Search results for "Energy efficient materials" in Home Design Ideas

This was a remodel of a traditional craftsmen/shingle style home. The clients wanted to make their home more energy efficient, warm and functional.
The solution was to bring more light into the spaces, insulate throughout and redo the existing space and create a fully functional, roomy kitchen to be used for both cooking and entertaining.

This rustic style home on Hartwell Lake was designed and built for the owners to enjoy with family and friends during their active weekend lifestyle. The home was built on a narrow, deep lot that was semi-level on the roadside and steep on the lakeside. The back half of the lot heavily wooded with mature oak and poplar trees reducing the harsh sun’s heat gain on the home.
The exterior utilizes fiber cement cedar shake and lap siding complimented by deep brown colors for the windows, soffit, trim and the large square columns. A nice balance of natural earth toned stacked stone rounds out the exterior materials completing the rustic casual lake living.
The home 5400 SF is designed and built on thee levels each having a primary focus. The main level creates primary daily living for the owners. This level features an open plan with an entry, stair, dining, kitchen and living areas leading to a large lakeside screened porch. A master suite is privately tucked off its own hallway and allowing it to enjoy the lakeside as well with its own private deck. On the opposite side are two bedrooms, a study and a shared bathroom for each to utilize. An open carport for two vehicles was created with the motor court and connects to the mudroom/utility room giving the owners direct entry into their home.
The upper level is for the grand children with an oversized bedroom, bathroom and loft area for play.
The lower level is the considered the party level. Its primary feature is an elevated stage for the owner’s band opened to a large seating area, dining and kitchen for viewing and listening with direct access to another screened porch. Flanking each side is a theater and two additional bedrooms and bathrooms.
Energy Efficient features include:
• The majority of the lower level sunk into the site below grade
• 6” thick walls utilizing advanced framing techniques
• Foil covered roof sheathing
• Extensive use of blown in cellulous
• All windows & doors are double paned low E argon filed glass
• Tank-less water heaters
• Three separate high efficiency HVAC units with programmable thermostats and a fresh air ERV.
Lastly the owner requested we make every effort to sound proof the home. Many materials and techniques gave a duel purpose and added to the energy efficiency.
These items include:
• 2x6 walls with staggered studs
• Extensive use if rock wool acoustic batting
• Tempered glass in all exterior doors and windows
• ¼ thick Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) was installed on the top and bottom of the floor trusses and on all lower level walls.
The combination of the design and detailing utilizing these specific materials enabled us to achieve a 5 Star Plus Energy Star Certification with a HERS Index Score of 50. This home received a the 2015 Pinnacle Award from the SC Home Builders Association for the “Best Achievement in Energy Efficiency” sponsored by the SC Department Commerce.

This LEED Platinum certified house reflects the homeowner's desire for an exceptionally healthy and comfortable living environment, within a traditional neighborhood.
INFILL SITE. The family, who moved from another area of Wellesley, sought out this property to be within walking distance of the high school and downtown area. An existing structure on the tight lot was removed to make way for the new home. 84% of the construction waste, from both the previous structure and the new home, was diverted from a landfill. ZED designed to preserve the existing mature trees on the perimeter of the property to minimize site impacts, and to maintain the character of the neighborhood as well as privacy on the site.
EXTERIOR EXPRESSION. The street facade of the home relates to the local New England vernacular. The rear uses contemporary language, a nod to the family’s Californian roots, to incorporate a roof deck, solar panels, outdoor living space, and the backyard swimming pool. ZED’s careful planning avoided to the need to face the garage doors towards the street, a common syndrome of a narrow lot.
THOUGHTFUL SPACE. Homes with dual entries can often result in duplicate and unused spaces. In this home, the everyday and formal entry areas are one and the same; the front and garage doors share the entry program of coat closets, mudroom storage with bench for removing your shoes, and a laundry room with generous closets for the children's sporting equipment. The entry area leads directly to the living space, encompassing the kitchen, dining and sitting area areas in an L-shaped open plan arrangement. The kitchen is placed at the south-west corner of the space to allow for a strong connection to the dining, sitting and outdoor living spaces. A fire pit on the deck satisfies the family’s desire for an open flame while a sealed gas fireplace is used indoors - ZED’s preference after omitting gas burning appliances completely from an airtight home. A small study, with a window seat, is conveniently located just off of the living space. A first floor guest bedroom includes an accessible bathroom for aging visitors and can be used as a master suite to accommodate aging in place.
HEALTHY LIVING. The client requested a home that was easy to clean and would provide a respite from seasonal allergies and common contaminants that are found in many indoor spaces. ZED selected easy to clean solid surface flooring throughout, provided ample space for cleaning supplies on each floor, and designed a mechanical system with ventilation that provides a constant supply of fresh outdoor air. ZED selected durable materials, finishes, cabinetry, and casework with low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and no added urea formaldehyde.
YEAR-ROUND COMFORT. The home is super insulated and air-tight, paired with high performance triple-paned windows, to ensure it is draft-free throughout the winter (even when in front of the large windows and doors). ZED designed a right-sized heating and cooling system to pair with the thermally improved building enclosure to ensure year-round comfort. The glazing on the home maximizes passive solar gains, and facilitates cross ventilation and daylighting.
ENERGY EFFICIENT. As one of the most energy efficient houses built to date in Wellesley, the home highlights a practical solution for Massachusetts. First, the building enclosure reduces the largest energy requirement for typical houses (heating). Super-insulation, exceptional air sealing, a thermally broken wall assembly, triple pane windows, and passive solar gain combine for a sizable heating load reduction. Second, within the house only efficient systems consume energy. These include an air source heat pump for heating & cooling, a heat pump hot water heater, LED lighting, energy recovery ventilation, and high efficiency appliances. Lastly, photovoltaics provide renewable energy help offset energy consumption. The result is an 89% reduction in energy use compared to a similar brand new home built to code requirements.
RESILIENT. The home will fare well in extreme weather events. During a winter power outage, heat loss will be very slow due to the super-insulated and airtight envelope– taking multiple days to drop to 60 degrees even with no heat source. An engineered drainage system, paired with careful the detailing of the foundation, will help to keep the finished basement dry. A generator will provide full operation of the all-electric house during a power outage.
OVERALL. The home is a reflection of the family goals and an expression of their values, beautifully enabling health, comfort, safety, resilience, and utility, all while respecting the planet.
ZED - Architect & Mechanical Designer
Bevilacqua Builders Inc - Contractor
Creative Land & Water Engineering - Civil Engineering
Barbara Peterson Landscape - Landscape Design
Nest & Company - Interior Furnishings
Eric Roth Photography - Photography
Find the right local pro for your project

