Get answers to questions about how to build a new custom home in North Carolina – with information for first time home buyers as well as experienced buyers.

Designing for Multi-Generational Living: Mother-in-Law Suite Options in the Chatham County, NC Area

Posted by tbhadmin on

As families grow and evolve, homes designed with flexibility and multi-generational living in mind are more important than ever. Mother-in-law suites (MIL suites) offer a practical and comfortable solution for accommodating extended family members while maintaining privacy within a shared home.

In the beautiful Pittsboro, Chapel Hill, and Chatham County NC areas, homeowners are drawn to the customization options of these integrated designs. Whether you prefer a spacious first-floor bedroom with an ensuite bath or a private suite with a sitting area and kitchenette, there are endless ways to tailor your home to meet your family’s needs.

Let’s explore three distinct approaches, using customizable floor plans from Travars Built Homes.

Option 1: Convert a Floor Plan to Include a MIL Suite

In the Astoria Mill floor plan, you’ll find a perfect starting point for customization. By modifying a portion of the layout, you can create a fully functional MIL suite that fits seamlessly into the home’s design.

For example:

  • Add a private bathroom to a first-floor bedroom.
  • Expand the space to include a cozy sitting area.
  • Ensure an intuitive flow between the suite and shared spaces.

This approach is ideal for homeowners in who want a practical, integrated design that meets multi-generational living needs.

Explore the Astoria Mill Floor Plan

Option 2: Oversized Guest Bedroom with Private Bath

For those who prefer a more straightforward solution, the Amberway floor plan offers an oversized guest bedroom with a private bath on the first floor.

Key benefits:

  • Easy accessibility for aging family members or guests.
  • Enhanced privacy with a dedicated bathroom.
  • A simple yet elegant solution for multi-generational families.

This layout is a fantastic choice for homeowners who believe that functionality and comfort are key.

See the Amberway Floor Plan

Chatham County New Home | Ensuite Master Bath

Option 3: Private Living Area with Enhanced Features

For families seeking more privacy and functionality, the Nesbit Ferry floor plan includes the option for a private living area within the suite. This could include a separated living room, and for those who need additional amenities, a small kitchenette is a potential add-on.

Highlights of this approach:

  • A true “suite” feel, perfect for multi-generational living.
  • Separation from main living areas while staying connected to the household.
  • Room for customization to meet unique family needs.

This design is especially appealing to homeowners in the Pittsboro area, where modern design and family-focused living are top priorities.

Discover the Nesbit Ferry Floor Plan

Why Choose a Mother-in-Law Suite in the Pittsboro and Chatham County NC Area?

Living in Pittsboro, Chapel Hill, and the surrounding Chatham County area offers the perfect blend of community charm and modern convenience. Mother-in-law suites make it easier to:

  • Provide a safe, comfortable environment for aging parents or extended family.
  • Create welcoming spaces for guests or adult children.
  • Adapt to changing family dynamics while preserving privacy and independence.

Travars Built Homes specializes in creating customizable floor plans tailored to your family’s needs. Whether you’re modifying an existing design or creating something completely new, we’re here to help make your vision a reality.

Ready to create a home that works for every generation? Contact us to explore your options and start building your dream home in Pittsboro, Chapel Hill, or anywhere in the Chatham County area!

Get in touch today!

    Disclaimer: Floor plans are the property of the architect and are protected by copyright laws. Any modifications are subject to approval by the builder and engineer.  

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

    Posted by tbhadmin on

    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 today.

    Get in touch today!

      Essential Decorative Features Homebuyers Really Want in the Great Room

      Posted by tbhadmin on

      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.

      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.

      Ready to start building your dream home? 

      Contact us to learn more about creating a Great Room that you and your family will love for years to come.

      Get in touch today!

        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

        Posted by tbhadmin on

        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.

        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.

        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!

        Get in touch today!

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

          Posted by tbhadmin on

          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.

          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.

          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!

          Get in touch today!

            Owner’s suite bathroom design: How to create the space you need for your new home in NC

            Posted by Travars Built Homes on

            How to arrange the bath in your NC new home.

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            Bathroom Layout #1: Little Treatments – Big Statement

            Pineterest and Houzz worthy results like this come from creative custom choices: Mirrors. Lighting. Sinks. Drawers. Little touches transform, with design build Travars Built Homes.

            White and Black Tile Bathroom | Mebane NC New Homes

            Bathroom Layout #2: Comfort and Closet

            Spacious tile shower with glass. Stand alone tub with window view. Wood look tile. Nearby closet with custom shelving and natural light. What would you like to surround yourself with, in your owner’s suite bath?

