I did the build and saved it (about 125$/sqft.). I'd be looking for a NetZero function from the house- so I checked all the options on a 1643sqft model.
I'd also want to collect rainwater with filtration and UV sanitizer- a well or biofiltered pond would be added later. The designs need a couple of greenhouses added to maximize solar heat gain- I'm assuming PV driven fans could be used to offset heating costs-100% electric of course for all utilities.
Can you send technical details for its approximation of NetZero energy useage?
Ideally all the electricity is provided by the panels (I am assuming it is based on grid connected smart metering to run the meter backwards (grid is battery)). In a remote setting I'd use a set of ponds and a pelton weel generator for electrical storage. Other than the greenhouse- I like the idea and process very much- exterior colors and materials I'm assuming are flexible like any premanufactured home.
My purchase plans are a few years off (I'm 51 and would like to retire to the mountains).
What is the specific U-Factor, SHGC and VT on the iHouse Andersen windows?
Do you offer a choice, for people who live in colder climates who want a low-e window with a HIGH Solar Heat Gain Coefficient, to maximize use of solar gain in the winter?
No entries, answers or activity for 3 months. Makes one worry that you are going out of business. I tried to open a new entry a few weeks ago but nothing. What's up?
I was planning on taking a tour of the iHouse at the Mount Vernon IL, I recall driving past it. But I do not see it listed as a display location. Has that location been removed?
Thanks
Hi, I know Colorado law is bizarre about rainwater collection, especially since in many areas said rainwater would never in (literally) a million years reach any stream or river. So, my question is about the rooftop rainwater catchment system on the iHouse. Is this legal in Colorado? I would be putting the iHouse on a block of land that was NOT connected to town water supply, and probably would NOT have a well (using a cistern-based system instead). Could I use the iHouse rooftop water as a suppliment?
Thanks!
Bill
Thinking about setting this up on a lot I have at the Oregon Coast (Waldport)....the butterfly roof, tho a great idea, would there be a problem with it possibly catching the wind, as the wind can be ferocious there...Has it been engineered with that in mind. Also, there is a 15' height restriction from the floor, would it meet that requirement...last but not least...in a flood plain so you get to build 3' above the average grade, to get lower FEMA insurance rates... so how is it set? Concrete pad, blocks, etc. problem settingit on sand....
I love the i-house but it didn't work with kids. So when I saw the i-house 2.0 video I got really exited!! But I can't find any where when the i-house 2.0 is available?? what the price will be? and if it will be available in Virginia. We are in the middle of selling our house and I really hope the i-house 2.0 is available on time...
Would Clayton work with developer/builders like me who would like to use local materials and labor to complete the final touches, in an effort to help make the homes more "local". Adding a local touch would dramatically help my company sell i-House models that we may be building in the near future. Could Clayton sell a "shell+" package, leaving at least a few final aspects to us to finish?
I thought the ihouse I was aesthetically pleasing enough, but to see that you are working on a newer, even greater prefab home, i can't help but wonder; Will the price still be in reach?
It look amazing, & i am excited to see the finished product officially available, but i would be heartbroken to see a huge jump in price.
As of now, my "dream ihouse", is a 4BD iHouse w/ flex II
for around 170,000$.
Can anyone enlighten me on the projected cost for an equivalent 4BD iHouse II?
Thank you,
Michael.
Interested in having the first iHouse 2.0 is central Ohio? We are! We are looking to build/buy in Mount Vernon, OH but have yet to come across any good purchasing opportunities. I was very excited to see that there is going to be an expanded 3 bedroom version, hopefully still with the Flex options. Do you have a time frame for the release of the iHouse 2.0. We would like to move into a new place by May 2012 or July 2012 at the latest. We have the flexibility of doing so anytime between now and then. What is your projected date? Do you need an adventurous first iHouse 2.0 buyer interested in partnering to provide a launch model?
Love the idea of the i-house!!
Finally, a honestly affordable green solution!!
Are corridors/enclosed walkways an option to connect the pods together? Going outside to get to and from the main house is not always practical (especially when the pods are used as bedrooms).
When will i-house 2.0 be available?
THANKS :0)
First of all......coming across your i-house made my day today.....how "smart" is your vision!....Can you tell me if this would, or might be adapted to Michigan code...especially when it comes to snow loading?.....Secondly....what is the standard mode of transport to project site?.....tralie? is it does it have its own chasis?, etc. Lastly.....where are the homes actually manufacturered?......Thanks....you have a great product! Danny from Michigan
I love the i-house, but I am wondering if darker woods are available for the kitchen and bedroom areas? I recently read where someone posted about bathtub possibilities and I too am wondering if a garden tub (possible jetted) would be available? I am sure that most of this will be accompanied by a small fee :) Lastly, will the option of an additional story (2 story i-house) ever be available? Thank you for your time . . . heatherbomb999
The Flex III is the perfect size for my summer home, can I purchase the Flex III without a i-house purchase? Also, have you considered installing a stair lift or mini elevator to provide universal access?
I am very interested in the i-house but I really want these two features. Is there anything that can be added to include a bath tub and car port or garage?
I have been waiting for a major manufacturer to take this type of housing on. Most 'green' modulars are pushing $300/sq ft which is simply not reality for a college professor's salary. Congratulations on some amazing design work. Hope it succeds brilliantly!
Is it possible to adapt a flex building to sit on a slab to be used as a garage? Not sure if it's wide enough for 2 vehicles but perhaps as a tandem configuration?
Hi there, we are looking at the I-house as a possible second home on our property. But we have two questions.
1. Is the I house available for delivery to the Los angeles area?
2. Is the I house delivered fully built? Or is it delivered in sections and erected on the site? Because we live in the suburbs and no not have a wide enough access to our backyard for a fully built unit.
Thank you in advance for any information.
Hello, do you have Google Sketchup based files that I can use for a project I am working on? If not, do you have any 3D rendered drawings that I can put in a presentation for building a small community in the Phoenix metro area?
Thanks,
Greg
Looking to buy 2 flex units to use 1 as a detached casita and 1 fex with 2 bedrooms and attach to site built stick main living area. Are the flex units full self contained (i.e. HVAC and hot water) or do they need to be supported from a central utility source?
I have been keenly following the progress of the iHouse from Alberta, Canada. We own gorgeous mountain property in eastern BC and the iHouse is perfect for us. Any progress on setting up shop in or shipping units to Canada?
Hello I have a few questions. Are ihouses available in the DC metro area? Do the delivery costs shown include things such as septic tank, digging a well, driveway, other site prep costs? How much solar panels would be required if I wanted to get a car like Chevy volt and recharge daily? Thanks!
I so not have land to set this up at this time. Are these generally accepted in most area of the southeast or would I run into a lot of local restrictions?
My husband and I are looking to relocate and love the design of the i-house. Is it possible to have additional solar panels installed so that the home can be sustained on a solar/battery back-up system? Also, are the flex rooms able to be adapted? (for example, instead of 2 bedrooms, 1 bedroom and a kitchen?) Looking forward to learning more about the i-homes and hopefully purchasing one in the coming year!
Hello,
I have a question about buying an iHouse. We are currently stationed in the Northern New Jersey area, and are interested in buying an iHouse, however are unsure if we can have one delivered to where we are. We have some ideas of land plots in Livingston NJ, 07039. Is it possible to have an iHouse installed there? Thank you,
Max Retik and Tyler Corsello,
Studio5 Productions
Would it be possible to put a bathtub either with the shower or beside it?
Can a W/D hook-up be installed into the flex unit to make that a laundry room?
Thinking outside the norm, I have one more question to add, is the interior wall load bearing, I mean could I have a contractor build me a floor to ceiling solid frosted glass partition down the center for a more asthetic look and function of transfering light through out the home?
I will be in the market for a salon and spa and LOVE the idea having a green salon and spa and the ihouse is perfect for that. The big question is can i have added watter connections throughout the house, for shampoo bowls etc.? Also can they rearrange some of the features like where the fridge goes? Stuff like that? Thanks!
When will the iHouse 2.0 be available? We have an opportunity to serve as the caretakers of a ranch just East of Denver. The facility will be used for developmentally disabled adults and children. There is an existing 4100 square foot home that will be used as the office/meeting/club house. We will be allow to build our home. We would like to make that the 2.0.
My family has decided we would like to buy an I-House 2.0 when they come out. Will it be available to purchase in the Seattle area? We saw an i-house 1 when it was on display near Everett and we were really impressed.
I noticed that a response to an earlier post indicated that the 2.0 i-house would be ready in the spring of 2011. How is that coming along? Will it be ready soon?
Hello!
I have a couple of questions. First, are foundation and plumbing costs included in the price of the i house? Second, once an i house has been purchased, does an i house crew build the entire house (move in ready)? Also, if there are any additional costs outside of the standard features, not including optional add-ons, what would they be?
Thanks.
I had a question about the ability for the ihouse and flex units to handle significant wind conditions and snow loading. Here in Colorado (outside Denver), we ocassionally get winds with gusts up to 50-60mph. With the butterly roof design, is that an issue? Has the ihouse been tested to a standard?
Similar question for snow loads on the ihouse and the flex units. Is there a snow load limit? Tested? In '03 Denver saw nearly 6' of heavy wet snow in an early Spring storm. Roofs were collapsing on commercial buildings or any structure without much pitch.
Love the design. Really looking forward to the further development of ihouse 2.0. Thanks!
I just saw the i-house for the first time on DIY's This New House program and was very excited. I live in a community that is zone for manufactured homes only and I'm hoping that the i-house is classified as "manufactured", not "modular" so that I can consider this for my property.
Can you clarify?
Thank you.
I understand there is a sales office in Sacramento and there is a model there too. I'm planning to visit Sacramento soon, but are there any projects going on in Northern California??
thanks,
Bryant
When is i-house coming to the Atlanta, Georgia area? This a great green concept. I'm interested in building one to accommodate a doggie day care. Can I design the i-house exactly as needed for this purpose?
When can we expect to see the iHouse 2.0 available? At least floorplans on the website. Is the project near to being completed? If not yet, what timeframe are we looking at?
Is the i-House available in West Virginia? I have not yet physically seen it. I will be traveling soon and will, no doubt. I love the concept and since last year have been watching your website.
Also, when will the i-house 2.0 be available? I am in no hurry to build and do not own land--there are an abundance of lots available as well as rural land for sale.
There is a "green" house going up in our area (Parkersburg) and should be complete in the next 6 months, as announced in the paper. People are actually excited about it so I don't see the i-house as a risk.
Garage? Basement? Do you have to have local people put those in/up? We have only purchased brand new, stick built homes previously, so this would be a new process.
I love the idea and hope your product succeeds!!
In all of the graphics I see the units are separated. Is there a way to have two units joined together so the kids bedrooms can be in the same building as the parents?
Would you please list again the manufacturers of the sun deck on the flex and the cistern for rain water collection so I can research the companies and choices?
Thank you.
I toured the newly placed i-House II in Bend, OR last week and although a couple of details are still missing from the model, I am sold on the concept. I own property and consider to purchase i-House II and i-Flex III as my primary home in Central Oregon.
I also use Google's Sketchup for 3D modeling and would love to play with positioning the buildings on my lot for best views and optimal exposure. Have you guys considered uploading the 3D models of i-House and i-Flex to the Google 3D Warehouse?
Looking forward to it!
Great design for a home whose time has come, you've got my interest as someone living in a 1872 vintage home with some very green innovations, the ihome presses my buttons for a great solution to
Affordable housing and multiple green innovations , way to go Clayton Home !
When can I get one in New Hampshire ?...
Rob L
I'd like to see some updates from today July,2010. I'd like to know if any changes have occured in design,features price,etc.I'm retired and ready for something simple and affordable.
I have not seen your product in person yet, but it has to be the most innovative concept to date in the manufactured home business. I really like the thought process that went into this design. I am not a young kid and have seen a lot of different things come and go, this is the way of the future. Clean and simple.
The blogs answered some of my questions but I have two that are of interest to me. As asked before and not completely answered : 1. Do the solar panels come with storage capabilities or at least connections for that purpose. 2. Can you get a flex unit with out the bathroom, but with electrical and heat /cool? In my case I might start with the larger i house, then add two flex units, one being just a useable space.
Thanks in advance for any info you could pass on, I am currently working on plans for a retirment home and would love to try and use your product.
Hi - I am looking to hopefully put one of these on my Colorado land in the next couple of years. I went to your show home outside of Denver last Sunday (I know, you were closed) and had a good look around from the outside. I think the design and execution of this concept is quite extraordinary!! Great job!
Anyhow, my three main questions are as follows. While the main house section is great, is there any possibility of extending the living room area? I would be interested in - say - anothe 10 feet of room there. I know this may defeat the modular concept, but as there are differences in the length of what I imagine are the 'modules' of House I vs House II, I thought I would ask. The resultant slope of the roof (continuing higher on one end than the other) might also be an issue, but it would also look great, I think!
Second question: I have looked around and although there are various references to foundations, etc, I can't find any specific reference to what form of foundation you recommend. My site is dead level and very stable. I looked around on Sunday and couldn't really tell what sort of foundation you were using at the show-place outside of Denver, other than to note the metal sort of 'pilons'. Is this on a slab or not? What foundation do you recommend? (Again, my site is level and land is soil not rocky).
Finally, I am interested in how the Flex units are connected to the main house in terms of: 1. water supply, 2. heating/cooling, and 3. electricity. I assume the latter is easy, but I didn't see obvious connections for the first two. If these are indeed integrated (as I would hope and assume), are these achieved under the deck or underground? If either of these, can one configure the main house for later connection to one or 2 flex modules? This way one could potentially build a final dwelling over a longer (and more affordable) time-scale.
I'm very interested in purchasing an i-house, but have a question about the solar panels. Are the panels large enough to run the one bedroom home without being connected to power? If they are, does your online pricing include a electric storage system for non-daylight hours?
I am interested in just having a flex unit installed on some land in Mississippi for an occasional weekend retreat. Are the flex units sold separately and can a small kitchenette be added?
We are set on the i-house II + Flex I. (Toured three times.) We own the property. We don't need financing. How do we get the certified i-house specialist to manage the entire process for us?
We would like to put the i-house and flex units on property that is very damp ( wetlands are adjacent to the building site).
What materials are used in building the i-house? If there is wood, is it pressure treated to prevent rot?
I'm interested in seeing specific product options (flooring, counters, lighting, colors, etc.) available for the i-house. Is there a catalog available?
We need a fireplace option as where we envision the location of the i-house on our ranch, electricity may be an issue in the winter. Having a fireplace would help with the stand alone ability. Other than solar we know we can use propane, and we plan on utilizing wind, but would love the ability to have a fireplace. Any thoughts? ideas? Would you design that or should we engage an architect?
Hi, I actually think I was one of the first to blog on your site and have been following you ever since. We have a property in Arizona and have been taking a wait and see approach to considering the i-house as a second home on our lot. We have 36 acres and no water as we are very close to the Grand Canyon (we would have a 5000 gal. water tank set-up). We have to have perc tests done to see if we will be able to install a standard septic system and that may be the deal breaker for us as an alternative system is not something we can afford. All our neighbors who have built in the area are on solar and/or wind power - we would opt for solar and have plenty of sunshine.
We just went to our annual POA meeting and found out that Coconino County has recently changed their building codes to the IBC - made some property owners a little upset. How would this effect an i-house project? Also, we had several feet of snow and 2 residents had trouble with their roofs this past year - what type of roof is standard and what is the warranty?
After we have our perc tests, do we contact you to get started on the planning and do you work with the county building department for us?
