section, you’re at the epicenter of local boutiques, exquisite dining, and vibrant nightlife.
Uncompromised Quality:
Experience a home where every detail is a conversation piece, and no expense has been spared. From the foundational to the aesthetic, each aspect has been meticulously selected for quality, durability, and refinement.
Notable Features Include:
Outdoor Excellence: Immerse yourself in the outdoor splendor of a rare elevated lot, offering sweeping views of the meticulously landscaped yard from the vantage point of a generous front porch. Crafted with durable Trex Select Composite Decking, this space is designed for endless seasons of relaxation and social gatherings. Transition to the backyard, a private escape boasting a detached, oversized 2-car garage, providing not just storage but opportunities for a workshop or hobby space. Situated on Palo Pinto, one of the wider avenues in Lower Greenville, residents relish the tranquility afforded by limited through traffic, enhancing the property's peaceful character and creating a serene urban oasis amidst the vibrant city pulse.
Elegant Interiors: Bask in an interior defined by luxurious white oak wood flooring, solid core doors adorned with Baldwin hardware, and custom cabinetry that adds a personal touch to the sophisticated layout. Indulge in the convenience of a state-of-the-art wine cellar, accommodating over 300 bottles, and two stylish wet bars.
Gourmet Kitchen: A culinary enthusiast's dream, featuring high-end Subzero, Wolf, and Cove appliances, set against stunning Cambria Quartz countertops.
Efficient & Comfortable: Comprehensive foam insulation and a Navien gas condensing tankless water heater ensure consistent comfort throughout the seasons. The inclusion of a crawlspace dehumidifier and a whole-home generator provides uninterrupted tranquility.
Smart & Secure: From the motorized gate at the alley entrance to advanced pre-wiring for data and future AV options, security and technology are seamlessly integrated.
Structural Integrity: Geotechnical & Structural engineering anchors the home with a robust pier & beam foundation, safeguarded by a comprehensive 2-10 Home Warranty for ultimate peace of mind.

The intention behind the canyon is to create community - a place for people to walk, hang out, and visit with neighbors. The canyon, separating the 7 homes, ranges from 10 to nearly 18 feet wide, and is oriented north south, with a spur to the west. This orientation permits people to walk in from either 19th Avenue or E. Pine Street, or in from their car, which is discreetly tucked at the edge of the site. Here, the auto knows its place, and neighbors have a chance to interact in an informal setting.
The canyon's orientation allows for southern light and air to reach all of the units and penetrate the site. Entries are accessed from the pedestrian canyon. The massing allows roof decks with views back into the canyon and to the Cascade Mountains to the east for all homes. Parking is covered under a trellis.
Urban Canyon was selected as a Future Shack Award Winner by AIA Seattle in 2010 and a Project of the Month by AIA Seattle in 2009.

