The highest level of sustainability drove the design. High-efficiency heat pump (heating and cooling), water heating, appliances, energy recovery ventilation system, lighting and controls and electric vehicle charging is provided by the sun and 45 photo-voltaic panels (hidden on the roofs). The house produces more energy than it uses. All aspects of the design and construction from robust insulation and building envelope, doors + windows and landscape, to the use of healthy interior finishes and the recycling of construction materials were guided by maximum sustainability. The completed residence received a 5-star + Built Green Certification in 2022.

This free form custom pool design lends a natural feel to the backyard of this Mt. Pleasant, SC home. The interior finish type is exposed aggregate and the color is Blue Gem which gives the water it's brilliant blue color, even in the shade. On a clear day the water will appear even more brilliant from the reflection of the sky. The waterline tile is NPT Aztec Cobalt 6"x6" in size. The pool deck and coping is Walnut Travertine laid out in a mini-roman pattern. This is a saltwater pool utilizing energy efficient pool equipment which can be operated at the pool's control center or via wireless technology.

This powder room demonstrates what an architect can do with even the smallest of spaces. A space-efficient toilet and sink make the room hardly feel little at all. Photography by Rein Raamat

Designed by Hunter and Miranda Mantell-Hecathorn and built by the skilled MHB team, this stunning family home is a must see on the tour! Indicative of their high quality, this home has many features you won’t see in other homes on the tour. A few include: oversized Kolbe Triple-Pane windows; 12” thick, double-stud walls; a 6.5kW solar PV system; and is heated and cooled by only two small, highly efficient central units. The open floor plan was designed with entertaining and large family gatherings in mind. Whether seated in the living room with 12’ ceilings and massive windows with views of the Ponderosas or seated at the island in the kitchen you won’t be far from the action. The large covered back porch and beautiful back yard allows the kids to play while the adults relax by the fire pit. This home also utilizes a Control4 automation system, which allows the owners total control of lighting, audio, and comfort systems from anywhere. With a HERS score of 11, this home is 89% more efficient than the typical new home. Mantell-Hecathorn Builders has been building high quality homes since 1975 and is proud to be 100% committed to building their homes to the rigorous standards of Department of Energy Zero Energy Ready and Energy Star Programs, and have won national DOE awards for their innovative homes. Mantell-Hecathorn Builders also prides itself in being a true hands-on family-run company. They are personally on site daily to assure the MHB high standards are being met. Honesty, efficiency, transparency are a few qualities they strive for in every aspect of the business.

Our Smart Home Collection is easy to use, easy to afford, and uses the latest integrated wireless technology. Motorized window treatments deliver total programming control over the positioning of your window coverings for enhanced privacy and energy efficiency. Since they are cordless, motorized shades and blinds are child and pet friendly, and are available in a wide variety of colors and materials.

Tucked away in the backwoods of Torch Lake, this home marries “rustic” with the sleek elegance of modern. The combination of wood, stone and metal textures embrace the charm of a classic farmhouse. Although this is not your average farmhouse. The home is outfitted with a high performing system that seamlessly works with the design and architecture. The tall ceilings and windows allow ample natural light into the main room. Spire Integrated Systems installed Lutron QS Wireless motorized shades paired with Hartmann & Forbes windowcovers to offer privacy and block harsh light. The custom 18′ windowcover’s woven natural fabric complements the organic esthetics of the room. The shades are artfully concealed in the millwork when not in use. Spire installed B&W in-ceiling speakers and Sonance invisible in-wall speakers to deliver ambient music that emanates throughout the space with no visual footprint. Spire also installed a Sonance Landscape Audio System so the homeowner can enjoy music outside. Each system is easily controlled using Savant. Spire personalized the settings to the homeowner’s preference making controlling the home efficient and convenient.

