Scandinavian Farmhouse Design Finds a Home in North Carolina

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Scandinavian architectural design is a top custom home request in the Raleigh Triangle area – backed by stunning influence across the globe with clean lines, thoughtful proportions, and bold window effects that promote natural light. What style stands out, among all these striking Scandinavian Farmhouse possibilities?

Scandinavian Appeal: Eaves. Windows. Proportion.

Steep eaves and bold rooflines, paired with expansive windows invoking welcoming natural light, set Scandinavian inspired plans apart with a distinctive modern appeal. These features create striking silhouettes from the street with uncluttered layouts inside.

  • Steep eaves promote bold presence, with a Nordic edge.
  • Compelling window groupings reflect a deep connection to nature – a signature Scandinavian architectural element at home with beckoning Carolina landscapes and wooded vistas.
  • Balanced proportions express simplicity and artistry, with an interesting meld of modern canvas aligning with farmhouse tradition.

Plans That Highlight Scandinavian Farmhouse Influence

  • Edgewater – Clean rooflines, front porch framed entry, and window-forward design engage with this bold Scandinavian farmhouse. Inside, an appealing, open layout with vaulted gathering spaces amplifies uncluttered comfort designed for functionality.
Rendering copyright ArchitecturalDesigns.com and Associates
  • Nordic Ridge – True to its name, this intriguing plan reflects Scandinavian tradition of understated elegance.. Its single-level layout is designed with relaxed luxury living in mind, emboldened with natural light.
Rendering copyright ArchitecturalDesigns.com and Associates
  • Forsyth Knoll – Defined by stunning stacked window groupings and a vaulted porch, Forsyth Knoll spotlights bold Scandinavian structure woven with welcoming farmhouse appeal. Brick and wood accents add North Carolina tradition for an artistic modern look.
Rendering copyright Frank Betz and Associates
  • Crossville Manor – The curb appeal of steep gables and inspiring window placements contribute to the welcome feel of this Scandinavian farmhouse with a blend of symmetry and flexibility The interior is just as compelling.
Rendering copyright Frank Betz and Associates
  • Brookfield Walk – Modern contemporary farmhouse paired with Scandinavian simplicity gives this incredible custom home a timeless, classic feel. Clean exterior lines and efficient, open flow promote minimalism wrapped in awe-inspiring artistry.
White Contemporary Modern Farmhouse
Rendering copyright Frank Betz and Associates

Why Scandinavian Farmhouses Resonate in North Carolina

Scandinavian farmhouse homes blend beautifully into the rolling hills and wooded acreage of Chatham, Alamance, Orange, Wake, and surrounding counties. Striking rooflines and compelling window groupings stand out in custom home neighborhoods and countryside locations with a natural connection to landscape and luxury, with: 

  • Light-filled living – Floor-to-ceiling window arrangements light up your life.
  • Modern simplicity – Full of presence – with quiet elegance.
  • Farmhouse tradition –  Welcoming porches, natural connections, and thoughtful modern appeal.

Scandinavian Farmhouse, Built Locally

Some of our favorite architects designed these Scandinavian farmhouses and a lot of other plans we love to build in central North Carolina. From homesite planning to customizations, we work with you to adapt and enhance the design/build of your Scandinavian farmhouse style to the way you want to live—on your land or ours, together with the Travars Builder Brothers.

Explore Our Floor Plans

Get in Touch Today!

    What Should I Ask a Builder About Customizing My Home?

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    Let’s look at what “custom” really means — and how to bring your ideas to life.

    Custom isn’t just a word we use in homebuilding — it’s the heart of what makes your home different from anyone else’s. I’m Andrew, and I’ll be working alongside you at Travars Built Homes to shape the spaces that matter most to your family. While I’ll guide you through this in person during your build, I wanted to share a few thoughts ahead of time. Here’s what I see when we talk about what “custom” can really mean in your home.

     “Custom” can mean different things to different people. What does custom mean to you, as you consider what you want your new home to have?

    We work with you to design/build special spaces, when everything else you’re looking at doesn’t capture what you envision. 

