our home Building Process

 Before a single blueprint was drawn, we embarked on an extraordinary journey of research and discovery. Armed with determination, we scoured the internet for cutting-edge insights on energy efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and sustainable practices. This wealth of knowledge laid the groundwork for crafting our dream home - a space that embraces innovation, prioritized our budget, and harmoniously coexists with the environment.

 With knowledge in hand, we embraced the journey of creating the blueprint for our dream house. Armed with research and a clear vision, we collaborated closely with architects and designers to bring our ideas to life on paper. The process was exhilarating as we saw our dream taking shape, room by room, detail by detail. Each line on the blueprint represented a piece of our future home, a place where memories would be made and cherished. 

Building our dream home began with transforming the raw canvas of the land. With determination, we cleared the lot, removing obstacles and creating a blank slate for our vision to unfold. Large trees, though majestic, needed to be carefully removed to accommodate the layout we envisioned. Our respect for nature guided every step, ensuring minimal impact and incorporating the surrounding beauty into our design.

Strategic planning led us to choose the highest point on the lot for optimal drainage and breathtaking views. We envisioned a home that blended seamlessly with the landscape while embracing sustainable practices. 

 Pointing our largest windows to solar south allowed us to harness natural light and passive solar heating, creating a comfortable and energy-efficient living space year-round.Every decision was driven by our passion for harmonizing with nature and maximizing efficiency. As we laid the groundwork for our dream home, we were mindful of the balance between aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability. 

 Excavating the site was a labor of determination, preparing the ground with precision and care. Each scoop of earth brought us closer to our vision, and the excitement grew with every shovelful.

Meticulously measuring and leveling the ground, we ensured a solid base for our home. As concrete poured into the footings, we witnessed the tangible manifestation of our dreams taking shape. It was a defining moment in our home's construction, symbolizing the dedication and commitment we poured into building our future.

 The decision to choose ICF was driven by several key factors. First and foremost, I was drawn to its exceptional energy efficiency. The combination of insulating foam panels and reinforced concrete cores ensures that my home remains well-insulated throughout the year, reducing the need for excessive heating and cooling. As a result we can enjoy lower utility bills.  Moreover, the structural integrity of ICF homes offered us unparalleled peace of mind.  

  In building our home, we carefully considered every detail to ensure an ideal living space. We chose raised heel trusses to increase attic space, improve insulation, and enhance ventilation, promoting energy conservation and protecting against moisture-related issues.

A steel roof was selected for its durability, weather resistance, and aesthetic appeal. Additionally, larger overhangs were implemented to provide effective drainage, safeguarding the house from water damage, and to offer ample shade during the scorching summer months. The result is a harmonious haven that prioritizes efficiency, durability, and aesthetic appeal, ensuring lasting comfort and enjoyment for years to come.

   The windows and doors in a building are often considered the weakest points of the building envelope when it comes to energy efficiency. To address this crucial aspect, we made sure to choose windows and doors that are airtight and well-insulated for long-term performance.

By opting for airtight fiberglass window frames and high-quality, tightly sealed doors, we ensured minimal air leakage and heat transfer. The inherent durability of fiberglass frames guarantees they will remain airtight over the years, reducing drafts and maintaining a consistent indoor temperature. These airtight windows and doors effectively contribute to a more energy-efficient home by minimizing heat loss during the winter and preventing unwanted heat gain in the summer.

With an airtight building envelope, energy-efficient windows, and advanced insulation, our home was meticulously crafted to retain heat and minimize energy waste. As a result, the heating and cooling demands were significantly reduced compared to conventional homes.

All electric heat systems offer increased versatility and zoning capabilities. With electric heaters or mini-split heat pumps, we can easily control the temperature in different rooms, ensuring personalized comfort while conserving energy in unoccupied spaces.

Additionally, electric heating systems require minimal maintenance compared to traditional gas furnaces, reducing long-term operating costs and saving time on maintenance tasks.

The decision to include a wood fireplace in the great room was driven by the desire for both ambiance and an additional source of cost-effective heat during the coldest months of winter. The warm, flickering flames create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, making the great room a natural gathering place for family and friends. Beyond aesthetics, the wood fireplace serves as a practical heating solution, providing a renewable and affordable source of warmth when temperatures drop.

In conjunction with the wood fireplace, we opted for a highly efficient standalone Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV) system to ensure excellent indoor air quality throughout the home. The HRV system efficiently exchanges stale indoor air with fresh outdoor air while recovering heat from the outgoing air. This process not only improves air quality by reducing pollutants and excess humidity but also retains a comfortable indoor temperature. The combination of the wood fireplace and the HRV system provides a harmonious balance of ambiance and energy efficiency, creating a comfortable and inviting living space year-round.

Our home's flooring was thoughtfully chosen to reflect our commitment to sustainability, natural beauty, and functionality.

For the main living spaces, we opted for locally sourced wide plank pine flooring, a choice that supports local businesses and reduces environmental impact. The wide plank design adds rustic elegance, and the natural grain patterns of pine create a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout the home. To enhance the wood's beauty, we dyed the pine floors with walnut aniline wood dye, achieving a rich, deep hue that complements our interior design and brings out the wood's natural character. To protect and preserve the beauty of the pine, we coated it with eco-friendly tung oil, ensuring durability and minimal environmental impact.

In the bathrooms, we indulged in the luxury of heated tile floors, providing a comforting and spa-like experience, especially during colder months. The warmth underfoot adds to the overall sense of coziness and relaxation in these spaces. For the entranceways, we chose natural slate tiles with their unique textures and earthy tones, creating a stunning first impression while offering durability and ease of maintenance.

 Our open concept kitchen is a harmonious fusion of functionality and aesthetics. The captivating poured-in-place concrete waterfall island stands at the center, seamlessly blending industrial chic with natural charm. Its smooth surface complements the painted grey finish of the surrounding locally sourced pine cabinets, which have been refurbished to exude a contemporary and stylish look.

For a modern touch, we embraced a sleek and hygienic stainless steel countertop, adding both visual appeal and durability. This choice perfectly complements the concrete island while ensuring a practical culinary space.

Beyond its captivating design, the open layout fosters a sense of togetherness, effortlessly connecting the kitchen, dining, and living areas.

With its poured-in-place concrete waterfall island, painted grey pine cabinets, and gleaming stainless steel countertop, our kitchen reflects a thoughtful blend of sustainability, timeless beauty, and contemporary design.