I drove out to Mesa to see the i-house in person and am pretty sure this is the direction we are going. What are some of the recent changes/upgrades/options you have implemented based on the first house in Kentucky and all the feedback you have received?
hi, can you tell me where on the site i might find color options for both the exterior (do you have a silver/galvanized color?) And also, is there an option for the kitchen that is more modern or urban? (white doors, grey? can people choose almost any Ikea cabinet? - I read these were Ikea cupboards somewhere...)
great stuff, thanks!
Hi- I really like the fact that you have pricing online! But I do have a question. Does the price listed include the site prep and foundation? Or are those additional expenses on top of the iHouse?
Thanks,
Kris
We are considering the iHouse for a getaway in the CO mountains. We are VERY chemically sensitive and have in the past had problems with formaldehyde used in OSB, particle board etc. Are the materials you use formaldehyde free? We also would want a heating system that is not forced air and don't need air conditioning. Would hot water heat fired by propane or natural gas be an option??
Thanks!
We are very interested in the I-House for our land in Oklahoma and are wondering about the costs for foundation and ground readiness. Is this cost figured into the total price and can we act as our own contractor on site prep and setting the foundation with your specs? We are also wondering about the ability to add more solar panels a few years later.
Can the 12' deck be enclosed like a hallway to the two sets of buildings so that there can be an eclosed breezeway off the house. I am looking to build an i-house II with 2 Flex Units one at each end of the house.. I would like the Flex Unit off the back bedroom to be enclosed so that it can connect to children's rooms, is that possible?
Love this house! It is a really great concept and is executed in a thoughtful manner. I have land on the coast in northern Oregon and it gets mighty windy up there...140-150mph at times. The county of Tillamook rates my wind exposure as V4. The i-house can withstand this, right? Since I am on an estuary, the water table is very near the surface (12") so a slab is out of the question...can the i-house be placed on piers or posts and piers? To take advantage of the best views from my property, the floor plan will have to be flipped. Not a problem, right? I have read many reviews about this house and am mildly amused by the comments about the square foot costs. Once the controlled environment during the building process, the quality of materials used, the innovative approach to green design and the overall uniqueness of this home is factored in, a similar stick built product would cost as much if not moren. Not to mention the fact that the owner of an i-house is mercyfully spared the inherent hassles of the stick built process. Thanks for bringing this home to the market.
Can you please address the i-house vis-a-vis the Clayton e-house? Seeing as the base price estimates are about 2:1 though the square footage is nearly identical, how much more am I really getting with a base model i-house as opposed to a base model e-house?
Really good, I like it.
The i-house is simple clean production, and mature series mature model. The company also somewhat similar arrangement has been planned long ago expanded mobile home units in the building module.
Perhaps the poor little seam sloped ledge. I consider how my back.
More good luck, welcome to the land on the other side.
Region: Hungary. Pest county
Franz Jozef Szabady.
I am attempting to place a Flex II on an existing property to complement the main home structure. I have been advised by the Little Rock, Arkansas permit department that if I can get certification of code compliance of the proposed flex II unit that I would not have to proceed through a lengthy approval process.
The codes that I must have certification of compliance for are the following:
1. Residential- 2006 International Residential Code
2. Plumbing- 2006 Arkansas State Plumbing Code
3. Electrical - 2008 National Electrical Code
4. Mechanical - 2003 Arkansas Mechanical Code
5. Energy - 2004 Arkansas State Energy Code
2003 International Energy Conservation Code
My wife and I took a tour of the I-House II located in Springfield, MO. We saw the location of the tank-less water heater. If you have the solar package option installed, where are the batteries designed to be stored in the Style II structure? Thank you very much.
Is there any limitation to how many units or configurations?
We see a number of typical layouts on the site. But can you combine more than two units in different ways? Such as two of the 2-bedroom units (for 4-total bedrooms outside main unit, a bonus unit, guest house, etc to provide enough spaces for a family of five with home offices?
It looks as though the interior is all decked out in IKEA furniture and fixtures, is there any partnership between Clayton and IKEA? I like IKEA and wouldn't mind doing the whole place with it. Is it possible to put more solar panels into the design to up the power generation? Such as another set on the flex unit if the customer doesn't want a roof deck. One last thing... Will there be model in the Dallas/Fort Worth ares to view or is Austin the only place in the WHOLE state of Texas to see one?
I have a dilemma. I just had an offer accepted on some property that I was buying specifically for an i-house, and I have 10 days in which to complete my due diligence before signing the papers. I just found out that according to our land use laws I have to have the i-house IN PLACE by August or I will have to pay for a new conditional use permit. This will cost, minimally, $6,000.00-and even with that amount of money the permit is not guaranteed.
Can an i-house be completed in that amount of time? This would include getting the plans for it to the county and having them approved. I live in Oregon-not a great shipping distance-maybe this helps.
I am very frustrated right now. This was my dream and because the sellers real estate agent did not inform me of the short amount of time I had which to replace the mobile I had I am afraid I can't get this done.
Thanks, Carol
Where is the heating/cooling/power infrastructure kept? I don't really see it on the floor plans.
Things like:
Furnace
Air conditioner
Battery system for solar system
on demand hot water heaters
Are all these things included in your quoted price?
Also, how do you heat/cool the Flex room? Do you run duct work from the main house to it?
Thanks!
Hello
How movable is the i-house after the initial installation? Let's say I purchase, place, and live in for 3 years then want to move it to another site?
Thanks
I have a Clayton Homes center in my area, but have never seen any advertisements about the ihouse in my area...I live in the Danville, VA area. I was wondering if the ihouse is offered in this area?
Hello, do you all know when you will be available in my area, Avery County NC, we are approx. 80 miles north of Asheville. I am in love! I have land and I've searched & searched, considered a yurt, but an ihouse is definitely for me!!! Please help! ---Thank you!
The Clayton i-house Facebook page has been receiving great feedback from people across the nation and around the world! We would like to invite all of our friends to become Facebook fans of the i-house. The page provides a realtime forum for conversation with other ihouse hopefuls. Whether you're truly “green” or just dabbling in this new ecofriendly world, our fanpage allows a level playing field for every individual. Gain feedback on various questions, stay updated on the latest news, and speak with homeowners currently living in our cutting edge i-house.
I just closed escrow on a 13500 Sq. ft lot in San Mateo county. I plan on subdividing into 2 lots. I want to know if floorplan can be altered so living room/kitchen is in back and bedroom is in front facing st with the same window configuration.
Hello from Japan. I love the ihouse concept. It looks like something that is tailor made for Japan. Beyond some of the challenges of meeting building codes, appliance matching, etc., would shipping the house to Japan outweigh the value offered by the house through increased shipping costs? How would the house be shipped? How would it be constructed here? Thanks.
Can you tell me what your actual utility costs are at your iHouse demo units in Knoxville, Atlanta, and any other locations where you have real world samples of costs? ....Also, any chance that spray foam insulation will become an option?
ok, now that I have an account, how can I get an Ihouse?! We love it!! We have a 40 year old dinasour - in the midst of a lengthy reno. We'd love to pull it & put in an Ihouse! Please - any info?
I am considering the i-house II with a basement under it. Local building codes will not allow a staircase to be extended outside the dimensions of the house. So my question is . . . where inside the i-house would be the best place for a staircase to the basement? Thanks in advance. I love the house.
Can flex units be added later on as a way of expanding the house. And can they be added at either end of the house? For example flex units at both ends?
Does the estimated price of your home on your Build My i-house link include permits, excavation, utility setup, concrete foundation and driveway and any of the other contracting costs ?
Does each flex unit purchased need it's own heating and cooling source ?
ie: heat pump, hot water heater, and air conditioning unit
Why cant I add multiple flex units on the i-house configuration tool on the build my i-house link inorder to figure out my total home price?
How do you figure out pricing on your homes ? Is it by square footage ?
I live in Charlotte NC area and purchased a home two years ago and paid $ 270,000 for a 3500 square foot home with some high end upgrades like granite counter tops. I used the build my i-house link on the site and built the i-house II + Flex III for a total of 1,643 square feet and added every option offered. My estimate was $ 191,884. The average cost for land in my area, 1acre or less is $ 80,000 -$ 100,00, putting my total at around $ 300,000 for a 1,643 square foot home. With the state of the economy these days and the decline in the housing market I'm not convinced if your home is cost effective.
The 1023 square feet in the i-house is not enough to accommodate a large modern day family. Is it possible to double the square footage of the i-house or connect two units to make one.
Do you have referrals for help with finding land and financing in the San Diego area? Is there a way to determine what additional costs there would be in addition to the house and land (i.e. assembly, sewer connection, electricity connection, etc.).
I love this concept, just don't know if I can afford it.
Hi,
I love the design of your house is it available outside the US. I live in Ireland and have been considering a property of this type for some time. Any information would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Ian.
It is my goal to improve indoor air quality, eliminate toxic chemicals and create a healthier home.I am interested in purchasing the ihouse and I am hopeful that, to some degree, the ihouse is built with natural and non-toxic building materials — that are certified, safe, environmentally friendly and sustainable.
I can not locate any detailed information on your website and am hopeful that you can point me in the right direction.I would like to know about cabinets, floors, paint and any other pertinent products in the ihome with regard to sustainability and toxicity.
When purchasing an I-House with solar panels what is the benefit to me as a consumer? How much energy will I save and how will this help me reduce my carbon footprint?
I am just curious so I thought I'd ask a few questions being I have never had a prefabricated home before:
I am considering a relocation to Arizona, will the decking, and other materials, stand the desert heat for the long-term?
Does Clayton also work with the buyer to secure land and prepare the building site?
Is there customization ability in the size and placement of windows?
Would the deck above the flex room handle something like a hot tub or would that been too much for the structure to handle weight-wise?
Is there a matching "iGarage" plan?
Can a buyer work on the design of the home in one location (such as here in Texas) and build in another location (such as the proposed move to Arizona) or would the entire process need to be completed with the office nearest the building site?
I am wanting to purchase a new home for my elderly parents. My husband and myself would co-own. We need to have a large master bedroom and an bathroom with Handicapped shower,toilet, grab bars, etc.
We need the home to be affordable, low maintenance and easy to clean for them to live in it full time.
Also, what is the differance between this I-house and the E-house that Clayton offers? Which would be best for them and us?
Dear Wes & Andy,
Happy new year. Two questions:
(1) is it possible to add a second bathroom to the main unit, and
(2) is this eligible for a LEED Silver certification? If not what would it take to do it would be exempt from property taxes here for 15 years..
Thanks for the info, Howard
We own land in western North Carolina. We are interested in the ihouseII and a flex space. Our driveway is a typical mountain road. Can the ihouse be delivered in 2 sections in order to accomodate our winding driveway?
What type of snow load is the I-house designed for? Have you taken into account ice damming in snow country. Also wondering about seismic rating. Considering use in high elevation in a seismic 4 area.
I have 4 questions.
1) I'm thinking of using the i-house as an addition on the top of my house. The questions is: Is that possible? If so, would I have to independently get a conractor and an architect to work out the kinks?
2) Would it be possible to not have a kitchen and just have a large living space? If so, could the price be reduced?
3) Can the flex unit be cut down 6" or is it a non-negotiable size?
4) Is the placement of doors and windows (and type of windows)negotiable?
Visited the model in Knoxville in July 2009, and really love the i-house!
I would like to put one on some property in Michigan. Even just the Flex unit as a studio, as a starting point would do! What is the timeline for making this available? Is there any alternative option for delivering the unit, to that region, in the meantime?
I really enjoyed your site however, when we go looking for things on the internet it is hassle free and we like more information such as pricing. I am interested in your product but, I am not sure if it is affordable. Please could you send me a broucher with pricing via snail mail.
Several months ago someone asked if you designed the iHouse with the idea that there would be outside companies that might design/offer things specifically for the iHouse like Apps for the iPhone.
I believe you answered "you hoped so".
I was wondering if anyone has come up with an enclosed (walls/roof) decking system to link the iHouse with Flex unit(s)?
We're thinking of an ihouse II with 2 Flex Units in a T configuration. But, walking outside/unprotected from the elements to go from one unit to another is troubling. Also, some kind of enclosure would keep each of the units secure.
Any solutions?
Today's high tech toilets (slowly catching on in the USA, and all the rage in parts of Asia and Europe) feature self-cleaning auto-retracting bidets, heated seats (a godsend in cold climates!), automatic flush, air dry (no paper!), tankless (pressurized) flush, and more. The biggest hurtle these toilets and toilet-addons have had to making a splash (no pun intended) in the US is that most people can't easily get them for their homes. Most of them require a GFCI outlet installed right next to the toilet, which we traditionally don't do here. Does the i-house address this issue "out of the box" or does an electrician need to be called in for those who want their bathrooms to be more like personal spas?
This is a video of what I'm talking about: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ag0Qpq_kim8
While a 9ft ceiling isn't as energy efficient in colder climates as it is for hotter ones, high ceilings are all the rage these days, especially for those who desire that "modern loft look" and tall wardrobes and pantries. What is the ceiling height at the highest and lowest points of the i-house? I have a lot of furniture that is 9ft and I would hate to have to throw it all away (multiple bookshelves, wardrobes, mirrors, and curtains)
Saw that the Flex has an on-demand 'electric' water heater. We expect to have an all electric situation - can we have on-demand electric water heater(s) in the main two bedroom unit we anticipate purchasing (instead of gas)?
We visited the VA model. Fantastic! Only wish we were ready this winter to make the purchase. Have land that is fully paid, utilities to the site, high credit score, but am assuming a 20% downpayment is needed...I suppose this is a question...is there someone I might email to discuss typical financing?
I own a diagnostic business that involves patient overnight stays. Your design is ideal for our purposes, as such, I am interested in using your i-house for this purpose. I have been looking at similar products, but I like the fact that your unit ship completed from your factory.
I will, however, require several specific modifications as follows:
For each i-house I will need 2 sleep-rooms and 2 bath-rooms. Questions: [1] can you build a bathroom in place of the kitchen, and [2] are you able to eliminate the tub/shower leaving toilet and sink in the bath-rooms, and [3] in place of several long-side glass doors, are you able to install the high half-window units?
If so, for each location, I will order a total of #4 i-house and #2 pods. My opening order would be for 2-3 cities in Texas. Thank you for your assistance.
LOVE the concept; am going to see your Austin model
house Saturday. I can't find the room dimensions on the
floorplans; are these available on the website?
We visited the one in Little Rock and it took our breath away. We were both so ready for it to be super small but it's not nearly as little as we thought! The rooms are a great size. If you're going from an apartment or a trailor you are going to be amazed at the space. Everything was so well thought out. So we filled out an application and we are in the process of buying.
We are going to use 2 flex buildings (a Flex 1 and a Flex 3) to extend our living space and include an office/craft room and a "hang out" pool table room. In total the square feet are about the same as my brother's $320,000 house that is very outdated and he is having to constantly fix something that is broken or leaking. We are amazed at how nice of a home the I-House is going to be and the price is great!
Is anyone else using 2 flex spaces? We are thinking about setting them up in a U shape. We are wondering how the deck setup will work, but I"m sure they will help us with that when we sit down to pick all the options.
Clayton, GREAT JOB with this house!! It's everything we wanted in a modern loft but able to be put out on our property out of the city. Two thumbs up!! If anyone is going back and forth about this house: Go visit one ASAP, I'll bet that you'll fall in love.
I just keeping checking to see if there is any movement on getting the ihouse available in New England, primarily Upstate NY. I don't see anything yet. Every consider flat packing for shipment since there seems to be a logistics issue with getting these into New York State? If they came in pieces to be assembled on site, it would be much more cost efficient and solve the logistics issues. Any help would be appreciated. I know there are SO many people in the New England area interested in these homes. Please find a way to bring them to us. Thanks...it's a great design.