The homes in Heritage Hills in Chapel Hill, NC are representative of the popularity and explosive growth of American Home Ownership that occurred during the economic expansion that followed the end of WW II. They were designed and built to foster the benefits and sense of “community”, where families could come together and share theirs and their children’s lives. They are typically in very desirable locations within their larger communities, and remodeling them with modern amenities, increasing the performance and efficiency of them, and having them Green Certified (independent third-party verified) makes them extremely attractive to buyers, and helps to raise other property values within the neighborhood.
Green Certified Remodeled Homes offer significant value and advantage in the marketplace over similar homes in their area, which is especially important as a new, younger era of home buyers enter the market. Current trends suggest that younger (as well as many “seasoned”) homeowners are interested in smaller, more efficient (and thus affordable) homes situated closer to shopping, their work, entertainment opportunities, and access to the economic and environmental benefits of mass transit.
These older homes also offer an additional value that is continuing to gain visibility and appreciation in the market place. They were built from lumber from slower-growth trees (denser and harder wood), and as such offer superior structural support compared to the same home built using lumber from today’s faster-growing (softer and less-dense wood) trees.
Robin and Kent had lived in their 2-story Gambrel Roof home in Heritage Hills since 1994. The house was structurally sound, due in large part to the old-growth (and denser) yellow pine that was used in its framing. They loved the quiet neighborhood, its sense of community and amenities, and their home. It suited their life-style and needs; and they had decided that they would remain in the home. It was showing its age, and was in need of general repairs and maintenance, and its energy, water, and indoor air quality performance was continuing to increase their ongoing cost of ownership.
Robin loved the screen porch that looked out on their private and nicely landscaped back yard, but she wanted to be able to use it in the colder months of the year. She was unsatisfied with the kitchen and the mud room / laundry room, and the darkness of other living spaces. A previous water leak in the laundry room had resulted in a large patch of mold that had compromised flooring, wall board, and insulation and contributed to the homes reduced indoor air quality.
The home lacked insulation in the crawl, and inadequate insulation in the attic. The single HVAC unit had been replaced a few years earlier with a more efficient unit, but with a single programmable thermostat control on the first floor and aging and un-insulated ducting, the second floor was often over-heated in the summer months.
The original wood windows had begun to deteriorate and were drafty and inefficient, and the original wood-burning fireplace was an open conduit for escaping conditioned air as well as an inlet for wood-smoke smelling air being pulled into the home. The siding had been replaced a few years earlier with a cement-fiber product, but the exterior wood trim was compromised and beginning to look unsightly. Its original architecture had been altered over the years in ways that presented ongoing maintenance and durability issues, as well as disrupting the elegance of the original design.
Kent has worked for over 30 years in the Environmental Sciences field, and is considered to be a national expert in understanding the sources of, and human exposure to pollutants in indoor environments. He had always been very conscious and cautious about the effects on indoor air quality that the construction, furnishings, and products used in home had on him and his family.
Project Goals
Increase the performance of their home by improving energy efficiency by at least 40% and lowering their natural gas and electric utility costs.
Increase the performance of their home by reducing water usage by at least 40% and lowering the water utility costs.
Increase the comfort of their home that was being compromised by an inadequate HVAC design, inadequate insulation, inefficient and compromised wood windows, and copious air intrusions and drafts.
Improve the healthiness of the homes indoor air quality that was being compromised by an open wood-burning fireplace, and prior water intrusion that had allowed colonies of mold to thrive.
Create a new Kitchen, Family Room, Home Office, Mudroom, and Laundry Room that featured some of the latest designs and trends and harmonized with the rest of the homes charm.
Increase the usefulness and aesthetics of the screened porch by creating a warm and inviting semi-conditioned 3-Season Room that extended the times during the year that it was comfortable.
Introduce day-lighting into areas of the home that were dark and uninviting.
Brighten and harmonize all of the interior finishes.
Protect and restore the exterior of the home with superior-performing products and finishes.
Achieve Gold Level Green Home Certification in conformance with the ICC 700-2012 National Green Building Standards (NGBS).

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Snider & Metcalf Interior Design, LTD
Leading Interior Designers in Columbus, Ohio & Ponte Vedra, Florida

Pamela Ward/ Brandon Oriental Rugs
Example of a farmhouse home design design in Philadelphia
Example of a farmhouse home design design in Philadelphia

