Technology for the home has daily advances and translates into more efficient homes. More automated systems can be operated remotely. — Josh Glick
Bashista Construction has been building luxury homes in the valley for over 40 years. Partners and co-owners Josh Glick and Shane Lago, echo that that clients and architects are pushing the boundaries to meet their needs both environmentally and in design. “It’s an exciting time, and advanced technology has changed the game in what can be achieved,” states Glick. “Working with industry experts and carefully combining advancements in technology with best practices and county codes is what defines quality construction. Sometimes it’s difficult to see these kinds of standards but it shows in how a home performs.” When Bashista compares the codes in Idaho and Blaine County to other mountain resort areas, they note that the codes here more strongly parallel advances in building science and the availability of new building materials. “The state’s standards are consistent with International Building Codes, and Blaine County has advanced green building standards in recognition of the impacts of a large home’s environmental footprint on the community and the general environment,” says Glick.
Pete Schwartz leads Altitude Insulation in Ketchum, a certified green business specializing in the latest cold climate insulation methods, including blown-in insulation and spray polyurethane foam. Consequently, Schwartz keeps a close eye on current codes and anticipates future-proofing his projects. He says, “Many of the basic practices of green building have been incorporated into the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), the International Residential Code (IRC), and the International Building Code (IBC). Much of this methodology has become best practice for good builders. As global energy costs increase and resources decline, I think we’re going to be challenged to provide greater efficiency in our homes from what we see now.”
Buffalo Rixon, AIA, is a partner with the noted Ketchum architectural firm Ruscitto Latham Blanton Architectura, P.A. (RLB), and from his vantage point as an architect, he agrees that locally, codes are constantly being updated to address new building science. “New codes come out every three years and are systematically increasing the energy efficiency standards over time. As a result, new materials and assemblies are constantly evolving to meet the requirements.”
“Our clients set their energy goals in combination with the codes,” says builder Shane Lago of Bashista. “We rely on professional energy consulting services to outline how to achieve these goals. They look at the different ways it is possible and plan out the steps.”
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