My Plan A focus is beginning to refine. I am interested in a Charlottesville, Virginia vicinity lot with available natural gas line for a natural gas electric generator to power everything and a net-meter to sell Virginia Power excess power. I want the solar panels to draw elec. first with extra supply sold to the grid. I do not want gas heat or gas hot water as everything is running on elec. Radiant baseboard heat would work well. (No need for air handler or ductwork.) If electricity produced by natural gas generator is a far better price than is charged by Virginia Power then I would probably want a larger elec. generator and not have the solar panels. This could be the case if coal is replaced by natural gas at Virginia Power. I could add solar and wind generators later to either lower the natural gas cost or to sell more poweer to the grid or both as the gas generated elec.capacity maxes out. I would like to place the I-House over a basement and have the larger great room without bedroom two. What are your thoughts on this or a similar plan?
My husband found this site and we are interested in building an i-house in Nacogdoches (Piney Woods of East Texas!) We are currently living in Houston. Is there a house in the area we can drive by and see on the property.
Also, is the dirt work and foundation work included in the price of the house? If not, since your site says you work with the contractors, do you have an idea of how much additional cost that would be? (Just an estimate or range if possible....sure the costs fluctuate across the country!
When I first came to this site many moons ago, and got so excited, I was able to see ballpark prices for various configurations. Now you require a zip code to go to custom configurations and get that info. OK, I accept that you don't want to be flooded with orders you can't yet fulfill, but it would be nice to see that information so as to better plan. Your whole idea is so interesting that even though I am housed by my employer, your prices seem so reasonable that I am tempted to invest in your idea some time in the future. One of the only changes I would make from the start is a few curtains in case there were any neighbors close by.
My question absolutely bludgeons any sense of greenness, but I dislike summers and heat in general. A/C would be desirable. Possible?
Looking forward to your penetration of the NJ market. Would you be consigned to mobile home designation and locations or would you be considered "full sized" homes on slabs, presumably like other modulars?
Good stuff.
Kevin Smith
Lawrenceville, NJ
I had a chance to visit the I-House in Springfield, MO. I am very intrigued...When will I be able to take delivery in OKC, OK?
I was wondering- in the two bedroom plan, could the 2nd bedroom be removed, the kitchen put in its place and therefore the great room grow by that new space--- I think the extra space for a formal dining room table would give me the entertaining space that I would want.
This would typically (in a traditionally built home) be cheaper because of the bathroom, utility, and kitchen being much closer together, as well because there would be doors, framing, and sheetrock savings because of the lack of division the bedroom had....but being that this is more of a manufactured home- would it cost more because its a change from the standard layouts?
Thank you,
Travis
I haven't seen them in person yet, but am very excited to when I find a convenient model. I was wondering if I could put a home in and then later add a flex unit as needs changed?
1. What is the standard inside ceiling height and outside (without the roof deck option) overall height of this unit?
2. Can this be increase a bit? If so, do the studs still be 2X6 or 2X8?
3. Can we have higher performance insulation, like soy base spray insulation to achieve R40-45 (roof) and R30-35 (walls & floor)?
4. Can these unit be order with a slope roof (looking on the 15.5' side of the unit)? If so, what would be the maximum slope rate and the maximum height of the outside walls (transport issue)?
5. What are the options for outside finish other than painted metal sheets, can we get cement fiber finish or other option upon demand? Where can I see the option list? Can we just ask for something specific and you price it accordinghly (assuming weight issue, i.e: no bricks!)?
I have watched the progress about the i home for over a year now. I live in Fort Myers, Florida. We are subtropical and ideal territory for the new i house. Do you plan on having an i home to visit in our part of Florida soon??
I noticed from another post that the Mesa, AZ iHouse is ready for viewing. It does not indicate that on the website. Is there a chance the Mt. Vernon, IL house is ready also? I am very anxious to see it and get started!
My husband and I are thinking relocating to Florida or Texas. Can you tell me if the i-house holds up to hurricanes and/or strong storms. We are concerned about flooding and/or the roof being blown off the top of the house.
Also, I would like to know does the i-home come with a standard floor plan or can we redesign what we would like? Such as adding another bathroom and extending the kitchen?
I have property in Flagler Co. Fl. west of I-95. Are these I-houses rated for these windloads? Also on the I-House 2 with the Flex unit, can the flex unit be positioned on the master bed room end of the I house instead of the living room end? One more thing, can I obtain plans that I could present to my county and obtain a permit before I order my I-house?
Are the windows in the house easily broken? I was wandering because there seems to be many windows in the house (for natural lighting). Also, is there anyway to make the Master bedroom where it could have walls opposed to big windows?
Thanks,
Thomas C. White
Back on Aug 31st you responded to Natasha's inquiry about the Mesa, AZ i-house arriving "well before December". Still don't see any progress - has the economy stalled this installation or am I "in the dark"? Like everyone else interested in this concept - we are anxious to actually see something in person. Thanks for your time in responding to my question.
I've seen the i-house and Flex models and it is better than even the photos and videos make it look...!!!
If you think the i-house and Flex look good in the virtual tours and photos, I visited the model in Sacramento and it looks even better when you are in the model. It is my next house for sure (within the next 6 to 8 months) and for those of you who haven't gotten inside a model to see it for yourself...I can't tell you how pleased you will be when you do. Make the effort if you are at all interested because the house sells itself!!!
The house seems much more spacious when you are inside it than the square footage would make you think. The finishes are just great, the amount of natural light in the house is all one could ask for. Both models are just fantastic!!!
I have been looking for a pre-fab house for a long time to put on my Oregon property and, while I've visited some great houses, nothing beats the i-house for style, sustainability AND price!!!
I LOVE the design. Went to see it in person this weekend =) Just about the only thing I don't like about it is the fact that there is no true "entry" into the home. A place to unload wet coats and muddy boots. Is there any design change we can do to accommodate an area like this?
I stopped by location in Statesville today(closed) and peeked at the unfinished i-house. We are very interested. Should we go there for a tour or call the phone number listed here to proceed? Thanks
I am very interested in the i-House but I know I will have to convince my wife that it is a real house and not a mobile home. I saw in an earlier post that all wall studs are 2"x6" @ 16" o.c. is that correct? What is the deal with long term maintenance? Is this the type of construction where any plumber, electrician, carpenter, etc can come in and fix things like holes in the walls or replace flooring, lighting, water and sewer lines? What are the interior wall surfaces made of, drywall? Are the interior doors metal, they look that way from the pictures? Is a soaker tub/jetted jacuzzi tub available in the main home portion? Thanks for the information.
I really love the I-house, currently I live in my dads old house which was given to me and just needs to be torn down and to have a new home put in its place, is there any chance the I-House will come to Michigan?
I Like the i-house. Reminds me of the piece I saw on HGTV about builders in England using old shipping containers[used once then scrapped]in the construction of homes, apartments, condos, etc. Dig it. I hope to build a home here in Maine in the near future, which will incorporate several forms of alternative energy. VERY environmentally friendly. Keep up the good work. Maybe when I build we can do business.
I live in an area where air cooling is unnecessary, and forced air heating is undesirable. Is it possible to eliminate the air-handling unit and instead provide either radiant floor heat (tubes attached under the subfloor, above the floor insulation) or some other type of radiant heat (base board or room panels like Myson)?
I just discovered the i-house by accident (on the Internet) and I LOVE it! Congratulations on coming up with this great concept and design.
I'm wondering if the i-house will be available to build outside of the USA? I have a piece of property in Roatan, Honduras (Central America) and I would love to build an i-house there. Please advise.
Can either the i-house or Flex bathrooms be modified to accommodate a bath tub.
What material is the pan and walls of the standard shower stall and are there any options?
Are there numerous cabinet options for the bathrooms, laundry room and kitchen?
I saw on one of your blog posts that the standard home is designed for a 65psf ground snow load. Can the home be customized to accommodate heavier snow loads....since we live in the Colorado mountains?
Also, does the entire roof have an Ice-and-Water shield membrane? I am concerned about snow piling up at the low point of the butterfly valley.
When will the I-house be ready for viewing in Denver, Colorado? And what's the typical build/wait time for an i-house. Also what type of foundation, site work is required for one of these homes... Love the idea!
Construction and insulation
Great looking house! My Questions are; what type of insulation does the home have, foam, cellulose or fiberglas? Is the construction considered a true modular or is it a mfg. home with steel and wheels? Can the plan be changed to add a second bath and a third bedroom?
Thank you
GWasham
Howdy guys! Do you have any status update on when a model will be available in Texas? To date you've mentioned at least 2 dates when a house was supposed to be available in Austin--and according to your website it's still listed as Coming Soon. Or do you believe that Texas is going to continue to throw so many roadblocks in your path that you may never be able to offer the i-house here?
There was just a topic reported on KOMO News 4 "Problem Solvers" that hundreds of thousands of homes are not strong enough to withstand a 6.5 earthquake we are due to have in the near future up here in washington state similar to the one in L.A. last decade. What are your thoughts about the studs, stability and strength into your foundation of the set ups you provide considering those homes that are older are going to fold like a cardboard box on people and need to pay for certified earthquake reinforcement costing approx $10,000. Is that something we are going to have to do as well with your homes or are they as sturdy and strong as a stick built home built to code to withstand a 6.5 earthquake?
We got the keys to our i-house and Flex today, we're moving in! What a beautiful home, we feel very fortunate. We wanted to thank everyone at Clayton for making this a wonderful experience. A special mention to Mike Pickerel and every member of his team at Clayton Homes in Cave City, Kentucky for making our dream come true.
Every i-house picture has the same furniture in it. The video about the i-house shows the couple buying the house, and having the same furniture in it. Does the furniture come built into the house?
I believe that the i-house aesthetic can be ported to many existing Clayton homes.
I'm currently looking at Clayton single-wides 16x70. When I buy one, I'm going to create a wall of windows across the living room by cutting out every second stud and thereby create floor to ceiling windows, each window 32" wide.
This rather easy remodel raises the question of why hasn't Clayton offered a modernist aesthetic in existing designs. It seems simple enough to do: large spans of full-height windows, ceilings 8' or higher, minimal decoration, corrugated metal or other modernist siding.
I'll keep you posted on my project.
Paul
Thanks for creating such a well thought out product with a great look!
Couple of questions:
Do you have a garage/flex space option?
Do you know if they qualify for conventional and FHA financing?
Do you have any financing sources?
What is the roof snow load rating- Colorado ranges from 80-120#per sf.
It seems the south facing options for living spaces are 90% opposed to solar panel orientation, anyone addressed this?
I appreciate your input.
Sara
I saw your ad in Mother Earth News and couldn't wait to get home to look up the website!!! I've been intrigued with container homes and other prefabs but yours seems to be the best turn-key solution (so far). I love the flex unit design but I am concerned about security for the flex side bedrooms as they would likely be children's rooms - is there design flexibility - perhaps a sunroom, four season, all glass breezeway to the flex unit while also keeping the solution sustainable? Also, what if we need to add on if the family grows - could a another flex unit be purchased and placed at a later date? I plan on driving to Little Rock or Springfield in the very near future to see one of the models. Great job bringing this to market!!!!
There is such a market for this type of housing in upstate ny. With builders continually building huge homes taking up more space and wasting so much of everyone's energy, not to mention raising the costs of building supplies and land because of this, we really need this home available up here. I personally have land available now to put the ihouse on and am in love with this design but cannot figure out how to obtain one. I believe Virginia is your latest opening...would one be able to be shipped from there to upstate NY, capitol region of Albany, NY? Even if it came in sections and was assembled here, would that be something that can be done? I want a green, steel design home and this one is the most affordable and escetically pleasing one I've seen on the market. Please find a way to make it available to us here in New York. Thanks you.
Wanted to know can any of the i-House options be added to any of the other Clayton homes lineup? Mainly the solar option in the i-House be used /added on other homes that are built by Clayton?
hello - thanks for creating an innovative design for prefab housing - i have been researching for a while - but i'm new to the technical part of the research. i have been trying to get as much info as possible on the solar applications. do the solar panels in the i-house power the electrical system, the heating system, or the hot water system? in looking over the blog history, i saw that plumbing for the i-house is PEX. to familiarize myself on that, i googled, and found a question - is PEX used only for the plumbing in a solar i-house? if you can go to the page below and click on the FAQS, it shows that PEX tubing is not applicable for radiant heating. http://www.pexsupply.com/PEX-Tubing-223000
i also have another question - where can i see the i-house models in both 1 and 2 bedroom layouts?
I am wondering if you had drawn inspiration from Rocio Romero's 'LV Home', a kit home manufactured in Missouri. (?) The i-home has definite appeal as we were considering the LV Home but were concerned about the construction and loan conversion situation (construction to mortgage).
Also, when the home arrives and is situated on the foundation, what services are included? Hook up to sewer/septic, electrical, phone, water, etc? And are the solar panels already to go? That is are they wired and fed in to the grid attached power hookup? Would we be able to do batteries if we wish to go off-grid or to have emergency backup? Can that be designed in and delivered?
I am interested in an I house for housing at a wilderness retreat center. Is it possible to replace the kitchen with another bedroom, and if so, can you give me an idea of the change in cost?
Also, the road into the retreat center is a winding, down hill, one lane affair. Can the delivery truck negotiate such? The local drivers have gotten a 18 wheeler down it every years.
hi. is the texas location open for viewing? i noticed in earlier blogs you stated it would be available in austin in mid september. also. are there any plans for an i-house model site in arkansas.
Hi All,
I have been studying the iHouse for a while now since I think it is a reasonably priced lower impact housing option.
One aspect I would like to discuss would be the orientation and room layout. To me it seems that the living room window with the overhang or the living room window on the long side of the building are meant to face south.
With that said that leaves the bedroom facing North or West; neither of which are ideal. Facing North will contribute to heat loss in colder months due to the large windows (and no chance for passive solar gains). Facing West will heat the room in the evening which is usually not preferred since most people like sleeping in a cool environment.
Have you considered swapping the living room and bedroom orientations so that the bedroom receives either East sun (sunlight in the morning) or South (which the overhang can help from overheating in the summer but allow solar gains in the winter with the lower sun angle).
Of course I am referring to the Northern Hemisphere.
I really enjoyed the i-house today and I am definitly interested in purchasing one for my business. Especially the i-house. I think it would be perfect- green, space effective, and planted right where I want it. I am just wish if I decided to move it, I could. Would that be an option, at least in the future? I think for our business we would be good with just the flex.
What type of solar system is incorporated in the design, PV and/or Thermal? Are they included in the purchase price or are they additional, if so, how much do they cost? Thanks.
From what I understand the iHouse is not available in New York state at this time. Are there any plans for the future, and I also would like to find out about pricing and various designs for iHouse/Flex II, 3 bed/2 bath.
Thank you.
Have you guys considered taking the more traditional housing development approach: establishing an i-house neighborhood by selling lots to buyers and building the buyer's desired layout on their lot? That could make the i-house more accessible to buyers in more metropolitan areas where open residential lots are at a premium.
I currently live in Spfld, MO. and am very interested in looking at the i-house. I heard that it is on display. Where is it and do I need to make an appointment to see it?
Thanks,
Jeff
Are there plans for a Flex option that is a garage? One of my favorite things about home ownership is having garage. I would hate to ruin the style of the i-house with a non-matching garage.
I applaud your inclusion of rainwater harvesting capabilities in the design of i-house. A few questions concerning this:
+ How is the water filtered before entering the cistern?
+ What size cisterns are available?
+ Are the downspouts round or square?
I am an Atlanta-based ecobroker, a.k.a. ecohome guy [www.ecohomeguy.com]. I celebrate the i-house. You guys have a game-changer here with the first truly affordable ecohome. Would this home be permitable in urban Atlanta?