    Because the way you see the flow in your home and how you plan to live and grow there is something only you will know.

    Maybe you need an extra en-suite for your family as time passes. Or maybe it’s just for your princess.

    You might be looking that perfect kitchen with a secret pantry ( or secret second kitchen) Time out in a man cave. A home gym with room to stretch – areas of importance to you that aren’t always offered on floor plans.

    We work with you to customize your plan and help you compare it to other plans.

    Phil and I are true Builder Brothers. We work closely with you throughout the build process to help ensure your home is truly yours.

    Whether you’re considering something classic, colonial, clever, contemporary or just about any architectural style, inside and out, I always enjoy the opportunity to be creative together, being a part of ideas, transforming them to paper and to reality.

    No matter what “custom” means to you, Travars Built Homes will look at the possibilities. Because, to me, “custom” doesn’t just mean minor changes, like renaming a “dining room” to say “office” on a set of plans – it is so much more.

    Looking forward to re-imagining your plan together.

    – Andrew, Travars Built Homes

    Read More About Andrew and Phil Travars

    Have a Question for the Builder?

      Build On Your Lot NC | How to Build a New Home

      Understanding Septic and Well Requirements When Building on Your Own Land in Orange County, NC

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      If you’re planning to build a home on your own land in Orange County, North Carolina—whether it’s in Efland, Cedar Grove, Hillsborough, or one of the other rural areas—you’ll want to be familiar with the county’s septic and well requirements before breaking ground.

      The process for getting septic and well approvals can be different from county to county, so it’s important to know what to expect where your land is located. At Travars Built Homes, we work across Chatham, Alamance, Durham, Orange, Wake, and other surrounding counties, so we understand how to help you navigate the requirements specific to your property.

      Build On Your Lot NC | How to Build a New Home

      Septic System Requirements in Orange County

      If your property is not served by public sewer, you will need a septic system to handle wastewater from your home.

      In Orange County, the Environmental Health Division manages septic system approvals. The process typically includes:

      1. Application – Submit an application for a new septic system or improvement permit.
      2. Site Evaluation – A soil scientist or county environmental health specialist will evaluate your land for factors like soil type, slope, drainage, and space for a repair area.
      3. System Design – The type and size of the septic system will be determined based on the soil conditions, number of bedrooms, and household water use.
      4. Permit Issuance – Once the site plan is approved, you’ll receive a permit that allows installation.
      5. Final Inspection – After installation, the county will inspect the system before it can be put into use.

      Tip: Soil conditions can vary greatly across Orange County—especially in rural areas like Cedar Grove and Efland. Testing early in the planning process can save you time and help with house placement on the lot.

      Well Installation Requirements in Orange County

      If your land does not have access to public water, you will need a private well for your home’s water supply.

      In Orange County, well construction is also managed by the Environmental Health Division, and typically includes:

      1. Well Permit Application – Apply for a permit before any drilling begins.
      2. Setback Requirements – Wells must be located a minimum distance from septic systems, property lines, and potential sources of contamination.
      3. Water Testing – Once drilled, the water must be tested to ensure it meets safety standards for drinking water.
      4. Final Approval – The county must approve the well before it can be used.

      Note: Setback and depth requirements can vary depending on your property’s location and soil type. Properties in rural Orange County often have plenty of space for both a well and septic, but site-specific conditions still determine placement.

      Building Across Multiple Counties

      Travars Built Homes is based in central North Carolina and builds in Orange County as well as Chatham, Alamance, Durham, Wake, and other surrounding areas. Each county has its own permitting process, so working with a builder who is familiar with multiple jurisdictions can streamline your experience and help avoid delays.

      How Travars Built Homes Can Help

      When you work with us to build on your land:

      • We stay involved at every step—from permitting to inspections—to make sure your project stays on track.
      • We coordinate with county officials, soil scientists, and well drillers.
      • We help arrange site evaluations early, so there are no surprises later in the build.
      • We factor septic and well locations into your home design and placement.

