Living Stone Design + Build Celebrates Winning The Nationals Silver Award for Best Detached Home for 55+ Buyer
[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="||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 and subtitle" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||16px|||" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}"]The Nationals Silver Award for Best Detached Home for 55+ Buyer Living Stone Design + Build Honored with Silver Award at The Nationals Living Stone Design + Build, is delighted to announce our recent achievement at The Nationals. The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) has recognized us with a Silver Award in the Detached Home for 55+ Buyer category for our project "Modern Organic Elegance". This accolade highlights our commitment to creating homes that cater to the evolving needs and preferences of our clients, particularly those aged 55 and older.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20240923131132/modern-organic-elegance-1.webp" alt="Best custom home builder" title_text="modern-organic-elegance-1" _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||24px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label="Blog Post text" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.27.4" text_font="||on||||||" header_text_align="left" header_2_font="||||on||||" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" header_3_font="||||on|||#4D5357|" header_3_text_color="#4D5357" header_3_font_size="27px" background_color="#eaeaea" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="30px|30px|30px|30px|true|true" box_shadow_style="preset4" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}"]About The Nationals The Nationals awards program is one of the most prestigious in the home building industry, celebrating excellence in new home sales, marketing, and design. With over 1,200 entries, the competition is fierce, showcasing the best in home building across North America. The awards honor home builders, developers, and associates for their dedication, innovation, and outstanding achievements. Categories range across various disciplines, reflecting the diverse talents and efforts within the industry.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image _builder_version="4.27.4" _module_preset="default" alt="Best of 55+ Housing Award Logo" title_text="Best of 55+ Housing Awards StandAlone - Black eps" src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20250102133031/Best-of-55-Housing-Awards-StandAlone-Black-eps.webp" hover_enabled="0" sticky_enabled="0"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label="Blog Post text" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.27.4" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="36px||||false|false" custom_padding="||14px|||" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}"]Modern Organic Elegance: Winning for the 55+ Buyer Our winning project, "Modern Organic Elegance," embodies our Whole Living approach by blending sophisticated design with sustainable practices. This project was specifically designed to meet the unique needs of the 55+ demographic, emphasizing accessibility, functionality, and comfort without sacrificing style. Through careful selection of non-toxic materials, energy-efficient systems, and universal design principles, we created a living space that promotes healthier and happier living. Acknowledgement and Appreciation We are deeply honored to receive this recognition from NAHB. It reaffirms our dedication to building homes that not only meet but exceed the expectations of our clients. This award is a testament to the hard work and passion of our team, our partners at ID.ology Interiors & Design, and the unwavering support of our clients. We strive to ensure that every home we build enhances the well-being of its occupants through thoughtful design and sustainable practices. Join Us in Celebration The award ceremony for The Nationals will take place on February 25, 2025, at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas during the International Builders Show. We look forward to joining our peers to celebrate the achievements within our industry. Thank you to the NAHB and the dedicated panel of judges who selected us from a highly competitive field. We extend our gratitude to our clients and partners who enable us to continue our mission to "build happier, healthier lives." For more information about our award-winning projects and our commitment to sustainable, luxury homes, please visit our website or follow us on social media. This award from The Nationals is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire Living Stone Design + Build team. We are grateful for this recognition and remain committed to building homes that create happier, healthier lives for our clients. We appreciate the acknowledgment from the NAHB and the opportunity to continue setting standards in the home building industry. For more details and updates, please follow our journey on our Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn profiles.[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="Email Subscribe CTA" module_id="email-optin" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||0px||false|false" custom_padding="0px||0px||true|false" da_popup_slug="email-optin" da_disable_devices="off|off|off" global_module="31657" saved_tabs="all" locked="off" collapsed="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 column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="1" make_equal="on" disabled_on="on|on|off" admin_label="Newsletter Subscribe Desktop" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" width="100%" max_width="100%" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="0px||0px||true|false" background_last_edited="on|desktop" collapsed="off" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.19.1" _module_preset="default" background_color="#f2f2f2" custom_padding="6%|8%|6%|8%|true|false" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_text admin_label="Experience the Living Stone Difference" module_class="chronospro-heading home-difference-text green-heading" _builder_version="4.23" text_font_size="24px" header_text_color="#4d5357" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#4d5357" header_2_font_size="58px" custom_padding="||7px|||" header_2_font_size_tablet="49px" header_2_font_size_phone="47px" header_2_font_size_last_edited="on|tablet" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}"]Our Newsletter[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.23.1" _module_preset="1f09816e-184e-4ce5-a4cf-b39c52c423ca" custom_margin="||30px||false|false" header_font_size_tablet="55px" header_font_size_last_edited="off|desktop" global_colors_info="{}"]Do you like what you see here? We value our subscribers and invest a lot of time curating a newsletter, here’s what’s to love: Virtual tours of our homes and the stories behind them Quarterly updates on the cost to build and global events that are affecting it Education on topics like how to interview potential builders, or what construction selections could be introducing toxins into your home We won't spam your inbox or share your email, and it’s easy to unsubscribe View examples of our newsletter content in our blog [/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.23.1" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"][gravityform id="9" title="false"][/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type="1_2" _builder_version="4.20.0" _module_preset="default" background_image="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20231129145313/Square-Kallay-Back-yard.jpg" background_last_edited="off|desktop" background_enable_image_tablet="off" background_enable_image_phone="off" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_divider show_divider="off" _builder_version="4.21.0" _module_preset="default" height_tablet="60vw" height_phone="60vw" height_last_edited="on|phone" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_divider][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure="1_2,1_2" use_custom_gutter="on" gutter_width="1" make_equal="on" disabled_on="off|off|on" admin_label="Newsletter Subscribe Mobile" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default"Read More
