Lake side elevation

As a "2006 Best of the Lake" award winner, this custom designed home, built by JVM Homes of Lake Norman, Inc., is as beautiful if not more so than one would expect. However, the beauty of this home is more than skin deep. In fact it extends to the health and performance of the home, even extending down to the bones ... ie. framing.

Situated on a picturesque lot in prestigious Northview Harbour, a Crescent community in Sherrills Ford, and overlooking Lake Norman, this French Country home was designed to optimize the views on the lot, and for entertaining. The main living area with its soaring rock chimney, and high ceilings boast large windows and doors leading to the oversized back deck with a view down the length of a tranquil cove. Designed to bring the outside in, double sliding French doors open from the spacious and well equipped kitchen open up to a covered portion of the deck.

Every detail, from the wide doorways, three story elevator, hardwood, granite, tile and marble was selected to provide a sanctuary where living would be both elegant and comfortable. The real benefits however are not visual.

One benefit is energy bills up to 50% lower for a home of the same size. Just as appliances can earn an Energy Star label by meeting specific government requirements, this award winning home has achieved an Energy Star label. This home has been independently tested for duct leakage, and building envelope tightness and has achieved the highest energy efficiency rating of 5 Plus Stars. This rating was achieved through a combination of technologies including the use of Icynene Insulation (a foam insulation approved for use by the American Lung Association Healthy Homes), energy efficient windows and doors, advanced construction practices with regard to sealing framing and duct work, and through the use of energy efficient heating and cooling equipment. Reduced drafts, moisture, dust, pollens, pests and noise are all benefits of an Energy Star home.

"A pretty home is important. It affects how you feel and your emotional health. However, as an engineer, I am always looking to incorporate the feel of a home with technology and materials that provide real benefits in terms of actual performance over the long haul. This includes for example: energy costs, maintenance costs, indoor air quality, a design that fits how a family will use the home, and future resale value." said Joyce Vukela-Mayer. Joyce, President of JVM Homes of Lake Norman, Inc. is a Chemical Engineering graduate from Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh. After retiring from IBM as an engineering manager, she fulfilled a lifelong dream of starting a company that incorporates creativity with technology and provides a useful product and service to society. In 1998, she started JVM Homes to fulfill that goal. Joyce is also a past president of the Lake Norman Home Builders' Association, and keeps abreast of new innovations through continuing education offered through Home Builders Association at the local, state and national levels.

Other examples of how this philosophy has been incorporated include the wood framing having been pretreated with a mold inhibitor as extra insurance against air quality problems and filtration in the HVAC ductwork. The master tub is a heated air tub that eliminates the problem of cleaning associated with a traditional tub which circulates water through pipes. Also included is a 10 year transferable structural warranty.

In addition to soaring and openness in the main living areas, the design also incorporates private space. The owner's quarters are located on the first floor, and include a bedroom large enough for a sitting area overlooking the lake. A backlit double octagonal ceiling adds to the ambiance. Custom tile and cabinetry set off the bath. A guest suite is on the 2nd level. Two large additional bedrooms are located on the second floor which share a jack-n-jill bath and commode. However, they both have private vanities. A separate office allows for work to be kept separate from family space. Access to all areas of the home has included aging in place concepts that make it easier to all members of a family regardless of age to get around. The three story elevator, with its custom hardwood interior is probably the most obvious application. Upon closer inspection, however, you will notice that all the doorways are wider than usual, and even the small features like the oil rubbed bronze lever door knobs were chosen for ease of living.

Not to be overlooked is the design of the kitchen, the hub of entertaining. Open to the living room and a separate kitchen eating area, the raised bar accommodates guests while at the same time keeping food preparation hidden from the main living areas. The stainless appliances include a double drawer dishwasher which allows for keeping dirty dishes out of sight.

Unexpected architectural features delight and add to the overall feel of the home. A favorite is the collector's wall going up the stairwell. The home also includes a security system, structured wiring, prewired for sound, and has a community boat slip.

This home is being offered for sale by Realty Executives, contact Sherry Prichard 828-302-3455 for showings.