      ⚠️ Important Disclaimer

      Regulations can change over time. Always confirm current septic and well requirements with Orange County Environmental Health before making land purchases or finalizing your home plans.

      Have any questions about building your custom home on your own lot? Feel free to contact us!

      Get in touch today!

        What Should I Look for During a Pre-Drywall Walkthrough?

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        What’s hiding inside the walls? Everything! Let’s meet on site to take a look, when your build is underway.

        There’s a reason I get excited about the pre-drywall stage—this is where the bones of your home start telling their story. I’m Phil, and I’ll be guiding your custom home build with Travars Built Homes.  While I’ll be walking you through this in person during your build, I wanted to share a few things ahead of time. Here’s what I look for (and what you can, too).

        There’s something powerful about watching your custom home coming together as we walk through each phase of the project.

        The pre-drywall walk-through is one of my favorite tech talk opportunities, before we give the go-ahead to the drywall crew to close off the view of the components tucked inside your framing that make everything work.

        As a build phase, what’s behind the walls is just as important as deciding on that perfect shade of paint, or counter top color.

        The time we spend together at your pre-drywall walkthrough provides the opportunity to see and ask about the systems intertwined to work together within your walls (and an opportunity to know where not to drill when you hang your TV, artwork and photos.)

        I’ll be at your side to answer questions about “rough-ins” that will give your home life, such as:

        • HVAC (central forced air with a heat pump and zoning) – the lungs of your home that pump hot and cold air to keep everything comfortable.
        • Plumbing – Warm showers on a cold day. Or that cold shower after a run(maybe that’s just me). And, of course, the sanitation system. You’ll be choosing faucets soon!
        • Electrical – the wiring that will light up your home and provide the “go” for whatever is plugged into sockets.

        Pre-drywall activity is a transformative phase of the build – the feeling of a structure truly starting to feel like Home.

        It’s like watching a plot point in a movie, where you start to see things come together. I’m a visual person, so this really sets the stage of everything to come.

        We’ll get this on calendar in your online portal right after the county inspector’s approval for this phase of the build.

        See you there!

        – Phil, Travars Built Homes

        Read More About the Builder Brothers

        Have a question for the builder?

          Walk In Pantry with Built Ins | Mebane NC New Homes

          Why the Scullery Pantry is a Must-Have Kitchen Feature in Today’s Custom Homes

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          See why scullery pantries are in high demand—and how four custom home plans bring this must-have feature to life

          Home design trends are evolving to meet the needs of modern living—and one of the most talked-about features in custom homes today is the scullery pantry.

          Often hidden just out of sight, a scullery pantry (also called a scullery kitchen, prep kitchen, or prep pantry) is a walk-in pantry located adjacent to the main kitchen designed to house additional storage, countertop space, and appliances for a clean, clutter-free kitchen. At Travars Built Homes, we’re seeing growing demand for sculleries in custom builds, especially for homeowners who love to entertain or want to keep daily tasks behind closed doors.

          What is a Scullery Pantry?

          Historically, a scullery was a space used for washing dishes and preparing food, separate from the main kitchen. Today, it is essentially a walk-in pantry that does more. While a traditional pantry typically offers shelving for dry goods and kitchen supplies, a scullery pantry takes it a step further by including features like:

          • Closed doors or pocket entries to keep messes hidden
          • A second sink and/or dishwasher
          • Small appliances like mixers or coffee stations
          • Pantry storage with cabinetry and shelving
          • Additional countertop space for meal prep

          In many custom homes, the scullery is positioned directly off the kitchen with a door or pocket entry to hide the mess while cooking or entertaining. Think of it as a miniature second kitchen that allows your main kitchen to shine.

          Walk In Pantry with Built Ins | Mebane NC New Homes

          Why Homeowners Love Scullery Pantries

          Scullery kitchens offer practical benefits and luxurious convenience:

          • Perfect for Entertaining and Hosting: Keep dishes, prep, and clean-up out of sight while hosting guests in your open-concept space.
          • Streamlined Living: Store small appliances, bulk groceries, and supplies without cluttering your main kitchen.
          • Everyday Organization: Assign zones for meal prep, storage, and cleanup so your primary kitchen stays calm and collected.