Energy consumption in the open floor plan house was important to control so 2x6 exterior walls were used with a combination of pellet stove, fireplace and forded hot air with central air conditioning. Large southern windows at a designed slope allow winter sun to penetrate deep into the living area while high summer heat are primary blocked by the 2' overhangs on the roofing structure. Everything from the location of the stairway to large centrally located ceiling fans help circulate airflow throughout the home at an even and efficient rate. Photography by Design Imaging Studios

Tucked away in the backwoods of Torch Lake, this home marries “rustic” with the sleek elegance of modern. The combination of wood, stone and metal textures embrace the charm of a classic farmhouse. Although this is not your average farmhouse. The home is outfitted with a high performing system that seamlessly works with the design and architecture. The tall ceilings and windows allow ample natural light into the main room. Spire Integrated Systems installed Lutron QS Wireless motorized shades paired with Hartmann & Forbes windowcovers to offer privacy and block harsh light. The custom 18′ windowcover’s woven natural fabric complements the organic esthetics of the room. The shades are artfully concealed in the millwork when not in use. Spire installed B&W in-ceiling speakers and Sonance invisible in-wall speakers to deliver ambient music that emanates throughout the space with no visual footprint. Spire also installed a Sonance Landscape Audio System so the homeowner can enjoy music outside. Each system is easily controlled using Savant. Spire personalized the settings to the homeowner’s preference making controlling the home efficient and convenient. Builder: Widing Custom Homes Architect: Shoreline Architecture & Design Designer: Jones-Keena & Co. Photos by Beth Singer Photographer Inc.

Tucked away in the backwoods of Torch Lake, this home marries “rustic” with the sleek elegance of modern. The combination of wood, stone and metal textures embrace the charm of a classic farmhouse. Although this is not your average farmhouse. The home is outfitted with a high performing system that seamlessly works with the design and architecture. The tall ceilings and windows allow ample natural light into the main room. Spire Integrated Systems installed Lutron QS Wireless motorized shades paired with Hartmann & Forbes windowcovers to offer privacy and block harsh light. The custom 18′ windowcover’s woven natural fabric complements the organic esthetics of the room. The shades are artfully concealed in the millwork when not in use. Spire installed B&W in-ceiling speakers and Sonance invisible in-wall speakers to deliver ambient music that emanates throughout the space with no visual footprint. Spire also installed a Sonance Landscape Audio System so the homeowner can enjoy music outside. Each system is easily controlled using Savant. Spire personalized the settings to the homeowner’s preference making controlling the home efficient and convenient.

A thermoelectric, energy-efficient, CFC-free wine cooler. ETL approved. 48-bottle capacity* Left zone adjustable temperature range: 50-64°F Right zone adjustable temperature range: 54-64°F 2 Thermopane glass doors with stainless steel trim, pull handles, and locks 14 pull-out wood-front, wire rimmed shelves Interior push-button control with temperature display Interior LED lighting Freestanding only** Size: 33-1/4"H w/hinge x 27-3/4"W x 22-3/4"D w/handles

This is the front of a home that combines modern lake house design with a number of sustainable best practices to create a stunning and amazingly comfortable low carbon home. The solar photovoltaic panels are set on the curved roof (not the equal gaps between the tops of the panels). The 9.8 kW PV 35 Panel array provides 32% of the homes energy usage, with the remaining electricity coming from 100% renewable energy credits from the grid. The energy concept for the home was to be all electric to reduce fracked natural gas usage. Natural gas is only used as a starter for the high efficiency, sealed combustion, outside combustion air fireplace and for a back up generator. The mechanical system is provided by a series of all electric, ultra high efficiency mini-splits, controlled by an integrated smart home system. An induction cooktop, hybrid electric water heater and hybrid electric dryer complete the items that typically use natural gas. Lighting is all high efficiency correctly colored LED’s. A home office is included on the second floor complete with a balcony, facing towards the lake. Their zero carbon work commute consists of walking across the 2nd floor hallway.

Tucked away in the backwoods of Torch Lake, this home marries “rustic” with the sleek elegance of modern. The combination of wood, stone and metal textures embrace the charm of a classic farmhouse. Although this is not your average farmhouse. The home is outfitted with a high performing system that seamlessly works with the design and architecture. The tall ceilings and windows allow ample natural light into the main room. Spire Integrated Systems installed Lutron QS Wireless motorized shades paired with Hartmann & Forbes windowcovers to offer privacy and block harsh light. The custom 18′ windowcover’s woven natural fabric complements the organic esthetics of the room. The shades are artfully concealed in the millwork when not in use. Spire installed B&W in-ceiling speakers and Sonance invisible in-wall speakers to deliver ambient music that emanates throughout the space with no visual footprint. Spire also installed a Sonance Landscape Audio System so the homeowner can enjoy music outside. Each system is easily controlled using Savant. Spire personalized the settings to the homeowner’s preference making controlling the home efficient and convenient.

