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
The Essential Punch List for Custom Homes: Living Stone’s Unique Approach
The Essential Punch List for Custom Homes: Living Stone's Unique Approach In custom home building, attention to detail is crucial to delivering a home that meets and exceeds client expectations. A vital tool in ensuring every aspect of the project is completed to the highest standard is the punch list. This document serves as a final checklist of tasks that need addressing before the project is deemed complete. Understanding how to effectively create and manage a punch list is essential for both builders and homeowners. Understanding the Punch List A punch list is compiled near the end of a construction project. It outlines all the items that do not conform to the contract specifications agreed upon by the builder and the homeowner. These items can range from minor cosmetic defects to incomplete installations. The punch list ensures: Comprehensive Review: All aspects of the home are inspected thoroughly. Clear Communication: Builders and clients are on the same page regarding outstanding tasks. Accountability: Responsibilities are assigned to address each item promptly. Creating a Punch List: General Guidelines While the specifics may vary, creating an effective punch list generally involves the following steps: Final Walkthrough: The builder and homeowner conduct a detailed inspection of the property together. Identify Issues: Document any discrepancies, defects, or unfinished work that need correction. Categorize Items: Organize the list by rooms or categories to streamline the correction process. Assign Responsibility: Determine who is responsible for each task, whether it's a subcontractor or a team member. Set Deadlines: Establish realistic timelines for completing each item. Follow-Up Inspections: After corrections are made, verify that all items meet the agreed-upon standards. Finalize Documentation: Once all items are addressed, both parties sign off to acknowledge completion. Living Stone's Unique Approach to the Punch List At Living Stone Design + Build, the punch list is more than a procedural step—it's an integral part of our commitment to delivering homes that embody quality, sustainability, and personalized craftsmanship. Our approach distinguishes us from other custom home builders in several key ways. Integrated Design-Build Process Our integrated design-build approach ensures seamless communication and coordination throughout the project. By combining architectural design, construction, and interior design under one umbrella, we: Minimize Errors: Early collaboration reduces the likelihood of issues arising that would need to be listed on a punch list. Enhance Efficiency: Streamlined processes lead to faster identification and resolution of potential problems. Improve Quality Control: Continuous oversight from a unified team maintains high standards at every stage. Proactive Quality Assurance Quality is ingrained in every aspect of our work. We implement proactive measures to ensure that by the time the punch list is created, only minimal items remain: Regular Inspections: Conducting consistent checks during construction to catch and address issues promptly. Attention to Detail: Our team focuses on craftsmanship, ensuring that finishes and installations meet our exacting standards. Client Involvement: We keep clients informed and involved, so adjustments can be made in real-time, reducing surprises at the end. Commitment to Sustainability and Health Living Stone is dedicated to building homes that are not only beautiful but also promote healthier living: Use of Non-Toxic Materials: We select materials that contribute to better indoor air quality. Energy Efficiency: All our homes are Energy Star Certified and NC Green Built Certified, reflecting our commitment to sustainability. Universal Design Principles: Incorporating features that make homes accessible and functional for all life stages. These commitments mean that our punch list often includes checks to ensure these elements are executed flawlessly, reinforcing the home's longevity and the well-being of its occupants. Personalized Service through the Eight Levels of Service Our Eight Levels of Service provide a comprehensive, client-focused experience: Partner by Design: Collaborating with a team tailored to each project's needs. Priced by Design: Aligning the client's vision with their budget. Age by Design: Incorporating design features that accommodate all life stages. Green by Design: Ensuring environmentally responsible building practices. Interiors by Design: Offering interior design services that complement the architectural style. Build by Design: Applying a thoughtful and efficient building process. Furnishing by Design: Assisting with selecting furnishings that enhance the home's design. Maintenance by Design: Providing preventative maintenance programs for the home's longevity. During the Build by Design phase, our approach to the punch list is characterized by: Client Education: We explain what to expect and how we address any issues. Transparency: Open communication about timelines and responsibilities. Dedicated Follow-Up: Ensuring that every item is completed to the client's satisfaction. The Living Stone Difference What sets Living Stone apart is our unwavering commitment to building happier, healthier lives. Our approach to the punch list reflects this philosophy: Holistic Perspective: We view the punch list as a tool to perfect the home, not just complete it. Client Relationships: Building lasting relationships with clients through trust and exceptional service. Continuous Improvement: Learning from each project to refine ourRead 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