The homes in Heritage Hills in Chapel Hill, NC are representative of the popularity and explosive growth of American Home Ownership that occurred during the economic expansion that followed the end of WW II. They were designed and built to foster the benefits and sense of “community”, where families could come together and share theirs and their children’s lives. They are typically in very desirable locations within their larger communities, and remodeling them with modern amenities, increasing the performance and efficiency of them, and having them Green Certified (independent third-party verified) makes them extremely attractive to buyers, and helps to raise other property values within the neighborhood.
Green Certified Remodeled Homes offer significant value and advantage in the marketplace over similar homes in their area, which is especially important as a new, younger era of home buyers enter the market. Current trends suggest that younger (as well as many “seasoned”) homeowners are interested in smaller, more efficient (and thus affordable) homes situated closer to shopping, their work, entertainment opportunities, and access to the economic and environmental benefits of mass transit.
These older homes also offer an additional value that is continuing to gain visibility and appreciation in the market place. They were built from lumber from slower-growth trees (denser and harder wood), and as such offer superior structural support compared to the same home built using lumber from today’s faster-growing (softer and less-dense wood) trees.
Robin and Kent had lived in their 2-story Gambrel Roof home in Heritage Hills since 1994. The house was structurally sound, due in large part to the old-growth (and denser) yellow pine that was used in its framing. They loved the quiet neighborhood, its sense of community and amenities, and their home. It suited their life-style and needs; and they had decided that they would remain in the home. It was showing its age, and was in need of general repairs and maintenance, and its energy, water, and indoor air quality performance was continuing to increase their ongoing cost of ownership.
Robin loved the screen porch that looked out on their private and nicely landscaped back yard, but she wanted to be able to use it in the colder months of the year. She was unsatisfied with the kitchen and the mud room / laundry room, and the darkness of other living spaces. A previous water leak in the laundry room had resulted in a large patch of mold that had compromised flooring, wall board, and insulation and contributed to the homes reduced indoor air quality.
The home lacked insulation in the crawl, and inadequate insulation in the attic. The single HVAC unit had been replaced a few years earlier with a more efficient unit, but with a single programmable thermostat control on the first floor and aging and un-insulated ducting, the second floor was often over-heated in the summer months.
The original wood windows had begun to deteriorate and were drafty and inefficient, and the original wood-burning fireplace was an open conduit for escaping conditioned air as well as an inlet for wood-smoke smelling air being pulled into the home. The siding had been replaced a few years earlier with a cement-fiber product, but the exterior wood trim was compromised and beginning to look unsightly. Its original architecture had been altered over the years in ways that presented ongoing maintenance and durability issues, as well as disrupting the elegance of the original design.
Kent has worked for over 30 years in the Environmental Sciences field, and is considered to be a national expert in understanding the sources of, and human exposure to pollutants in indoor environments. He had always been very conscious and cautious about the effects on indoor air quality that the construction, furnishings, and products used in home had on him and his family.
Project Goals
Increase the performance of their home by improving energy efficiency by at least 40% and lowering their natural gas and electric utility costs.
Increase the performance of their home by reducing water usage by at least 40% and lowering the water utility costs.
Increase the comfort of their home that was being compromised by an inadequate HVAC design, inadequate insulation, inefficient and compromised wood windows, and copious air intrusions and drafts.
Improve the healthiness of the homes indoor air quality that was being compromised by an open wood-burning fireplace, and prior water intrusion that had allowed colonies of mold to thrive.
Create a new Kitchen, Family Room, Home Office, Mudroom, and Laundry Room that featured some of the latest designs and trends and harmonized with the rest of the homes charm.
Increase the usefulness and aesthetics of the screened porch by creating a warm and inviting semi-conditioned 3-Season Room that extended the times during the year that it was comfortable.
Introduce day-lighting into areas of the home that were dark and uninviting.
Brighten and harmonize all of the interior finishes.
Protect and restore the exterior of the home with superior-performing products and finishes.
Achieve Gold Level Green Home Certification in conformance with the ICC 700-2012 National Green Building Standards (NGBS).

When used both on the floor and as wall art in the same room, antique oriental rugs can tremendously unify an environment. This is vividly demonstrated by this mid-19th century Persian Veramin carpet on the floor and a Persian Mahajiran Sarouk circa 1920 that fits perfectly into the wall niche of this home office.

Sponsored
Columbus, OH
Structural Remodeling
Franklin County's Heavy Timber Specialists | Best of Houzz 2020!

