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Net-zero energy house takes refuge in North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains

sustainable home exterior

This net-zero energy house, designed by Wilson Two Architecture in partnership with Jade Mountain Builders, offers a couple of empty nesters their dream home in the mountains of North Carolina. Located just outside Asheville, the owners sought a property that was near their workplace yet far enough away from the hustle and bustle of downtown. The home is also idyllically positioned down the road from the Blue Ridge Parkway, boasting unforgettable views over Beaverdam Valley.

The pair desired a home that could produce more energy than it consumed. It offers plenty of natural light, gorgeous sunsets, and shelter from strong winds courtesy of the surrounding mountaintops. When building this home, the project team was faced with the challenge of a steep grade and a sizable granite outcropping. After an initial plan of a single-story, the construction costs for this site were prohibitive.

DESIGN DETAILS: ARCHITECT Wilson Two Architecture BUILDER Jade Mountain Builders INTERIOR DESIGN Liz Hackett Interiors WOODWORKING Cris Bifaro Woodworks LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT Gardenology LIGHTING Lavoro Lighting FURNITURE Ambiente Modern Furniture CUSTOM GARAGE More Space Place Asheville

sustainable home exterior

Going back to the drawing board, the team was able to limit the foundation and roofing costs by stacking the home on three levels. The kitchen, main living areas, and the owner’s bedroom are situated at the center of the floor plan. Additionally, the overall dimensions were minimized to reduce construction waste.

sustainable home exterior

The property boasts 2,584 square feet of living space with an additional 1,635 square feet of outdoor living space for a total build square footage of 4,219. This home also includes a garage to store the owner’s bicycle collection, as the region is a haven for cyclists. A breezeway connects the carport to the front door of the house.

sustainable home exterior

The garage is accessed through a 10-foot sliding barn door. While the homeowner works on his bikes, he can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountainscape.

sustainable home exterior covered front porch

Sustainable design features include a geothermal system for heating and cooling, as well as solar panels that convert sunlight into energy. The nine-kilowatt solar system was sourced from Sugar Hollow Solar. The home also includes two Tesla Powerwalls and energy-efficient LED lighting.

sustainable home exterior deck overlooking the mountains

What We Love: This net-zero energy house offers its inhabitants an energy-efficient home with breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The open floor plan layout provides multifunctional living areas, maximizing the compact design and making it feel more expansive. Every space was designed with function in mind, boasting a light and airy feel with a serene color palette that directs your focus to the outdoor views. Overall, the architects were successful at creating an environmentally friendly home that is both functional and beautiful.

Tell Us: What are your overall thoughts on the design of this Western North Carolina home? Let us know in the Comments below!

Note: Be sure to check out a couple of other fabulous home tours that we have showcased here on One Kindesign in the state of North Carolina: Step into this dreamy modern mountain hideaway in Western North Carolina and Lake house bridges over three rocky ravines in the North Carolina mountains.

sustainable home exterior covered deck overlooking the mountains

contemporary living room

Above: The walls in this home are painted in Classic Gray OC-23 – Benjamin Moore. The neutral color scheme helps to not detract from the wondrous views through the large windows. Sliding French doors open out onto the screened-in porch, spacious deck, and an outdoor shower. This helps to blur indoor-outdoor boundaries and expand the livable footprint of the home.

contemporary living room with a wood-burning stove

Above: The living room features a glass-fronted Danish wood stove. It is more efficient than a stone fireplace and helps to keep the main floor warm during the winter months.

contemporary kitchen

Above: In the compact kitchen, the designer ensured that every square inch was maximized for efficiency and functionality. They opted for frameless cabinets and floating shelves to accommodate essentials.

contemporary kitchen with floating shelves

Above: For a seamless, modern aesthetic, the designer selected a porcelain (eco-friendly and durable) subway tile backsplash sourced from Crossville Studios. The kitchen features an energy-efficient induction range, which is up to three times more efficient than a gas stove. This can also help with lower energy costs.

contemporary staircase

contemporary bedroom

contemporary bathroom

sustainable home exterior covered deck with a hanging daybed

sustainable home exterior outdoor shower

PHOTOGRAPHER Deborah Scannell

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