Avalon understands the perception of a solar home is one that sticks out in the neighbourhood. “We worked really hard to make sure these homes look like they belong there,” explains Scott. The designs were made with McKenzie Towne’s specific architectural controls and stylings in mind.

The built-in “slate-tile” appearance of small solar panels on the show home roofs displays how Avalon is trying to blend in. After telling customers that solar panel technology is used, Scott says, “We’ve had a lot of people saying, ‘What are you talking about? Where is it?’ ”

In addition to the show homes, Scott says approximately six other homes are also under construction to display the rest of the Emerge series of plans. All homes are open to those interested in energy-efficiency to partake in a construction tour during regular showhome hours (no appointment necessary).  “The time to see a sustainable home is when it’s being built,” Scott says. “You can actually see what’s going on within the walls.”
Spring should provide customers with a few ready-to-purchase options of Avalon’s sustainable homes.