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Paradise Found ConstructionThe 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).
Spazio LAThis complete kitchen design and remodel was tastefully done with custom flat panel cabinets. The upper cabinets were done with a walnut finish and the lower cabinets in a dark blueish gray color. For the countertops and backsplash we utilized a Vadara quartz surface. The floors are 24x48 gray Spanish Porcelain.
Tiles, countertops and cabinet pulls were sourced from Spazio LA Tile Gallery. All appliances are Wolf-Sub-Zero
Integrated Home ImprovementBoth the design and construction teams put their heart into making sure we worked with the client to achieve this gorgeous vision. The client was sensitive to both aesthetic and functionality goals, so we set out to improve their old, dated cramped kitchen, with an open concept that facilitates cooking workflow, and dazzles the eye with its mid century modern design. One of their biggest items was their need for increased storage space. We certainly achieved that with ample cabinet space and doubling their pantry space.
The 13 foot waterfall island is the centerpiece, which is heavily utilized for cooking, eating, playing board games and hanging out. The pantry behind the walnut doors used to be the fridge space, and there's an extra pantry now to the left of the current fridge. We moved the sink from the counter to the island, which really helped workflow (we created triangle between cooktop, sink and fridge/pantry 2). To make the cabinets flow linearly at the top we moved and replaced the window. The beige paint is called alpaca from Sherwin Williams and the blue is charcoal blue from sw.
Everything was carefully selected, from the horizontal grain on the walnut cabinets, to the subtly veined white quartz from Arizona tile, to the black glass paneled luxury hood from Futuro Futuro. The pendants and chandelier are from West Elm. The flooring is from karastan; a gorgeous engineered, white oak in herringbone pattern. The recessed lights are decorative from Lumens. The pulls are antique brass from plank hardware (in London). We sourced the door handles and cooktop (Empava) from Houzz. The faucet is Rohl and the sink is Bianco.
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DEANE Inc | Distinctive Design & CabinetryClients that relocated from NYC fell in love with this home but wanted to update the kitchen to reflect their love of cooking. Using that mandate, the designer maximized both storage and countertops through clever space planning to utilize the existing perimeter to the fullest. The resulting space is a classic white kitchen with soft blue accents in the window treatments and seating. The main marble island was designed to maximize storage and counter surface with the second island done in walnut to match the butler’s pantry. The soft white cabinetry has a custom, brush-stroke finish with unlacquered brass hardware sourced from England. The custom hood and stainless steel backsplash with a warming shelf give the kitchen a professional look and are complemented by the SubZero glass front refrigerator and Wolf range. An upside-down edge detail on the countertops adds surface area, while interior lighting in the display cabinetry highlights dishes and serving pieces. The kitchen shines with unlacquered brass hardware and accents that patinas as it matures, but the crowning glory is the custom pot rack and light fixture by Ann-Morris that illuminates the room.
Integrated Home ImprovementBoth the design and construction teams put their heart into making sure we worked with the client to achieve this gorgeous vision. The client was sensitive to both aesthetic and functionality goals, so we set out to improve their old, dated cramped kitchen, with an open concept that facilitates cooking workflow, and dazzles the eye with its mid century modern design. One of their biggest items was their need for increased storage space. We certainly achieved that with ample cabinet space and doubling their pantry space.
The 13 foot waterfall island is the centerpiece, which is heavily utilized for cooking, eating, playing board games and hanging out. The pantry behind the walnut doors used to be the fridge space, and there's an extra pantry now to the left of the current fridge. We moved the sink from the counter to the island, which really helped workflow (we created triangle between cooktop, sink and fridge/pantry 2). To make the cabinets flow linearly at the top we moved and replaced the window. The beige paint is called alpaca from Sherwin Williams and the blue is charcoal blue from sw.
Everything was carefully selected, from the horizontal grain on the walnut cabinets, to the subtly veined white quartz from Arizona tile, to the black glass paneled luxury hood from Futuro Futuro. The pendants and chandelier are from West Elm. The flooring is from karastan; a gorgeous engineered, white oak in herringbone pattern. The recessed lights are decorative from Lumens. The pulls are antique brass from plank hardware (in London). We sourced the door handles and cooktop (Empava) from Houzz. The faucet is Rohl and the sink is Bianco.
