HGTV will construct the first HGTV Smart Home in the seaside community of Paradise Key South Beach in Jacksonville Beach. Former NEFBA President Glenn Layton was selected to build the home, which will feature the latest developments in home technology and green living, as HGTV enhances its successful HGTV Green Home concept and incorporates many of the energy-saving features previously exhibited in the HGTV Green Home.
HGTV viewers can enter for a chance to win the home next spring when the HGTV Smart Home Giveaway opens for entries from April 11 through May 31, 2013.
"The features and functionality of this home are like nothing we've ever offered in HGTV home giveaways, and set the standard for creative spaces and ways that consumers can use emerging technology to improve their homes," HGTV house planner Jack Thomasson said.
Smart home technology connects many of a home's appliances and devices, and allows occupants to monitor energy use and control home systems such as security, interior climate, lighting and other electronics.
Designed by architect Mike Stauffer, AIA, and constructed by Glenn Layton Homes, the HGTV Smart Home will measure approximately 2,400 square feet and feature more than 1,000 square feet of covered porches, decks and pool. The project will use primarily local labor and materials.
"As long-time builders in Northeast Florida, we've pulled the best of what we know and applied it to our daily operation while doing what we love, which is creating quality homes," Layton said. Layton served as president of NEFBA in 2009.
"This community's thoughtful design vision and refreshing coastal architecture make Paradise Key a remarkable place to live and a wonderful setting to showcase the first HGTV Smart Home," said developer Lon Walton. "We have an outstanding beach community, and we are very excited about teaming with HGTV and having the First Coast as the first location for the HGTV Smart Home."