2023 Custom Home Builder of the Year
[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="||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 and subtitle" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.24.2" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="||16px|||" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}"]Custom Home Builder of the Year Sean Sullivan Named National Association of Home Builders Custom Home Builder of the Year 2023 LAS VEGAS, NV - In a momentous occasion for Living Stone Design + Build, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) proudly awarded Sean Sullivan the distinguished title of Custom Home Builder of the Year for 2023. This prestigious acknowledgment not only applauds Sullivan's remarkable contributions to the homebuilding industry but also celebrates his unwavering commitment to excellence in custom home construction.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20240228160608/best-custom-home-builder-main-scaled.jpg" alt="Best custom home builder" title_text="best-custom-home-builder-main" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||11px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label="Image Text" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]Sean, his wife Laura, and her son Cole pose at the International Builders Show before the award ceremony[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Blog Post text" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.26.0" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="||||false|false" custom_padding="30px|30px|30px|30px|true|true" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" text_font="||on||||||" background_color="#eaeaea" header_2_font="||||on||||" header_3_font="||||on|||#4D5357|" header_3_text_color="#4D5357" header_3_font_size="27px" box_shadow_style="preset4" sticky_enabled="0"]NAHB Feature: Saying 'Yes' to Leadership In this article by the NAHB, Sean Sullivan's leadership and dedication to sustainable building practices are explored in detail. The piece delves into how Sean and his wife, Laura, have built a family of companies focused on eco-friendly home design and construction. It also highlights Sean’s significant roles within the home building community and his commitment to mentoring the next generation of builders. Click here for the full interview, where Sean shares insights about his journey in green building, the importance of mentorship, and memorable experiences from the International Builders’ Show.[/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Blog Post text" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.26.0" header_text_align="left" header_2_text_align="left" header_2_text_color="#727272" module_alignment="left" custom_margin="36px||||false|false" custom_padding="||14px|||" hover_enabled="0" border_style="solid" locked="off" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"]Innovation, Craftsmanship, and Client Satisfaction Sean Sullivan's journey as the founder of Living Stone Design + Build spans over a quarter of a century, during which he has solidified his position as a leader in the custom homebuilding sector. His unwavering dedication to quality, meticulous attention to detail, and client-centric approach have not only set him apart but have also established a new standard of excellence within the industry. Sullivan's commitment to innovation is evident in his track record, where he has consistently pushed the boundaries of custom home construction. His portfolio showcases a blend of creativity, craftsmanship, and client satisfaction, making him a standout candidate for the 2023 Custom Home Builder of the Year award. Community Commitment Beyond Construction Sean Sullivan's influence extends beyond the construction site, reflecting a commitment to community well-being. Actively involved in local non-profit initiatives, Sullivan organizes "First Fridays," during which his team donates time and talents to benefit nonprofits. Additionally, his creation of the Asheville Design District has revitalized local neighborhoods, showcasing his dedication to the progress and vitality of the community he serves. Whole Living Philosophy: A Green Approach to Custom Homes At the core of Sean Sullivan's approach is his concept of "Whole Living." This philosophy goes beyond constructing homes; it involves designing green homes, building green homes, and teaching clients how to live green. His commitment to eco-conscious living, sustainability, and creating homes that contribute to the well-being of their inhabitants demonstrates a holistic approach to custom home construction. Quality, Integrity, and Lifelong Relationships Sullivan's unwavering belief in doing things right the first time underscores his commitment to quality and excellence. This approach not only results in homes of the highest standard but also fosters lasting relationships. Clients often become lifelong friends, a testament to the trust and loyalty instilled by Sean Sullivan. Client Bill Sokolis shares, "I found Sean to be a true leader, a visionary in a business that has so many ways to struggle. Sean makes the home building experience/process a pleasurable one. He has taken the home builder business to a new level! I can honestly say that Sean and Laura have become 'good friends'!"[/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20240228160603/best-custom-home-builder-award-scaled.jpg" alt="Best custom home builder" title_text="best-custom-home-builder-award" _builder_version="4.24.2" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||24px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label="Blog Post text" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.24.2" 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="{}"]Inspiration and Gratitude: Sean Sullivan's Acceptance Upon receiving the Custom Home Builder of the Year award, Sean Sullivan expressed his gratitude, saying, "It is truly an honor to be recognized by the National Association of Homebuilders as Custom Home Builder of the Year. This award is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire team, as well as the trust and confidence placed in us by our valued clients." As the recipient of the Custom Home Builder of the Year award, Sean Sullivan continues to inspire and set new benchmarks for excellence in the homebuilding industry. His commitment to innovation, quality, and client satisfaction serves as a beacon of excellence for professionals across the nation. Living Stone Design + Build, under Sullivan'sRead More
What Can I Expect After I Move In?