Make a Dream Home proudly presents a remarkable showcase of our recently completed window replacement project in Chicago, IL. With a focus on transforming homes and enhancing their energy efficiency, we have replaced outdated windows with high-quality, stylish alternatives that bring a fresh outlook to each space.
Our team of skilled professionals meticulously executed the window replacement process, ensuring a seamless and precise installation. Every window has been carefully chosen to not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the home but also improve functionality and energy efficiency.
With the new windows in place, homeowners can enjoy an abundance of natural light that brightens and revitalizes the interior spaces. The stylish designs of the replacement windows add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall appearance of the home.
Make a Dream Home's commitment to excellence extends beyond aesthetics. Our carefully selected windows are equipped with advanced features that contribute to energy efficiency, helping homeowners save on energy costs while reducing their environmental footprint.
The completed window replacement project is a testament to our dedication to craftsmanship and exceptional service. Our team employed expert techniques and utilized high-quality materials to ensure durability and longevity. The finished windows not only enhance the home's curb appeal but also provide improved insulation and noise reduction.
By choosing Make a Dream Home for their window replacement needs, homeowners can experience the joy of a transformed living space. With our expertise and attention to detail, we have brought light, style, and enhanced energy efficiency to homes across Chicago, IL.
If you seek to upgrade your windows, improve energy efficiency, and enhance the beauty of your home, trust Make a Dream Home. Our window replacement services in Chicago, IL offer a seamless and transformative solution, leaving you with a refreshed and invigorated living space that surpasses expectations.

This rustic style home on Hartwell Lake was designed and built for the owners to enjoy with family and friends during their active weekend lifestyle. The home was built on a narrow, deep lot that was semi-level on the roadside and steep on the lakeside. The back half of the lot heavily wooded with mature oak and poplar trees reducing the harsh sun’s heat gain on the home.
The exterior utilizes fiber cement cedar shake and lap siding complimented by deep brown colors for the windows, soffit, trim and the large square columns. A nice balance of natural earth toned stacked stone rounds out the exterior materials completing the rustic casual lake living.
The home 5400 SF is designed and built on thee levels each having a primary focus. The main level creates primary daily living for the owners. This level features an open plan with an entry, stair, dining, kitchen and living areas leading to a large lakeside screened porch. A master suite is privately tucked off its own hallway and allowing it to enjoy the lakeside as well with its own private deck. On the opposite side are two bedrooms, a study and a shared bathroom for each to utilize. An open carport for two vehicles was created with the motor court and connects to the mudroom/utility room giving the owners direct entry into their home.
The upper level is for the grand children with an oversized bedroom, bathroom and loft area for play.
The lower level is the considered the party level. Its primary feature is an elevated stage for the owner’s band opened to a large seating area, dining and kitchen for viewing and listening with direct access to another screened porch. Flanking each side is a theater and two additional bedrooms and bathrooms.
Energy Efficient features include:
• The majority of the lower level sunk into the site below grade
• 6” thick walls utilizing advanced framing techniques
• Foil covered roof sheathing
• Extensive use of blown in cellulous
• All windows & doors are double paned low E argon filed glass
• Tank-less water heaters
• Three separate high efficiency HVAC units with programmable thermostats and a fresh air ERV.
Lastly the owner requested we make every effort to sound proof the home. Many materials and techniques gave a duel purpose and added to the energy efficiency.
These items include:
• 2x6 walls with staggered studs
• Extensive use if rock wool acoustic batting
• Tempered glass in all exterior doors and windows
• ¼ thick Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) was installed on the top and bottom of the floor trusses and on all lower level walls.
The combination of the design and detailing utilizing these specific materials enabled us to achieve a 5 Star Plus Energy Star Certification with a HERS Index Score of 50. This home received a the 2015 Pinnacle Award from the SC Home Builders Association for the “Best Achievement in Energy Efficiency” sponsored by the SC Department Commerce.

