Energy-efficient homes not only provide energy savings to their residents; they can look good doing it, too. Through a combination of high-tech insulation, energy-efficient utilities and state-of-the-art solar panels, The New American Home (TNAH) 2024 achieved a registered HERS index of -45 — meaning the show home is 145% more energy efficient than the average new home and 45% more efficient than a net-zero home.

“Our focus throughout each phase of this build was not only to create a home with exceptional design, but to go above and beyond as far as energy efficiency and air quality,” Dan Colletti, principal at Sun West Custom Homes, stated in a press release. “That’s a tall task given the project’s size and scope, but our team did a truly remarkable job of delivering a stunningly beautiful home that I’m certain will amaze and inspire everyone who comes to see it.”

Learn how the production team at Sun West Custom Homes, in collaboration with green building consultant Two Trails, achieved its remarkable HERS rating through an integrated approach to energy efficiency, air-tightness, renewable energy, and other products and practices, while improving indoor air quality and comfort — insights that can be applied to any home in any market at any price point.

SGC Horizon, NAHB’s official media partner, will host a webinar, “The New American Home: 5 Tips to Build a High-Performance Home,” on April 18 at 12 p.m. ET. Featured speakers include:

• Tom Unick, Project Manager at Sun West Custom Homes
• Mark Schlachter, Superintendent at Sun West Custom Homes
• Drew Smith, Chief Operating Officer at Two Trails

Attendees will learn how to take a systematic, integrated approach to energy efficiency; how to properly specify and apply the proper materials, products and systems to achieve high performance; and how to work with key trade partners and suppliers to significantly reduce energy and water use and deliver a healthy and comfortable indoor environment.

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SGC Horizon previously hosted a webinar the emphasized TNAH 2024’s thoughtful design and utilization of natural materials to create “architecture as art.” A webinar replay is available here.