Raleigh Relocation Information Center - Moving To the Triangle?

How Much Does Energy Wise Save?

Recently Built Homes by Stanton Homes save 50-70%

on Heating and Cooling Every Month

There's a reason we believe in the EnergyWise system.  An EnergyWise home is more comfortable, quieter, and uses less energy.  By reducing monthly heating and cooling costs by 50-70%, every month, an EnergyWise home is also reducing your carbon footprint and your reliance on natural resources.

These recently built homes demonstrate what EnergyWise and Stanton Homes work together to accomplish:

"The Penelope"

Custom Design by Stanton Homes

3000 sq ft heated

600 sq ft unheated daylight basement

1000 sq ft drive under garage

South Facing Exposure

Second Floor Master with Stacked Living Areas

EnergyWise guaranteed savings of 70% for heating and cooling, versus the same home built to conventional construction standards.

The Azalea Park

Currently Under Construction - click here for more information.

2182 sq ft heated

Main Floor Master Home

Front Porch and Covered Rear Porch

West Facing Exposure

EnergyWise guaranteed savings of 59% for heating and cooling, versus the same home built to conventional construction standards.

EnergyWise has developed the MOST comprehensive, easy-to-understand construction plan review and modification program available anywhere. 

EnergyWise uses proprietary software was derived from the experience of NASA thermal consultants on the Mercury, Gemini and Apollo space programs.

This unique tool allows EnergyWise to create a detailed energy analysis report from each building plan they review. The report accurately projects the heating and cooling consumption, comparative savings, and the optimal heating and cooling system sizing for each unique home or building. Best of all, the energy usage calculations and incredible energy savings are GUARANTEED in writing.

EnergyWise Delivers Benefits With Year-Round Payback

Imagine your new home designed with:

consistent comfort from room-to-room and floor-to-floor...

consistent humidity levels from 35 to 50%...

eliminating mold and dust mites...

healthier indoor air with less pollen and dust...

relief from excessive outside noises...

The EnergyWise systems delivers all this and more.

Contact us today or call 919-278-8070 to find out how your new home can be built with the EnergyWise guarantee.

Laundry Room Universal Design Ideas

Making the Laundry Room Enjoyable for Everyone

As founding members of the 50+ Housing Council in Raleigh, we enjoy sharing universal design ideas with top new home builders and interior designers in the Raleigh area. 

The laundry room can be a forgotten area of the home - but here are some universal design ideas that will make your new home's laundry room enjoyable and easy to use, no matter who wants to help with the wash.

Laundry Spaces - Easy to Use Laundry Rooms

A universal design home is safe, easy to access, and comfortable.  Whether you're planning to be in your new Raleigh home for a few years or for the rest of your life, implementing universal design at the beginning of the process will save money and give you a more versatile home, for everyone to enjoy.

Where is the Laundry Room?

The location of the laundry room should be carefully considered.  In a two story home, it can be very convenient to have the laundry room upstairs, close to the bedrooms for easy access.

But in a main floor master suite home, it may be best to keep the laundry room on the first floor, and eliminate the need to climb the stairs multiple times on laundry day.   

Is the Laundry Room Big Enough? 

A universal design laundry room should ideally be large enough so that anyone can use it, with or without a mobility device. 

Plan to include wide doorways (ideally 36"), and a 5 foot diameter open space in front of the washer and dryer if at all possible.   In the plan to the right, it's easy to substitute a 4" wider doorway for the 2-8 door drawn.

Not enough room for a large laundry?  A hallway closet laundry can still work well, if the hallway is wide enough, and the closet doors should open in a way that still allows access and room to move. 

What about the Washer and Dryer?

Front loading washers and dryers are becoming much more popular.  Front loaders can easily be loaded and unloaded while seated.

But a standard front loading washer and dryer may still require excessive bending. 

Consider having your builder add a 12"-15" platform under the machines, or purchase models that have matching pedastals to raise them above the floor.  This Whirlpool set in red has optional matching pedastals.

Room to Fold in the Laundry Room

Many of today's laundry rooms are large enough to include a small countertop area.  Instead of installing a standard height countertop, choose a 28 to 30 inch height countertop, with knee space below.  You'll be able to pull up a chair to fold and sort, instead of standing.