This LEED Platinum certified house reflects the homeowner's desire for an exceptionally healthy and comfortable living environment, within a traditional neighborhood.
INFILL SITE. The family, who moved from another area of Wellesley, sought out this property to be within walking distance of the high school and downtown area. An existing structure on the tight lot was removed to make way for the new home. 84% of the construction waste, from both the previous structure and the new home, was diverted from a landfill. ZED designed to preserve the existing mature trees on the perimeter of the property to minimize site impacts, and to maintain the character of the neighborhood as well as privacy on the site.
EXTERIOR EXPRESSION. The street facade of the home relates to the local New England vernacular. The rear uses contemporary language, a nod to the family’s Californian roots, to incorporate a roof deck, solar panels, outdoor living space, and the backyard swimming pool. ZED’s careful planning avoided to the need to face the garage doors towards the street, a common syndrome of a narrow lot.
THOUGHTFUL SPACE. Homes with dual entries can often result in duplicate and unused spaces. In this home, the everyday and formal entry areas are one and the same; the front and garage doors share the entry program of coat closets, mudroom storage with bench for removing your shoes, and a laundry room with generous closets for the children's sporting equipment. The entry area leads directly to the living space, encompassing the kitchen, dining and sitting area areas in an L-shaped open plan arrangement. The kitchen is placed at the south-west corner of the space to allow for a strong connection to the dining, sitting and outdoor living spaces. A fire pit on the deck satisfies the family’s desire for an open flame while a sealed gas fireplace is used indoors - ZED’s preference after omitting gas burning appliances completely from an airtight home. A small study, with a window seat, is conveniently located just off of the living space. A first floor guest bedroom includes an accessible bathroom for aging visitors and can be used as a master suite to accommodate aging in place.
HEALTHY LIVING. The client requested a home that was easy to clean and would provide a respite from seasonal allergies and common contaminants that are found in many indoor spaces. ZED selected easy to clean solid surface flooring throughout, provided ample space for cleaning supplies on each floor, and designed a mechanical system with ventilation that provides a constant supply of fresh outdoor air. ZED selected durable materials, finishes, cabinetry, and casework with low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and no added urea formaldehyde.
YEAR-ROUND COMFORT. The home is super insulated and air-tight, paired with high performance triple-paned windows, to ensure it is draft-free throughout the winter (even when in front of the large windows and doors). ZED designed a right-sized heating and cooling system to pair with the thermally improved building enclosure to ensure year-round comfort. The glazing on the home maximizes passive solar gains, and facilitates cross ventilation and daylighting.
ENERGY EFFICIENT. As one of the most energy efficient houses built to date in Wellesley, the home highlights a practical solution for Massachusetts. First, the building enclosure reduces the largest energy requirement for typical houses (heating). Super-insulation, exceptional air sealing, a thermally broken wall assembly, triple pane windows, and passive solar gain combine for a sizable heating load reduction. Second, within the house only efficient systems consume energy. These include an air source heat pump for heating & cooling, a heat pump hot water heater, LED lighting, energy recovery ventilation, and high efficiency appliances. Lastly, photovoltaics provide renewable energy help offset energy consumption. The result is an 89% reduction in energy use compared to a similar brand new home built to code requirements.
RESILIENT. The home will fare well in extreme weather events. During a winter power outage, heat loss will be very slow due to the super-insulated and airtight envelope– taking multiple days to drop to 60 degrees even with no heat source. An engineered drainage system, paired with careful the detailing of the foundation, will help to keep the finished basement dry. A generator will provide full operation of the all-electric house during a power outage.
OVERALL. The home is a reflection of the family goals and an expression of their values, beautifully enabling health, comfort, safety, resilience, and utility, all while respecting the planet.
ZED - Architect & Mechanical Designer
Bevilacqua Builders Inc - Contractor
Creative Land & Water Engineering - Civil Engineering
Barbara Peterson Landscape - Landscape Design
Nest & Company - Interior Furnishings
Eric Roth Photography - Photography