Still wondering if we'll ever see the iHouse in WNC? from statesville, the only issue is taking 40 over Old Fort, if I-40 is being used in other parts of the state, shouldn't we have acces in WNC? BTW~ going over Old Fort is a climb, but no so outrageous as to prevent you from reaching a golden market (Asheville - think green sustainable housing's home base) for your product.
Hi, I am interested in the 2 bedroom with the flex room. The problem is...I live in St. Maarten. This is the perfect house for here. So, it would need to be shipped to Miami then sent over on a cargo ship. What problems do you see in doing this? Or is this even possible?
I am interested in purchasing the iHouse II. When will the Mt. Vernon model be ready for viewing? Also, with the inward pitch of the roof, will it stand up to a Midwestern winter with wet and heavy snow?
I am interested in the i-house II with the flex 2 package. I am interested in making the i-house II a one unit and would like to make the bathroom and walk in larger. Are these modifications possible.
I am particularly interested in i-house I with the following modification: add a combination walk-in closet/washer-dryer room between the bedroom and the bath. This would help to deal with the problem of storage space limitations: (1) a closet area would be provided, and (2) the washer-dryer would be moved out of the kitchen pantry.
Note this concept is the same as i-house II with bedroom 2 removed. Those of us with need for additional bedroom(s) could add flex 1, 2 or 3.
Is anybody else interested in this modification? Please respond. And thanks for reading this.
Because the 723 sq. ft. i-house has only 1 closet, is the storage unit surrounding the bed in the video a built-in component of the house?
Thank you, Prudence
I like the triangular awning you show on the Flex House in your photos but I don't see it available in the house configurations.
Is it available and what is the cost for awning and posts it's attached to on the Flex House?
The bathroom in i-House 1 looks as if it may meet the 5' turnaround space to be ADA compliant. Is this true? If the room dimensions were available, with door widths, it would be helpful re planning retirement living.
Thank you,
Prudence
P.S. Haven't located the FAQ section of the site.
I understand that there will be an i-house available in Arizona soon. Any idea when that would occur?
I plan to visit my family in Mesa mid December to early January and that would be a perfect time for me to tour the house. I'm really interested in this house, as I'll be relocating maybe next year and don't want to settle for the ordinary Southwest building look.
Why hasn't there been a model i-house set up in the New Orleans or Biloxi area. Our Region is still in recovery mode from Katrina, and the i-house is a great solution to get people back into an affordable green home...Clayton could sell hundreds of i-houses down here.
What are the ceiling heights in each of the flex units?
Also, would it be possible to move the the door on the flex III end entry to the "short" end of the unit?
We're thinking of making a T shaped configuration with the Ihouse II as the base of the T, the Flex III (with repositioned entry)would be the left hand of the T abutting the integrated deck and then the Flex II end unit also abutting the integrated deck as the right hand of the T.
(Hopefully, that makes sense.)
Would that work?
A. Do these come with a passive Water Heater?
B. Do they have a
warrantee?
C. What is the current "Turn Around Time for an order?"
D. What sort of foundation is required?
Okay, I visited the i-house model in Fredericksburg, VA this weekend and was very well pleased with it--and so was my mother, who went with me. Seeing the floorplans and renderings online is one thing, but being able to walk around the actual model gave me a much firmer appreciation for the concept, the choices the architects made, and the options available. The Clayton representative who showed us around was very knowledgeable and helpful (shout-out to Monroe in Fredericksburg!) and also very excited about the i-house himself.
And to top off the experience, I went home and visited the website to design my own i-house and price the options, and once again was blown away by how affordable it all is. This is a fantastic concept and I can't wait to hear about i-houses actually purchased and installed!
I have noticed there is a solar power option with the I-House. Does the house have batteries to store the energy that is produced by the solar panels? There would have to be a D/C to A/C converter to use the excess power.
I love the i-house and am considering building one in Gulf Co. Florida, beach front, in a X flood zone (no federal flood insurance required). Is it as strudy as a stick-built house so far as wind issues go? It would need to go on pilings. Any other concerns I need to consider before I go any further (other insurance concerns, building codes issues, coastal line construction set-backs). Who actually does the assembly when it is delivered--Clayton Homes, or my own contractor? Thanks!
Going to visit the VA model this Saturday. However, have a few questions about layout and configuration. Is it possible to join 2 i-house I's into a 1446 sq ft home? Or attaching a Flex unit directly on the i-house. Can the i-house be set on a basement? Are there any i-garage options - what about using a Flex as a garage?
How are things moving along in bringing the i-house to New England, more importantly Rhode Island. I am scouting some beautiful parcels of land and hope you will be arriving soon.
My husband and I are wanting to build within the next 2 years and fell in love with the design of this home. We are use to living in smaller spaces and love that this is energy efficient and made from recycled materials. What comes with the home? Appliances, cabinets, toilets, etc.... and are these items included in the price? If so, are there a variety to choose from - style, color-?
We are interested in the I-House and would like own one in Taiwan, would it be possible if we are to take care of the transportation costs and exporting process.
Are there any plans of setting up a model home in Louisiana? Particularly at the Monroe area.
Are there any plans of integrating Local Area Network (LAN) Technology in the future? I work as a sr. security analyst and this is integral for me to have access to the Internet. It would be a wonderful option to add, particularly in the Flex Room :)
I saw the i-house in Everett, WA and pulled a u-turn to go see it! I've been interested in manufactured homes for a long time and am thrilled to see this new edgy design. I am wondering if the i-house is considered a "manufactured" home or a prefab. I am considering purchasing a lot in Renton and have looked at their building codes which say that on an R4-zoned you can only place a "designated" manufactured home; that is, a double-wide 24' by 36' minimum, and with a minimum roof pitch of 3:12. I imagine many or most cities would have similar requirements. The i-house would not meet these standards if it's considered a manufactured home.
Do you know what dates the model in San Diego will be shown for viewing. how do i make an appointment. since i am in and out an email is best for me. thanks i can't wait to see it up close and personal.
I like the i-house concept. It looks well executed. However, I don;t need a complete house, just a smaller structure to use as an office and workspace. The Flex building that you have added to the basic i-house design seem perfect for that use. Is it possible to just buy the Flex building?
Wondering if there will be a nothern cal show room and will there be a future planned community of I-houses around the US. This could be a great fumctional and economically efficient home for retired couples who intend to maximize every retirement dollars as much as they can.
Love most of the design, but find the front entry to be confusing. Am I reading the design correctly in that the entry is into the Master Bedroom? Kind of odd to have guests walking past your bed to get into the Living Room. Is it possible to change the entry location to the Living Room? Are the designs flexible enough for that type of change? Thanks!
I've been waiting for an I-House to be available for viewing somewhere in TX with great anticipation. But while it seems that other states are popping up with regularity--the cities in TX continue to be listed as Coming Soon (or something simular). I'm sure the hold-up in TX is probably not your fault-as Austin was listed for a while--then de-listed. Whats holding things up, any idea of a possible date, and what can we do to help get an I-House in the Lone Star State?
Hi there!
Today I contacted the Clayton sales department to begin the process of purchasing an iHouse.
I am in Ventura County, California, and the sales representative let me know that there is currently an issue in most parts of Southern California with the seismic zone rating specifications that the iHouse is built to. Apparently, the iHouse requires being set on land with a "D2" rating or better, while all areas of Ventura County are rated "E". I was told that a seismic zone rating "E" model is in development but not yet available. My wife and I are in love with the design and concept of the iHouse, and we're decision has been made that this is the home we want.
Is there any idea of when or how far away we are from the SoCal model being available?
We're very excited, and would be proud to own and live in this beautiful home!
Thanks so much!
While, I LOVE the layout of the flex house and it's multi-function...can it be connected to the main home? If one, needs a 4 bedroom, but, doesn't want their small children to be in a separate building, can the design be reconfigured and still keep the features of an IHouse? We visited the Knoxville convention center for our tour and thought it was the smartest, greenest home in this pricepoint...Good Job! I would love to have one in our near future, but, would need more options...as far as layout.
My husband and I are really interested in the I-House and would like to know if it will be available in the U.S Virgin Islands anytime soon. If so, when? Please let us know ASAP!
Do you have any idea if/when you might be offering the i-house in the Fargo, North Dakota area? I would love to be the first person to have one of these houses here. I will be looking to buy or build over the next 6 months or so, so any help is appreciated.
I visited the I-House in Fredericksburg, VA today and was very impressed. What is the name of the furniture that is in the Master bedroom? I can't find it in the 2010 Ikea catalog. I asked the rep. if there will be a type of I-House community in the near future here. Do you do regular homes with the I-House concept?
I called the future i-house rep in So Cal to find out why an i-house model still wasn't available for viewing there, he didn't know why. He did say that in California a new house needs to comply with the International Residential Code. Is the i-house built to the IRC standards?
What has happened to Dover, DE on your list of sites to view the i-house? It was there a few days ago, albeit no longer scheduled to open in July/August as originally planned. Please do not tell me you are no longer going ahead with it! I have been anxiously awaiting news of the opening. VA is too far away!
I understand that you are working on the shipping restrictions throughout PA, just wanted to know if there is any new development on that? I am interested in the I-house but am in NJ.
I noticed the flex unit appears to have a flat roof. Flat roofs are notorious for collecting water and causing damage to the roof/subroofing later on. What have you guys done to prevent this from happening?
Also, would you have to get an additional dwelling permit for the flex unit?
Do these homes qualify under new construction homes only or can they go under FHA, USDA etc if placed in the correct area?
Also, my mortgage broker tells me that not one bank he knows of will wait for the $8,000 Obama tax credit to use as my down payment. Have you had any luck with any of your customers being able to use the program and what it was intended for?
At this time, I am not interested in calling a salemen for more info. Could you just post the info? Thanks!
Any sprinkler systems planned? Some counties in Maryland and Virginia require them in new construction residential and both states are considering requiring them. How much will it add to the costs?
Guys, I have to congratulate you on a great job. Finally a house that makes sense at a pricepoint most can afford. I was blown away when I opened my email from Karsten this morning, and took a first look at the plan. One thought, and question. I imagine the window side of the house is made to face south for passive solar....how are the overhangs designed since these need to be dfferent for different latitudes...also, on the 2 bedroom there is a long narrow window to the immediate side of the kitchen. Would there, or could there be an option for a narrow door (instead of the window) so one can have a greenhouse or solarium off that room, which would be then be fantistically convenient to the kitchen. Also as an option, a mechanical design or system to vent in additional heat from such a structure. And just think, the plants could use up the carbon dioxide we humans vent! I'd like to know your thoughts.
I am planning to see one of these asap. It would be nice if there were a center in Oregon, as I am sure it would really go over here! Also what is the footprint of both main units. If it was on the site I must have missed it!
Must say I love the idea of the washer dryer in the walk in closet...It makes a lot of sense!
Outstanding work, especially the price. Wondering if you have any plans for a 2 story. I have a 100+ house I'm ready to tear down, but my lot is long and narrow. I know I could turn the ihouse, but I'd like to have some backyard for my dogs.
I've been looking for a combination home and studio and love the Flex B layout! (The flex building reminds me of Diego Rivera's studio, in miniature of course - was the building at all based on that?) My timeframe is probably early Spring but I would like to get pricing information to start budgeting. Do I need to call for that? My local Clayton home dealer referred me to this site. Many thanks!
My wife and I were wondering what are the standards for wind resistance (i.e. tornadoes, hurricanes) for the I-Home? Is there a standard, and if so, is the I-Home built to that standard?
We are hoping that you can tell us the interior ceiling heights for both the flex unit and the i house. Also, what is the heighth of the tallest point of the roof on the exterior decks?
Do you have any plans for a double-wide? Can these units be placed upon a poured basement foundation - if so, where do you recommend the stairwell to be? Do you have to have the rear door off the main bedroom? What alterations can be made to specific plans?
I just discovered the Clayton i house which by the way *Kicks butt !! =) *
I'm planning to Leave NY in the near future but, Im wondering Where's the Closest module to New York I could visit? and Whats a typical Cost with the Flex Room ?
Is the August 17, 2009 date for opening the Fredericksburg VA house firm. We plan to visit soon after, but do not want to make an unnecessary trip from the Southern tip Virginia's Eastern Shore.
Can Flex I with 12' Deck be purchased and delivered to Sarasota, FL?
I love your work, EXCELLENT! I live in Sarasota, Florida and was wondering if your Flex I with 12' Deck be purchased and delivered to Sarasota, Florida? The Flex I unit and deck would be elevated onto a concrete block stem wall. Sarasota and Florida have very difficult building codes to meet.
We visited the I House in Maryville yesterday. After years of looking for the ideal home for our mountain property this is it. Exterior design, layout options, materials, etc. Image our dismay to learn we cannot purchase it for a Western NC site given some transportation issues. According to the sales agent there are a number of folks in the Asheville area who are finding the same problem. Are you folks working on any way this issue may be resolved or should we move on to something else? Is it possible NC would grant Clayton a waiver once or twice a year to move these into the local area?
How could a person in WNC actually have this product?
It seems odd that a state could selectively enforce a statute in only one part of the state, such as the width requirement. I saw a 14' home being transported (already using a wide load designation). There was a story on the news about a sculpture being moved to Pack Square in Downtown Asheville that was over 15 ft. I'm guessing some kind of waiver is required. I am willing to do whatever is required to get one of these homes. maybe you guys could fill me in on what steps you are taking and which ones I need to take as a citizen.
Hello
When is the ihouse going to be available in PA? At last request i was told perhaps this summer - it was a question of highway permits.
Is the ihouse going to be PA available anytime soon?
thanks
Hey guys! My name is Rodrigo and I am amazed at iHouse concept. I am a teenager right now but I am expecting to purchase this house once I am working into my career . I love that this house provides a way to save energy and help the environment while at the same some time remaining cool and hip! the sun deck is one of my favorite features as well as the flex house . I was just wondering about the plumbing of the house and whether or not composting poets could be substituted for the regular toilets . Here's a link to the site that has some composting toilets available . I don't know if this would be a more environmental choice than regular toilets or how much of the difference it would make , but it is one it's see what you guys had to say . things for introducing the great home into the market ! I'm excited for the future of this concept and hope it is even better when I am able to purchase it ! Thanks and keep up the great work!
-Rodrigo
Aside from the solar panels is this house capable of also having wind turbine as a possible energy source, and is the rain collection system able to be hooked into a cistern for recycling to use in the household?
I know you are monitoring demand for different home designs, and I wanted to put in my request for a main i-house unit that can meet the needs of a family of 4. While I love the idea of a detached flex unit for a home office or guest room, I am uncomfortable with sleeping in a separate unit than any of my children. I would love to see double height options, double width options and design choices to connect the Flex and i-house units together.
How can I find out where i-house models are going to be set up from the schedule of showings on the homepage? For example, I'd like to visit the model when it goes to Fredericksburg, VA, in August, but I can't tell from clicking on the location whether the link is taking me to the exact location where the model will be, or whether that's just a general "this is where Fredericksburg is" link.
Can you help? I'd love to bring my parents to see the i-house, since they want to retire in a green home. Thanks!
I seem to remember reading in your literature that there will be exterior color options for the i-house and/or flex units. I cannot find any information about this on the website. My local Clayton dealers don't have any information about the i-house at all. I wouldn't have considered buying a mobile/modular home before the i-house. This is a revolutionary product.... the right housing product for changing times. You may be creating an entirely new market.
I found land (haven't bought it) in Los Angeles where a house once existed.....but burned down. The foundation is still there, is it possible to use that existing foundation or would you guys want to start from stratch??