Masterfully Crafted 4,200 SF Craftsman Home in Vibrant Community
Welcome to a pinnacle of craftsmanship in the heart of East Dallas. Nestled in the Belmont Addition Conservation District, this stunning 4,200 square foot Craftsman-style residence is a testament to sophisticated living and top-tier workmanship. This home sits on an 8,800 square foot elevated lot, offering not just a house, but a lifestyle.
Community & Lifestyle:
Embark on a life enriched by diversity and neighborhood camaraderie. The Belmont Addition is a tapestry of various cultures, creating a dynamic and inclusive environment. Residents enjoy frequent social events, fostering a uniquely warm and engaging community atmosphere. Positioned in the bustling Lower Greenville section, you’re at the epicenter of local boutiques, exquisite dining, and vibrant nightlife.
Uncompromised Quality:
Experience a home where every detail is a conversation piece, and no expense has been spared. From the foundational to the aesthetic, each aspect has been meticulously selected for quality, durability, and refinement.
Notable Features Include:
Outdoor Excellence: Immerse yourself in the outdoor splendor of a rare elevated lot, offering sweeping views of the meticulously landscaped yard from the vantage point of a generous front porch. Crafted with durable Trex Select Composite Decking, this space is designed for endless seasons of relaxation and social gatherings. Transition to the backyard, a private escape boasting a detached, oversized 2-car garage, providing not just storage but opportunities for a workshop or hobby space. Situated on Palo Pinto, one of the wider avenues in Lower Greenville, residents relish the tranquility afforded by limited through traffic, enhancing the property's peaceful character and creating a serene urban oasis amidst the vibrant city pulse.
Elegant Interiors: Bask in an interior defined by luxurious white oak wood flooring, solid core doors adorned with Baldwin hardware, and custom cabinetry that adds a personal touch to the sophisticated layout. Indulge in the convenience of a state-of-the-art wine cellar, accommodating over 300 bottles, and two stylish wet bars.
Gourmet Kitchen: A culinary enthusiast's dream, featuring high-end Subzero, Wolf, and Cove appliances, set against stunning Cambria Quartz countertops.
Efficient & Comfortable: Comprehensive foam insulation and a Navien gas condensing tankless water heater ensure consistent comfort throughout the seasons. The inclusion of a crawlspace dehumidifier and a whole-home generator provides uninterrupted tranquility.
Smart & Secure: From the motorized gate at the alley entrance to advanced pre-wiring for data and future AV options, security and technology are seamlessly integrated.
Structural Integrity: Geotechnical & Structural engineering anchors the home with a robust pier & beam foundation, safeguarded by a comprehensive 2-10 Home Warranty for ultimate peace of mind.

Above and Beyond is the third residence in a four-home collection in Paradise Valley, Arizona. Originally the site of the abandoned Kachina Elementary School, the infill community, appropriately named Kachina Estates, embraces the remarkable views of Camelback Mountain.
Nestled into an acre sized pie shaped cul-de-sac lot, the lot geometry and front facing view orientation created a remarkable privacy challenge and influenced the forward facing facade and massing. An iconic, stone-clad massing wall element rests within an oversized south-facing fenestration, creating separation and privacy while affording views “above and beyond.”
Above and Beyond has Mid-Century DNA married with a larger sense of mass and scale. The pool pavilion bridges from the main residence to a guest casita which visually completes the need for protection and privacy from street and solar exposure.
The pie-shaped lot which tapered to the south created a challenge to harvest south light. This was one of the largest spatial organization influencers for the design. The design undulates to embrace south sun and organically creates remarkable outdoor living spaces.
This modernist home has a palate of granite and limestone wall cladding, plaster, and a painted metal fascia. The wall cladding seamlessly enters and exits the architecture affording interior and exterior continuity.
Kachina Estates was named an Award of Merit winner at the 2019 Gold Nugget Awards in the category of Best Residential Detached Collection of the Year. The annual awards ceremony was held at the Pacific Coast Builders Conference in San Francisco, CA in May 2019.
Project Details: Above and Beyond
Architecture: Drewett Works
Developer/Builder: Bedbrock Developers
Interior Design: Est Est
Land Planner/Civil Engineer: CVL Consultants
Photography: Dino Tonn and Steven Thompson
Awards:
Gold Nugget Award of Merit - Kachina Estates - Residential Detached Collection of the Year