          Plans Featuring Scullery Kitchens

          At Travars Built Homes, scullery pantries can be custom-designed into most layouts—just ask! Here are four popular floor plans where a scullery is already included or easily customizable into the design:

          Nordic Ridge

          This modern Scandinavian-style plan blends sleek design with thoughtful function. The scullery pantry—tucked discreetly behind the kitchen—keeps everyday tasks out of the open-concept living areas, while adding serious storage and prep space. Clean lines meet quiet convenience in this high-functioning layout.

          Rendering Copyright ArchitecturalDesigns.com & Associates
          Floorplan Copyright ArchitecturalDesigns.com & Associates

          Wembley Place

          The Wembley Place plan offers charm and sophistication with classic farmhouse appeal. Its generous scullery pantry is ideally located between the kitchen and mudroom, providing a seamless transition for grocery drop-off, prep, and storage. It’s a workhorse behind the scenes that keeps the spotlight on your beautiful kitchen.

          Rendering Copyright Frank Betz & Associates
          Floorplan Copyright Frank Betz & Associates

          Trowbridge

          Trowbridge is a beautifully balanced plan that blends traditional style with modern needs. The scullery pantry just off the main kitchen helps reduce countertop traffic and creates a natural place to organize meals, supplies, or even serve as a coffee or baking nook.

          Rendering Copyright Frank Betz & Associates
          Floorplan Copyright Frank Betz & Associates

          Eldermere House

          A luxurious European-inspired farmhouse, the Eldermere House offers 3825 square feet of refined living. This plan has a butlers pantry, easily converted to a scullery pantry, just beyond the main kitchen, providing a perfect space for prepping meals or tucking away countertop clutter. Its placement enhances flow from the kitchen to the dining and outdoor entertaining areas.

          Rendering Copyright ArchitecturalDesigns.com & Associates
          Floorplan Copyright ArchitecturalDesigns.com & Associates

          Make Your Kitchen Work Smarter—Not Harder

          When you build a custom home with Travars Built Homes, you can tailor every space—including your kitchen—to fit your lifestyle. A scullery kitchen is just one of the many features we can help you integrate to bring more ease, beauty, and function to your daily life.

          Ready to explore more possibilities? See these plans and more in our online catalog, and let’s start the conversation about building your dream home today.

          Explore Floor Plans with Scullery Pantries

          Get in Touch Today!

            Sources:

            Stunning New Floor Plans for Your Custom Build

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            Just Released:  Three New Luxury Floor Plans Now Available in Our Online Catalog

            At Travars Built Homes, we believe your home should reflect your lifestyle, values, and vision. That’s why we’re excited to introduce three new luxury floor plans to our online catalog—each thoughtfully designed with the flexibility and craftsmanship that define our custom builds. Whether you’re seeking expansive indoor-outdoor living, timeless farmhouse charm, or multi-generational comfort, these plans offer a glimpse into what’s possible when you build with us.

            Ruskin Place: Estate Living with Elegant Details

            At 4,328 square feet, Ruskin Place is a showcase of refined design and functionality. This estate-style home offers 4–5 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, with both the primary suite and a guest room conveniently located on the first floor.

            Highlights:

            • Four-car parking, including a detached carriage garage and Porte Cochere
            • Two-story family room with a statement fireplace
            • Scullery/prep pantry and a dedicated “pool bath” for seamless indoor-outdoor entertaining
            • Private baths for every bedroom
            • Bonus room with separate staircase—ideal for a home studio, office, or media space

            Ruskin Place is designed for homeowners who value both grandeur and practicality, with spaces that flow effortlessly from one to the next.

            new luxury floor plans for nc custom homes
            Rendering copyright Frank Betz and Associates

            Windsor Park: A Modern Farmhouse with Classic Appeal

            Windsor Park brings the warmth of farmhouse living into a modern, open-concept layout. This plan is ideal for those who appreciate timeless design elements paired with contemporary comforts.