Our agency manages roughly 5000 acres of gov't property for endangered species. My agency is interested in using the i-house as a manager's facility. It's primary purpose would be to accomodate the Reserve Manager and Ranger, however as a public facility it would need to meet commerical standards and be ADA compliant. Is this possible? We would love to be able to showcase our commitment to green and sustainable living in a one stop shop, rather than piecemeal our facility together from several vendors.
What size lot will comfortably hold an ihouseII with a double Flex bldg option? bldg.) We would prefer to live in an established community and wondering if a standard lot (i.e. .22 acre) would suffice. Thanks for your advice!
How durable are the solar panels in a hale storm? How are they protected on the roof from being covered with snow? Does the tankless water heater take more energy to heat the water-on-demand? I really like the i featured deck, how much weight does it handle if you have some friends over and we want to eat up there? I noticed that there were no curtains or mini blinds on the windows, it looks great w/o them but I'm not sure how cool it would look if you put those items in there....?
Sorry so many questions....When will you have a model at your Austin TX site?
Thanks!
First let me say how happy I am to have found the i-house product. I have been wondering for years when the manufactured home industry was going to apply their technical expertice toward a more hip and innovative home. I think you guys nailed it!
I live in snow country so we have region specific snow and wind loads we have to meet. Can the i-house be built to meet 100# or even 120# snow loads? If so, are there compromises to the design (such as fewer windows or reduced window size) for the greater load capacity?
On a recent trip through Knoxville we stopped by to take a tour. From the pics online I was afraid that it might have the look and feel of a trailer. Boy was I wrong. Sitting upfront in the Clayton lot it stopped traffic! This is an awesome approach to prefab! I am very impressed with the space, the distinctive look and the layout. It all just works. My only minor complaint was that some of the fit and finish of the moldings were, well.. reflective of its low cost (just sand the edges folks). Keep up the great work. I can easily see this home in our future!
Is it a possiblity to have an energy efficient fireplace for some heat without being a hazard to this type of structure? Always have had one but never lived in manufactured home so did not know if it was to much of a risk? Joan Johnson
Hi, This is just what my husband and I are looking to do,now that we are going to be empty nesters. My main concern is that I am handicapped and was interested in knowing if the openings to rooms and hallways will be wide enough for my power chair and if atleast one of the bathrooms can have a walkin shower? This is going to be our last home and it would be great if I can be comfortable and have everything accessable because its not just helping me its helping my husband so that I can do as much as possible on my own. I like being independent and having things reachable, it gives me freedom to have a little bit of life on my own. Thank you for your time. Joan Johnson St. Helena Island, SC July 16
Well, I'm trying to get the ball rolling by looking at land but the ones I can afford are sloped. Most of them are sloped up but some I have spotted are sloped down. Some are extreme and scary but some don't look terrible.....maybe 20-30 degrees. I know you guys would like flat land but is it possible to build the ihouse on a slope? Would you have a person come out and take a look at the land before the ihouse is built?
How flexible is interior wall space? (larger kitchen)
Would it be possible to reconfigure the interior space such that the main unit had a single master bedroom/bath, possibly a smaller bathroom, a larger kitchen, and then the living room/dining room?
What is the wind speed rating of the ihouse? Can it be built to 140 MPH plus. can we build a larger model or join plans to make something closer to 1,800 feet of living space?
I personally would like to see a distributor/contractor in Hawaii for the i-House. There is considerable attention and activity being directed to eco and low energy, affordable housing in the state. I am re-location to the Big Island and the i-House fits the environment, economy, and my needs like a glove!
With a Clayton factory in CA near major shipping ports I would hope that Clayton would reconsider what it perceives as insurmountable issues. Heck, the house is manufactured to be towed across the country it should be little problem to shrink wrap and lift onto a container ship. I've seen a lot stranger and larger items coming off ships. Also based on this blog there appears to be quite a demand for a home that can be shipped to areas outside of the continental 48. Being an architect my self I realize the code issue but Hawaii is the US and their codes are UBC based, just like the other 48 states. Of course there a slight variations but in looking at the code not much different form California.
I would like to urge Clayton homes to seriously look into a variant that could be shipped and a contractor/distributor in Hawaii, specifically on the Big Island where housing of this type merges well with the affordable land prices, the need for cost effective housing and the states leading edge drive for energy efficiency.
I've been looking at the Rocio Romero modular home but this makes more sense. Have a beautiful view lot outside Asheville, North Carolina that would be just perfect for something like this...I'll be in touch :)
Since one of the major benefits of the flex units is that they are separate and can be "powered down" when not in use, were there design considerations for surviving cold weather while not heated? For example, is it easy to drain all the water from the flex to prevent the pipes from freezing?
I was just wondering just how much solar panels (for 2 panels) actually affect the costs of the electric bills? How significant is the lowering of bills, that is...?
Building a house in this area would require a pier and beam type foundation verses a slab due to flood zone restrictions. Will that add to the cost of construction?
I cannot wait to get my hands on an "i - house"....we are going for the fully decked out situation, except for the "sun deck"...can it get any better? I think not. I used to be an architect until retirement and I am so excited about this...
I see on your schedule of models that you will be in San Diego in September, there is also a mention of a showing in Perris , Ca which is closer to me. Do you know possibly how far in the future that may be. I can't wait to see it up close and personal
Have you considered the possibility of having an i-house for a weekend rental so that prospective buyers could get a feel for the living space and if they would want to purchase a unit?
Obviously it would be on a nice quiet lot (and not next to the freeway). Undecided people could pay to rent out a furnished i-house for a day or two to give it a "test-ride". I know this might sound like a lot of extra work, but it might be the thing to sway some people on the fence.
First of all - my husband and I both LOVE the i-house!!! We really want one, We are just trying to figure out to achieve that goal.
I was wondering if there will be different prices for the i-house around the country? I know in some areas these prices would be considered very cheap, however, here in central Missouri, the base price of $74,900 for the smaller one bedroom i-house is considered high......add $40,000 to that for a lot, foundation, Delivery, water, sewage, electrical hook-up, etc. and the cost of the one bedroom i-house is as much as a brand new stick built 3 bedroom, 2 bath house with a garage & basement. Even though I already own my own lot, I'm thinking of resale value???
I read in a previous blog that the i-house can be put on a foundation, but, I'm wondering how to access the basement? Where would the stairs be located?
Also, wondering if I can purchase a 'mirror image' of the i-house to take advantage of the views for a lot that we already own.
I've noticed many, many, many duplicate questions asked on the blog, specifically ones about foundations, garages, enclosing the ihouse and flex, as well as questions of mobile and modular. Maybe the administrator could save themselves alot of time and frustration by building a frequently asked questions or (FAQ's) page that had an ease of accessibility.... just a thought. You guys are doing great work!
althought, i love the ihouse, my only dislike is the fact that there are 2 seperate buildings. can the i house and flex be connected in some way to make as one. also are the counter tops granite, and if so, is it standard or an option.
Say like something down the road, breaks. Let's take the roof for example, it starts leaking for some reason. Does someone from i-house have to come out and fix it or can anybody* do the job?
1.) How thick are the walls?
2.) What type of joints are used for corners?
3.) How is the ceiling constructed?
These are questions from my boyfriend who is more savvy in the realms of construction than I am so feel free to get as technical as you like. Looking forward to the answers! :)
I contacted a Clayton Homes dealer in Greer, SC, and he said the I-house was at least a year out, before it would be ready. Is this true? From reading your blog, and the website, it seems like I could order one now. I am interested in having one flex home delivered, possibly two, that would be used together. I am interested in having it built and delivered to my lot in Greenville, SC. Is there a possibility of this happening in the near future? Thanks for any info you can provide.
How many of the windows open? Are window screen panels available and included for the windows that open? Is there a way to add screen doors or European style insect barriers to the doors?
What would be the best orientation for the ihouse to take full advantage of the solar panels and heat loss/gain in central CA? Would you put the living room windows facing south?
thanks
Snow load, wind and fitting into a traditional neighborhood
Looking at the V-shaped roof, would snow accumulate in the center and exert an excessive load?
We are in an area (NW Washington state), where we can get winter wind storms that approach 80 MPH. Would this house stand up to that?
Have you had any experience with an i-house that has been placed in a traditional neighborhood, (e.g. Craftsman style), such as on an infill lot? Have there been objections or permitting problems?
Congrats on your success gents. Gorgeous homes...
Obviously, they're modular. But are they mobile too?
Given the markets, and my job, I hesitate to buy something I'd have to sell if my work moves me. Would rather take my awesome ihouse with me.
thoughts?
I remember reading somewhere that you were having a hard time sourcing the shade canopy for the flex sundeck. Check out www.coolaroousa.com and I think you will find them to be a good and very reasonably priced source.
It would be nice if there were a map of the continental USA that was highlighted to show the areas where the iHouse is available. States (or sections of states) where the iHouse is not available could be linked to a simple statement explaining why (e.g. distance from manufacturer; state laws about transporting; etc.) If you are working on obstacles in particular areas you could also mention it there.
That makes it easy to see if it is a realistic option for potential customers.
I was wondering what is the typical lot size you would need to put the ihouse on? Im looking at buying some land now, and wanted to make sure it would be big enough for the ihouse. Thanks.
I stopped by the show house in Seattle today - very nice - and they were able to give me a layout sheet for i-house II with specific square-footage of each room. They didn't have the same for the model I house, and I was hoping you could help me out. The numbers for the living room/kitchen area and the bedroom are the two I'm most interested in. Thanks for any help!
While i was viewing the videos and taking the virtual tour,I was noticing that the homes have the same furniture along with other items.I wondering if the house come fully furnished.And if so with what particular items
I would REALLY like to buy a house through you guys but there are few questions I have before I go any further, please answer them either here on the comments section or e-mail me.
1.) What should I look for when buying land for an i-house? When I do get a piece of land do you guys have any contractors that will inspect the lot? Does this individual also determine the limitations placed by local governing agencies?
2.) Who will be the General Contractor? Will this person be familiar and trained in i-house construction?
3.) Where are the i-houses fabricated?
4.) Can I get a conventional home loan to buy an i-house? Do you have your own financing company?
5.) If I ordered a house today how long will it take to build?
6.) What kind of warranty is offered on these homes?
Gentlemen, two questions. Could you please tell us if the metal staircase is included with the price of the roof deck for the Flex models? Also, on each of the sides of the Flex II, do the three small windows open; i.e., are they awning windows or are they fixed? Thanks.
Toured the "i" house today. It was as expected. I did note some trim and cabinet flaws. Exterior corrugated siding had some rough cuts on end's and interior cabinetry had extra drilled holes without fastener screws in them. I suspect these problems will be corrected and future production will be almost flawless. GVR
Is it possible to get a virtual tour of the flex rooms, aside from the small unit? Taking a virtual tour of the main house was extremely beneficial in giving me a sense of space and layout. While I agree the flex rooms are far more basic, I would like to see if the larger bonus room (15.6' by 40') would suit some of my spillover needs; I am already sold on the main unit. I am also hoping the larger flex rooms will be on display at the Dover, DE location.
I would like to have an i-house installed on the back half of our 2 acre property. The problem is that the access to the back is only 12 feet wide, does this mean that an i-house can not be delivered and installed?
Guys, I've seen a number of iquiries about garages over the past month or so and I know you guys are working on it. I live in chicago and I know that a prefab garage design similar to your flex units would be pretty popular if the right price point is achieved. Because of the small lots that are typical in a big city, and given that many of the streets in chicago have garages off of the back ally's, utilizing a flexible roof deck would be very appealing as it would give home owners additional outdoor living space. A number of newer high end homes in the city have garages with roof decks, however, I suspect that the cost of these are pretty high and timeline to get them constructed relatively lengthy. In addition, a garage with a flex space above (i.e. an inlaw suite, loft, or office) would also be popular if zoning requirements would allow it.
Do you have any idea when the Perris facility will be open? Calif is a large state something central sure would be nice.
Also what is the ceiling height in the Flex units.
Hi, could you please tell me the weight limitation for the Flex Sundeck? What about if two units are combined? Would it be safe to use for social gatherings? Thanks.
Just got a contract on my old house and would like to buy an i house. Can I do that yet? If not, when do you think that will be a reality..... Make my dream come true fellas!!!!
I'm not sure how aging-in-place design would be different from ADA compliant but perhaps an i-house with options such as zero thresholds - curbless shower, visitablility features such as no stairs to at least one door, wider doors and hallways; grab bars, variable counter tops in the kitchen, lower ones in the bathroom, lower windows, nonslip floors, higher toilets, and so on - could be made available as a package and not custom design?
Thanks so much for your reply! I have looked into finding a position at a manufacturing facility, but unfortunately there are not any located near Auburn. Thanks for your advice, and if you ever need any help with some grunt work or are going to be in the area with the i-house let me know!
I am so excited to finally see your design! I am an architecture student at Auburn University in Auburn, AL and an aspiring architect for homes like the i-house. I am not sure if you are aware of the work at the Rural Studio at Auburn University, but the designs are similar to your's with the i-house. I have always wanted to "redesign" a trailer (after living in one for a while now), while my peers hope to one day design sky scrapers. I was wondering what type of advice you would give me in getting involved in this type of architecture while I am still in school. I am eager to begin learning and getting involved with this exciting new type of work!
1. My county is requiring residential fire sprinklers in all new homes built. Can the i-house and flexes be built with a fire sprinkler system incorporated?
2. How do I get copies of the plans (i-house I Flex II Layout D)? I need two copies of complete architectural/structural plans to apply for building permits.
3. When might the Fredricksburg, VA site be open to tour?
4. Which layouts (i-house I/II, Flexes) are available for touring at the Knoxville site, and what are the hours?
I have owned a mobile home as well I now own a home. The one thing that always bothers me even in houses is the depth of the kitchen sink or no sink in the utility room (washer & dryer room). I do hope that the models have large sink it is so much easier to wash those big pots and pans. Those small sinks just don't cut it. I do hope that the plumbing is done with conventional housing plumbing and fixtures. In the past; the minute I mentioned a repair to a plumber and mentioned that is was a mobile home several of them stated they didn't work on mobile homes. I would home that now the mobile homes and ihouse are in line with conventional stick built or modular homes. Now back to those larger kitchen sinks and utility sinks hope they are included on the ihouse.
Hello; I am somewhat concerned about the roof seal in the "V" catchment area. How do you propose to waterproof this this section ? Especially in those rainy states such as florida and western washington. I am anxious to see a i home and I would consider purchasing a unit. GVR
Hey guys great concept. Waiting anxiously for the model home tour in Fredricksburg VA but was wondering if there is a possibility of having a bath tub included in a custom build. Please consider a DIY option and shipping for out of country for the future. My dad is a civil engineer, built his own house. My nephew is a mechanical engineer and I think my family can use this concept for retiring back home to St Lucia WI in an environmentally conscious high tech low cost space. I love the ability to add on later. It may enable my family to pay cash for the units and add on as financially feasible and necessary. Thanx guys I am looking to begin building, in the US, within the next 2 years and I like i-house concept a great deal keep up the good work and dont be afraid to expand the line, you will have the demand trust me. My family alone could buy 20 to 30 for a development project we are considering.
Your website is pretty clear in helping me to understand all of the costs and options. However, I need to know more about site costs. Is this something you estimate/bid and take care of? Or do I need to do that bit on my own, and how much should one estimate for it? (even a range would be helpful).
Thank you.
Understanding that all lots and views are not the same, is it possible to reverse the floorplan so that the windows are on the opposite side to maxamize or minimize what you are looking at.
This question was going to be asked sooner or later, so here it is. Are there any plans for offering a section or double I-house, that being offer the combining of two 15-fott wide section together. I could see wher this would widen the appeal and offer much more living area.