Corinthian Fine HomesWhile working with this couple on their master bathroom, they asked us to renovate their kitchen which was still in the 70’s and needed a complete demo and upgrade utilizing new modern design and innovative technology and elements. We transformed an indoor grill area with curved design on top to a buffet/serving station with an angled top to mimic the angle of the ceiling. Skylights were incorporated for natural light and the red brick fireplace was changed to split face stacked travertine which continued over the buffet for a dramatic aesthetic. The dated island, cabinetry and appliances were replaced with bark-stained Hickory cabinets, a larger island and state of the art appliances. The sink and faucet were chosen from a source in Chicago and add a contemporary flare to the island. An additional buffet area was added for a tv, bookshelves and additional storage. The pendant light over the kitchen table took some time to find exactly what they were looking for, but we found a light that was minimalist and contemporary to ensure an unobstructed view of their beautiful backyard. The result is a stunning kitchen with improved function, storage, and the WOW they were going for.
Integrated Home ImprovementBoth the design and construction teams put their heart into making sure we worked with the client to achieve this gorgeous vision. The client was sensitive to both aesthetic and functionality goals, so we set out to improve their old, dated cramped kitchen, with an open concept that facilitates cooking workflow, and dazzles the eye with its mid century modern design. One of their biggest items was their need for increased storage space. We certainly achieved that with ample cabinet space and doubling their pantry space.
The 13 foot waterfall island is the centerpiece, which is heavily utilized for cooking, eating, playing board games and hanging out. The pantry behind the walnut doors used to be the fridge space, and there's an extra pantry now to the left of the current fridge. We moved the sink from the counter to the island, which really helped workflow (we created triangle between cooktop, sink and fridge/pantry 2). To make the cabinets flow linearly at the top we moved and replaced the window. The beige paint is called alpaca from Sherwin Williams and the blue is charcoal blue from sw.
Everything was carefully selected, from the horizontal grain on the walnut cabinets, to the subtly veined white quartz from Arizona tile, to the black glass paneled luxury hood from Futuro Futuro. The pendants and chandelier are from West Elm. The flooring is from karastan; a gorgeous engineered, white oak in herringbone pattern. The recessed lights are decorative from Lumens. The pulls are antique brass from plank hardware (in London). We sourced the door handles and cooktop (Empava) from Houzz. The faucet is Rohl and the sink is Bianco.
Corinthian Fine HomesWhile working with this couple on their master bathroom, they asked us to renovate their kitchen which was still in the 70’s and needed a complete demo and upgrade utilizing new modern design and innovative technology and elements. We transformed an indoor grill area with curved design on top to a buffet/serving station with an angled top to mimic the angle of the ceiling. Skylights were incorporated for natural light and the red brick fireplace was changed to split face stacked travertine which continued over the buffet for a dramatic aesthetic. The dated island, cabinetry and appliances were replaced with bark-stained Hickory cabinets, a larger island and state of the art appliances. The sink and faucet were chosen from a source in Chicago and add a contemporary flare to the island. An additional buffet area was added for a tv, bookshelves and additional storage. The pendant light over the kitchen table took some time to find exactly what they were looking for, but we found a light that was minimalist and contemporary to ensure an unobstructed view of their beautiful backyard. The result is a stunning kitchen with improved function, storage, and the WOW they were going for.
M AtelierA growing trend in today’s home interiors is that of luxurious bathrooms. Homeowners think about investing in an elegant and cosy bathroom due to various reasons. Some of them see the bathroom as their temple of solace, where they do all their special self-care activities. Others want their bathrooms to be the space where they can enjoy the time with themselves. People also see the bathroom as an extension of their taste and personality.
There are ways, however, to achieve a luxurious ambiance in your bathroom. If you check out the best interior design in Singapore recommendations, here are some of the most valuable tips and tricks that you may do:
1. Invest in cove lighting.
Cove lights are trending these days because of the way they change the environmental settings of any room. They are not as bright as general lighting, but they can illuminate the space just right. They are also very versatile and can be installed in bedrooms, kitchens, living rooms, and most notably, bathrooms.
Instead of using a central light in your bathroom, it would be posher to use cove lights. The light source is not blinding but is enough to illuminate the area evenly. The lights, due to their skewed diffusion, do not overlap each other, so you can enjoy an intimate ambiance while doing your self-care tasks.