The homes in Heritage Hills in Chapel Hill, NC are representative of the popularity and explosive growth of American Home Ownership that occurred during the economic expansion that followed the end of WW II. They were designed and built to foster the benefits and sense of “community”, where families could come together and share theirs and their children’s lives. They are typically in very desirable locations within their larger communities, and remodeling them with modern amenities, increasing the performance and efficiency of them, and having them Green Certified (independent third-party verified) makes them extremely attractive to buyers, and helps to raise other property values within the neighborhood.
Green Certified Remodeled Homes offer significant value and advantage in the marketplace over similar homes in their area, which is especially important as a new, younger era of home buyers enter the market. Current trends suggest that younger (as well as many “seasoned”) homeowners are interested in smaller, more efficient (and thus affordable) homes situated closer to shopping, their work, entertainment opportunities, and access to the economic and environmental benefits of mass transit.
These older homes also offer an additional value that is continuing to gain visibility and appreciation in the market place. They were built from lumber from slower-growth trees (denser and harder wood), and as such offer superior structural support compared to the same home built using lumber from today’s faster-growing (softer and less-dense wood) trees.
Robin and Kent had lived in their 2-story Gambrel Roof home in Heritage Hills since 1994. The house was structurally sound, due in large part to the old-growth (and denser) yellow pine that was used in its framing. They loved the quiet neighborhood, its sense of community and amenities, and their home. It suited their life-style and needs; and they had decided that they would remain in the home. It was showing its age, and was in need of general repairs and maintenance, and its energy, water, and indoor air quality performance was continuing to increase their ongoing cost of ownership.
Robin loved the screen porch that looked out on their private and nicely landscaped back yard, but she wanted to be able to use it in the colder months of the year. She was unsatisfied with the kitchen and the mud room / laundry room, and the darkness of other living spaces. A previous water leak in the laundry room had resulted in a large patch of mold that had compromised flooring, wall board, and insulation and contributed to the homes reduced indoor air quality.
The home lacked insulation in the crawl, and inadequate insulation in the attic. The single HVAC unit had been replaced a few years earlier with a more efficient unit, but with a single programmable thermostat control on the first floor and aging and un-insulated ducting, the second floor was often over-heated in the summer months.
The original wood windows had begun to deteriorate and were drafty and inefficient, and the original wood-burning fireplace was an open conduit for escaping conditioned air as well as an inlet for wood-smoke smelling air being pulled into the home. The siding had been replaced a few years earlier with a cement-fiber product, but the exterior wood trim was compromised and beginning to look unsightly. Its original architecture had been altered over the years in ways that presented ongoing maintenance and durability issues, as well as disrupting the elegance of the original design.
Kent has worked for over 30 years in the Environmental Sciences field, and is considered to be a national expert in understanding the sources of, and human exposure to pollutants in indoor environments. He had always been very conscious and cautious about the effects on indoor air quality that the construction, furnishings, and products used in home had on him and his family.
Project Goals
Increase the performance of their home by improving energy efficiency by at least 40% and lowering their natural gas and electric utility costs.
Increase the performance of their home by reducing water usage by at least 40% and lowering the water utility costs.
Increase the comfort of their home that was being compromised by an inadequate HVAC design, inadequate insulation, inefficient and compromised wood windows, and copious air intrusions and drafts.
Improve the healthiness of the homes indoor air quality that was being compromised by an open wood-burning fireplace, and prior water intrusion that had allowed colonies of mold to thrive.
Create a new Kitchen, Family Room, Home Office, Mudroom, and Laundry Room that featured some of the latest designs and trends and harmonized with the rest of the homes charm.
Increase the usefulness and aesthetics of the screened porch by creating a warm and inviting semi-conditioned 3-Season Room that extended the times during the year that it was comfortable.
Introduce day-lighting into areas of the home that were dark and uninviting.
Brighten and harmonize all of the interior finishes.
Protect and restore the exterior of the home with superior-performing products and finishes.
Achieve Gold Level Green Home Certification in conformance with the ICC 700-2012 National Green Building Standards (NGBS).
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