This rustic style home on Hartwell Lake was designed and built for the owners to enjoy with family and friends during their active weekend lifestyle. The home was built on a narrow, deep lot that was semi-level on the roadside and steep on the lakeside. The back half of the lot heavily wooded with mature oak and poplar trees reducing the harsh sun’s heat gain on the home.
The exterior utilizes fiber cement cedar shake and lap siding complimented by deep brown colors for the windows, soffit, trim and the large square columns. A nice balance of natural earth toned stacked stone rounds out the exterior materials completing the rustic casual lake living.
The home 5400 SF is designed and built on thee levels each having a primary focus. The main level creates primary daily living for the owners. This level features an open plan with an entry, stair, dining, kitchen and living areas leading to a large lakeside screened porch. A master suite is privately tucked off its own hallway and allowing it to enjoy the lakeside as well with its own private deck. On the opposite side are two bedrooms, a study and a shared bathroom for each to utilize. An open carport for two vehicles was created with the motor court and connects to the mudroom/utility room giving the owners direct entry into their home.
The upper level is for the grand children with an oversized bedroom, bathroom and loft area for play.
The lower level is the considered the party level. Its primary feature is an elevated stage for the owner’s band opened to a large seating area, dining and kitchen for viewing and listening with direct access to another screened porch. Flanking each side is a theater and two additional bedrooms and bathrooms.
Energy Efficient features include:
• The majority of the lower level sunk into the site below grade
• 6” thick walls utilizing advanced framing techniques
• Foil covered roof sheathing
• Extensive use of blown in cellulous
• All windows & doors are double paned low E argon filed glass
• Tank-less water heaters
• Three separate high efficiency HVAC units with programmable thermostats and a fresh air ERV.
Lastly the owner requested we make every effort to sound proof the home. Many materials and techniques gave a duel purpose and added to the energy efficiency.
These items include:
• 2x6 walls with staggered studs
• Extensive use if rock wool acoustic batting
• Tempered glass in all exterior doors and windows
• ¼ thick Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) was installed on the top and bottom of the floor trusses and on all lower level walls.
The combination of the design and detailing utilizing these specific materials enabled us to achieve a 5 Star Plus Energy Star Certification with a HERS Index Score of 50. This home received a the 2015 Pinnacle Award from the SC Home Builders Association for the “Best Achievement in Energy Efficiency” sponsored by the SC Department Commerce.

Sponsored
Fredericksburg, OH
High Point Cabinets
Columbus' Experienced Custom Cabinet Builder | 4x Best of Houzz Winner