Laundry Room Lighting

Laundry rooms don't often include windows, so think carefully about the amount of light you'll need. 

Consider motion detector lighting, for when you enter and leave with your arms full.   In a room with workstations, think about adding under cabinet lighting or other supplemental lighting.  Flexible track lighting can be another great accent, particularly in a multiple use room.

Laundry Room Flooring

Choose a flooring that's easy to clean, and water resistant.  Cork flooring can be considerably more expensive than most standard types of flooring, but a laundry room is a comparitively small space and may be a great room to consider for cork.  Cork is comfortable to stand on when ironing, and naturally water resistant. 

A little planning ahead can make a BIG difference.  Look for a new home builder experienced with universal design, and willing to be flexible enough to meet your goals.    More in Stanton Homes' special "Universal Design" series coming soon!

Universal Design meets the needs of the present and the future. 

Consider universal design concepts for your next home - universal design is most cost efficient and effective when incorporated directly into your new home.  

Read More Related Topics:

Universal Design in the Kitchen - Top 10 Questions to Ask

Specially Adapted Housing for Veterans and Servicemembers - How to Get Started

ADA and Wheelchair Accessible Homes

One Story Floor Plans

Formal Dining Rooms - Going Away, or Here to Stay?

Tub Surround Tile Ideas - Photos and Tips

Top 5 Ways to Save Money - Family Room

Built in Bookcases - Ideas and Trends

Featured Homes - Virtual Tours

Energy Wise - Find Out How to Save 50 to 70% on Heating and Cooling Costs!

Tile Backsplash Ideas for the Kitchen

Top 5 Tile Design Ideas for Behind the Cooktop

Whether you're considering buying a new home or remodeling your current home, a tile backsplash can add both value and drama to your kitchen, while making those walls easy to clean.

While you can add a full height tile backsplash later, it can make sense to install at the same time the new countertops go in.  You'll have a clean line from countertop to cabinets, and won't have to worry about removing a standard 3"-4" laminate or granite splash later.

Here are some great ideas for your kitchen tile backsplash, with a focus on design themes behind the cooktop or range!

Kitchen Backsplash Tile Idea #1

Use 3"x6" subway tiles in contrasting colors.

This tile backsplash incorporates two different colors of subway tiles, installed using a bricklay pattern.  The exposed edges are finished with bullnose pieces.

The inset pattern uses the same tiles in a contrasting color, set on the diagonal, surrounded by a pencil width listello accent.

The cost of your tile backsplash will depend not only on the cost of materials, but also on the complexity of the pattern.

Kitchen Backsplash Tile Idea #2

Lots of stainless steel in the kitchen?  Bring the look together with metallic accents.

The main kitchen tile backsplash is composed of mini mosaics in a natural stone color.

A focal point was created behind the cooktop and under the range hood by using a combination of 4x4 natural stone tiles, 4x4 metallic accents, and a 1" metallic listello.

Metallics can be some of the most expensive pieces to choose from, but used sparingly they can bring some real interest without a huge cost.

Kitchen Backsplash Tile Idea #3

Keep in monochromatic.

This natural stone tile backsplash adds plenty of interest and contrast without contributing a heavy labor cost. 

The tile pieces come on 12"x12" mesh, but look like hand-designed old world random patterning. 

The color variations are just enough to contrast beautifully with the deep cherry cabinetry.

Kitchen Tile Backsplash Idea #4

It's all about the cabinetry.  This tile backsplash is inexpensive and sleekly beautiful. 

The entire backsplash is composed of 4"x4" ceramic tiles set on the diagonal.   The arched valance and glass cabinet doors above the cooktop draw the eye upward.

Below, the bump out is set off by fluted accent pieces. 

Kitchen Backsplash Tile Idea #5

Mini-mosaics can be used all kinds of different ways in the kitchen.

Here, a glass mini-mosaic is used as a comparatively inexpensive border for a 36" range.  The color really sparkles and pulls together the dark cabinetry and light countertops. 

The remainder of the backsplash is composed of 4"x4" ceramic tiles, set horizontally for the backsplash and on the diagonal in the accent area. 