2. Have a bathtub in place.
One of the most important aspects of a luxurious bathroom is the bathtub. It not only symbolises that you have the money to spend on one, but more importantly, you can afford the space for it. You also have the time to relax and enjoy a long bath with the tub in your bathroom.
While it is more common to have a built-in tub in most bathrooms (as a way to utilise space), you may opt for the standalone kind. This tub is not fastened onto the wall but instead held stable on the floor (similar to those in Victorian-era mansions). You may also have your water system customised to accommodate the tub.
3. Declutter.
Achieving a luxurious bathroom doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot on it. The best interior designs in Singapore feature bathrooms that are minimalist in terms of décor and style.
You can start by removing all the unnecessary items in your bathroom, cleaning up all corners down to the last speck of dust. You may then have it repainted with a colour scheme that speaks of cleanliness, relaxation, and peace. These shades include white, grey, blue, and green, as they are relaxing to the eyes and easy to clean.
You may also want to invest in an organiser, where you can place all your toiletries in one place and not have them occupy your bathroom surfaces. This way, it will be easier for you to add decorations and other accents to create a cosy vibe.
It also pays to have an indoor plant as an accent in your bathroom. Not only does it speak of freshness (which today’s luxe homes embrace), but it also offers a pop of colour that breaks the monotony of your bathroom colour scheme.
Paradise Found ConstructionThe 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).
DevArt8 ConstructionIntroducing DevArt8's crowning achievement – an awe-inspiring full home remodel that exemplifies the perfect blend of ingenuity, innovation, and masterful craftsmanship. This project surpassed the boundaries of a mere renovation, as it entailed a complete reimagining of the living space. From the project's inception, our team recognized the immense potential to create something truly extraordinary. By skillfully harmonizing contemporary aesthetics with functional design, every facet of the home was thoughtfully tailored to embody the client's distinct style and accommodate their lifestyle seamlessly. With precision, we executed intricate structural modifications, incorporated ingenious space utilization techniques, and meticulously sourced premium materials from trusted suppliers. Throughout the transformative journey, clear communication, meticulous attention to detail, and an unwavering dedication to excellence were paramount. The result? A breathtaking home that not only exceeded the client's expectations but also redefined the standards of modern luxury living. At DevArt8, our passion lies in turning houses into dream homes, and this full home remodel is the epitome of our commitment to transforming spaces into true works of art.
Alm ArchitectsThis unique home is located on a ridge with fantastic views to the rugged Gore Range from one side and down a dramatic ravine on the other. While the home resembles a European castle, it is interpreted in a modern way and utilizes the latest in building technology. The stone on the front facade is Colorado sourced granite. The main level features a very private master suite and study.
FiveSTAR LandscapeWe recently finished this landscape design and installation project in the Tanglewood neighborhood of Houston, Texas. Our client, a Louisiana native who loves entertaining and wanted to stay connected to her NOLA roots, desired a space that could comfortably accommodate 30+ guests on a regular basis.
We deliberately designed the outdoor kitchen without a cover to preserve the view of the magnificent oak trees. Our aim was to create a kitchen that is both durable and visually appealing. The countertop is made of leathered granite, a material that can withstand the unpredictable Texas weather. All the appliances, including the grill, refrigerator, sink, and double side burner, were locally sourced and are made of stainless steel. Additionally, we utilized Austin limestone, which was quarried right here in Texas.
To infuse a touch of New Orleans charm into the backyard, we incorporated a fountain. The surrounding black star gravel was designed as a versatile space that can be used for additional dining, seating, or even as a meditation area.
To ensure privacy and shade as the plants mature, we strategically planted Eaglestone Holly and Japanese Yew along the fence line. Completing the landscape, we selected Amerishade grass for its excellent shade tolerance.
LopiWith the 1750i Wood Insert you can convert you old, inefficient masonry or zero clearance fireplace into a great source of heat for your medium to large sized home. This wood burning insert is more than five times as efficient as an open fireplace and features a built-in convection chamber to circulate and distribute heat throughout your home. It also features a bypass damper that allows quick and easy fire startups and smoke-free reloads. Experience the performance and quality you've come to expect in Lopi with an insert that is designed to be affordable, good looking and just plain heats!
