Dwell Smart Homes Really are Smart

We've always thought the smart owner looked way past the monthly house payment and considered the impact of design choices. Choices such as putting in hardwoods, that last a lifetime, verses carpet that gets ripped out every few years and sent to a landfill. Or opting for an open floor plan that creates so much living space that square footage is not a factor. Or requesting an energy envelop that makes sense in today's economy. That's what Dwell Smart is all about. We cater to those who care enough to want better, more responsible living environments.

We are fully committed to implementing green building practices into all of our projects. By using smart and sustainable strategies we are able to create homes that are energy efficient, environmentally conscientious, unique and beautiful.

To fully document the sustainability of the structures we build, the Re-Development Group (builders of Dwell Smart Homes) uses rating systems that define the “shade” of green for select project. Depending on the client, we either use the “LEED-H” or the NAHB “Green Guideline” for direction. Although there are minor differences in each system, the merits of either are far superior to standard building practices. In addition to ratings, we also use the Energy Star program in most of our homes. This program does not define a green home, but does provide energy efficiencies that are a good start to achieving the green goal.

Several examples of our green practices are as follows:

• We prefer to site projects on infill lots, utilizing existing infrastructure and actually re-using land rather than developing virgin property (these lots are typically a better fit to existing transportation systems as well, offering owners opportunities to rely less on automobiles)


• We consider the solar orientation of our buildings and strive to design structures that optimize passive systems and offer energy saving advantages


• Every project we build strives to improve energy efficiency 30%-40% above current code requirements.


• We use Low VOC and No VOC interior paint products


• We build highly insulated structures using formaldehyde free and recycled materials


• We use high efficiency, Energy Star qualified window systems with “low-e” coatings and Argon filled air spaces.


• We use bamboo and other renewable source hardwood floors


• We use high efficiency HVAC systems and Energy Star rated appliances


• We use dual flush toilets and low-flow fixtures in all baths for water conservation


• We use “Green Label” certified carpets and flooring finishes for enhanced indoor air quality


• We use advanced framing practices to minimize overuse of wood and ensure higher insulation values


• Finally, we source building products from the nearest quarries, mills and manufacturers

Qualities of a Dwell Smart Home

	Open Floorplans One of the captivating things about a Dwell Smart home is that you see the beauty of its components and are able to breathe in each part of the living space. The openness allows for so many options for decor and entertaining that most of our clients would never go back to the old "chop-chop" again.
	Hardwoods When oak and other hardwoods were in more abundance - and when people didn't realize that replacing the harvested tree would take more than 70 years, the hardwood choice was automatic. Now, however, there are sources such as bamboo that renew themselves in five years and produce floors of incredible durability - and beauty. *We also endorse engineered flooring that uses a bamboo substate and a thin, but highly wear resistant surface of oak or other species.
	Smooth Finished Ceilings An easy way to hide a less than perfect carpentry job is to use a heavily textured mud on the ceiling. To us, it's more like living with a shag carpet that's been installed on the top of the room. You'll immediately notice the difference when you see a smooth Dwell Smart ceiling - sleek and elegant - nothing to hide.
	Clean Architectural Details This could occur because there are actually architects involved in the design of Dwell Smart homes. The little touches they put in mean a lot to your daily experience - from how the rising sun lights up your first cup of coffee to how the moon illuminates your bedroom. The play of shadow, the play of light, and you play right along.
	Energy Efficiency - Frees up cash! Dwell Smart homes feature the tightest envelop and R-factor insulation packages complemented by Energy Star appliance and water saving lavatories. Our goal is to keep monthly bills in their place, so you either save or splurge. That's your decision.

Dwell Smart Payback

Although your new Dwell Smart home might cost more than a traditionally built home, you'll find it features an energy saving package and other sustainable components that will fully pay you back in the first three years - so you'll continue to enjoy the benefits for free for years to come.

 

© 2010 Dwell Smart Indy