            Highlights:

            • Spacious kitchen with a large island, perfect for gatherings
            • First-floor primary suite offering privacy and convenience
            • Optional flex spaces to suit your lifestyle needs
            • Inviting front porch and rear outdoor living areas

            Windsor Park captures the essence of farmhouse charm while providing the flexibility and modern amenities today’s homeowners desire.

            new luxury floor plans for nc custom homes
            Rendering copyright Frank Betz and Associates

            Twin Gables Farmhouse: Rustic Charm Meets Modern Comfort

            Twin Gables Farmhouse is a 3,159-square-foot home that beautifully blends rustic elements with modern design. Featuring 4 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, this plan is perfect for families seeking both style and functionality.

            Highlights:

            • First-floor master suite with luxurious bathroom and walk-in closet
            • Open-concept kitchen with two-tone cabinetry and a farmhouse sink
            • Abundant natural light through large windows and transoms
            • Bonus room and built-in bookcases for added versatility
            • Classic white and black exterior finishes with brick fireplace surround

            Twin Gables Farmhouse offers a harmonious blend of traditional aesthetics and modern living spaces, making it a standout choice for those who appreciate both form and function.

            new luxury floor plans for nc custom homes
            Rendering copyright ArchitecturalDesigns.com & Associates

            Ready to Build Your Dream Home?

            Each of these new plans is fully customizable to fit your unique needs and preferences. At Travars Built Homes, we work closely with you to tailor every detail, ensuring your home is a true reflection of your vision.

            Explore these plans and more in our online catalog, and let’s start the conversation about building your dream home today.

            Explore Our Floor Plans

            Get in Touch Today!

              Accent Colors: 5 Eye-Catching Design Features for Your Custom Home

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              In custom home design, a strategically chosen accent color can transform a room, creating focal points that elevate the overall aesthetic. At Travars Built Homes, we work with clients to incorporate accent colors that highlight architectural features and add personality to each space. Whether you’re building on your lot or choosing from one of our custom plans, these design elements add unique touches that make every home feel tailored to your vision. Here are five examples of how accent colors are used to make specific design elements pop:

              High Wainscoting and Drop Zone – Avonmore

              The Avonmore plan features accent wainscoting in the master bedroom, drawing attention to a key wall while adding depth and texture. The drop zone also uses a similar treatment, creating a cohesive look that welcomes you home.

              Explore the Avonmore tour

              Dark Shiplap Fireplace – Amherst

              In the Amherst plan, a dramatic dark shiplap accent spans from floor to vaulted ceiling at the fireplace bump out, anchoring the living area with a bold, contemporary feel.

              See the Amherst tour

              Coffered Ceiling – Teesdale

              The Teesdale plan features a dark coffer ceiling in the two-story foyer, adding striking contrast against lighter walls and drawing the eye upward to showcase the architectural detailing.

              View the Teesdale tour

              Barn Door in Accent Color – Noni Cottage

              In the Noni Cottage, a barn door painted in an accent color serves as a functional design statement, seamlessly blending rustic charm with modern style.

              Take a look at the Noni Cottage tour

              Bold Red Front Door – Gregory

              Nothing says “welcome home” like a bold red front door. The Gregory plan uses this timeless accent to make a lasting first impression, creating a classic focal point that stands out against a neutral exterior.

              Visit the Gregory tour

              Why Accent Colors Matter in Custom Home Design

              Choosing the right accent color can enhance architectural features, define spaces, and convey a specific mood or style. Whether it’s a bold front door, a shiplap wall, or an accent ceiling, these design elements make a custom home feel unique and thoughtfully curated. And when you’re building on your lot with Travars Built Homes, every detail can be tailored to your preferences — from accent walls to exterior finishes.

              Ready to discuss how accent colors can elevate your custom home design? Explore our Build On Your Lot page for more options.

              Explore more inspiration in our Photo Tours

              Ready to start planning your custom home? Let’s talk.