Planning ahead with your kitchen design will make your new kitchen that much more functional and enjoyable.  A good tile designer will help you select a fabulous tile backsplash and accent area behind the cooktop, that reflects your personality AND fits in your budget!

Learn more about other new home trends with these popular articles:

Cabinet Decisions - Top 10 Do's and Don'ts for Your Kitchen

Tub Surround Tile Ideas - Photos and Tips

Formal Dining Rooms - Going Away, or Here to Stay?

Top 5 Ways to Save Money - Family Room

Built in Bookcases - Ideas and Trends

Featured Homes - Virtual Tours

Energy Wise - Find Out How to Save 50 to 70% on Heating and Cooling Costs!

*Photos represent current new home trends.  Not all photos represent Stanton Homes. Stanton Homes discusses current new home trends across a wide variety of topics.

Having an appraiser that actually understands the property you intend to purchase (or sell) makes a big difference!  Whether you're considering buying or selling a home in the Raleigh/Fort Bragg area, these changes will make the process less stressful.  And Eleanor is a wonderful resource for any of your financing questions.

What are the Most Common Features Included in Universal Design Homes?

A universal design home is safe, easy to access, and comfortable.  Whether you're planning to be in your new Raleigh home for a few years or for the rest of your life, implementing universal design at the beginning of the process will save money and give you a more versatile home, for everyone to enjoy.

What makes a universal design home different?  Stanton Homes has put together information on some of the top considerations for a Universal Design kitchen concept in your new Raleigh home.

Universal Design Kitchen - Most Common Features in "Easy Living" Homes

The menu of features that make a home easier to use can be extensive.  Here are some of the Top Ten most common Universal Design considerations for your kitchen.   Work with your Raleigh new home builder to add or subtract as best fits your needs, budget, and location. 

Universal Design Kitchens - Most Common Features

The kitchen is the heart of the home, and probably one of the most used rooms, both for entertaining and on a daily basis.  What are some universal design features that can make the kitchen enjoyable for everyone?

Easy Living Kitchens Feature #1: Sufficient clear floor area

Is there enough room for everyone?  Plan for 5 feet of open floor space between the different portions of the kitchen, so there will be enough space for more than one cook or for a mobility device.   Islands can get tight sometimes, check those dimensions carefully!

Easy Living Kitchens Feature #2: Planned work centers

Think about food prep, cooking, clean up, and specialty work centers.  Varied countertop heights can make a big difference - consider including a "table height" food preparation section with at least 36 inches of open knee space for easy use with a chair.

Easy Living Kitchens Feature #3: Staging or landing areas

Create "staging" areas no more than 4 feet from all major appliances, with at least 15 inches of countertop.  That way you can set down hot or heavy dishes easily. 

Easy Living Kitchens Feature #4: Single lever faucets

A single lever faucet is easiest to use, whether your hands are dirty or you have limited hand strength.  Include some variety of pull out sprayer to fill pots without lifting them into or out of the sink. 

Easy Living Kitchens Feature #5: Pulls on cabinets

Select hardware for cabinet doors and drawers that are easier to grasp.  C-shaped or D-shaped handles with enough room to slip fingers through are easiest to use.

Easy Living Kitchens Feature #6: Roll out shelves

Roll out shelving can be incorporated into nearly any kitchen layout.  A roll out shelf can reduce bending and make lifting easier.

Easy Living Kitchens Feature #7: Open or visible storage

Consider including glass doors on upper cabinetry.  This can help everyone see where things are stored, and eliminate time and energy looking for specific items. 

Or replace some cabinets with open shelving,  which can even lower the cost of your cabinetry package.

Easy Living Kitchens Feature #8: Contrasting colors

A high contrast between flooring, countertop, backsplash, cabinetry, appliance, and walls can increase visibility - and add a lot of unique flavor.  A bright wall color can add light to the room, and even help light switches and decorative trimwork stand out. 

Easy Living Kitchens Feature #9: Natural Light

Nothing's better than plenty of natural light.  Work with the builder to add a window, windows, or skylight to the kitchen. 

