Business View Magazine - Mar 2024

and walk-in showers.To accommodate this, Pell steals space from the closets. “Since used for short-term stays, these rooms do not need enormous closets. Storage tends to be smaller like in hotels.” For residents not occupying the premises, full- time security and maintenance become issues. The company provides control and peace of mind by installing water leak detection and Wi-Fi-controlled HVAC systems to monitor vacant properties, providing control and peace of mind. Building a home nestled in the mountainside presents distinct challenges, such as the worksite layout (establishing supply placement and storage and reaching sections with restricted access). “We install temporary level pads to get in the cranes and to maneuver resources to another part of the structure,” states Pell. Sky House combines the tried-and-true methods passed down through generations with research and technology to make efficient dwellings. As energy conservation codes strengthen, Pell stays fluid, matching products with new requirements. “Energy code updates will continue to happen. In the next five years, we expect a blower door test will be required to measure the structure’s tightness and consumption.” At an elevation of 3,895 ft (1,187 m), Banner Elk lays deep inside a wind zone. Surrounded by Mount Mitchell and Grandfather Mountain, the town gets hit with 150 mph (241 kph) wind gusts. In 2020, Hurricane Isaias made landfall in North Carolina, bringing heavy rain, fierce winds, and storm surges to coastal areas. When excavating high in the Blue Ridge range to access the magnificent views, the biggest unknowns happen when breaking ground. Uncovering and discovering what is inside the granite requires a large rock hammer, or the occasional need to blast. Pell says,“Once we have the rock and pad leveled, the house gets tied into the mountain.We pour concrete directly on top of that mountain.” Developing structures in precarious elements requires reliable designs and materials. TRUSTED PARTNERS AND VENDORS Collaborating with architects and interior planners whose visions align is instrumental to success. Sky House adopts two approaches to architecture.“If a customer wants a faster turnaround and designing every inch is not crucial, we team up with Moss Creek Designs,” states Pell. Moss Creek provides ready-built, 100% customizable plans and modifications based on client needs, as well as full custom blueprints. Local architect, Bob Mann, Attic Design, L.L.C., is renowned for custom concepts. Pell says, “I cannot say enough about Attic Design. Bob has been doing his thing for a long time, and I have been fortunate to cross paths with him.” Favorite designers include Pam McKay from Diane Davant and Associates and Hart White Interiors in Charlotte. Vendors the company hires include Sierra Pacific Windows and Doors for quality inventory for the 57 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 03 SKY HOUSE COMPANY