Learn what makes design-build new homes unique, with options to modify your floor plan and create a new home that’s right for you and your family.

Embracing Growth in Pittsboro, NC: A Spotlight on Custom Living with Travars Built Homes

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Pittsboro, North Carolina, has long been celebrated for its charming blend of small-town character, rich history, and scenic beauty. In recent years, this picturesque community has also become a sought-after destination for families, professionals, and retirees seeking a lifestyle that balances rural serenity with modern conveniences. As Pittsboro grows, Travars Built Homes is proud to play a vital role in shaping the area’s future through high-quality, custom-built homes.

The Appeal of Pittsboro: Why People are Choosing to Call it Home

Nestled in Chatham County, Pittsboro offers a unique appeal that draws people from across the Triangle region and beyond. Its central location provides easy access to larger cities like Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, while still maintaining the charm of a close-knit community. Pittsboro boasts:

  • Top-tier Schools: Families are drawn to the area’s excellent schools, both public and private. 
  • Outdoor Recreation: From Jordan Lake to the Haw River, Pittsboro offers abundant opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and exploring nature.
  • Cultural Attractions: The town’s vibrant arts scene and historic downtown provide a sense of identity and place.
  • Thriving Economy: Pittsboro is experiencing economic growth, with an increase in local businesses, dining options, and infrastructure improvements.
Top Places to Eat in Pittsboro - Root Cellar

Growth Meets Thoughtful Development

As Pittsboro grows, thoughtful development is essential to preserve the qualities that make the area special. Travars Built Homes collaborates closely with clients in Pittsboro and throughout Chatham County to ensure that every home reflects the individuality of its owners while contributing to the overall charm of the community. Whether it’s a farmhouse-inspired design or a contemporary craftsman, every Travars Built home is tailored to fit the lot, lifestyle, and personal preferences of the homeowner.

Local Businesses Enhancing Pittsboro’s Appeal

New residents are drawn to Pittsboro not only for its natural beauty but also for its growing selection of local businesses that enhance the community’s livability. Here are just a few standout examples:

  • Postal Fish Company: A popular seafood restaurant offering fresh, sustainable dishes with a Southern flair.
  • Havoc Brewing Company: A lively brewery with outdoor entertainment, craft beer, and a welcoming community vibe.
  • The Sycamore: A refined steakhouse known for its exceptional cuisine and elegant ambiance.
  • Pittsboro Pet Supply: A trusted destination for pet owners, offering high-quality products and personalized service.

These businesses, along with many others, contribute to Pittsboro’s unique blend of small-town charm and modern amenities, making it an increasingly attractive destination for new residents.

A Bright Future for Pittsboro

Pittsboro’s growth is more than just a trend—it’s a testament to the community’s appeal and potential. As more people discover what makes this town so special, the demand for custom homes that reflect Pittsboro’s unique identity continues to rise.

At Travars Built Homes, we’re not just building houses; we’re creating homes where memories are made and futures are built. If you’re considering making Pittsboro your home, let us help you design and build a space that’s perfect for your family—and for this thriving, beautiful community.

Explore the charm of Pittsboro, embrace its growth, and let Travars Built Homes craft the custom home of your dreams.

Why Choose Travars Built Homes?

Travars Built Homes stands out in Pittsboro’s growing housing market for several reasons:

  1. Personalized Design: Every detail matters. Our design-build process ensures that your vision comes to life, from layout to finishes.
  2. Local Expertise: As a locally owned and operated company, we understand the unique character of Pittsboro and how to build homes that enhance the area.
  3. Uncompromising Quality: We use top-quality materials and craftsmanship to create homes that are as enduring as they are beautiful.
  4. Transparency and Communication: From the initial consultation to the final walkthrough, we prioritize clear communication and a seamless building experience.

To learn more about building your custom home in Pittsboro or to explore our portfolio, visit Travars Built Homes or Contact us.

Essential Decorative Features Homebuyers Really Want in the Great Room

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The Great Room has long been the heart of the modern home—a place where families gather, guests are entertained, and comfort meets style. As trends evolve, certain decorative features stand the test of time, while others rise in popularity as homebuyers seek both functionality and visual appeal. The “What Home Buyers Really Want 2024 Edition” study by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) highlights the features that buyers consider essential or desirable in the Great Room.

