The 2018 HGTV Dream Home was designed as an ambitious vision of modern coastal living, highlighting sustainable materials and smart home technology. This single-family showcase home toured several major U.S. cities before finding its permanent location.
Below is a detailed overview of where this standout property was built, how it was financed, and how it continues to influence home design today.
| Project Name | 2018 HGTV Dream Home Location | Lot Size | Key Sustainable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| HGTV Dream Home 2018 | Orcas Island, Washington, USA | Nearly 3 acres | Solar array, rainwater harvesting, high-performance insulation |
| Design-Build Team | Mithun + Meritage Homes | Custom lot grading | Passive-solar layout, reclaimed materials |
| Public Tour Cities | Las Vegas, Phoenix, Seattle | Contest winner move-in | Net-zero energy target |
| Financing Model | HGTV contest prize + builder margin | Permitted ADU potential | Smart home energy management |
Design Vision And Coastal Architecture
Architectural decisions emphasized indoor-outdoor connectivity, with deep overhangs and strategic window placement to frame views of the Salish Sea. The ceiling heights and open floor plan were crafted to maximize natural light while minimizing energy use.
Material choices favored regionally sourced wood and low-VOC finishes to support healthier indoor air quality. These design principles align with broader trends in sustainable coastal homes across the Pacific Northwest.
Site Planning And Lot Utilization
The nearly three-acre lot allowed the home to be set back from the road, preserving native vegetation and creating a buffer for privacy. Landscape architects worked to protect existing trees while introducing native plantings that require minimal irrigation.
Driveway placement and stormwater management systems were coordinated to reduce environmental impact. The result is a build that respects the steep terrain and integrates thoughtfully with the hillside.
Technology And Sustainable Systems
Solar panels and a high-efficiency geothermal system work together to move the home toward net-zero energy performance. Energy monitoring dashboards allow residents to track real-time consumption and production.
Smart thermostats, LED lighting, and advanced framing techniques further reduce the operational footprint of the house. Water conservation strategies include low-flow fixtures and a rainwater-harvesting system for irrigation.
Community Impact And Public Engagement
Touring the home in major metropolitan areas raised awareness about innovative, sustainable housing options available to a broader audience. Each stop featured local partners discussing how similar strategies can be adapted to regional climates.
Builder collaboration with local suppliers supported the regional economy and reduced transportation emissions associated with long-distance material shipping.
Key Takeaways And Recommendations
- Prioritize passive design strategies like orientation and shading to cut energy demand.
- Use durable, low-maintenance materials suited to coastal climates.
- Integrate renewable energy and smart controls from the earliest design stages.
- Coordinate site work with natural topography to minimize excavation and erosion.
- Partner with local builders and suppliers to support community resilience.
FAQ
Reader questions
Where is the HGTV Dream Home 2018 actually located?
The home is situated on Orcas Island in Washington State, overlooking the Salish Sea.
Was the home custom-built or converted from an existing structure?
It was a newly built, custom-designed single-family home created specifically for the contest winner.
Can the public visit the property in person?
No, the home is a private residence and not open for public tours.
What makes this house a model for sustainable living?
Its integrated solar, geothermal systems, rainwater harvesting, and smart technology showcase a practical path to net-zero coastal living.