by Sarah Thorn | Nov 17, 2023 | Construction, Construction & Design, Postings
Interestingly, an allowance (or budget) can be your friend or it can be your worst enemy. Good, honest, quality builders may lose jobs to the competition because they establish a realistic allowance that truly reflects the scope of the entire job.
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by Sarah Thorn | Nov 10, 2023 | Building A Quality Custom Home, Construction, Construction & Design, Postings
Now, what do you do about furnishing this new dream home? The temptation is to use this as an opportunity to save money and use items you already own (but don’t love) or purchase new items based on price instead of substance.
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by Sarah Thorn | Oct 31, 2023 | Building Green, Postings, Pricing Updates
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.23.1" custom_padding="76px||76px||true|false" da_disable_devices="off|off|off" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" da_is_popup="off" da_exit_intent="off" da_has_close="on" da_alt_close="off" da_dark_close="off" da_not_modal="on" da_is_singular="off" da_with_loader="off" da_has_shadow="on"][et_pb_row admin_label="row" _builder_version="4.27.0" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_margin="|||auto|false|false" custom_padding="7px||13px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.19.1" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||1px|||" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}"] Design Green, Build Green, Live Green[/et_pb_text][et_pb_video src="https://vimeo.com/1002783615" _builder_version="4.27.0" _module_preset="default" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_video][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.23.1" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="7px|||||" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}"]The Whole Living Approach In a world where we spend up to 90% of our time indoors, the quality of our living spaces can significantly impact our health and well-being. It's a startling fact that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reminds us of, especially when considering the rising cases of health issues like asthma. The last 30 years have seen a staggering 600% increase in childhood asthma cases in the United States alone. What could be contributing to this alarming trend? One answer may lie in the way we construct and furnish our homes. Whole living is a concept that seeks to address this issue. It involves designing and building homes with a focus on environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, and, perhaps most importantly, indoor air quality. This holistic approach is not just about constructing "green" homes; it's about ensuring that those homes promote a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. The Pioneers of Whole Living Meet Sean and Laura Sullivan, the driving forces behind the whole living philosophy. Sean owns Living Stone Design + Build, a leading custom home design and build firm with over 24 years of experience. Laura, on the other hand, is the owner of ID.ology Interiors & Design. Together, they co-own Atelier Maison & Co., a green furniture studio. Their journey into whole living began when they realized that building green and energy-efficient homes was only part of the equation. They were unknowingly accumulating toxins in their homes from sources such as furniture and cleaning products. [/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20231129143639/uhy748s6nf.jpg" alt="custom home builders north carolina" title_text="custom home builders north carolina" _builder_version="4.23" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.23.1" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}"]The Importance of Indoor Air Quality Over the past two decades, there has been a growing concern among homebuyers about indoor air quality. Issues like mold, radon, carbon monoxide, and toxic chemicals are now receiving more attention than ever before. Research has linked poor indoor air quality to a range of health problems, highlighting the significance of this issue. New homes are constructed to be significantly tighter and more energy-efficient than their older counterparts, thanks to the first energy-efficient legislation in 1978. However, this tighter construction can lead to poor indoor air quality if not adequately managed. Even in homes certified as Energy Star, there's often little documentation concerning air quality. This is where whole living principles make a significant difference. Homes built to earn the Indoor airPLUS label incorporate features designed to reduce contaminants that can lead to poor indoor air quality. Unfortunately, homeowners are often unaware of the dangers that certain home furnishings can pose when brought into their homes after construction.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20231129143818/renovation-after-homestead.jpg" alt="Eco-friendly construction asheville nc" title_text="Eco-friendly construction" align="center" _builder_version="4.23" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.23" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}"]Design Green, Build Green, Live Green The whole living philosophy is encapsulated in the mantra: Design Green, Build Green, Live Green. It's a three-step process that ensures that homes are not just environmentally sustainable but also conducive to a healthy lifestyle. Here's how it works:[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" _builder_version="4.19.1" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.19.1" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.27.0" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}"]Design Green The journey begins with designing green homes. This means taking into consideration the environmental impact of every design element. Features like low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paint, built-in passive radon systems, and formaldehyde-free furniture are among the priorities. These design choices contribute to a healthier living environment from the very start. Build Green The construction phase focuses on putting the green design into practice. This is where environmentally friendly building materials and construction techniques come into play. The goal is to reduce toxins at every step, ensuring that the home is as clean and sustainable as possible. Live Green Whole living doesn't end when construction is complete. The final phase is all about teaching homeowners to live green. This involves making sustainable choices in day-to-day living, from using eco-friendly cleaning products to adopting energy-efficient habits. To underline their commitment to whole living, Sean and Laura have established Atelier Maison & Co., a healthy high-end home furnishings studio in Asheville and Cashiers, North Carolina. This venture allows homeowners to source sustainable, healthy home furnishings that align with the whole living philosophy.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.19.1" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20231129143831/english-modern-106.jpg" alt="Sustainable living" title_text="Sustainable living" _builder_version="4.23" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version="4.19.1" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.19.1" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text
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by Sarah Thorn | Oct 16, 2023 | Recognition