If you’re building or designing your dream home, here are the top decorative elements that today’s buyers really want to see in the Great Room:

1. Built-In Shelving

Built-in shelving remains a favorite among homeowners who prioritize organization and aesthetics. According to the 2024 study, 72% of respondents said that built-in shelving is essential or desirable—a slight uptick from 71% in 2012. This enduring popularity shows how much buyers appreciate the convenience of customized storage solutions that blend seamlessly with the room’s architecture.

Why Homebuyers Love It:

  • Provides storage without sacrificing floor space.
  • Creates a cohesive, finished look.
  • Perfect for displaying books, photos, and decor items.

2. Wood-Burning Fireplaces

Fireplaces add both warmth and character to the Great Room, and their desirability continues to rise. In 2023, 59% of respondents considered a wood-burning fireplace essential or desirable, compared to just 47% in 2012. This significant increase reflects a renewed interest in cozy, traditional features that bring a sense of nostalgia and comfort.

Why Homebuyers Love It:

  • Offers a natural focal point for the room.
  • Enhances ambiance and coziness.
  • Can provide functional heat during colder months.
Modern Farmhouse | Chapel Hill Custom Home

3. Exposed Ceiling Beams

Exposed beams in the ceiling are no longer limited to rustic or farmhouse styles. In 2023, 51% of respondents said exposed beams were essential or desirable, a major jump from just 31% in 2012. Whether crafted from wood or engineered materials, beams add architectural interest and a timeless design element to any Great Room.

Why Homebuyers Love It:

  • Adds visual drama and height to the room.
  • Complements a variety of home styles, from modern to rustic.
  • Creates a custom, high-end feel.
Chatham County New Homes | Open Concept Living

4. Ceiling Fans

Ceiling fans remain the most requested Great Room feature, though their popularity has slightly declined over the years. In 2023, 81% of respondents considered a ceiling fan essential or desirable, compared to 88% in 2012. Despite this drop, ceiling fans are still a key feature for maintaining comfort and airflow while enhancing the room’s style.

Why Homebuyers Love It:

  • Increases energy efficiency by improving air circulation.
  • Provides practical functionality year-round.
  • Available in stylish designs to complement any decor.
Modern Farmhouse | Chapel Hill Custom Home

Bringing It All Together

From built-in shelving to exposed ceiling beams, these Great Room features are more than just decorative—they enhance functionality, add timeless charm, and elevate the overall appeal of the space. Homebuyers in 2024 want rooms that feel comfortable, organized, and visually stunning.

When building your custom home, consider these essential features to create a Great Room that resonates with both style and practicality.

Ready to start building your dream home? Contact us today to learn more about creating a Great Room that you and your family will love for years to come.

Why Build a Custom Home with Travars Built Homes?

At Travars Built Homes, we work with you to design spaces that meet your needs and align with what today’s homebuyers value most. Explore our floor plans and see how Travars Built Homes can help bring your vision to life.

We offer:

  • Customized Floor Plans: Modify layouts to include features like a pet center in your laundry room.
  • Expert Guidance: Work with our design team to choose finishes, materials, and layouts that align with your vision.
  • Attention to Detail: From hidden litter boxes to built-in dog beds, we ensure every detail is crafted with care.
  • Energy-Efficient Solutions: Enjoy a home designed with sustainability and comfort in mind.

Source: National Association of Home Builders, “What Home Buyers Really Want 2024 Edition”

Stone Fireplace in Screen Porch | Chapel Hill New Home Builder

Designing an Outdoor Fireplace for Your Screened or Covered Porch

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An outdoor fireplace is the ultimate centerpiece for a screened or covered porch, creating a cozy, inviting space to enjoy year-round in Chatham County, NC. Whether you envision gathering around with friends and family on cool evenings or simply relaxing with a book by the fire, adding a woodburning fireplace to your porch enhances both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your custom home.

At Travars Built Homes, we work with you to plan and execute this stunning feature as part of your custom build. Let’s explore why an outdoor fireplace is a valuable addition and what you need to consider during construction.