Compatibility, Merging I-House w/ Flex Units, & New Models
1. Is there anyway to submit a plot map and sketch of desired layout to run the idea past someone who can answer if it will work or not?
2. Does Clayton lay down concrete foundation for the buildings? Also, what other prep work is required before the buildings arive?
3. I've decided that I prefer a 3 bedroom enclosed together and to do that I would want to merge a Flex building to the I-House. Is this something Clayton can make happen without me needing to hire a contractor to merge buildings? Approximately how much extra would this kind of modification cost?
4. I have read various references in the blogs about new models and options becoming available in the upcoming months. Can you be more specific as to what month we can expect to see this?
Lastly, you guys are great. I know many times you have repeated yourselves over and over for all of us and you patience hasn't gone unnoticed. Thank you for connecting to the public and taking the time to answer everyone's questions. Keep up the good work guys!
In Minnesota it gets bitterly cold for months at a time. Most construction requires heated basements so utilities (water and gas lines) are safe from freezing. Can i-houses be placed on basements. Also can the "detached" bonus room be attached, so you don't have to go out in the cold to use the room? Are you coming to Rochester, Minnesota?
Have you considered the use of solar tubes in the i-house? I am a housing consultant that works for Clayton and think that solar tubes for lighting would be a great feature to add. I am pumped about this innovative design and to be working for a company that has made a commitment to be enviromentally friendly. I hope to see some of the green features unique to the i-house become available on all of the homes we offer. When we build a community of i-houses I think it would be great to install a wind turbine that the residents could have co-op ownership of.
I know someone has asked if interior room dimensions can be posted but I have not seen them. I am interested in the dimensions of the Flex II and iHouse II. I have printed the floorplans and used a ruler to estimate them but it's imprecise to say the least.
Can you post a floorplan(s) with some of the major dimensions? Thanks.
At the risk of repeating so many questions, I was wondering if the Ihouse is available in Ann Arbor, MI. I believe that it is because I can see the "Build My i-house", but figured it would not hurt to check.
Another questions I have is how long does the process from ordering to living in the ihouse take currently? Is there a waiting list to get these homes?
As a person whose had multiple questions I appreciate your time.I have a local Calif. Clayton dealer that is sharing my interest so we might make a field trip. Anyway , I was wondering if I do this in stages,doing as little as possible at first so I can live on my property . When I purchase another Flex unit I will inccur an additional transport fee. Is it financially smarter then to do all it at once rather than as needed. Will this save money or do you plan to have a repeat buyer incentive. Decisions decisions...
Is replacing the fiberglass shower with tile an optional upgrade just like the kitchen backsplash? I think that would give the bathrooms a substantial upgraded look without a lot of additional cost. The shower doors should also be upgradable to a higher end look. Again, it's make a huge difference at a minimum upgrade cost.
What is the snow load that these houses can handle?
If for instance I decided to place a unit in Maple Falls, Wa 98266;
I would want to be sure it could handle the anticipated snow load for this
area. . .thanks ahead for your response.
If I wanted to purchase an ihouse and have it brought to a port in the continental U.S. can I pay to have it shipped to Hawaii? What do you recommend I should do for set up? Do you know of anyone in Hawaii?
Someone else basically asked this question but I was thinking of doing a different layout than an L-shape.
I was thinking of putting a Flex II next to the iHouse II on the side but about 10' away from it and building a 2-story structure that bridges between the two of them. The entrance from the iHouse would be where the single-wide window is by the refrigerator. The Flex II entrance would be its designed entrance.
The 2-story structure would be about 10'x10' or 12'x12' square and would be similar to Rocio Romero's 1.5-story LVT except that I would have an interior circular staircase for roof access to the top of the Flex II instead of relying on an exterior staircase.
People would access the house through this 2-story structure instead of directly into the living room of the iHouse. This would be a much more visually appealing entryway. Also, it would allow for a coat closet (probably two, one on either side of the entrance for symmetry.) It would allow the two kids' bedrooms in the Flex II to be separated from the master bedroom and study in the main iHouse II. I could go with a stained concrete floor or slate tiles and then use passive solar to warm it.
Everything I've read about the "labeled vs. installed" r-value on fiberglass show that a typical installed r-19 batt will only have an R13.7 when installed in a typical wall cavity. In trying to be "eco-freindly" and/or "green" - why go fiberglass?
I was looking at the plans and really liked the idea of the L shaped model (larger main building with the basic sized flex space with the rooftop deck). I was wondering what the logistics would be to have that deck space between the two units glassed in in a sun room type fashion I was wondering because where I live has somewhat cold winters, hot, humid summers, and pretty frequent rain. It would make it easier to go between the main unit and flex unit without having to worry about what the weather is that day. Any suggestions?
I have selected iHouse II Flex II Layout E. Would like to build in or near Charlotte, NC. Do I need to acquire the land first or do you have plans to expand to other parts of the country?
I really like the new video you have on this site and would like to know if I can embed this on my website (www.rationalwalk.com) where I often write about Berkshire Hathaway subsidiaries.
While I live in an urban area presently where an i-house is not a possibility, I am very interested in potentially building a vacation home at some point and this could be a perfect solution. Great job!
Can or will the ihouse be built with a generator plug so that an individual can shut the main power off, plug in the generator for emergency power should one need emergency power such is the case for those living in hurricane prone areas of the south east or any area that inclement weather may cause one to lose power. This would be a nice feature to have and auxiliary plug already wired to the ihouse so that the homeowner could just throw the main and plug up the generator. Thanks
I am unable to figure out the demensions of the standard rear deck on the I-House II. I'm sure it is 15.6 by something. Can you advise? I need the size to measure for placement on my site. Thanks
I was finally able to view the Knox model in person on Saturday. I must say that overall I was pleased with what I found. The design and overall appearance was very pleasing to the eye. I was not impressed by the master bath. The shower though nice in size was very generic using only a fiberglass surround. I would be much happier using a contemporary tile or stone for the shower. The doors throughout the interior were very cheap hollow luan plywood and louvers that I thought dissappeared in the 70's. It would be great if they could incorporate a small wood or gas fireplace in the livingroom area but space is very limited. The Flex unit was awsome and the rooftop deck was breathtaking. My 2 younger daughters were hopeing I could load it in the truck and bring it home.
If you plan to visit the Knox Model it would be best to simply spend an additional hour driving and go to Bean Station Tn. where they have the 2 bedroom model set up and the factory is onsite. The sales person in Knox. was great but was unable to answer many of my questions but did provide me with contacts to answer my questions. I wish they had provided more access to the underbelly, it was so low to the ground it was impossible to view and access to plumbing or other repairs underneath would be a difficult task to access. I plan to visit Bean Station soon in hopes of getting my other questions answered. Knox was a great tour but leaves much to the be discovered. I'm very very interested in this concept and plan to continue working with Clayton Homes to bring my idea's and my I-House into reality.
Great concept guy's, Thanks for all your efforts, Future I-House Family
Would like to put a configuration of the I house on Long Island in the bahamas. Does construction meet Miami Dade hurricane code? Can the units be sent in shipping containers? Or be set up/configured for shipping during construction?
Sorry--even after the long posting earlier--I forgot two questions.
1. Would it be possible to put a small kitchenette in the auxiliary model. Nothing big--but maybe a small sink, microwave, 2 burner hot plate and mini-fridge? Could that possibly be offered as an option--or could the electric service in the unit at least support that--as well as regular uses like lighting, a computer and a stereo at the same time (making it a self-supporting guest-room or mother-in-law unit)?
2. Have you considered offering a Murphy bed option for the auxiliary unit--thereby allowing it to be used for a multitude of purposes?
1. Is it possible to add more than the 2 sets of solar panels to make the homes come closer to electric self-sufficiency?
2. What is the expected average electric usage per unit--broken down by unit type?
3. Is the tankless hot water heater gas or electric?
3a. If it's gas--is there an option for an electric model?
4. It doesn't mention a tankless water heater for the smaller auxiliary unit. How do you expect to heat the water for that unit? If it can have it's own tankless water heater--what is the cost?
5. How configurable are the interiors? You speak of modular units allowing you to have any configuration you desire--but can we change the size of a room--say making the master bedroom larger, or the walk in closet smaller--as long as the over-all interior fits within the shell?
6. You talk about a rainwater collection system--but no mention is made on the optional cost check-list. Is it included in the cost of the main building? If not--how much more is it?
6a. What about the rain water collection system for the auxiliary building? Is it possible, and if so, at what additional cost?
6b. If the rain water collection system IS available on the auxiliary unit as well--can it be used under the optional roof system that allows you to turn the rooftop into a patio?
7. What storm stresses are the buildings engineered to with-stand? (winds, snow weight, etc)
8. How are the buildings wired? Are they set up to allow for easy addition of extra wire pairs if you wanted to add extra electric circuits or video cables?
What are the differences structurally between an i-House built to MOD code and if one was built to HUD code? Any advantages and/or disadvantages betwwen the two?
Are there any purchased, inhabited, privately owned i-houses yet? If so it would be nice to see a gallery where owners can post pictures of their i-houses. Perhaps a forum could be set up so people could ask and exchange info, especially between current owners and future owners.
I have chosen the i-house II Flex I Layout B, but can't seem to pull up a price. The only extras that we would want are the Stacable Washer and Dryer. Provided the i house features list are the standard items.
We will probably pay cash for the home, so we need to figure in the cost for permits, and incidentals for San Diego.
What is the expected useful life of the house exterior and the roof? What warranty is offered from Clayton or the manfacturers of the siding and roof material?
I live in northern Vermont and love the i-house idea. My question is would the i-house be able to survive a Vermont winter (boatloads of heavy snow) and might it be available up here in the next few years??
In Los Angeles County and in many others in CA,including most HOA, the minimum sq footage for primary residence is 1250 sq ft this does not include additional buildings but the intial building. What's the plan to meet these requirements?
I have a samll lot and building area the max lenght for the cabin would be around 38ft. Will there be new smaller 1 bedroom models in the future? 900 sq ft and less? Lofts?
Are you trying to make the i-house available in upstate New York at all? It seems to me that the large open areas would be ideal for this type of structure. Is there a timetable as to when it can be available in the Mid Hudson Valley zip code 12561?
Thank you.
I really like the i-House II bedroom layout: Master, walk-in closet, bath, 2nd bedroom. Can the floor plan of the Flex II be changed so it has the same layout? And can the size of the deck between the i-House and Flex be adjusted? I think I'll need one a little smaller in order to fit on my lot.
I'm a big fan of the i-house II Flex II layout D configuration. My only hestitation is the open deck between the i-house and Flex. I don't want my guests in the Flex braving 40 degree temps and snow in order to make it to the kitchen for breakfast.
1) Are there enclosure options for the deck? A glassed in sunroom would be nice.
2) Is if feasible to remove the deck join the i-house and Flex directly?
I know the windows are Low E thermal pane, but or they double pane or triple pane windows? And what gas is on the inside of these that produce the Low E effect?
Is the Knoxville display indoors or outdoors. I was wondering about viewing it in inclimate weather? Also is it a 1 or 2 bedroom layout? Does the display include a flex unit on site as well?
Does Clayton have plans to wire the i-houses for built-in surround sound systems, stereo throughout and exterior speakers, internet and home security......?
Hopefully there will come a day when a central computer operated by a remote control will be part of these homes and allow the homeowner to control all the functions of the house from HVAC, lighting, security, etc...
This is a quote from a lender in my area offering 100% financing " The CHIP loan is for permanent financing only. It cannot be used for construction financing. Also, it cannot be used for mobile home financing. It can be used for modular financing, however, the builder must agree not to receive any funds until the structure is up and the CO (certificate of occupancy) has been issued by the city. So, the builder can't receive funds until closing."
I am interested in creating a development w/ 15 to 20 homes, a commons and some commercial space and am considering the ihouse. have you seen this done yet with your product?
I live in Barbados and am part of a group of five or six people who are currently researching to find sustainable, affordable eco-friendly buildings. We wish to build a community together with an eye to the future as we will retire in the next decade. I would be interested to hear the answers to several questions:
Are i-houses are suitable for a hot tropical climate? Factors to consider would be the heat of the day (85-90 degrees F), humidity, ventilation and sometimes heavy rainfall.
Also, what about hurricane proofing?
Would you be prepared to ship overseas and could this be done by regular shipping containers or would it take customised packing?
What materials are used (thinking about any repairs that might come up).
Would it be relatively easy to erect a house without necessitating an expert from your company?
The houses look very interesting and attractive and we are looking forward to your response.
We live in Wyoming and can easily experience single digit or lower winter temps that last for 6 weeks or more, with daily lows at -40 f. Along with low temps we expect 3-5 feet of snow accumulation. It seems to us that the roof system and drainage would have real problems under these circumstances. We also wonder about snow loads. I think local codes call for at least 90 lbs./s.i. Can the iHouse deal with such harsh conditions?
Thank you for this opportunity you are giving us,the perspective home builders, a forum with you. It will probably give you better insight of consumer needs and therefore more sales. I was wondering why a 15 foot width was decided on. Is it possible to design and transport something a little wider even 18 ft. would make interior homeplanning easier? I wouldn't even mind just having 3 flex units arranged in my desired u-shape if utility hookups could be done at the factory and I could install my own cabinetry per plans. One of my problems with modular floorplans is a lack of imput from me on what I want as far as flow of my home and choices of cabinetry and accesories. We are not all modernist. I want on eclectic home.
I was wondering about the foundation. I spoke with a representative who told me that the foundation is included in the cost of the house. I then read the blogs and noticed something about the foundation only being skirting, not a basement. Is this correct?
If so, would your company be able to make the foundation a basement? Do you have an estimate of what that would cost for the larger model? I just need an idea.
I think someone may have already asked, but does the cost of the various models include installation and set up or is that extra? I know that delivery is extra, but what about set up?
I love the house but often find what looks affordable isn't - could comment on other prefabs but won't. Without any spin and no wishy washy answer what is the estimated complete cost without land for a turn key option C house ( all the options) on the east coast.
How about the following?
would like to include a wood burning or other stand alone energy efficient stove - where in the living room?
flex room - kitchenette as an option?
how about a garage - stripped down flex with a door on the end?
how about a metal roof - know its expensive but how much
when is the Dover house going to be done - I'm in PA but would drive to see it
once again love the house
Maybe this has been addressed already, but why are there no closets in the i-house? The lack of storage space doesn't make it very practical. Otherwise, I think it's a fine idea and would even consider having one built.
After being passed around five times on the phone and no one seems to know what I am talking about. You show on your schedule a date of July 15 in San Diego to view the Ihouse. I would like to know where, in San Diego, I will be able to view it.
Hi, the ihouseII seems to show 2 extra windows in the floor plan layout that don't appear in the 3D model - one in master bedroom in one in the living room. Actually they are not seen from the interior views either. They are not listed as options. Are they standard or how much extra are they.
Can you retro-fit an i-house with additional spaces
Will the modularity of your design allow the retro-fitting or addition of space to my i-house, perhaps even years after construction/installation. For example, can a person start with a one bedroom i-house and later add a bedroom...or two?
I am personally interested in the efficient, green, and economical benefits of your i-house system, however, my greatest interest is in collaboration and integration of your housing systems with our "aging in place" health care technologies and partners.
The need to provide the baby boomers the means to "Age in place" is critical. Health and nursing home experts report that the U.S. can not build enough nursing homes to provide for the needs of the ever increasing aged population. Your i-house is a solution for the needs of the industry that is growing up around this need.
I am a physician, consultant, and entrepreneur owner of CatalystMD (Catalyst Medical Developments). CatalystMD is connecting best of breed technologies from companies like Intel, Microsoft, and companies like yours. We are also developing technologies built around intelligent living systems, wireless medical devices and sensors, and telehealth enabled care environments.