                Studio Spaces and Family Suites: Versatile Living | On Your Lot Builder

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                When you’re building a custom home on your lot in Chatham, Lee, Alamance, or surrounding counties, having a dedicated space that adapts to your lifestyle can make all the difference. At Travars Built Homes, we build custom floor plans with Studio Spaces and Family Suites that provide privacy, flexibility, and functionality — perfect for the way you live, work, and relax.

                Why Include a Studio Space or Family Suite?

                • Privacy and Separation: A Studio Space or Family Suite located away from main living areas can be the ideal setting for a home office, guest quarters, or creative workspace.
                • Multi-Use Flexibility: Whether it’s a playroom for the kids, a home gym, or a personal retreat, these rooms can evolve as your needs change.
                • Resale Value: Adding a well-designed Family Suite or Studio Space increases your home’s appeal, giving future buyers versatile options for guests, in-laws, or rental income.

                Featured Floor Plans with Studio Spaces and Family Suites

                Explore these custom home plans that prioritize separation and multi-purpose living:

                • Harper’s Ferry: This modern farmhouse design includes a spacious Studio Space on the upper level, ideal for a nanny suite, craft room, or home theater.
                • Settlers Ridge: With its separate rear stairway entry, the upper-level Family Suite provides an expansive, private area for guests, teens, or in-laws — complete with a covered porch for added living space.
                • Seneca Falls: A breezeway connects the detached garage to the main home, leading to a thoughtfully designed Studio Space. Use it as a home office, art studio, or private guest retreat.

                Harper’s Ferry

                Settlers Ridge

                Seneca Falls

                Designing for Your Lot in NC

                Travars Built Homes specializes in crafting custom floor plans that maximize space, comfort, and functionality. Whether you’re building in Pittsboro, Sanford, Siler City, or beyond, we’ll help you design a home with Studio Spaces and Family Suites tailored to your lifestyle. Contact us to start creating a home that works for you — and every way you want to live.

                Explore more inspiration in our Photo Tours

                Ready to start planning your custom home? Let’s talk.

                  *Renderings copyright Frank Betz

                  Popular Brick Selections for Custom Homes | Travars Built Homes

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                  At Travars Built Homes, every detail matters. That’s why we guide our homeowners through thoughtful selections — like brick — that shape the timeless beauty and character of their new home.
                  Brick is more than just a material choice. It’s a statement of style, durability, and classic charm, crafted to complement the design vision you’re building with us.

                  Here’s a look at some of the most popular brick selections our homeowners have chosen, featured in recent Travars Built Homes builds across central North Carolina:

                  1. Oyster Bay – Subtle, Coastal Elegance

                  For those drawn to softer neutrals, Oyster Bay brick is a standout choice. In our Teesdale home, it provides a breezy, coastal-inspired look with gentle variations of white and gray.

                  This muted, sandy palette pairs easily with both warm and cool color schemes, offering flexibility for shutters, trim, and accents — perfect for homeowners who appreciate understated sophistication.

                  2. Washed White – Bright and Timeless

                  The East Haven home brings a fresh take on classic white brick. The soft, washed finish offers a welcoming brightness, pairing beautifully with the home’s traditional lines and modern touches.

                  Washed White brick creates a relaxed, timeless feel that looks equally stunning in farmhouse, cottage, and transitional home styles — a versatile favorite among custom homebuyers.

                  Full Brick Custom Home in NC

                  3. Santa Fe – Warm and Richly Layered

                  The Amherst home showcases the earthy richness of Santa Fe brick. With its warm reds,  soft paprika, sand and dark gray accents, Santa Fe creates a welcoming, grounded presence.

                  This can be ideal for homeowners who want to highlight the connection between their home and its natural surroundings.  This brick style adds depth, character, and a touch of traditional Southern charm.

                  4. Evelyn Bay – Soft Sophistication

                  At the Holly Fern home, Evelyn Bay brick blends creamy whites and gentle grays into a soft, sophisticated exterior. It offers a slightly more structured and polished finish compared to some rustic styles, while still maintaining a handcrafted, approachable feel.

                  This choice has become increasingly popular for homeowners seeking a fresh, transitional look that stands the test of time.