Stone Fireplace in Screen Porch | Chapel Hill New Home Builder

Why Add an Outdoor Fireplace?

An outdoor fireplace adds warmth, ambiance, and value to your home. Here are some reasons it’s a favorite feature for custom porches:

  • Cozy Atmosphere: An outdoor fireplace transforms your porch into a comfortable space for all seasons.
  • Architectural Focal Point: A brick or stone surround creates an elegant, timeless design.
  • Outdoor Living Extension: Perfect for entertaining or relaxing, it bridges the gap between indoor and outdoor living.
  • Increased Home Value: Thoughtfully designed outdoor features are highly desirable for resale.

Planning for Your Outdoor Fireplace

Unlike backyard firepits, built-in woodburning or gas fireplaces require meticulous planning. Here are the key considerations:

1. Foundation and Engineering Requirements

Outdoor fireplaces are substantial structures, especially with full brick or stone surrounds. They require specific foundation work to support the weight. These structural needs must be addressed early in construction to ensure proper integration into your custom porch design.

2. Fireplace Design

Outdoor fireplaces typically feature full brick or stone surrounds, which provide both durability and visual appeal. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of natural stone or the traditional look of brick, the materials you choose should harmonize with the overall design of your home and porch.

3. Hearth Placement

A woodburning fireplace requires a hearth, which should be considered when configuring furnishing layouts or traffic paths.

4. Venting and Chimney Design

Proper venting is essential for woodburning fireplaces. The chimney design must comply with local building codes and ensure safe smoke and heat dispersion.

5. Space Considerations

Think about how the fireplace will fit into the layout of your porch. It should enhance the flow of the space, leaving room for furniture placement and foot traffic.

Customizing Your Outdoor Fireplace

There are many ways to personalize an outdoor fireplace to suit your style and needs:

  • Stone or Brick Variations: Choose from different types, colors, and textures to create a unique look.
  • Mantels: Add a wood or stone mantel for extra character and functionality, perfect for decorating or mounting a TV.
  • Built-In Seating: Consider built-in benches or adjacent walls for additional seating around the fireplace.
  • Lighting: Incorporate sconces or recessed lighting to enhance the ambiance.

Why Plan Early?

Outdoor fireplaces must be factored into your custom home design early in the process. Here’s why:

  • Foundation Preparation: Ensures the structure can support the weight of the fireplace.
  • Structural Engineering: Prevents delays by addressing design and safety requirements upfront.
  • Material Sourcing: Allows time to select and source high-quality materials that match your vision.
  • Integration with Porch Design: Ensures the fireplace complements other features, such as ceilings, columns, or flooring.

Let’s Start Planning Your Outdoor Fireplace

Adding a woodburning or gas fireplace to your screened or covered porch is a timeless addition that enhances outdoor living in Chatham County, NC. Ready to incorporate this feature into your custom home?

See our floor plans to find inspiration for your new home, or contact us today to start planning the foundation, design, and details of your custom outdoor fireplace!

Why Build a Custom Home with Travars Built Homes?

At Travars Built Homes, we specialize in designing custom homes that reflect your lifestyle and enhance your outdoor living experience. From the initial planning stages to the finishing details, our team ensures your outdoor fireplace is seamlessly integrated into your screened or covered porch.

We offer:

  • Customized Floor Plans: Modify layouts to include features like a pet center in your laundry room.
  • Expert Guidance: Work with our design team to choose finishes, materials, and layouts that align with your vision.
  • Attention to Detail: From hidden litter boxes to built-in dog beds, we ensure every detail is crafted with care.
  • Energy-Efficient Solutions: Enjoy a home designed with sustainability and comfort in mind.

Pet Friendly Laundry Rooms

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Designing a Pet-Friendly Laundry Room for Your Custom Home in Chatham County, NC

For pet lovers in Chatham County, NC, incorporating a dedicated pet area into your laundry room is a practical and stylish way to enhance your custom home. At Travars Built Homes, we understand the importance of creating spaces that cater to every member of your family — including the furry ones! By designing a multifunctional pet friendly laundry room, you can blend functionality with thoughtful architectural detail while providing your pets with their own special space.

Why Add a Pet Center to the Laundry Room?