I would love to talk with you about the possibilities of combining our ideas and providing a solution that allows our mothers and fathers to age with safety, economy, and dignity.
What size and weight are the modules ? Does the pier foundation system meet CA building codes ? How do we get one of your folks to verify that you can place the home on our lot. How do banks feel about loaning money on these homes ?
Hey guys!
Just a quick question for you. I am a person who loves to entertain and really would want a large area for dining in the main part of the house. Therefore is it possible in the larger i-house to adapt the interior structure, for instance eliminating the second bedroom and moving the kitchen against the bathroom wall thereby expanding the living area? I would add on a Flex building to provide more bedrooms etc.Or perhaps you guys have a better idea. I would love to hear what you come up with!
From the drawings, it looks like the house would have to be oriented north and south to utilize the solar panel, which would not be the best from a passive solar gain perspective. Could the house be oriented east-west and the panel put on a tracker?
I am re-locating from the UK to Florida in the New Year and the i-house looks ideal. Is it more or less a similar size to a regular static home so could be sited on most static home parks? Also would the flex be able to support a hot tub on the roof?
I was intrigued by your design, but it seemed a little small for our family of four. I talked to an architect friend and asked what she would do. She suggested possibly mating it to our current dwelling, and upgrading the insulation on the old house and other changes to make it match up. We currently have a fairly tiny three-bed one bath house, and given that just adding a bath from scratch is about $60k, this could work for us! Anyhow, thanks for reading.
we are very interested at ROYAL DOLPHIN CREATIONS, a general contracting company with hawaii and california licenses, in green/affordable building. you have an excellent concept. we are working with a cement/dome eco-home company on the big island already, the first house is in escrow. there is a big government/community interest in affordable/eco housing in hawaii.
there are hawaiian homelands laws that help hawaiians into this kind of housing. we live in maui and work primarily in maui, at present. there is currently quite a bit of building activity here regardless of the economy. catchment and off-grid are in demand here. please consider our comments and e-mail or give us a call. we can get more specific that way. thank you, john and viktoria grover. oh yeah, viktoria is a designer and feng shui consultant. health and prosperity.
I'm interested in a floorplan with dual master bedroom suites. Is it possible to join two of the I-house IIs side by side making a "double wide" i-house? I would like to form one single structure that would have mirrored master suites, and remove the extra kitchen to have a larger living area an a full dinning room.
Also, is there an estimate on when the next generation of i-houses will be premiered?
Would you consider having 1 i-house I & one Flex II (or 2-3 Flex II reorganised) available to export to Canada (South shore of Montreal, Québec province), just north of NY state border.
I should go on with buying an afordable high style house within 6-8 months. This project would be erected roughly half way between Montreal and the border (35 minutes drive each way).
Can Clayton corporation evaluate this possibility. In this concept, my house could become a showcase platform for the Eastern Canada potential (Greater Montreal only have 2.5 millions people).
Very serious
Hoping from you, please accept my best regards from the north.
Since Oklahoma is notorius for tornados, would the ihouse withstand a F5 tornado? Is it built on a concrete slab? Do you guys plan to put a ihouse in Oklahoma for tours? Myself and my boyfriend are very interested in owning an I-house, this would fit our lifestyle tremendously, and our budget.
What makes the i-house different in structure from a trailer?
I love the concept, but I am wondering how the i-house feels...I had friends in college that lived in some off-campus trailer parks during school...I wasn't impressed with the overall feel of them (flimsy, noise transmitted easily from one area to the other, when the HVAC kicked in you definitely knew when it was running...noise level went up)....What sets the ihouse apart in terms of the way it's built, noise transmission, etc...that will give it more the feel of a solidly built house and less of a feel of a mobile home?
I like the idea but I want something very very solid and quiet.....Not sure how much noise a metal roof above would transmit noise through the unit during rain, etc..
I expect I will be one of your first customers and will be putting your design to good use in a rural area (complete with a windmill eventually).
However, while much of the discussion on this blog/forum entails customization of the design, it seems one of the most promising aspects of a popular modern modular home like this is the possibility an accessory market. Not unlike what exists for the iphone and ipod for example. It seems like a 3rd party could easily start making a kit for the porch sail that everyone keeps asking about. Or a screen system. Or fill in the blank with whatever I am not thinking of.
Anyway, my question is whether Clayton is envisioning such an accessory market and/or would they allow/encourage it? Of course it really depends on whether the design itself takes off. Here is hoping it will!
Interested is finding out if there are any existing i-homes in the Dallas/Ft.Worth area. These i-homes are perfect for me and my new wife and I cant possibly think of a more appealing first home.
I have a lot in a subdivision. Is this considered a mobile home or a modular home when it comes to restrictions on mobile homes in counties, cities, and subdivisions?
My lot is outside Asheville. Can these be delivered from to WNC?
I have been talking to a few friends and we are very interested in purchasing a few different models and constructing them on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. We already own several plots of land and have been looking for the right homes to build here. The i-house seems to be a great concept and a good fit for the area. Our only big concern at this point is how well these homes will survive the high winds of a hurricane. Our idea is to construct a small community centered around being self sufficient and leaving as small a foot print on this beautiful island as possible. We all have different backgrounds which will be helpful in trying to complete this project. Our goal is to generate our own power via wind and solar. Collect and produce our own water via reverse osmosis from the ocean and rain water. I look forward to working with the team at i-house and encourage anyone that may have some advice for us or interest in our project to drop us a line.
Has there been any movement toward getting the i-House shipped into western NC? I contacted Rep. Heath Shuler to see if he could work to get a waiver for this product, but have not heard back from his office as of yet.
I work at a high school that is creating an environmental education program that will be integrated in all of our subjects. This house would be an incredible opportunity for our students to learn first-hand about living green.
Has the ihouse been used as an office space yet? I would love to have it put on our school property as our environmental education office. I'm not sure how feasible that is with septic management, etc. We have temporary classroom buildings, but they don't have bathrooms.
Do you think there might be a way to use the ihouse in this fashion?
I like the look of the i-house but to be fair, I like the MKD ones better. Since she just went out of business this week, perhaps you can work a deal to build her designs but at your price points. Could be a win for everyone - you, her and your customers.
do you think you'll add an wind turbine option to replace solar panels in the near future?
One suggestion for the website. Add a section with a map of all the different showrooms with an actual iHouse accross america. A link to a map with the best areas for solar power would be great as well.
I haven't been this excited about a pre-fab house before, you guys did a wonderful job.
The i-house Web site gives price quotes for the i-house. Do you know if I would need to pay state sales tax in addition to what is quoted here on the site?
I am in the process of configuring my I-House but there are no specifics on the appliance options. Are you going to post specs or at least model numbers for these items so that we may determine configuration compatibility?
My question is, I want to built i house with 4 plus bedrooms and 2 plus baths with approximately 2000sft area.I want to have i house in chicago area .Also please let me know if i can also have basement below this i house.
Hi, Great work you guys. Very cool. Sorry if already discussed but is the ihouse a manufactured HUD home or modular / prefab? I own a trailer park and understand there is a big difference particulalry when it comes to lenders.
Hey, I think is very nice project. I love this design.
is special for latino community. but I have thiferent questions.
1- that coming with a basement?
2- laundry room.
3- Im from Minnesota. you i-house work with this winter. you know? freeze and snow.
4- you have anyone speak spanish?
thak
It is good to get to talk to architects besides some of my college buddies now. I have an architectural degree from Oklahoma University, but am now retired.
To cut to the chase, I have been extremely intrigued by the " i house " design, and my wife and I plan to buy next August when we have the needed money for the build. I have been mesmerized by the i house and it's bonus room "L configuration" mostly, and noticed on the "beginning" tour of that plan that the bonus room "just for a flash" showed a very elegant tarp type covering over the bonus room covered upper deck? Do I have to figure out how to get the canopy on my own, or can you guys "arrange" for us to also have that? We really, really want the canopy...
Landscaping, Driveway, Solar Panels, Garages and Attaching Flex I to i-House
When financing an i-House, can it be done so that driveway and landscaping is incorporated into the total mortgage? If so, do you provide any options or resources for landscaping and adding a driveway?
I have also seen many bloggers write in regards to a garage. I am one of the many that would be interested in purchasing a two car garage that would fit the i-House and would love to be informed once one is available.
In regards to the solar panel options, can those be easily installed at a later time or are they built with the home and unavailable at a later time? Being in Oregon, I have reservations about the substantial added cost in a rainy area such as here. Yet, I would be interested in purchasing them over the long run and having them installed later. If I decided to wait on the solar panels would I still be able to receive the same tax benefits of "going green" with the other energy efficient items in the house?
Lastly, as many others have mentioned as well, I would like to have a 3 bedroom/ 2 bath. I would like to have the Flex I attached to the 2 bedroom i-house via a small (2') hallway built between the hallway of the i-house (just to the left of the rain catcher) to the front entrance of the flex I. Is this possible and would Clayton be able to build it this way or would I have to have it done on my own to connect the i-house to the flex I?
I am sold on the i-house and very interested in knowing as much as I can about it. I have property in Southern Oregon (outside of Klamath Falls) that I am actively working to find a house for. I think I've finally found that home with the i-house and flex designs. I am anxious to tour the home and while I'm in Northern California (Alameda) right now, I can't be in Sacramento for the June 15th tour. Is it possible to arrange another date for a tour?
Also, what is the waiting time from ordering a design and delivery?
In the i-house I configuration, where is the washer and dryer supposed to be? I see it in the i-house II, but I can't find it in any of the pictures for the i-house I config.
We are looking to relocate to northern Wisconsin. What I don't understand is what it cannot be transported to the area of Eagle Rivier. Is building codes, transportation issues, or no distributorship?
Also, is this concept conducive to residential turbine energy?
As many we would entertain this concept if it was available with basement and garage units.
a) Can the internal wall configuration be changed so that the ~9 foot wide second bedroom is eliminated and used first to add ~3 feet to the existing bathroom (in order to fit a 2nd sink and allow more bathroom storage) and second to use the remaining ~6 feet as the new laundry room with a work sink and the re-located washer dryer (in order to free up the walk-in closet off the main bedroom for more clothes storage)?
b) Can the external wall configuration be changed so that the flex units can be joined to and accessed directly off the main unit instead of being separated by an exposed deck?
Is there any way to add a walk-in closet to i-house I floorplan (similar to i-house II) seeing as there is no closet space for master bedroom? I do not like the idea of adding cabinets around the bed and much prefer an actual closet. I really like the floorplan of i-house I. Thanks.
Hi! We are interested in using the Flex as a mother in law suite to the i house. Is it possible to have the two bedroom model flex built as a one bedroom with kitchen? Thanks alot!
In reading the blogs you often refer to the home being "pier set". What exactly is this? Also how is the floor supported, by a steel frame as under a mobile home, or does the i-house have conventional floor joist?
Hi,I'm going to purchase a i-house as soon as the approvals are granted. I would like to know if the second bedroom in the i-houseII can be eliminated and the kitchen moved to that space? Also can a smaller door window configuration replace the present one in the master bedroom? What is the optimum orientation north-south for the i-houseII combined with the flexII? Thanks.
I agree with etcullis. I have also looked at the Kaufman and Romeo modular homes (our home in St. Louis is only a couple hours away from Romeo's HQ.) The pitch with them is that it's a cheaper way to get an "architect designed" home. Perhaps so, but they are still darned costly.
The iHouse is the only thing I have seen that is reasonably cost effective. I think the key will be to offer different variants so there are not 10,000 identical ones scattered across the country.
I also think you need to get a partner in the Caribbean or Hawaii because the whole green angle is more valuable in an island setting.
I've been looking at Michelle Kaufman's and Rocio Romero's designs for some time...but they have always seemed a little out of my reach ($) and/or unavailable in the Mid-Atlantic. At first your main house design was a little cramped to my eyes...but I've come around! I have fallen in love. The various flex units accomodate my other needs (guests, storage, etc.) My question is with regards to screening. According to the Andersen website, the windows have full screens available. However, I do not see them in your videos. Is that just for filming purposes, or do screens for the windows come with the package?
We currently belong to a yacht club that leases land from a state park. It is a 100-family, gated community. The state park allows trailers and until recently, they had to be pulled out and stored every winter. Twenty years ago the park began to allow the trailers to stay-put over the winter and we now have huge, more permanent deck structures springing up. I would love an i-house! My question is with regards to how the house is delivered? Is it permanent once placed or could it be moved if necessary? The park does not allow us concrete slabs, is this a requirement for placement?
Two quick questions the 2 kw notation per solar panel is that sufficent to take the home off the grid? and is that number a potiential output or a guaranteed certified output for the pannels that everyone can expect?
First let me say that I love the Idea of the I home,
My question is can a mirrior of the home less the kitchen be built for future expansion so as the core has 4 bedrooms and 2 baths and encompass a large family room?
I am looking for a bit bigger home (3 beds/2.5 baths). The current models are great for 2nd home owners / vacationers / starter homes.
I am considering a planned "green community" on a 5 acre tract of land with live resaca water. I would buy one for myself and possibly combine your current layouts with options for larger ones too.
This area is growing and booming, at least in this segment; and I can see a tremendous opportunity for developing your business.
Please let me know when you have a larger plan and if interested
Thanks so much and I sincerely look forward to working with you guys as this is what I have been looking for.
Is there any way to customize the outdoor spaces of the i-house? I would specifically like the option of screening one of the decks as a porch. Also, do you have any plans to make a slightly larger version? It would be great for me to have something closer to 2000 square feet, with room for a recording studio.
Inclusions/exclusions & Caribbean or other "off-shore" location
I got the impression from reading your reply to one of the other posts that your team is involved with the delivery and installation. I am assuming the posted price is FOB and that we have to pay for delivery and site preparation. Do we pay for mounting to the foundation or is that part of the price?
Can I have it delivered and installed in the Caribbean such as U.S.V.I. or Bahamas or Bermuda? If not, why?
When logging into www.claytonihouse.com, the orange square that becomes the dot of the i transforms into a square transom window, with a fixed rectangular below it forming the body of the i. That window is evident in the 360 walk thru but is not on any of the typical layouts or an option when configuring. Will this window be included or is it a "show-house only" item?
Also, I can not find any interior dimensions to the i-House (1 or 2), only general width and length measurements of the exterior. When will you provide this information on you site? I don't want to sound too critical - it's a great design and we will be putting one on our property near Palacios, Texas after we see the model in Austin! Thanks in advance!
Is it possible to add some large windows to the i-house and the small added room to take advantage of the view and permit more light to come into them?
My compliments to your company even if I don't buy one which I hope to do, I certainly will buy stock.
I live in Wilmington North Carolina. Does the iHouse meet local hurricane building standards? My location would be a several miles from the coast, not on the beach.
Is the wood used in framing pressure treated? We would be putting the i-house on property in northern Florida that is wet. We currently live in south Florida and have problems with with rotting wood.
I am very interested in a larger version of the i-house. I need 3 BR/2BA in the main house and the 2 room Flex (big family and plenty of guests). Are there future plans for doing this? That would literally corner the market.
I'm really excited about the iHouse and am wondering about their availability on Long Island and/or Upstate NY (Westchester County). Any plans to start building in these places soon?
Since the second generation i-house is in the works, are specs of the new line going to be posted? I would hate to purchase a home only to find out the new model has something I really wanted not in the current model.
Do you offer the option to expand the sq. ft. of solar panel on the roof of the main unit? Also, could the roof of the Flex be utilized for solar. Is this offered as an option?
Are you considering offering wind chargers/generators as part of any package?
The i-House is very compelling to me great, and I would love to put one on some land I own in West Virginia. I was wondering about your requirements for site access. For instance, my site is located down a two mile private road that has a couple of tight turns. How can I determine if the road would be sufficient for delivery of an i-House?