This LEED Platinum certified house reflects the homeowner's desire for an exceptionally healthy and comfortable living environment, within a traditional neighborhood.
INFILL SITE. The family, who moved from another area of Wellesley, sought out this property to be within walking distance of the high school and downtown area. An existing structure on the tight lot was removed to make way for the new home. 84% of the construction waste, from both the previous structure and the new home, was diverted from a landfill. ZED designed to preserve the existing mature trees on the perimeter of the property to minimize site impacts, and to maintain the character of the neighborhood as well as privacy on the site.
EXTERIOR EXPRESSION. The street facade of the home relates to the local New England vernacular. The rear uses contemporary language, a nod to the family’s Californian roots, to incorporate a roof deck, solar panels, outdoor living space, and the backyard swimming pool. ZED’s careful planning avoided to the need to face the garage doors towards the street, a common syndrome of a narrow lot.
THOUGHTFUL SPACE. Homes with dual entries can often result in duplicate and unused spaces. In this home, the everyday and formal entry areas are one and the same; the front and garage doors share the entry program of coat closets, mudroom storage with bench for removing your shoes, and a laundry room with generous closets for the children's sporting equipment. The entry area leads directly to the living space, encompassing the kitchen, dining and sitting area areas in an L-shaped open plan arrangement. The kitchen is placed at the south-west corner of the space to allow for a strong connection to the dining, sitting and outdoor living spaces. A fire pit on the deck satisfies the family’s desire for an open flame while a sealed gas fireplace is used indoors - ZED’s preference after omitting gas burning appliances completely from an airtight home. A small study, with a window seat, is conveniently located just off of the living space. A first floor guest bedroom includes an accessible bathroom for aging visitors and can be used as a master suite to accommodate aging in place.
HEALTHY LIVING. The client requested a home that was easy to clean and would provide a respite from seasonal allergies and common contaminants that are found in many indoor spaces. ZED selected easy to clean solid surface flooring throughout, provided ample space for cleaning supplies on each floor, and designed a mechanical system with ventilation that provides a constant supply of fresh outdoor air. ZED selected durable materials, finishes, cabinetry, and casework with low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and no added urea formaldehyde.
YEAR-ROUND COMFORT. The home is super insulated and air-tight, paired with high performance triple-paned windows, to ensure it is draft-free throughout the winter (even when in front of the large windows and doors). ZED designed a right-sized heating and cooling system to pair with the thermally improved building enclosure to ensure year-round comfort. The glazing on the home maximizes passive solar gains, and facilitates cross ventilation and daylighting.
ENERGY EFFICIENT. As one of the most energy efficient houses built to date in Wellesley, the home highlights a practical solution for Massachusetts. First, the building enclosure reduces the largest energy requirement for typical houses (heating). Super-insulation, exceptional air sealing, a thermally broken wall assembly, triple pane windows, and passive solar gain combine for a sizable heating load reduction. Second, within the house only efficient systems consume energy. These include an air source heat pump for heating & cooling, a heat pump hot water heater, LED lighting, energy recovery ventilation, and high efficiency appliances. Lastly, photovoltaics provide renewable energy help offset energy consumption. The result is an 89% reduction in energy use compared to a similar brand new home built to code requirements.
RESILIENT. The home will fare well in extreme weather events. During a winter power outage, heat loss will be very slow due to the super-insulated and airtight envelope– taking multiple days to drop to 60 degrees even with no heat source. An engineered drainage system, paired with careful the detailing of the foundation, will help to keep the finished basement dry. A generator will provide full operation of the all-electric house during a power outage.
OVERALL. The home is a reflection of the family goals and an expression of their values, beautifully enabling health, comfort, safety, resilience, and utility, all while respecting the planet.
ZED - Architect & Mechanical Designer
Bevilacqua Builders Inc - Contractor
Creative Land & Water Engineering - Civil Engineering
Barbara Peterson Landscape - Landscape Design
Nest & Company - Interior Furnishings
Eric Roth Photography - Photography

Make a Dream Home proudly presents a remarkable showcase of our recently completed window replacement project in Chicago, IL. With a focus on transforming homes and enhancing their energy efficiency, we have replaced outdated windows with high-quality, stylish alternatives that bring a fresh outlook to each space.
Our team of skilled professionals meticulously executed the window replacement process, ensuring a seamless and precise installation. Every window has been carefully chosen to not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the home but also improve functionality and energy efficiency.
With the new windows in place, homeowners can enjoy an abundance of natural light that brightens and revitalizes the interior spaces. The stylish designs of the replacement windows add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall appearance of the home.
Make a Dream Home's commitment to excellence extends beyond aesthetics. Our carefully selected windows are equipped with advanced features that contribute to energy efficiency, helping homeowners save on energy costs while reducing their environmental footprint.
The completed window replacement project is a testament to our dedication to craftsmanship and exceptional service. Our team employed expert techniques and utilized high-quality materials to ensure durability and longevity. The finished windows not only enhance the home's curb appeal but also provide improved insulation and noise reduction.
By choosing Make a Dream Home for their window replacement needs, homeowners can experience the joy of a transformed living space. With our expertise and attention to detail, we have brought light, style, and enhanced energy efficiency to homes across Chicago, IL.
If you seek to upgrade your windows, improve energy efficiency, and enhance the beauty of your home, trust Make a Dream Home. Our window replacement services in Chicago, IL offer a seamless and transformative solution, leaving you with a refreshed and invigorated living space that surpasses expectations.

Make a Dream Home proudly presents a remarkable showcase of our recently completed window replacement project in Chicago, IL. With a focus on transforming homes and enhancing their energy efficiency, we have replaced outdated windows with high-quality, stylish alternatives that bring a fresh outlook to each space.
Our team of skilled professionals meticulously executed the window replacement process, ensuring a seamless and precise installation. Every window has been carefully chosen to not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the home but also improve functionality and energy efficiency.
With the new windows in place, homeowners can enjoy an abundance of natural light that brightens and revitalizes the interior spaces. The stylish designs of the replacement windows add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall appearance of the home.
Make a Dream Home's commitment to excellence extends beyond aesthetics. Our carefully selected windows are equipped with advanced features that contribute to energy efficiency, helping homeowners save on energy costs while reducing their environmental footprint.
The completed window replacement project is a testament to our dedication to craftsmanship and exceptional service. Our team employed expert techniques and utilized high-quality materials to ensure durability and longevity. The finished windows not only enhance the home's curb appeal but also provide improved insulation and noise reduction.
By choosing Make a Dream Home for their window replacement needs, homeowners can experience the joy of a transformed living space. With our expertise and attention to detail, we have brought light, style, and enhanced energy efficiency to homes across Chicago, IL.
If you seek to upgrade your windows, improve energy efficiency, and enhance the beauty of your home, trust Make a Dream Home. Our window replacement services in Chicago, IL offer a seamless and transformative solution, leaving you with a refreshed and invigorated living space that surpasses expectations.