The laundry room is often an underused area in the home, making it the perfect spot to double as a pet center. With careful planning, this space can become a hub for pet care without disrupting the rest of your home.

Benefits of a pet center in your laundry room include:

  • A Dedicated Space for Pets: Keeps pet essentials organized and contained.
  • Enhanced Home Design: Adds charm and functionality to an often-overlooked area.
  • Simplified Cleanup: Keeps messes in an easy-to-clean zone with durable materials.
  • Multi-Purpose Use: Can accommodate pet beds, litter boxes, or storage solutions.

Creative Ideas for Your Pet Center

Here are some ways to design a pet-friendly laundry room tailored to your lifestyle and your pet’s needs:

1. Built-In Dog Bed or Crate

Create a cozy nook beneath a countertop or within a custom cabinet where your dog can rest. Adding built-in features keeps the space looking tidy and integrated into the overall design. Consider using durable, pet-safe materials for comfort and longevity.

Wendell North Carolina New Homes | Built in Dog House Under the Stairs

2. Hidden Litter Box Area

For cat owners, a concealed litter box is a game-changer. Incorporate a discreet compartment with proper ventilation and easy access for cleaning. This keeps odors contained and the litter box out of sight.

3. Storage Solutions for Pet Essentials

Include custom drawers or cabinets to store pet food, leashes, grooming supplies, and toys. Pull-out bins or cubbies make these items easily accessible while maintaining a clutter-free space.

4. Pet Washing Station

Elevate your laundry room with a small pet washing station. A tiled, low-level shower or tub with a handheld sprayer makes bath time easier and keeps muddy paw prints from tracking through the house.

5. Stylish Design Touches

Incorporate architectural details like shiplap walls, farmhouse trim, or decorative molding to blend the pet area seamlessly into your laundry room. Choose finishes and colors that complement the overall design of your home.

Start Planning Your Pet-Friendly Custom Home Today

Building a custom home in Chatham County gives you the flexibility to include creative features like a pet center in your laundry room. Ready to get started? Explore our floor plans and see how Travars Built Homes can help bring your vision to life.

See our floor plans to find inspiration for your new home, or contact us today to discuss how we can design a home that works for every member of your family — pets included!

Built in Dog House | Chapel Hill New Home Builder

Why Build a Custom Home with Travars Built Homes?

Travars Built Homes specializes in creating personalized spaces for every member of your household. Whether it’s a built-in pet center or another unique feature, our team works with you to design a home that reflects your needs and lifestyle.

We offer:

  • Customized Floor Plans: Modify layouts to include features like a pet center in your laundry room.
  • Expert Guidance: Work with our design team to choose finishes, materials, and layouts that align with your vision.
  • Attention to Detail: From hidden litter boxes to built-in dog beds, we ensure every detail is crafted with care.
  • Energy-Efficient Solutions: Enjoy a home designed with sustainability and comfort in mind.
Open Kitchen Farmhouse | Mebane NC New Homes

2022 new homes: Soothing spaces, stock-up places, hide-away, “she sheds”

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See the shake up in top priorities for 2022 custom homes: Top 11 “must have” requests from new home buyers.

2022 custom home trend #1: Stock-up space

Convenient places to store paper goods, food, cleaning products and emergency tools are all in huge demand, as people focus on preparedness.

Walk in pantries are designed for a lot more than food storage, with sinks, pull out shelving, countertops, nooks and crannies, and natural light

Modern Farmhouse Walk In Pantry | Mebane NC New Homes

Walk in closets are designed with custom cubbies, cabinets, furniture, shelves and dressing areas

Built In Cabinets Walk In Closet | Mebane NC New Homes

Walk in attics can be so huge you can ask to have them finished like the rest of the home, like this optional “Craft Room”

2022 custom home trend #2: Secret passages

Secret Passageways are popping up all over the place in new custom homes.

Chatham County NC Custom Homes | Secret Passage in Closet

We create creative secret passages from one child’s room to another. Behind hidden panels. Through bookcases. We can’t even tell you everything we build. It’s secret.

2022 custom home trend #3: Flex space

There’s often at least one room in new homes designed to be converted, such as this loft spaced just right for a play room, office, study area, or crafting – flexible with life.