Easy Living Kitchens Feature #10: Lighting

Consider plenty of lighting options, including recessed lights, undercabinet lights, pendants over islands and eating bars, ambient lighting above cabinetry, and even in-cabinet lights for glass door cabinets.  Rocker switches can be easier to use, too. 

A little planning ahead can make a BIG difference.  Look for a new home builder experienced with universal design, and willing to be flexible enough to meet your goals.   More in Stanton Homes' special "Universal Design" series coming soon!

Universal Design meets the needs of the present and the future. 

Consider universal design concepts for your next home - universal design is most cost efficient and effective when incorporated directly into your new home. 

Read More Related Topics:

Specially Adapted Housing for Veterans and Servicemembers - How to Get Started

ADA and Wheelchair Accessible Homes

One Story Floor Plans

Formal Dining Rooms - Going Away, or Here to Stay?

Tub Surround Tile Ideas - Photos and Tips

Top 5 Ways to Save Money - Family Room

Built in Bookcases - Ideas and Trends

Featured Homes - Virtual Tours

Energy Wise - Find Out How to Save 50 to 70% on Heating and Cooling Costs!

Homes that Make Living Easy

What Is Universal Design?

Universal design is "people centered" design.  An easy living universal design home incorporates a variety of concepts that make a difference in how the home is designed and used. 

Universal design is NOT accessible design, though it can make a home more accessible.

What is universal design - Preventative Design

A preventative design can reduce accidental injuries, by removing barriers. 

No step doorways and walkways, open floor plans, and even decorative support bars in baths and showers can help prevent devastating injuries.

What is universal design - Ergonomic Design

An ergonomic design can reduce stress to the eyes, back, and joints. 

A section of kitchen countertop that's lower can allow for the cook to cut and mix while seated instead of standing.  Pull out shelves in cabinets can reduce the need for bending and crouching.  Even the color pallette can be carefully planned to reduce stress on the eyes.  Ergonomic design increases comfort and convenience.

We've been using the wheel and the lever since they were invented.  Universal design brings more levers into the home - lever faucets are easier to use, as are lever door knobs.  A wheel-friendly environment lets the twin's stroller roll easily just as much as any mobility device.

What is universal design - Work Efficiency Design

Work efficient design takes a good, hard look at kitchen and bath layouts too.  How many steps does it take to accomplish daily tasks?  What tools can be added to increase efficiency?  Are some tasks accomplished more easily while seated?

What is universal design - Inclusive Design

An inclusive design welcomes ALL friends and family to the home, regardless of ability and situation.  Universal Design takes into consideration how people vary in vision, hearing, strength, size, stamina, coordination, fragility, mobility, flexibility, and use of medical, mobility or adaptive devices. 

A universal design home includes many different features that make living, and visiting, easy for everyone.

What is universal design - Life Span Design

Abilities change over time.  A life span design accomodates not only the grandchildren, but also parents and grandparents.   Universal design addresses lifestyle changes due to aging, injuries, low vision, breathing difficulties, and chronic health conditions.  A life span design encourages community participation and helps keep families together.

Universal Design meets the needs of the present and the future. 

Consider universal design concepts for your next home - universal design is most cost efficient and effective when incorporated directly into your new home. 

Read More Related Topics:

Specially Adapted Housing for Veterans and Servicemembers - How to Get Started

ADA and Wheelchair Accessible Homes

One Story Floor Plans

Formal Dining Rooms - Going Away, or Here to Stay?

Tub Surround Tile Ideas - Photos and Tips

Top 5 Ways to Save Money - Family Room

Built in Bookcases - Ideas and Trends

Featured Homes - Virtual Tours

Energy Wise - Find Out How to Save 50 to 70% on Heating and Cooling Costs!

Planning Your New Kitchen

Top 10 Cabinetry Dos and Donts

The kitchen is the heart of the home.  But an organized, functional kitchen takes extra planning.  We've put together a list of the top ten things you'll want to keep in mind for your new home or kitchen remodel.  Here's how to get started. 

1.  Drawers

Don't forget the drawers.  Consider adding a few extra drawers to your base cabinets.  Drawers are great for utensils, measuring cups, towels and hot pads, and even tupperware.  Balance the location of drawers throughout the kitchen.