[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="||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="4.24.0" 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="{}"]What Can I Expect After I Move In? Know What to Expect to Avoid Panic Imagine it’s been a few months since your custom-built home was completed. [/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src="https://media-upload-livingstone.s3.amazonaws.com/img/20231230222600/Youtube_Thumbnails_For_Project_Features-20.png" alt="luxury custom home builders" title_text="luxury custom home builders" _builder_version="4.24.0" _module_preset="default" custom_margin="||11px|||" global_colors_info="{}"][/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version="4.24.0" _module_preset="default" global_colors_info="{}"]The bliss that comes with spending your money on the right venture![/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label="Title" module_class="chronospro-heading green-heading" _builder_version="4.24.0" 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="{}"]Common Concerns You’ve moved the furniture in, decorated your favorite spots with mementos and other personal belongings, and even hosted a few housewarming and dinner parties. Your home is the envy of the neighborhood and your friends marvel at the attention to detail and excellent craftsmanship. But there are no perfect homes, and a fact of new home construction involves the foundation settling and minor cracks appearing. Many of the cracks appear because your home is adjusting to temperature and humidity changes—builders can’t build your home under factory-controlled conditions. So don’t panic when minor cracks appear. This is completely normal! To help ease your fears, here’s a list of common situations that occur in new homes. Builders are often asked these questions (and plenty more) from panic-stricken homeowners who fear their perfect home is now laden with problems. Remember, thousands of components were used to put together your home over an extended period of time, so settling and minor adjustments should be expected. A good builder will address your concerns promptly and work with you. So what can you expect?: Trim Molding Cracking: This is very common and there’s no way around it. Expect to find minor cracking and separation in your moldings, especially in two-story homes. Settling, heat expansion, and contraction will occur as your home acclimates to the new temperature conditions inside from running your air conditioner and heating systems. This does not mean there is anything structurally wrong with your home. Cracks in your molding actually look worse than they really are. A qualified handyman can caulk these minor cracks within minutes, and after the repair you shouldn’t be able to tell there was ever a crack at all. Grout Cracking: Another common spot to find minor cracking is in the tub and shower or kitchen backsplash area. You may notice cracks appearing along the grout lines between tiles or in the corners of these areas. Again, a handyman with the appropriate sealant can take care of this. It’s a good idea, however, to add the sealant quickly to prevent moisture from seeping behind the tile and causing any damage. Hardwood Expansion and Contraction: If you have hardwood floors professionally installed in your home (not constructed from a pre-fabricated kit), you can expect to find some minor cracks or swells, appearing over time. The hardwood acclimates to the temperature and humidity of your home (again due to cool air and heat) after installation and the wood planks will expand and contract. This is normal! It’s best to allow the wood to expand and contract for at least six months so it completely settles before making any repairs. A professional installer or handyman can putty in the minor cracks. Window and Door Adjustments: Even windows and doors will need time to adjust to the temperature after a new home is finished. The doors, locks, door handles, and deadbolts may need some minor adjustment. This is completely normal. Cracks in the Sidewalk, Driveway and Garage: It is not uncommon for minor cracking to occur along concrete sidewalks, driveways, and even inside the garage or basement. Expansion and contraction also happens here because of the varying temperature conditions that the concrete is exposed to. As long as you don’t notice a difference in the height of the concrete on either side of the crack, don’t worry. These cracks are normal. It does not mean that there is anything wrong with the concrete foundation. Typically cracks in concrete are not mended unless there is a height difference between the concrete on either side. Receptacle Not Working: If a receptacle (wall plug) in the bathroom, kitchen, garage, or in the home’s exterior mysteriously stops working, don’t be alarmed. It may just be a tripped circuit. The current electrical code requires builders to put in a receptacle called a GFCI, or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter. This measure is added for your safety to prevent accidental electrocution. These receptacles have an internal trip circuit built in that acts as a safety mechanism when there is water and electricity coming in contact. If there is an electrical surge, the receptacle willRead More