Need something special built-in, such as additional walls, soundproofing or aging-in-place features? Ask your builder what can be added to tap into for future use.

2022 custom home trend #4: Massive Island kitchens

Kitchen islands in today’s new homes are stretching size limits as high as space allows, like the massive island with microwave beneath in this custom designed two story kitchen created for great cuisine gatherings.

Chatham County NC Custom Homes | Two Story Kitchen

2022 custom home trend #5: Main floor owners suite

Homebuyers planning their “forever home” appreciate “aging in place” features and a floor plan where the owner’s suite – and day to day living – is all on one floor.

Raleigh Custom Homes | Vaulted Ceiling Owners Suite

2022 custom home trend #6: Guest suites

Dual owner’s suites, guest suites, and private apartment quarters within the home are top reasons homebuyers look to custom home builders who can go beyond stock floor plans and build in what’s needed.

2022 custom home trend #7: Work space

Custom built-ins create special spaces for office, homework, quilting, shop, or anything else you need to get the job done.

Built In Bookcase Walls | Mebane NC New Homes

Often, a small pocket office can be woven into a plan to create a a nook that can also be used for storage, hobbies, or a pet room.

2022 custom home trend #8: Mudroom with drop zone

Drop zones have become the top focus for mudrooms as a way to leave coats and clutter at the door – where it’s easy to find later.

Wendell North Carolina New Homes | Laundry Room Drop Zone Storage Center

Drop zones are often designed in conjunction with laundry rooms and are typically by the back door – but a custom builder can tuck them in other places, too, like this this all-purpose room that also has a dog house.

Wendell North Carolina New Homes | Built in Dog House Under the Stairs

2022 custom home trend #9: Indoor/outdoor living

Fresh air has taken on a whole new connotation in today’s lifestyle – with increased requests for indoor/outdoor living, like covered and screen porches

Wendell North Carolina New Homes | Brick New Homes
Farmhouse Deck | Mebane NC New Homes

2022 custom home trend #10: She Sheds

She Sheds are taking over the demand for Man Caves, as women seek a calming place in their new homes to relax with no rules.

Wendell North Carolina New Homes | Game Room

 2022 custom home trend #11: Energy efficiency

Long term advantages of building a new home include lower energy bills. From ultra-e windows to effective HVAC systems and radiant barriers, ask your builder for ways your home can be more comfortable and affordable through energy efficiency.

Build a custom home in North Carolina:

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Mebane NC New Homes | White Farmhouse Exterior

How much does an NC custom home cost per square foot?

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“Cost per square foot” is a term that became popular with production builders. Production homes are designed to be cookie cutter boxes and can be built very cheaply with very few choices and nearly everything outside baseline “basics” an “upgrade.”

Would you ask for the price per square foot for a car? That’s how little it can apply to a truly custom home, as a comparison tool, without knowing just what each of those square feet contain. Here’s how to take a test drive:

Build a Custom Home with TBH

NC custom home cost per square foot: Home style

The type of home you choose can make a big difference. A one story home has more foundation and roof, so it typically costs more per square foot to build than a two story home.

Architectural styles can impact your cost considerably. Contemporary homes can be more expensive to build than Colonial homes.

The Grace | Chatham County Multigenerational Plan

NC custom home cost per square foot: Floor plan layout

An “average cost per square foot” may not the best indicator of value. Even plans with similar layouts can have differences that impact the build cost. For example:

The Chandler Floor Plan | Siler City New Homes

Cost per square foot for a custom home depends on the floor plan, selections chosen, and location.

Get started, here:

    Do you own a lot?
    Yes, I own a lotNo, but I have a lot in mindNo, I'd like help finding a lot

    Location:
    PittsboroDurhamChapel HillAnother Location in NCI am not building in NC

    Build Budget:
    400 - 450K450 - 500K500 - 600K600 - 700K700 - 800K800 - 900K900K+

    • How big are the kitchens – how much cabinetry and countertops? What kind of appliances and lighting?
    • How many bathrooms? How extensive is the tile work?
    • How big is the garage?
    • How many and how big are the windows and doors? A wall of windows or sun room can make a big difference.
    • How much square footage is on the main floor, versus upstairs?
    • How high/complex is the roof line?
    • Does the home have a lot of cut outs or is it designed more cost effectively?
    • How much outdoor living space is included in the footprint? How big are the porches and screen porches? Is there an outdoor kitchen or see-through fireplace?