            Wendell North Carolina New Homes | Large Tile Shower
            Freestanding white tub and large tile shower in the Owner’s Suite bath.

            Bathroom Layout #3: Shared Space That Feels Private

            Separate sinks, cabinets and drawers. Lantern lights. Personal sized mirrors. How much space does your floor plan have for your vanity? What look would you like?

            Chapel Hill Modern Farmhouse | White Dual Vanity

            Bathroom Layout #4: Mixing Textures and Styles with Unexpected Barn Doors

            Opaque glass framed with antique white can give a barn door a light, airy feel, like this. What a great way to make a doorway feel more important – and add contrast to the bold tile and contemporary choices.

            Chapel Hill Modern Farmhouse | Wood Sliding Barn Doors

            Bathroom Layout #5: Barely There Glass Shower Glass Across from Boldly Framed Mirror

            Frameless glass (and doorless entry) on the shower provides a contemporary open feel. Spacious, elegant and ready for relaxation.

            Accessible Shower Floor | On Your Lot Builder Chapel Hill NC

            Bathroom Layout #6: Large Shower. Deep tub

            This owner’s suite bathroom takes advantage of the ability to customize with emphasis on the importance of water. Note the blend of tiles in every part of the room. This design is all about the view – inside and out.

            Chapel Hill Modern Farmhouse | White and Gray Master Bathroom

            Bathroom Layout #7: Separate Vanities. Vaulted Ceilings

            Creating an extension of space upward can provide a feeling of spaciousness to a smaller bathroom. Adding softer tones to the tile shower, floor and tub surround adds comfort.

            Raleigh Custom Homes | Walk in Shower

            Bathroom Layout #8: Tight Fit Tricks

            When space is at a premium, focus on smaller areas to bring the eye. Lighting. Countertops. Floor. All with a modern farmhouse feel.

            En Suite Bathroom | New Homes Chapel Hill NC

            Bathroom Layout #9: Modern Old Fashioned Freestanding Tub

            Freestanding tubs are one of the most popular requests for new custom homes. Ask your builder how much space you need around the tub, and where you want the faucets.

            Chatham County NC Custom Homes | Farmhouse White Bathroom

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            7 questions to ask as you choose interior lighting for your design/build new home

            Posted by Travars Built Homes on

            There are many lighting choices for your Travars Built custom home in NC. Here’s what to keep in mind to help ensure the lights you choose can be a good fit.

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            #1 What lighting styles are your favorite? Matte black modern farmhouse? Contemporary chrome?

            It’s common to mix and match lighting styles in design/build new homes. You don’t have to pick just one!

            Kitchen Open to Living Room | On Your Lot Builder Chapel Hill NC

            #2 How much light do you need?

            How much natural light is available through windows, skylights, glass doors? How much foliage is around the home? How often will shades be closed?

            Chapel Hill New Home Builder | New Homes Chapel Hill NC

            #3 Where will the light source be placed?

            Make sure the wattage and light bulb size are sufficient for the area you need to light up. Some lighting fixtures are really pretty. But they use tiny little lights. Will the lighting source be sufficient?

            #4 What are you lighting up?

            Rooms with high ceilings may need more light distribution. Screen porches may block some natural light from entering the rooms behind them.

            #5 What do you need the light for?

            Craft rooms, homework areas, informal dining areas or other specific designations may require extra lighting. Do you need a spotlight or more subtle lighting?

            #6 What materials?

            Chrome? Wood? Black metal? Copper? Crystal? It’s no longer an imperative for everything in the room to match. Faucets and doorknobs can be a very different material than lighting. The focus is more on personality and functionality than adhering to a single material.

            Chatham County NC Custom Homes | Two Story Kitchen

            #7 What is the purpose of the lighting?

            Does the entire room need to be lit up, with multiple can lights to boost lighting or would sconces (for reading), under cabinet lights (for food prep) or theater lights (along the floor or steps) be something to think about?

            Chatham County On Your Lot Builder | Chatham New Homes

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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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            7 barn door design ideas

            Posted by Travars Built Homes on

            Barn doors are big in North Carolina new homes. See the best places to add a barn door – with the flexibility to fit every architectural style, from modern farmhouse to contemporary.

            Love a floor plan, and want to add a barn door? Ask the team at Travars Built Homes what it takes to build your new home with a barn door for your kitchen, office, owner’s suite, sitting room, keeping room, pantry, bathroom, laundry, or closet during our custom home build process.