This "Palatial Villa" is an architectural statement, amidst a sprawling country setting. An elegant, modern revival of the Spanish Tudor style, the high-contrast white stucco and black details pop against the natural backdrop. Round and segmental arches lend an air of European antiquity, and fenestrations are placed providently, to capture picturesque views for the occupants. Massive glass sliding doors and modern high-performance, low-e windows, bathe the interior with natural light and at the same time increase efficiency, with the highest-rated air-leakage and water-penetration resistance. Inside, the lofty ceilings, rustic beam detailing, and wide-open floor-plan inspire a vast feel. Patterned repetition of dark wood and iron elements unify the interior design, creating a dynamic contrast with the white, plaster faux-finish walls. A high-efficiency furnace, heat pump, heated floors, and Control 4 automated environmental controls ensure occupant comfort and safety. The kitchen, wine cellar, and adjoining great room flow naturally into an outdoor entertainment area. A private gym and his-and-hers offices round out a long list of luxury amenities. With thoughtful design and the highest quality craftsmanship in every detail, Palatial Villa stands out as a gleaming jewel, set amongst charming countryside environs.

This particular shower includes: - Remote control - This can be used to turn the steam on so that it’s ready when you are. - Heat adjustment - Choose a temperature between 80 and 120 degrees. - Rain shower - The perfect way to rinse off after your steam session is over. -Bench - To complete the experience, why not take a seat? As an added benefit, we also installed a heated floor. This creates a wonderful, comfortable environment, and radiant heat is very efficient as well!

Welcome to five separate units of luxury living. The residences at Greenleaf are the new standard for living the integrated lifestyle. While multiple systems control everything from lighting and powered windows, to custom wireless shades, the life of a Greenleaf resident iseasily controlled through their touchscreen interface. A Single Interface – Unlimited Control Greenleaf units are all controlled through an AMX system using an intuitive iPad user interface. With such a powerful system, residents are able to control their lighting, as well as powered shades and motorized windows through the simple touch of a button. Intelligence in Technology Thanks to automated sensors, residents are always in the know about their home and safety – whether at home or away. The control system monitors the weather and natural lighting to close powered windows if they need to be shut for incoming rain, and raise or lower shades automatically. Lights can be set to turn on as any resident gets home from work late at night, welcoming them home after a long day away. While they are getting ready to head out for a night on the town, residents can listen to their favorite music throughout the home and call the elevator when they’re ready all from one spot. Call stations allow you to always know who is at the front door, so having multiple guests over for dinner is easier (with less trips up and down the stairs). Remote, secure access allows the home owner to control their property from anywhere in the world and make sure everything is safe and sound. Save Energy Without Lifting a Finger Motorized shades can be raised and lowered automatically by the system according to weather and season for efficient light harvesting. Dimmers throughout the residences are set to a default turn-on of 80% for more energy savings. Residents can monitor their heating and cooling systems, as well as energy use, all from their touch pads at home or away. Control that Disappears At every Greenleaf residence your eyes focus on the luxurious design, not the state-of-theart technology that seamlessly controls it all. Spire collaborated to create custom solutions focused around an integrated lifestyle while maintaining the high-end design expected at the Greenleaf Trust building. Equipment List: • Lutron RA 2 Lighting • AMX control processors • Custom iPad user interface • Sonance in-wall iPad dock • Marantz Surround Receivers • Motorized Window Control • Sonance Architectural Series Speakers • Motorized TV lift • Leon Speaker Bars • AMX integrated thermostats w/ weather forecasting • Rain sensors • Elevator control • Pico remotes • Door access control • Siedle Vario Residential Intercom system • Intelix HDMI distribution • Sonic Wall routers with secure remote access (client has remote access) • Apple TV • Airplay Endpoint • Motorola Cable Box • Samsung bluray player • Samsung televisions • Gaming system integration (Xbox and Playstation) • Lutron QS Shades