    NC custom home cost per square foot: Building materials and selections

    Here’s what else you need to know, as you compare costs:

    Look closely at what the builder includes in writing. Are floors “resilient material” or hardwood? What kind of hardwood is it? How many rooms start with carpet? Is there a microwave? Is the owner’s suite shower tile, or plastic? Does it have a fireplace? What kind of lights and faucets are included? Does the home come with a radiant barrier or sealed crawl space (that can save you a lot over the years and make your home more efficient and comfortable). Different materials, features, and finishes can make a huge difference in the price for your home. Everything you want to change will add to the price you pay (either now or later.)

    Look for what the builder has in writing as to what comes “standard.” What builders offer can differ extensively as to what is “basic”. We can help you find a cost-effective floor plan. And we will help you compare advantages.

    Chatham County New Home | Travars Built Homes

    NC custom home cost per square foot: Location and building lot site work

    The site work required for your lot can also make a big difference. Ask the builder what it costs to build a home on your lot. Find out if the builder requires you to sign upb efore they will do an assessment of site costs.

    • Is a sewer available or do you need a septic system? Is it conventional or engineered?
    • Do you have over 2 or 3 acres? If so, a well may be required.
    • How long is the driveway? What will it be made with?
    • What is the topography? Do you need a tall crawl or basement?
    • What are the setbacks?
    • Is it in a neighborhood with an HOA? What are the community covenants?

    TBH builds homes from cottages to estates, with a cost per square foot that is appropriate for custom homes that come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, and architectural styles.

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    New home architectural styles in North Carolina

    Posted by Travars Built Homes on

    Today’s most sought after new home styles in NC reflect a blend of Modern Farmhouse, Craftsman, Colonial, Traditional and Contemporary – and even reflections of several design approaches in a single dwelling.

    Mixed architectural exterior

    Note the difference in style between the front porch, columns, siding, railings, window frames, trim around the windows, front door design, detail work and roof line of this home. It’s a great example of how today’s new homes aren’t held back by old fashioned norms.

    New home architectural styles in North Carolina
    2824 sq ft | 4 Beds | 2.5 Baths | Two Story Home

    Get a flyer and pricing information for the Joanna and similar NC home plans, here.

    Traditional and turret home exterior

    The turret on this home adds a touch of whimsey to a cost effective custom home plan. Stately brick and touches of metal complete its modern medley of styles.

    New home architectural styles in North Carolina
    2758 sq ft | 3 Beds | 2.5 Baths | First Floor Master

    Get a flyer and pricing information for the Cooper and similar NC home plans, here.

    Craftsman home exterior

    This home has all the makings of a Modern Craftsman style – with splashes of bold color to add dimension.

    New home architectural styles in North Carolina
    3227 sq ft | 4 Beds | 2.5 Baths | Main Floor Master

    Get a flyer and pricing information for the Leigh and similar NC home plans, here.

    Modern Farmhouse home exterior

    Board and batten siding and a crisp facade says Modern Farmhouse. Look closely and you’ll see Arts and Crafts windows and a colorful front door, with personality.

    New home architectural styles in North Carolina
    2328 sq ft | 4 Beds | 2.5 Baths | First Floor Master

    See the photo tour and request pricing information for the Rodanthe, here.

    Contemporary Modern Farmhouse exterior

    Lots of windows provide Contemporary appeal. Simplicity says Modern Farmhouse. Metal roof accents add artistic appeal.

    New home architectural styles in North Carolina
    2418 sq ft, 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths

    Get a flyer and pricing information for the Bluffton Way and similar NC home plans, here.

    Colonial home exterior

    This Colonial exterior belies the Contemporary features and finishes inside – a no-holds-barred approach to capturing your own sense of adventure, without everything having to follow the same flow, when you design/build your new home.

    New home architectural styles in North Carolina
    3470 sq ft | 5 Beds | 4 Baths | First Floor Master

    See the photo tour and request pricing information for the Inara, here.