Make a Dream Home proudly presents a remarkable showcase of our recently completed window replacement project in Chicago, IL. With a focus on transforming homes and enhancing their energy efficiency, we have replaced outdated windows with high-quality, stylish alternatives that bring a fresh outlook to each space.
Our team of skilled professionals meticulously executed the window replacement process, ensuring a seamless and precise installation. Every window has been carefully chosen to not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the home but also improve functionality and energy efficiency.
With the new windows in place, homeowners can enjoy an abundance of natural light that brightens and revitalizes the interior spaces. The stylish designs of the replacement windows add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall appearance of the home.
Make a Dream Home's commitment to excellence extends beyond aesthetics. Our carefully selected windows are equipped with advanced features that contribute to energy efficiency, helping homeowners save on energy costs while reducing their environmental footprint.
The completed window replacement project is a testament to our dedication to craftsmanship and exceptional service. Our team employed expert techniques and utilized high-quality materials to ensure durability and longevity. The finished windows not only enhance the home's curb appeal but also provide improved insulation and noise reduction.
By choosing Make a Dream Home for their window replacement needs, homeowners can experience the joy of a transformed living space. With our expertise and attention to detail, we have brought light, style, and enhanced energy efficiency to homes across Chicago, IL.
If you seek to upgrade your windows, improve energy efficiency, and enhance the beauty of your home, trust Make a Dream Home. Our window replacement services in Chicago, IL offer a seamless and transformative solution, leaving you with a refreshed and invigorated living space that surpasses expectations.

Make a Dream Home proudly presents a remarkable showcase of our recently completed window replacement project in Chicago, IL. With a focus on transforming homes and enhancing their energy efficiency, we have replaced outdated windows with high-quality, stylish alternatives that bring a fresh outlook to each space.
Our team of skilled professionals meticulously executed the window replacement process, ensuring a seamless and precise installation. Every window has been carefully chosen to not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the home but also improve functionality and energy efficiency.
With the new windows in place, homeowners can enjoy an abundance of natural light that brightens and revitalizes the interior spaces. The stylish designs of the replacement windows add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall appearance of the home.
Make a Dream Home's commitment to excellence extends beyond aesthetics. Our carefully selected windows are equipped with advanced features that contribute to energy efficiency, helping homeowners save on energy costs while reducing their environmental footprint.
The completed window replacement project is a testament to our dedication to craftsmanship and exceptional service. Our team employed expert techniques and utilized high-quality materials to ensure durability and longevity. The finished windows not only enhance the home's curb appeal but also provide improved insulation and noise reduction.
By choosing Make a Dream Home for their window replacement needs, homeowners can experience the joy of a transformed living space. With our expertise and attention to detail, we have brought light, style, and enhanced energy efficiency to homes across Chicago, IL.
If you seek to upgrade your windows, improve energy efficiency, and enhance the beauty of your home, trust Make a Dream Home. Our window replacement services in Chicago, IL offer a seamless and transformative solution, leaving you with a refreshed and invigorated living space that surpasses expectations.

Make a Dream Home proudly presents a remarkable showcase of our recently completed window replacement project in Chicago, IL. With a focus on transforming homes and enhancing their energy efficiency, we have replaced outdated windows with high-quality, stylish alternatives that bring a fresh outlook to each space.
Our team of skilled professionals meticulously executed the window replacement process, ensuring a seamless and precise installation. Every window has been carefully chosen to not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the home but also improve functionality and energy efficiency.
With the new windows in place, homeowners can enjoy an abundance of natural light that brightens and revitalizes the interior spaces. The stylish designs of the replacement windows add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall appearance of the home.
Make a Dream Home's commitment to excellence extends beyond aesthetics. Our carefully selected windows are equipped with advanced features that contribute to energy efficiency, helping homeowners save on energy costs while reducing their environmental footprint.
The completed window replacement project is a testament to our dedication to craftsmanship and exceptional service. Our team employed expert techniques and utilized high-quality materials to ensure durability and longevity. The finished windows not only enhance the home's curb appeal but also provide improved insulation and noise reduction.
By choosing Make a Dream Home for their window replacement needs, homeowners can experience the joy of a transformed living space. With our expertise and attention to detail, we have brought light, style, and enhanced energy efficiency to homes across Chicago, IL.
If you seek to upgrade your windows, improve energy efficiency, and enhance the beauty of your home, trust Make a Dream Home. Our window replacement services in Chicago, IL offer a seamless and transformative solution, leaving you with a refreshed and invigorated living space that surpasses expectations.