            Stained wood sliding barn door

            This barn door has a rural feel to it, with the 2×4 “X” across the door taking it one step further to a branded look.

            Barn door design ideas | North Carolina New Homes

            Antique white wood barn doors

            Don’t take the term “barn door” literally. It’s a free ranging door style that can take on a different feel depending on the materials it’s crafted with – like the glass barn doors you see here, framed in white – with contemporary appeal.

            Barn door design ideas | North Carolina New Homes

            Opaque glass barn doors

            Barn doors take twice the amount of wall space as swinging doors. However, they can add functionality to an area where a swinging door is not feasible. That’s why they have become so popular in bathrooms, like this:

            Barn door design ideas | North Carolina New Homes

            Double sliding barn doors

            Barn doors are typically attached to the wall on metal girders like this, which are purposely big and dramatic to call further attention to them as a focal point:

            Barn door design ideas | North Carolina New Homes

            Double barn doors are a great fit for larger spaces. They can be held open most of the time, like a frame around an entry place that can be closed off when desired.

            Glass panel sliding barn doors

            Sliding barn doors can lend importance to libraries like this, off the great room. The glass panels reflect the wall of windows in the room. White trim denotes elegance. Subtle metal rods and hinges meld into the home décor with classic appeal. Nothing rural about these barn doors!

            Barn door design ideas | North Carolina New Homes

            French door style barn doors

            Barn doors serve a decorative purpose in rooms like this. On the outside, they slide across the doorway. On the inside, they look like traditional French doors with an open view from an office, dining room, keeping room, sitting room or any other room that can be set apart by sliding doors.

            Barn door design ideas | North Carolina New Homes

            Brushed nickel hardware for barn doors

            Barn doors are often preferable to pocket doors in NC new homes – talk with the builder team at Travars Built Homes about why. Here, they add charm as well as functionality to the mud room.

            Barn door design ideas | North Carolina New Homes

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            Where to use tile, wood, carpet – and other types of flooring in your new home

            Posted by Travars Built Homes on

            What kind of flooring will your new home come with, when you build an NC custom home?

            It can depend on what your builder offers, and the floor plan that you choose. Here’s what to expect in a Travars Built Home.

            Kitchens

            New Home Flooring Types | NC Custom Homes

            Most kitchens in North Carolina new homes have hardwood floors. With Travars Built Homes, site finished, real oak hardwood is our standard. Ask us what some homeowners want for flooring when they have dogs. We’ll also tell you why tile isn’t as common in NC kitchens as in some parts of the country.

            Living rooms / great rooms

            New Home Flooring Types | NC Custom Homes

            Hardwood in the living room gives a clean, fresh look to gathering areas, with easy cleanup. Decide which stain color you’d like to go with on site, when you go there during the build to see what looks best with the cabinetry, in the sunlight.

            Breakfast rooms

            New Home Flooring Types | NC Custom Homes

            The hardwoods keep on flowing throughout all the main living areas in your Travars Built Home, with sweeping open space that’s beautiful from one room to the next, like this breakfast room.

            Laundry rooms

            New Home Flooring Types | NC Custom Homes

            Laundry rooms have tile floors in Travars Built Homes. Have fun choosing the personality you want in spaces like this, that get a lot of use! Ask us how to make your laundry room even better, with folding tables, cubbies, shelves, and more space.

            Mud rooms

            New Home Flooring Types | NC Custom Homes

            Mud rooms have tile floors too. They’re designed for easy cleanup of everything that tracks into the home from outdoors. It’s also great for furry friends. Ask how to tuck a dog house, pet shower, or other accommodation into your custom home, like the one you see in this mud room.

            Bathrooms

            New Home Flooring Types | NC Custom Homes

            Every full bathroom in a Travars Built Home comes with a tile floor, too. There’s a big trend right now for tile that looks like wood, which can give it a rustic, contemporary look that can be really beautiful, like this floor.

            Bedrooms

            New Home Flooring Types | NC Custom Homes

            Bedrooms typically come with carpet, which Travars Built Homes makes more comfortable and long lasting with 8 pound pad beneath and a variety of choices. We can install hardwood instead – it’s one of the many things you can decide what to do with, when you build a custom home the way you want it.

            Library / home offices

            New Home Flooring Types | NC Custom Homes

            Most offices and libraries in Travars Built Homes have beautiful oak hardwood flooring like this home. It can depend on the location of these rooms – all main living areas on the first floor typically have hardwood as a standard. Ask us about other flooring you’d like in your home – cork, bamboo, concrete, laminate – we can create whatever effect you would like.

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