    Get started:

    Search Floor Plans
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    New home trends: Best hardwood flooring for pets

    Posted by Travars Built Homes on

    You have a lot of choices for flooring in North Carolina new homes, from hardwood to tile and carpet, as well as custom options.

    Travars Built Homes offer the highest quality features, finishes, materials and craftsmanship, including real oak hardwood flooring in every home. See what else comes, standard, here.

    All types of flooring will see some wear and tear over time. But which types of hardwood flooring stand up best to daily traffic from people and pets? Here are 10 tips for choosing hardwood flooring in NC new homes:

    North Carolina New Homes | Hardwood Flooring Trends

    Hardwood flooring tip #1:  Soft woods cost more — and provide less protection

    If you want to avoid flooring that dents easiest, avoid American Cherry, American Walnut, and Pine. Better versions of these hardwoods for a harder surface? Brazilian Cherry and Walnut.

    Hardwood flooring tip #2: Consider a Harder Hardwood

    Hickory, Brazilian Cherry and other hardwoods rank high on the Janka scale.  They come with a premium price, but  are much harder than the 3/8 “hardwood” flooring most builders use. Travars Built Homes uses ¾ solid oak hardwood – a much higher quality wood with more resistance to wear and tear than most new homes start with.

    North Carolina New Homes | Hardwood Flooring Trends

    Hardwood flooring tip #3: Strong grains can hide more scratches

    Red oak has a stronger grain than white oak. Red oak, 1290 on the hardness scale, hides scratches better than Brazilian Cherry, which is 2350 on the Janka scale. 

    Hardwood flooring tip #4: Hand Scraped and Distressed Hardwoods provide modern rustic character that makes wear look appealing

    The more wear you put on these hardwoods, the more realistic they look. Knots and other character traits also give “real hardwoods” a natural look that feels comfortable and welcoming.

    Contact Travars Built Homes to get a price for your NC new home build.

    Hardwood flooring tip #5: Mask imperfections with a Matte Finish

    Ask your builder to use a matte finish on your site finished hardwood floors. Glossy finishes will be more reflective – and imperfections more glaring.

    North Carolina New Homes | Hardwood Flooring Trends

    Hardwood flooring tip #6: Light stains hide scratches best

    Another great characteristic of oak hardwood flooring is that it’s already a naturally light wood. The stain shade you choose can make a difference in how much scratches show, with lighter hues hiding more scarring than dark colors. lighter hue on the stain you choose And if you’ve chosen oak, a naturally light wood, even if the finish is scratched off the scratch is more likely to blend with the rest of the floor.

    Hardwood flooring tip #7: Solid Hardwoods have long lasting qualities

    Site finished solid hardwood flooring can be refinished. So if you feel like freshening up your woods in a few years, either because you’d like it to look new or want to change the color, you can simply sand it and restain it, at a much lower cost than replacing the entire floor like you’d need to do with an inexpensive laminate.

    North Carolina New Homes | Hardwood Flooring Trends

    Hardwood flooring tip #8: The bamboo effect

    Bamboo can be beautiful, but it’s not always the best choice for a floor that will have a lot of people and pet traffic. Stained bamboo can scratch very easily. Although it is technically stronger than oak, dents show up more easily. Strand bamboo costs more than carmelized bamboo, but can hold up better. 

    Hardwood flooring tip #9: Furniture Felt Pads can prevent heavy scraping

    Using felt pads under furniture (even with wheels) can protect your floors. Scattered rugs can also protect areas with heavy traffic, such as doorways, hallways, kitchen aisles and gathering places.

    Hardwood flooring tip #10: Leave your shoes at the door

    Still love soft woods best? Create a space where shoes go as people enter your home, to avoid scarring caused by pebbles, dirt and high heels. Custom built-in shelving, drop zones or even just a corner on the floor reserved for shoes can help your floors stay cleaner and less worn.

    North Carolina New Homes | Hardwood Flooring Trends

    Contact Travars Built Homes to find out more about building your new construction custom home in North Carolina.

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    5 easy steps to get an NC custom home price quote

    Posted by Travars Built Homes on

    Building a custom home is very different from purchasing a new or existing home. You often won’t find set pricing online because custom home builders need to know a few details to provide a quote you can count on.