2.  Spices and Cooking Oil

Do think about spices as part of your cooking routine.  Even if you don't cook much, there are probably a few essential spices you use.  If you love to cook, you may have an entire shelf full or more.  There are some great ways to organize all those little bottles, like a pull-out pantry, spice drawer, or spice drawer insert. 

3.  Recyling and Trash

Don't leave the trash visible.  Think about where you'll want recycling and trash centers. 

A 15" or 18" wide base cabinet can hold both a trash and a recycling bin, making sorting easy.  You'll probably want this pull out next to the sink for ease of use.  If your area requires sorting of recycles ahead of time, you may even want two pull-outs, for a total of four bins.

4.  Wine and Dine

Do store the wine - and add some visual appeal.  If you enjoy a wine with dinner, consider adding a wine rack either in the upper cabinetry or perhaps integrated into the island.  A built-in wine rack can be a great place to store room temperature wine, and can even be combined with a built in wine cooler in a Butler's Pantry.

5.  Pull Out Shelves

Don't bend and reach when you can pull.  Pull out shelves can be helpful in base cabinets for hard to reach items.  But they do cut down on storage space just a bit, so keep that in mind when selecting.  Pull out shelves can be included in all base cabinets, or in selected cabinets, depending on your needs.

6.  Easy to See

Do keep things visible.  Glass Doors on upper cabinets can lighten and brighten the kitchen - and make it easier to see where everything is stored.  Glass doors are often recommended for easy living universal design kitchens.  But glass cabinet doors can be costly, depending on the style of glass and the number of doors.   

7.  Lower Cabinets

Don't get too high.  Standard upper cabinets are 18" above the kitchen countertop surface.  But cabinets can be as low as 15" above countertops.  Ask your builder about lowering the upper cabinets if reaching for common items is challenging.

8.  Glasses and Dishware

Do keep your routine in mind.  For many people, glasses are located near the refrigerator, and dishes near the cooktop.  Think about what you'll use each area of the kitchen for, and design the cabinet layout accordingly.

9.  Under the Sink

Don't stuff those bags under the sink, or worse, in the garbage.  A plastic bag door storage unit keeps those plastic bags tucked away and ready for reuse.  The plastic tray is perfect for hiding away sponges and cleaning pads without damaging the cabinet. 

10.  Pots and Pans

Do keep the pots and pans organized - and easy to reach.  A base pot and pan organizer is perfect for easy placement of all those cooking utensils.  The entire unit pulls out.  Large pans sit in the base, and upper shelves are perfect for lids, frying pans, and smaller sauce pans.  The unit is easy to use. 

Planning ahead with your kitchen design will make your new kitchen that much more functional and enjoyable.  Ask your builder what types of features are included, and what you might want to think about adding based on your cooking and entertaining style. 

Learn more about other new home trends with these popular articles:

Formal Dining Rooms - Going Away, or Here to Stay?

Top 5 Ways to Save Money - Family Room

Built in Bookcases - Ideas and Trends

Featured Homes - Virtual Tours

Building a Green Home - Top Requested Features

Easy Guide to Buying a Lot - Raleigh Area

Energy Wise - Find Out How to Save 50 to 70% on Heating and Cooling Costs!

It's not final yet!  A unemployment benefits bill has been amended to add the provision, but it still needs to pass and be reconciled by the House.  We'll let you know as soon as we hear more.

Also - this will only affect homebuyers ALREADY UNDER CONTRACT.  The contract to purchase must still have been dated by April 30th, 2010. 

Behind the Scenes with Geothermal Heating and Cooling - "Meet the Builder" Event

Raleigh New Home Builder Offers Free Information Session

Saturday June 19th

Join Stanton Homes for a behind-the-scenes "Muddy Boots Meet the Builder" that demonstrates the value of going geothermal. 

This detailed Geothermal unwrap is straight from the experts who install it, on site at a home under construction, so you'll be able to see as well as hear all about it.  

The builder will be on hand, as well, to answer everything you've got about building your own home - including what makes sense and saves dollars.

Meet The Builder Open House   12-3 pm Saturday June 19th

"Going Green with Geothermal" Special Presentation 1-1:30 pm

- See an actual Geothermal system, installed on site.