Sponsored
Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!

This rustic style home on Hartwell Lake was designed and built for the owners to enjoy with family and friends during their active weekend lifestyle. The home was built on a narrow, deep lot that was semi-level on the roadside and steep on the lakeside. The back half of the lot heavily wooded with mature oak and poplar trees reducing the harsh sun’s heat gain on the home.
The exterior utilizes fiber cement cedar shake and lap siding complimented by deep brown colors for the windows, soffit, trim and the large square columns. A nice balance of natural earth toned stacked stone rounds out the exterior materials completing the rustic casual lake living.
The home 5400 SF is designed and built on thee levels each having a primary focus. The main level creates primary daily living for the owners. This level features an open plan with an entry, stair, dining, kitchen and living areas leading to a large lakeside screened porch. A master suite is privately tucked off its own hallway and allowing it to enjoy the lakeside as well with its own private deck. On the opposite side are two bedrooms, a study and a shared bathroom for each to utilize. An open carport for two vehicles was created with the motor court and connects to the mudroom/utility room giving the owners direct entry into their home.
The upper level is for the grand children with an oversized bedroom, bathroom and loft area for play.
The lower level is the considered the party level. Its primary feature is an elevated stage for the owner’s band opened to a large seating area, dining and kitchen for viewing and listening with direct access to another screened porch. Flanking each side is a theater and two additional bedrooms and bathrooms.
Energy Efficient features include:
• The majority of the lower level sunk into the site below grade
• 6” thick walls utilizing advanced framing techniques
• Foil covered roof sheathing
• Extensive use of blown in cellulous
• All windows & doors are double paned low E argon filed glass
• Tank-less water heaters
• Three separate high efficiency HVAC units with programmable thermostats and a fresh air ERV.
Lastly the owner requested we make every effort to sound proof the home. Many materials and techniques gave a duel purpose and added to the energy efficiency.
These items include:
• 2x6 walls with staggered studs
• Extensive use if rock wool acoustic batting
• Tempered glass in all exterior doors and windows
• ¼ thick Mass Loaded Vinyl (MLV) was installed on the top and bottom of the floor trusses and on all lower level walls.
The combination of the design and detailing utilizing these specific materials enabled us to achieve a 5 Star Plus Energy Star Certification with a HERS Index Score of 50. This home received a the 2015 Pinnacle Award from the SC Home Builders Association for the “Best Achievement in Energy Efficiency” sponsored by the SC Department Commerce.

Make a Dream Home proudly presents a remarkable showcase of our recently completed window replacement project in Chicago, IL. With a focus on transforming homes and enhancing their energy efficiency, we have replaced outdated windows with high-quality, stylish alternatives that bring a fresh outlook to each space.
Our team of skilled professionals meticulously executed the window replacement process, ensuring a seamless and precise installation. Every window has been carefully chosen to not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the home but also improve functionality and energy efficiency.
With the new windows in place, homeowners can enjoy an abundance of natural light that brightens and revitalizes the interior spaces. The stylish designs of the replacement windows add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall appearance of the home.
Make a Dream Home's commitment to excellence extends beyond aesthetics. Our carefully selected windows are equipped with advanced features that contribute to energy efficiency, helping homeowners save on energy costs while reducing their environmental footprint.
The completed window replacement project is a testament to our dedication to craftsmanship and exceptional service. Our team employed expert techniques and utilized high-quality materials to ensure durability and longevity. The finished windows not only enhance the home's curb appeal but also provide improved insulation and noise reduction.
By choosing Make a Dream Home for their window replacement needs, homeowners can experience the joy of a transformed living space. With our expertise and attention to detail, we have brought light, style, and enhanced energy efficiency to homes across Chicago, IL.
If you seek to upgrade your windows, improve energy efficiency, and enhance the beauty of your home, trust Make a Dream Home. Our window replacement services in Chicago, IL offer a seamless and transformative solution, leaving you with a refreshed and invigorated living space that surpasses expectations.

