New Sustainable Florida Homes Survived Hurricane–as Nearby Homes Were Devastated–and Never Lost Power

February 22, 2024 journo

These cute little Florida townhomes are tougher than they look. While they may be as green as a budding daffodil, they have a backbone like reinforced concrete.

Built by the enterprising construction company Pearl Homes, they shook off both Hurricane Ian and Hurricane Idalia, losing power during neither, even when all surrounding structures were heavily damaged.

From smart homes that generate more energy than they consume to energy-efficient rental units that promote affordable living, Pearl Homes claims they are actively showing the world a new way to feather a nest.

Marshall Gobuty, currently Founder/CEO of Pearl Homes, built a huge fashion empire in the 80s/90s around a hugely successful line of women’s private label blue jeans, which he eventually sold to a hedge fund and retired.

He is now building communities of net-positive energy homes that together form a virtual power grid. Through this approach, they create modern, affordable communities for people to enjoy and live in, but also develop communities that are conscious of their impact and overall footprint on the environment.

The houses seen above are part of an 86-unit development called Hunter’s Point. The development includes 30 already completed and occupied units that were rated as ‘Platinum’ by Leadership in Energy Environmental Design (LEED), a third-party efficiency rating agency, and named the first net-zero, single-family modern housing development on Earth.

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Hunter’s Point also includes resort, hotel, and commercial space, right on the ocean in Cortez, Florida, although a 1,678 Sq. Ft. unit with a two-car garage runs a cool $1.5 million.

Pearl Homes’ apartment development, called The Met, offers 1 and 2 bedrooms between $1,700 and $2,000 in Bradenton, Florida. Set within walking distance of entertainment, restaurants, shopping, and event space in the Village of The Arts location, it’s also a few blocks from the Gulf.

The 200-unit development used construction materials that are good for the environment and human health, with recycled content and energy-friendly manufacturing practices, including low VOCs and no off-gassing. The apartments exceed Code-required standards for energy efficiency by 30%, meaning that bills will be lower.

Another collection of Bradenton apartments, sit for around 40% of these prices, and are meant for housing workforce members like teachers, first responders, firefighters, or a variety of medical workers. Called The EPIC, the units prioritize building methods, materials, and the implementation of in-home technology that facilitates healthier lifestyles.

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