- Find out how a Geothermal system uses the Earth's temperature to heat and cool air.

- Learn how Geothermal tax credits can help reduce geothermal system cost.

Meet the Builder Open House 12-3 pm

Drop in anytime during this special open house, and talk to experts on site.  Learn how a geothermal system works, and tour this home currently under construction. 

"What is Geothermal?" - Special Presentation by Louis Heating and Cooling - 1 pm

Louis Heating and Cooling bring hands-on experience as seasoned Geothermal providers to this free information session. 

• What is a Geothermal system?
• How does a Geothermal system work?
• What kinds of tax credits are available for Geothermal systems? 

Green elements in this Stanton Homes custom designed home include:

• Geothermal System will provide heating, cooling, and hot water
• Energy Wise guaranteed heating and cooling cost of just $74/month - for 2400 sq ft of finished space!
• Spray foam insulation for superior energy savings and cleaner indoor air
• Rainwater Collection System

Stanton Homes experts at the event will also help you:

• Find a floor plan that fits your budget and your lifestyle
• Design a custom floor plan just for you
• Help find the right lot in the right location
• Provide free lot inspection
• Provide free cost comparison of your favorite locations

Find out more here!

Come anytime during this Muddy Boots Meet the Builder open house. Geothermal presentation at 1 pm, tour and talk with experts 12-3 pm.   Registration suggested but not required - drop on by!

Register Here

New Home Trends - Formal Dining Rooms

Are Formal Dining Rooms here to stay, or on their way out?

Have formal dining rooms come to the end of their life span?

Here are some reasons why you may be seeing fewer formal dining rooms in new homes you've been touring.

- Smaller Homes

Today's new home is smaller for the first time in many years.  In a smaller home, space must be used in the best way possible. 

- Informal Living

Homebuyers are asking for more family-oriented space, and open floor plans. 

- Breakfast Nook and Dining Combined

Breakfast nooks tend to be small - hence the term nook.  This space is being enlarged to fit full size dining tables and chairs.

*Floorplan copyright Stanton Homes

If there's no formal dining room, what else might you see in your new home?

- First floor office

In the Brogan, a Stanton Homes custom design, the space normally reserved for a formal dining room has been redesigned as a first floor office with double French doors.  This space right off the foyer is perfect for anyone working from home who needs to meet occassionally with clients or associates.

- First floor guest suite

Reallocation of limited square footage by eliminating a formal dining room may just enough room for a great first floor guest suite.

- Exercise room or play room

A room can be dedicated to a specific use, not always possible in smaller homes with formal dining rooms.

So should I absolutely eliminate a formal dining room in my new home?  Before you decide, consider a few points.

- Entertaining

Are you more of a traditionalist, with formal dining for dinner and casual breakfast seating?  Does your dining furniture include a full china cabinet and large captain chairs?

- Resale

Will having a formal dining room help with the future resale of your home?  Speak to local real estate agents and get a second opinion.

- Elegant Entries and Decorative Touches

A formal dining room right off the entry of your home can really set the tone, and is often the most "dressed up" room in your home. 

During our design/build process, we are seeing more trends towards elimination of formal dining, but only as part of a holistic approach towards open, family-oriented living.  Larger homes tend to retain formal dining spaces more often than smaller homes.  We'll help you find (or design) just the right layout for your living style in your new Raleigh home.

Custom Building a Home in the Raleigh Area

As a Raleigh custom home builder, we have a unique perspective on the home building process, and are happy to share our expertise. 

No matter who you choose to build your new home, we suggest that you make sure to walk through homes by that builder that will be finished at a similar level to the home you've chosen, or have your builder's representative point out any optional features in a model home that you have chosen not to include in your new home.

Check out our series on building a custom home in the Raleigh area, and good luck with your new home!

Tub Surround Tile Ideas - Photos and Tips

Top 5 Ways to Save Money - Family Room

Built in Bookcases - Ideas and Trends

Building a Green Home - Top Requested Features

Easy Guide to Buying a Lot - Raleigh Area

Energy Wise - Find Out How to Save 50 to 70% on Heating and Cooling Costs!