Make a Dream Home proudly presents a remarkable showcase of our recently completed window replacement project in Chicago, IL. With a focus on transforming homes and enhancing their energy efficiency, we have replaced outdated windows with high-quality, stylish alternatives that bring a fresh outlook to each space.
Our team of skilled professionals meticulously executed the window replacement process, ensuring a seamless and precise installation. Every window has been carefully chosen to not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the home but also improve functionality and energy efficiency.
With the new windows in place, homeowners can enjoy an abundance of natural light that brightens and revitalizes the interior spaces. The stylish designs of the replacement windows add a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall appearance of the home.
Make a Dream Home's commitment to excellence extends beyond aesthetics. Our carefully selected windows are equipped with advanced features that contribute to energy efficiency, helping homeowners save on energy costs while reducing their environmental footprint.
The completed window replacement project is a testament to our dedication to craftsmanship and exceptional service. Our team employed expert techniques and utilized high-quality materials to ensure durability and longevity. The finished windows not only enhance the home's curb appeal but also provide improved insulation and noise reduction.
By choosing Make a Dream Home for their window replacement needs, homeowners can experience the joy of a transformed living space. With our expertise and attention to detail, we have brought light, style, and enhanced energy efficiency to homes across Chicago, IL.
If you seek to upgrade your windows, improve energy efficiency, and enhance the beauty of your home, trust Make a Dream Home. Our window replacement services in Chicago, IL offer a seamless and transformative solution, leaving you with a refreshed and invigorated living space that surpasses expectations.

Mumford & Wood has designed and manufactured beautiful windows and doors for Kylemore House on the Coombe Estate, Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames. This is an exclusive 9,000 sq ft new-build house which has recently been awarded winner of the ‘Best Out of London Home’ and runner-up of the ‘Best Luxury Home’ at the 2014 Evening Standard New Homes Awards. Situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty Coombe Park is within 10 minutes of Wimbledon Village, the Common and Richmond Park.
Designed by Hoban Design, Kingston upon Thames (www.hobandesign.co.uk) for main contractor Epsom Builders, a family run business in Surrey, the property has been designed to achieve the highest levels of energy efficiency with an ‘A’ EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) Energy Rating and Code 4 Sustainable Homes. Mumford & Wood Conservation™ timber fenestration products are highly energy efficient and play their part in this overall achievement. Kylemore is one of only 0.01% of homes built to achieve this standard in England.
Photography by Chris Snook.

Architect: M3 Architecture Inc.
Interior Design: Mocoro Studio
We recently completed a development project in the Pemberton Heights area of North Vancouver. These 2 houses were built to benefit the long-term durability through the selection of efficient materials and process which will give a longer lifespan with lower maintenance and energy costs. This project was a perfect fit for us to assist in the design and execute the construction while working with some outstanding clients and consultants. A win for all of us!
The original home was recycled hitting our target goals of 90%, leading way to a couple of stealth looking homes with performance levels right there with the best of them. Our mechanical engineer designed the mechanical systems to achieve maximum efficiency and hit our internal target goals that we have set for ourselves in accordance with our Vision here at Naikoon. These homes came in at EnerGuide score of 85% which can also be referenced in GJ with a score of 54GJ. To give you an idea of how this rating relates to an average home of this size, these 2 beauties on Mackay are about 80% more efficient. The main components in the design and equipment selection that leads to this are:
1) Space heating and Cooling
2) Water Heating
3) Lights and Appliances
4) Wall assemblies and insulation
Like all of our projects, we take pride in looking at the small details of the house. Things like, insulated water lines, domestic hot water heat recovery units, electric car plug-ins, solar power ready, extensive use of environmentally friendly materials, hot water heat pumps and stringent testing and inspection point along the way, led to a successful completion of 2 certified high-performance homes with Built Green Platinum and EnergyStar certifications.
Photo credits: vopenhouse.ca

A robust, modern, riverside home with minimalist detailing that blends seamlessly into the surroundings. The home is used as a year-round weekend retreat for a family with children and as such they wanted it to be private and offer a sense of escape and freedom. The clients wanted it to be a low maintenance, energy efficient home making use of natural materials.
Clad with innovative treated timber, the house nestles harmoniously into its rural, riverside setting; making the most of its context, orientation and views while minimising any impact on the surrounding area. Two opposing blocks, forming a 'T' shape in plan, taper up in height towards the river to the east and fields to the south and define the internal spaces. The open-plan living, kitchen and dining areas benefit from fully-glazed sliding doors set in a deep reveal to the south which maximises light and provides shelter above. Large windows look out over the river and a raised, cantilevered deck wraps around the east and south elevations, creating an extension to the internal space that bleeds out into the landscape beyond.

The kitchen in this Passive House-inspired new build combines sleek modern design with cutting-edge energy efficiency. Featuring high-performance appliances, custom millwork, and sustainable materials, it offers a functional yet stylish space. Thoughtfully designed for comfort and durability, the kitchen includes optimized lighting, excellent air quality, and precision craftsmanship to complement the home's eco-friendly ethos.
9