HI - thanks for stoking the desire for an affordable home of the future! You have done an excellent job with realizing the dream of many people. I have a few ideas that I hope you will consider. The single-wide part of the i-house can actually prevent the adoption of the i-house in some communities. Perhaps you could consider making a double-wide main house with three bedrooms and two baths. Extend the living area across the front of both sections, and perhaps add a fireplace in the middle. Instead of the flex-room addition for a living space, make it a two-car garage with the porch on top. This would attract more people with a common desire for traditional configuration in a modern style at an affordable price. Speaking of price: It seems that the price premium is too great for the i-house when compared to similar or greater houses in your line. Reducing the price to cover the green elements will make this realistically priced. You guys have done a great job with this, and your innovation will pay off in the long run. I am seriously looking at buying a couple of these for a snowbird situation when my son goes off to college. Best of luck to you, and keep up the great work!
Hello,
Love what we've seen so far about the i-house. I have two questions. In going to the "build my house" tab I couldn't find a way to select only the flex. Can you buy it separately? We would eventually like to have a couple of guest residences on our land (we were planning cabins...but these caught our eye). We would love to use the flex portion alone for this if possible. Second question. What is currently the nearest place we can see one in person to either of these two zips? 76063 or 74037? Thank you!
I sent an email a few weeks ago and have not heard back - I assume you are getting substantive response on your product. We have a 36 acre ranch in Arizona near the Grand Canyon and are looking for something just like this for our property. We currently have graded a road in and have a glorified campsite with our 30 ft. travel trailer that we use in the spring, summer, fall. It snows in the winter and temps get quite low, so we really want to have a dwelling on the property. We also would need to be off the grid - water tank, propane, solar, etc...
We have subscribed to Dwell magazine for 5 years and keep looking for something affordable. The most recent idea we entertained was the cargo container house, but if we can do this for a reasonable cost, we would definitely consider. The problem is we want something by next year - how feasible is that and who would I contact to discuss and get more information?
I heard that there would be an i house coming to Sacramento this month...but have not heard any details about specifically where or when it will be set up and ready to visit. We are anxiously awaiting its arrival since we would like to consider the house for our next home.
I am looking to add an addition to my home for an in-law apt and found the i house. Is it possible to customize the unit to attach to an existing structure? And are there any planers for dealers in the Northeast?
Likely retiring in CO/NM in next two years. Had debated on how to make a pre-existing home eco/energy friendly at a reasonable cost. Now don't have to ... You have the answer. And, your model II already shows our Ikea bedroom! If you could only fill the fridge with Trader Joe's food, we could close the deal. Keep us updated on larger models, designs that connect the "two" units and any other enhancements. We are iN - the iHouse is brilliant!
Hi!
Love the look of the homes. With the existing design in the roof, how do you prevent ice dams during the winter and then roof leakage? Also, are there options available to increase wind load and tornado reinforcement?
Finally, how do you determine if the i-house gets built on a slab or poles in the ground? Is that an owner choice or topography? Thanks! Chicago calling
I know that this home is not currently being sold in northern MN. Are there any plans to make this house usable (feasible) in a northern, snowy climate? Are there plans available to close in the space between the house and the flex area to use as possible living space year round?
Also, can this house be built using in-floor radiant heat that can be used in conjunction with an outside wood burner? We live in an area that has an abundance of trees to use as fuel and many acres of scrap wood left behind by logging.
One last question, can this house be built utilizing wind power along with solar power?
Do you have the ability to use healthy insulation, ie recycled jeans/cotton? Also, where can we see an example of color/building material options? What are the "standard materials" included? We live in eastern PA and have a 3 acre wooded lot at present. Would you build the basement as well or would we need to hire someone to do that? We would also need to install the septic system and well. Some homes like this give the option to build to 150 mph wind standards. What is your standard wind mph measurement? I had a concern about the roof design and snow-has anyone built one and gone through a significant snow storm yet? I just want to make sure I'm understanding what is all included. Thanks!
Will there be a fireplace option, if not, can that be added latter safely? Have property overlooking Stecoah Gap in NC and MUST have a fireplace. Love the idea of being off the grid as much as possible and plan to visit Maryville in the fall.
Not to discredit the design work of the current product line (which is very nice), but have you considered partnering with a nationally recognized architect like Michelle Kaufmann. To date, the manufacturers who produce her designs lack the economy of scale that someone like Clayton could offer and it shows up in their pricing ($200-300 sq. ft.).
Also, what about greater connectivity between two modules, rather than the split design you currently offer?
I have visited Clayton Homes, but am now totally convinced that the new line of energy efficient homes are meant for me. I want to be the first first-home purchaser in the 23456 zip code!!! Kathy
Hey guys! I have totally falled in love with your designs. I have a question about some of the interior stuff. When one makes a purchase of the home are there color choices and/or cabinet choices? I know the Ikea brand has a variety of designs and wasn't sure if all of the homes come with the same cabinetry and floor colors or if there were options when building.
Are these gorgeous homes available in oregon? Do you have home loans programs or work with any banks in particluar? Do you have programs to assist with finding land for home placements? are these trailer homes or are the built in factory and shipped in a whole bunch of pieces then put together onset like a puzzle?
Does the price when I configure the i-house include the price of the foundation for the house? If not, is there any estimation of the cost of it? Thanks.
I followed the link from Huffington Post and am delighted by the design of your homes!
I especially love the Flex rooms! My partner and I both work from home, so I could see two side-by side Flex I's as being perfect for a home office and a music recording studio!
Some people dream of designing and building their own eco-dwelling but I would much prefer the i-house approach to creating the perfect eco-home. Just make some choices on floor plans and cabinet finishes and have the darn thing delivered!
I am completely blown away by the layout and the 360 degree virtual tour. But then i'm not at all surprised... its what we have come to expect from a Berkshire Hathaway owned companies!
Couple of questions:
- Can the i-house be installed in NJ?
- would a i-house in NJ be able to provide same energy efficiency and utility cost savings as say a i-hous in a sunny place like Florida or Texas?
- how resistant is i-house to fire? does it meet fire safety standards of NJ?
- Also, how does your pricing work? Is it a standard price list that you can email me?
- one last question... do you have a model i-house installed and operational in NY or NJ area?
I saw the i-house concept today and I think the look and idea are great! I saw earlier blog posts regarding possible future garage ideas possible to come later.
I was looking at carports that could go with the look of the home. What I found is that an arch or a one-slope design did not detract from the look. I am eager to see what parking solutions that you would come up with.
I was excited to see such a wonderful concept...However, I live in LA, where hurricanes are recurrent. How stable are these homes to high winds and water? Also, do they come in extra square footage, as I'd like at least a 4 bd/2 bth. Thanks for any extra info!!
What sort of options are available regarding wiring the house for network connectivity in the rooms for computers, tvs, security systems, etc?
Can a Cat6 infrastructure be created during the build process so there are drops next to all the electrical outlets and all the wires run to a central "server" room location, like the utility closet or other room of choice?
If this isn't possible, is there crawl space in the attic or under the house that can be accessed to create your own home network infrastructure or if wanted speaker wires, av equipment, home security set-ups etc?
How open is this design for the home owner so it can be built into the home at the factory or afterward on site?
How flexible are the house configuration? For instance, is it possible to remove the second bedroom from plan 2 and extend the kitchen/livingroom? If so, how does that effect cost?
Hi I am writing you from Los Angeles and this is such a great product! I was wondering where I could see models of these homes available to Southern California residents? Thank you!
Other manufactured homes are designated as "recreational vehicles", because they arrive at a jobsite with their own wheels. How will loan agencies, local building departments, and insurance agencies define this type of construction?
We are looking into options for a 2BR 1BA addition to an existing home. Is it possible to buy the 2 bedroom flex unit alone without an entire new house? If so, would it have to sit on ground level or could I have it installed on my flat roof home (assuming a contractor prepares the roof and builds the stairs)
Not to be horribly negative by my first comment, I love the idea and interior design but it's just so small. Is there any possibility of a Double Wide or Triple Wide in the future? I would buy one of these in a heart beat if it weren't for the fact that the thought of raising a family in one of these leaves me with images of sequestering myself in the Flex Unit and barricading the door. My thought with this kind of house is that it’s perfect for young families that can't afford a lot but would like something really nice as well. I just can't see two people a dog and a kid or two moving around one moderately sized Living Room/Dining Room combo and squeezing through the claustrophobic hallway.
Not trying to be negative, just passing on the opinions of a market you've yet to tap.
I love the concept! Great ideas. I was wondering about storage space. I didn't notice very much closet space in the tour. Also I was wondering if the flex rooms could be placed in a different location than you have layed out also could an additional flex room be added?
Very exciting house! Financing questions: Does Clayton offer financing to construct the house? To get a mortgage through a separate lender, it used to be that a manufactured/modular home would need to have a 'certificate of attachment'. Does the ihouse come with a certificate of attachment if it is installed to fulfill whatever requirements there are for it? (just wondering in the event that you'd ever have to sell the house...so the next buyer could have an easier time.) Thanks very much!!
I have a large fan shaped lot and have a 12' x 52' mobile home with a 10' x 17' add on. Would I be able to move the old home out and install an ihouse? I live in San Diego. Linda Vista Village Trailer Park.
There is a huge ready-made market that is growing quickly and will explode soon: Boomer single women retiring alone. This topic is huge: http://www.city-data.com/forum/retirement/163806-women-retiring-alone-new-city-state.html We are a HUGE market seeking affordable homes to create communities. Women live longer, many are single, we generally get less pension/Social Security – but we want quality of life, too. We are here for a long time to come – you would be the wise leaders for this growing population. Thank you.
You've created something amazing for first time home buyers.
I love the idea of a flex room with an extra bathroom and a second floor deck, but with NJ land prices, and home prices in general, does the i-house have the ability to expand in the future? Meaning, if the land that I buy permits, could I purchase upgrades like the flex room at a later date? Also, do the homes come with some kind of warranty?
You've made your home energy efficient, but the homeowner can still waste energy through their inefficient use of your wonderful home. We, EZ-Integration, Inc., are an energy automation company in Dublin, Ohio. Our programmable control units provide for central control of the HVAC, lights, TV/Stereo, Stove, Hot water, and water usage. One of our controllers also includes an integrated home security system. The systems are all non-PC based, solid-state circuits. The system sends voice/email/text alerts to the homeowner for events such as water leaks, hi/lo temp, items left on, intrusion, fire etc. Example: When the homeowner arms their security system in "away" mode, the system automatically turns off all lights & appliances and raises/lowers the thermostat. And if it is after sunset, the system also goes into a program to make the home look "lived in". The homeowner also has full remote access and control of their home via the internet and/or iPhone. Like the rest of your home, these features used to only be available for expensive homes. But technology improvements have changed everything so that your home could now employ many of these capabilites at a very reasonable price. Certainly there is no reason not to offer an energy control package as an option. It provides more features in your homes vs. others and continues to raise the bar for everyone else to follow. We would be glad to consult with you on this technology and help you to create packages for optioning in your homes.
Gary Clark
EZ-Integration, Inc.
gclark@ez-integration.com
(614) 495-3700
I wanted to inquire about color options, both inside and outside the i-house. Are consumers able to choose wood finish, such as dark vs. light cabinetry? On the outside of the i-house are there different color options for the burnt orange i-flex and the neutral color palet of the main structure?
Wonderful job on these homes! I am really impressed!
I would like to know the demensions of all designs.... I have a lake lot and I am concerned as to the house fitting the lot due to regulations. Can you give me this information?
Personally, I will be a first time home buyer and should qualify for the current $8,000 tax credit. I am unsure of all other possible tax credits with one of these homes. In my opinion I would advertise that information and post it as another sales incentive.
The need to go outside to move between the house and the flex room seems to be (to me) a serious drawback! Has the manufacturer looked at making the connecting deck into a sunroom or plant room or something similar?
Does a single water heater serve both the house and flex room? If so, isn't hot water in the flex room a problem?
Hi!
I'd like to know what you have done to make the i-house as safe as possible in quake-prone areas, such as southern California.
My main concern is the positioning of the cabinets over the bed as shown in the Master Bedroom. Have you thought about cabinet locks as an option for these situations?
Also, does your bed space accommodate a California King sized bed?
Mary
Is there any way that the flex room could include a small kitchenette? I am thinking an apartment size fridge, two burner stove and sink. I think it would make an excellent in-law suite.
Also, I saw in another blog that other sources of electricity can be attached the house. I'm assuming that includes a powerplant? Do you get hot water from the electric panels? I'm wondering what exactly you get from using the panels...i.e., hot water, heat, electricity for your outlets? --thanks.
I love the exterior lines, but am wondering about the suitability of the roofline for snow country - specifically eastern Washington, northern Idaho and Western Montana.
I'd like to see the measurements added to the floorplans, to give an idea of the size of each structure and each room within the structures.
Sq ft is nice, but doesn't tell the whole story.
Looks great so far!
When will we be able to order in Iowa?
Could you post a list of locations where the i-house can be seen? I love the idea of high-end manufactured homes, and these sound ideal for second homes.
Another quick question: can they be put on raised foundations, for waterfront locations? How sturdy are they, for areas that might experience hurricanes?
We were excited to discover your i-house and were trying to see if it would fit our family. There are five of us and we would need the 4 bedroom option, however, after calling your company we were disappointed to discover that the flex option was not attached to the house. In the future, will this be an option?
Are you featuring such design characteristics as 3 foot doors or pocket doors, lever handles, sinks that can be rolled up to in a wheelchair, kitchen appliances easily accessed, no threasholds, handicapped ramps, higher placed electrical outlets, single handle faucets, accessible home base for a computer/internet access center and wireless access, and all those other "small" things that make life so much easier for people with disabilities...?
I really love the concept and the look of the houses. I have a close family, so i love the way the rooms flow into each other. My questions is if you offer anything with more than 2 bedrooms? We are a growing family and would be looking for something with 3 or 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms inside, without losing the Flex Room and decks. Do you offer anything like that for our area (Eastern NC)?
I am loving these designs. The more I look the more I want one.
But I am wondering if it is possible to build in phases - starting with the main unit and adding the flex unit a few years later? My husband and I don't need that much space right now, but we will when we start adding children to our family.
In order to take advantage of passive solar heating benefits, the larger glass area should be facing South, correct? The front of my lot faces North. is it possible to relocate the orientation and layout of room to "flip" the floor plan?
FYI, I have been seacrhing for this new concept and I definetly will be investigating this further. I am very excited about this and congratulations for the excellent design and concept!
Where can I find the cost of the 3 bedroom, 2 bath lay-out? What would be the expected utility costs for such a lay-out and would these costs differ drastically in Arizona compared to say Michigan?
I live in Edmonton Alberta and am very interested in your designs. The Flex Room is perfect for as a work space for my wifes business. Are you able to ship to Canada?
This is very inspiring for us. We are looking to make our first home purchase a "green" home purchase. However, it looks like the i-house is not available in RI yet. Is there any timetable as to WHEN it may become available in our area??? We are looking to buy in the next year or so in the Northern Rhode Island area...Thanks! And Great Job Designing this Eco-friendly home!
We are considering moving to central Indiana in the next twelve month or so. We have been researching modular homes for some time and will be building a modular home when we do move. What are your plans for the Indiana market? Also, the property that we own there had natural gas. I noticed that all of your appliances are electric. We are partial to gas, particularly for cooking. Do you have any gas options, or can we order without some appliances and have our own installed?
I am so impressed with your ideas and the homes. I would love to build one of these right now! These are truly innovative and inspirational. When will you come to Massachusetts? Phenomenal.