The 1750i wood fireplace insert even features a large cooktop surface that is great to utilize during power outages.
Scott Simpson Design + BuildThe original homeowner’s plan was to do an extensive renovation to the existing structure. Scott Simpson and Tom Kenny, owners of Scott Simpson Builders, collaborated with the homeowners and the architect, John Holbert, and decided to do new construction to utilize as many green technologies and building practices as possible. As the project progressed, more and more elements were employed to make this home a unique, environmentally sensitive structure.
GREENER BUILDING
Green technologies used in construction include:
--8,000 kw of photovoltaic cells.
--Installation of a net meter system by which excess energy can be sold back to the electric company.
--Solar panels to heat home’s floors through a radiant system and to heat the home’s water.
--Low VOC water-based urethane used to seal concrete basement floor and low VOC finishes throughout.
--Roof was made from Galvalume-an aluminum that reflects solar energy off the roof and reduces the need for air conditioning.
--The installation of an 8,000 gallon tank under the driveway to harvest rain water and re use it to water drought resistant trees and grasses. This is the FIRST rain water harvest system to be installed in the Village of Wilmette.
--Green roof located over garage.
--Benches used are Gabians, traditionally used for erosion control. The bricks used in the benches were recycled from the original brick home on the site.
--A rain garden was installed in the backyard as part of the storm water management system.
Innovative and creative solutions include:
--Creating mantles from trees that had to be removed from the property prior to construction.
--Stone for the fireplaces was made from Chilton Stone from Sussex, Wisconsin.
--1,500 s.f. of Villeroy & Boch tile through out house sourced and reused from a local convent that was converted into condominiums.
--Exterior siding from recycled pickle barrels.
--Recycled barn wood used throughout for closet doors and cabinetry.
--Grade school gymnasium floor recycled and used for children’s basement playroom.
--Decorative beams, hardwood flooring originated from timbers from the Thomas Edison factory in New London, Wisconsin.
--Shelving in the living room was built by Amish cabinetmakers, Lambright Woodworking, using reclaimed walnut.
Alm ArchitectsThis unique home is located on a ridge with fantastic views to the rugged Gore Range from one side and down a dramatic ravine on the other. While the home resembles a European castle, it is interpreted in a modern way and utilizes the latest in building technology. The stone on the front facade is Colorado sourced granite. The main level features a very private master suite and study.
Hagstrom BuilderAnother key detail that the family wanted kept in tact was the amazing stair railing, but the old one had fallen into disrepair and could not be salvaged so the remodeler had a replica made utilizing custom welded rail and accents are polished bronze with stainless steel spindles which is a source of joy and pride for the female homeowner. The original rail was repurposed as a foot rest on the new downstairs bar area.
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Sunbury, OH
J.Holderby - Renovations
Franklin County's Leading General Contractors - 2X Best of Houzz!
Creative Sources, Inc.In response to the phenomenal success of our Leeward Sling Collection and continued demand for comfortable deep seating furniture, Telescope has created a Leeward Deep Seating Cushion Collection, which still utilizes a frame constructed of super high quality marine grade polymer. Combining this high quality material with extra deep plush cushions preserves the style of its original sling collection while adding optimal comfort.
DEANE Inc | Distinctive Design & CabinetryClients that relocated from NYC fell in love with this home but wanted to update the kitchen to reflect their love of cooking. Using that mandate, the designer maximized both storage and countertops through clever space planning to utilize the existing perimeter to the fullest. The resulting space is a classic white kitchen with soft blue accents in the window treatments and seating. The main marble island was designed to maximize storage and counter surface with the second island done in walnut to match the butler’s pantry. The soft white cabinetry has a custom, brush-stroke finish with unlacquered brass hardware sourced from England. The custom hood and stainless steel backsplash with a warming shelf give the kitchen a professional look and are complemented by the SubZero glass front refrigerator and Wolf range. An upside-down edge detail on the countertops adds surface area, while interior lighting in the display cabinetry highlights dishes and serving pieces. The kitchen shines with unlacquered brass hardware and accents that patinas as it matures, but the crowning glory is the custom pot rack and light fixture by Ann-Morris that illuminates the room.
Paradise Found ConstructionThe 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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