    Here are the 5 easy steps we walk through with you, so you can get a personalized custom home quote with 10 pages of details.

    Step 1: Call Travars Built Homes at 919-740-7536. We can cover a lot about what you’d like to do in a ten minute conversation. And check here for quick answers to common custom home building questions.

    NC Custom Home Photo Tours

    Step 2: Email. Send the names of floor plans you’re interested in knowing more about. Need ideas? Request house plans, here.

    If you own a lot, send the address, plot plan, soil determinations, improvement permits, community covenants and anything else that can help us provide you with the most precise information possible.

    Step 3: Come to your 30 minute no obligation custom home consultation. We’ll go over the details in your 10 page custom home pricing quote. Take it home. Make notes on the things you’d like to consider changing, such as floor plan modifications. Email your questions so we can provide even more information.

    Farmhouse Kitchen Island | Mebane NC New Homes

    Step 4: Meet with Travars Built Homes at your lot for your free onsite lot assessment, where you’ll learn what it takes to build at your homesite. Find out about everything about your location that impacts build costs – before you sign your purchase agreement. Still looking for the right lot? We can help with your search, too.

    Step 5: Read more about what makes Travars Built Homes unique, and meet one more time to go over the details in your final quote for the floor plan you want to build. We can cover any modifications discussed at your initial custom home consultation, and site work specific to your homesite. Your build costs are locked in with your purchase agreement!

    Wendell North Carolina New Homes

    Interested in a custom home quote? Contact Travars Built Homes. We will show you everything that comes included – and the flexibility you have for personalization – when you build your new home on your lot or neighborhood in central NC.

    Get started:

    Search Floor Plans
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    How to add stock up space and big pantries to your new home (without adding sq ft)

    Posted by Travars Built Homes on

    Customizing stock up space and big pantries starts with analyzing what you want to store – and the places you have to work with – in new custom homes in Chatham County, North Carolina.

    Kitchens with big walk in pantries are high in “must haves.” Get clever when you go custom, with just-right spaces for everything you store, like these creative cubbies, shelves and racks in Travars Built Homes.

    Custom built-ins

    Chatham County Custom Homes | Kitchen Pantry

    Every inch here was designed for a specific purpose. From pull out racks to built ins sized for each item to be placed there, this is what “totally custom” can look like, when you expand your kitchen into the walk in pantry.

    Custom shelf height

    Your NC custom home builder can use the measurements you give him to build custom shelving at the height you need, to accommodate everything from stock up Costco size packaging to cans and spices in your walk in pantry.

    Custom shelf width and depth

    Chatham County New Homes | Kitchen Pantry

    Shelf width is another important consideration to talk through with your NC custom home builder. How many cans do you want to stack in a row? How big are the bags of rice or flour? How long are the cereal boxes?

    Pantries with other built in storage nearby

    Chatham County NC Custom Homes | Built In Storage

    Avoid overstuffing your pantry or closets, by adding additional cubbies and storage spaces nearby. A drop zone only needs 12-18 inches of depth, and can be designed for whatever you want to put there.

    Windows and lighting

    Consider inset or spot lighting in addition to the usual ceiling fixture, to light up your closet or pantry. Choose between more shelves or a window to add natural light. Talk with your Chatham County new home builder about the impact on your home’s exterior.

    Pantry location

    Chatham County Custom Homes | Kitchen Pantry

    How much pantry space do you need? A design build custom home builder in NC can create space for a bigger pantry (or second pantry) in a kitchen corner, hallway, mud room, breakfast room or under the stairway.

    Secret pantries

    Want special storage that’s even more tucked away? A custom design builder can add secret pantries and passageways to your floor plan during the early planning stages.

    Butler’s pantry

    A butlers pantry typically reflects the cabinetry and countertops of the kitchen, with a dedicated space all its own for items you want to easily access from eating and gathering areas, like this custom designed butlers pantry and wine bar.

    Chatham County New Homes | Kitchen Wine Bar

    Your design build custom home builder can work with you to create storage space for everything you want to have on hand in your new home.

    Get started here:

    Search Floor Plans
    Photo Tours
    Available Homes
    Pricing