                  Crafting a Home That’s Uniquely Yours

                  When you build with Travars Built Homes, every selection — from your brick to your layout — is guided by personal conversations and expert advice.

                  Whether you’re drawn to bright and airy whites, natural earth tones, or coastal-inspired blends, we’ll walk you through the options that fit your vision and bring lasting beauty to your home.

                  Explore more inspiration in our Photo Tours

                  Ready to start planning your custom home? Let’s talk.

                    What Can Impact Where You Can Place Your Home on Land in Alamance County, NC?

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                    Alamance County is one of the beautiful areas where Travars Built Homes builds custom homes on your land—and one of a dozen counties across central North Carolina where we help families bring their vision to life. If you’re considering building in Alamance, it’s important to understand that more than just personal preference determines where you can place your home on your lot.

                    Setbacks, septic systems, wells, easements, and environmental features all play a role in shaping your homesite plan. Here’s what to know—and how we help you navigate the process.

                    1. Setbacks: 

                    Setbacks are the minimum required distances between your home and the edges of your lot. These requirements help maintain safety, privacy, and uniformity across neighborhoods.

                    In most parts of Alamance County, typical minimum setbacks are:

                    • 35–50 feet from the front property line
                    • 15–25 feet from the sides
                    • 25–50 feet from the rear

                    The specific setback distances depend on your zoning designation and whether your property is located within a municipality, an ETJ (Extra-Territorial Jurisdiction), or a rural area.

                    Why it matters: Setbacks define your home’s “buildable area.” 

                    2. Septic System: 

                    If your property doesn’t connect to a municipal sewer system, you’ll need to install a septic system. Alamance County’s Environmental Health Department will determine the best location based on:

                    • A professional soil evaluation
                    • The number of bedrooms in your home
                    • Required separation from wells, property lines, and structures
                    • Reserved space for a repair area

                    Why it matters: You must keep the designated area for a septic system clear—not just during construction, but long term—which means you can’t place patios, sheds, pools, or heavy driveways over it.

                    3. Wells: 

                    If your home requires a private well, it must also meet specific placement requirements. In Alamance County, your well must be:

                    • At least 100 feet away from septic fields
                    • Accessible for future maintenance

                    Why it matters: The well location often needs to be planned in tandem with the septic layout—and both must be situated with enough distance from your home and each other to comply with regulations.

                    4. Easements: 

                    Easements are areas on your property that someone else has a legal right to use. These are most commonly used for:

                    • Driveways or access roads to neighboring properties
                    • Underground utility lines
                    • Drainage or stormwater systems

                    Why it matters: You typically cannot build on or obstruct an easement. 

                    5. Natural Features and Buffers

                    Alamance County features rolling countryside, creeks, and wooded areas—but these features can also bring building restrictions.

                    Depending on your land, you may encounter:

                    • Stream buffers, which restrict development near natural waterways
                    • Floodplain zones, where development is limited or prohibited

                    Why it matters: While these features add beauty to your land, they may limit where you can place your home—or require you to take additional steps during site planning and permitting.

                    Building in Alamance County? Travars Built Can Help.

                    Building on your own land comes with a lot of questions—and we’re here to help answer them. Once we understand what kind of home you’d like to build, Travars Built Homes offers an in-depth, on-site consultation to evaluate how your home can be placed for optimal layout, orientation, and use of your land’s natural features. We’ll walk your homesite with you and provide expert insight into everything from potential driveway locations to how slope can impact foundation heights.

                    Contact us today to schedule your homesite consultation.

                    Travars Built Homes has a renowned reputation across central North Carolina for exceptional quality, integrity, and service. We build on your land extending into 12 counties, including Chatham, Wake, Orange, Lee, Alamance, and surrounding areas.

                    Disclaimer: Requirements for well, septic, setbacks, easements, and environmental features can vary depending on your specific property and local regulations. Travars Built Homes provides guidance throughout this process, but cannot guarantee outcomes related to soil evaluations, permits, or regulatory approvals.

                    Get in touch today!