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="76px||21px|||" da_disable_devices="off|off|off" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" da_is_popup="off" da_exit_intent="off" da_has_close="on" da_alt_close="off" da_dark_close="off" da_not_modal="on" da_is_singular="off" da_with_loader="off" da_has_shadow="on"][et_pb_row admin_label="row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="||13px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.23.1" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Living Stone Design + Build Wins Multiple Awards at the 2023 STARS Awards Gala We are thrilled to announce that Living Stone Design + Build won multiple prestigious awards at the 2023 STARS Awards Gala. Hosted by the North Carolina Home Builders Association, this event took place on Tuesday, October 3, 2023, at the Embassy Suites by Hilton in Concord, NC. The STARS Awards program celebrates the remarkable achievements of professionals in the home building industry from across North Carolina, recognizing excellence in various categories, from marketing and advertising to architectural design.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20231129143552/IMG_2023-scaled.jpg" alt="Luxury Custom Home Builders in Asheville" title_text="Luxury Custom Home Builders in Asheville" _builder_version="4.23.1" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||11px|||" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.23.1" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="29px||||false|false" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Best Green Single-Family Home: Reems Creek Retreat Our commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly construction practices was acknowledged with the Best Green Single-Family Home award for our Reems Creek Retreat project. It's a testament to our dedication to creating homes that not only meet the highest standards of quality but also leave a positive impact on the environment. Best Green Single-Family Home Remodel: The Homestead Revival We showcased our expertise in home renovation with our project, The Homestead Revival, which won the award for Best Green Single-Family Home Remodel. This recognition underscores our ability to transform existing structures into energy-efficient, modern, and sustainable homes. Best Green Home Feature: Laurel Ledge Modern Our commitment to green building practices and innovative design was again acknowledged with the Best Green Home Feature award for the Laurel Ledge Modern project. We are thrilled to be recognized for our attention to eco-friendly details within our homes. Best Single-Family Custom Home Between 2,501 and 3,500 Square Feet: The Homestead Revival In the category of single-family custom homes, our project The Homestead Revival stood out as the best in the 2,501 to 3,500 square feet range. We take pride in crafting unique and personalized living spaces that meet the specific needs of our clients. Best Bathroom Remodel: The Homestead Revival Our expertise in remodeling extends to the finer details of a home. Winning the award for Best Bathroom Remodel showcases our commitment to creating functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces. Best Room Remodel: The Homestead Revival A home's individual rooms are just as important as the overall design. Our recognition in the Best Room Remodel category highlights our ability to transform spaces into functional and beautiful areas. Best Whole House Remodel Over $500,000: The Homestead Revival Our crowning achievement at the STARS Awards Gala was winning the Best Whole House Remodel Over $500,000 award for The Homestead Revival. This recognition is a testament to our ability to tackle comprehensive renovation projects with precision and excellence. We extend our gratitude to our talented team, dedicated clients, and partners who have made these achievements possible. These awards inspire us to continue striving for excellence in every project we undertake. Thank you to the North Carolina Home Builders Association for recognizing our commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovative design. At Living Stone Design + Build, we look forward to continuing our mission of crafting exceptional homes that bring dreams to life. Stay tuned for more exciting updates and projects as we continue to set new standards in the home building industry.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]
by Sarah Thorn | Oct 16, 2023 | Parade of Homes, Recognition
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="||21px|||" da_disable_devices="off|off|off" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" da_is_popup="off" da_exit_intent="off" da_has_close="on" da_alt_close="off" da_dark_close="off" da_not_modal="on" da_is_singular="off" da_with_loader="off" da_has_shadow="on"][et_pb_row admin_label="row" _builder_version="4.16" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" custom_padding="55px||13px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="4.16" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.23.1" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}"]2023 Parade of Homes Awards Living Stone Design + Build Takes Home Several Awards We are thrilled to announce that Living Stone Design + Build has once again been recognized for its exceptional innovation and craftsmanship at the 2023 Parade of Homes Awards. This year's ceremony took place at the WNC Awards Gala on October 13, 2023, and our team is honored to have received several prestigious awards.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20231129144507/Sullivan-Farm-Before-After-102-1.jpg" alt="parade of homes awards 2023" title_text="parade of homes awards 2023, Asheville, NC" _builder_version="4.23.1" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||11px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.23.1" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Homestead Revival won the Gold Craftsmanship Award[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.23.1" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Innovative Home Award: Brush Creek English Modern Living Stone Design + Build was awarded the "Innovative Home" honor for our outstanding work on the Brush Creek English Modern residence. This award acknowledges our commitment to pushing the boundaries of home design and creating spaces that are truly unique and innovative. Gold Craftsmanship Awards: Homestead RevivalMoody Modern MountainMountain Modern Vista We are extremely proud to have received three Gold Craftsmanship Awards. These awards signify our dedication to exceptional craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the highest standards of quality in our work. The homes recognized in this category showcase the heart and soul that we put into each project. Silver Craftsmanship Award: Mountain Modern Vista In addition to our Gold Craftsmanship Awards, we are pleased to have also received a Silver Craftsmanship Award for the Mountain Modern Vista. This acknowledgment reinforces our commitment to consistently delivering excellence in craftsmanship across all our projects. About the Awards The WNC Annual Parade of Homes included 33 newly constructed homes and 6 Renewed Spaces that were up for award consideration. The winners were chosen by a distinguished panel of judges with extensive experience in the building industry from outside of the Western North Carolina area. These awards are a testament to our unwavering dedication to building homes that stand out for their innovation and quality. We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to our incredible team of architects, designers, builders, and craftsmen who have made these achievements possible. These awards are a testament to the passion and hard work we invest in every project. At Living Stone Design + Build, we remain committed to pushing the boundaries of design and delivering craftsmanship of the highest caliber. We look forward to continuing to create innovative, high-quality homes that exceed our clients' expectations. Thank you to everyone who has supported us on this incredible journey. We couldn't have achieved this success without your trust and belief in our vision. Here's to more exciting projects and accolades in the future![/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]