GRAND BEACH CROSSING . A small footprint with large impact, smart, efficient & comfortable without concession in quality or design. Compact 3 bedroom, 2 bath, kitchen/dining, living room and loft, 1 car garage with bonus upper level that can be finished, covered porch and carport/patio space. Designed from inside out with large windows/sliders maximizing panorama of the natural setting. Finished in custom cabinetry & tiled baths, radiant heat floors coupled with tankless water heater, individually controlled HVAC units in every space for 5 star energy rating, Pella windows and doors. Smart & beautiful.

Photo credit: Scott McDonald @ Hedrich Blessing 7RR-Ecohome: The design objective was to build a house for a couple recently married who both had kids from previous marriages. How to bridge two families together? The design looks forward in terms of how people live today. The home is an experiment in transparency and solid form; removing borders and edges from outside to inside the house, and to really depict “flowing and endless space”. The house floor plan is derived by pushing and pulling the house’s form to maximize the backyard and minimize the public front yard while welcoming the sun in key rooms by rotating the house 45-degrees to true north. The angular form of the house is a result of the family’s program, the zoning rules, the lot’s attributes, and the sun’s path. We wanted to construct a house that is smart and efficient in terms of construction and energy, both in terms of the building and the user. We could tell a story of how the house is built in terms of the constructability, structure and enclosure, with a nod to Japanese wood construction in the method in which the siding is installed and the exposed interior beams are placed in the double height space. We engineered the house to be smart which not only looks modern but acts modern; every aspect of user control is simplified to a digital touch button, whether lights, shades, blinds, HVAC, communication, audio, video, or security. We developed a planning module based on a 6-foot square room size and a 6-foot wide connector called an interstitial space for hallways, bathrooms, stairs and mechanical, which keeps the rooms pure and uncluttered. The house is 6,200 SF of livable space, plus garage and basement gallery for a total of 9,200 SF. A large formal foyer celebrates the entry and opens up to the living, dining, kitchen and family rooms all focused on the rear garden. The east side of the second floor is the Master wing and a center bridge connects it to the kid’s wing on the west. Second floor terraces and sunscreens provide views and shade in this suburban setting. The playful mathematical grid of the house in the x, y and z axis also extends into the layout of the trees and hard-scapes, all centered on a suburban one-acre lot. Many green attributes were designed into the home; Ipe wood sunscreens and window shades block out unwanted solar gain in summer, but allow winter sun in. Patio door and operable windows provide ample opportunity for natural ventilation throughout the open floor plan. Minimal windows on east and west sides to reduce heat loss in winter and unwanted gains in summer. Open floor plan and large window expanse reduces lighting demands and maximizes available daylight. Skylights provide natural light to the basement rooms. Durable, low-maintenance exterior materials include stone, ipe wood siding and decking, and concrete roof pavers. Design is based on a 2' planning grid to minimize construction waste. Basement foundation walls and slab are highly insulated. FSC-certified walnut wood flooring was used. Light colored concrete roof pavers to reduce cooling loads by as much as 15%. 2x6 framing allows for more insulation and energy savings. Super efficient windows have low-E argon gas filled units, and thermally insulated aluminum frames. Permeable brick and stone pavers reduce the site’s storm-water runoff. Countertops use recycled composite materials. Energy-Star rated furnaces and smart thermostats are located throughout the house to minimize duct runs and avoid energy loss. Energy-Star rated boiler that heats up both radiant floors and domestic hot water. Low-flow toilets and plumbing fixtures are used to conserve water usage. No VOC finish options and direct venting fireplaces maintain a high interior air quality. Smart home system controls lighting, HVAC, and shades to better manage energy use. Plumbing runs through interior walls reducing possibilities of heat loss and freezing problems. A large food pantry was placed next to kitchen to reduce trips to the grocery store. Home office reduces need for automobile transit and associated CO2 footprint. Plan allows for aging in place, with guest suite than can become the master suite, with no need to move as family members mature.