WNC CUSTOM HOME BUILDER CREATES LUXURY IN SHADES OF GREEN
Morgan-Keefe Builders Works With N.C. Healthy Built Homes Program

In recent years, nature—unspoiled and protected—has become one of the most sought-after amenities in luxury mountain communities across the Carolinas. While a growing number of high-end communities do address environmental concerns, luxury home builders have been slower to embrace “green” construction—in large measure due to a misconception that quality must be sacrificed for environmental efficiency.

Morgan-Keefe Builders, one of the region’s most well-respected and established luxury home builders, is currently working on two custom-home projects that demonstrate “going green” can actually enhance overall quality and performance.

“ ‘Green’ can be incorporated into most design preferences and architectural styles,” says Bill Miller, a Morgan-Keefe project manager.

For two of its environmentally minded clients, Morgan-Keefe is using high-performance standards set by the North Carolina Healthy Built Homes (HBH) program. While HBH standards are rigorous, Morgan-Keefe has been using many of these building practices for years.

“Morgan-Keefe’s standard construction enables most of our custom homes to qualify for bronze-level certification under the HBH rating system,” notes CEO Malcolm Morgan. “We are pleased to be able to offer green building options for clients who want to incorporate them in their luxury custom homes.”

Both green homes currently under construction feature geothermal heating and cooling systems with energy recovery and air filtration systems. Icynene insulation and well-sealed ducts and crawlspaces will provide a tight building envelope. Both homes use strategically placed, energy-efficient windows and overhangs to help with heat loss and gain. Low-VOC and non-toxic finishes will help ensure indoor air quality and comfort.

For one home site, Morgan-Keefe has developed an advanced erosion control plan that includes on-site milling of timber, mulching limbs and stumps, and using existing boulders in landscaping to minimize site disturbances and erosion.

Morgan-Keefe is a platinum member of the Western North Carolina Green Building Council and participates in the Appalachian Offsets program by purchasing carbon offsets that reduce local greenhouse gas emissions.

Malcolm Morgan reduces his own footprint by purchasing carbon offsets for his home, using solar energy, driving biodiesel and hybrid vehicles, and by supporting local businesses whenever possible.