Earth-Sheltered ‘Hobbitat’ in Asheville Is an Eco-Friendly Marvel for $1.6m
“Hobbitat” in Asheville, NC offers sustainable living and a unique hillside design.
According to Realtor.com, an extraordinary home built into a hillside—a “hobbitat,” if you will—in Asheville, NC, recently got a price cut.
First listed in June for $1.7 million, the two-bedroom residence has a newly lowered ask of $1,595,000.
Built in 1978, the earth-sheltered dwelling’s sustainable architecture was entirely modernized by its current owners, who bought the place four years ago for $405,000.
‘Earthy elements’
“The home’s midcentury modern vibe is accentuated with earthy, sophisticated elements,” says listing agent Dave Cash, of Unique: A Real Estate Collective. “Its energy-efficient block construction naturally regulates temperature, keeping the space cool in summer and warm in winter. It is very energy efficient.”
Dubbed “The Remington,” the 1,634-square-foot abode was originally designed by local architect Richard A. Webster and commissioned by Dr. & Mrs. Lloyd Remington in the 1970s, according to the listing.
The hillside location and steel-reinforced walls reflect the practical, sustainable design principles Remington taught during his time at University of North Carolina, Asheville (UNCA).
Eco-friendly attributes
“Since it was built in the ’70s, it already had a midcentury modern vibe; but the sellers wanted to accentuate that while staying true to its original design,” Cash explains.
The home’s open floor plan blends contemporary aesthetics with eco-friendly details, offering a truly unique living experience.
A 48-foot, continuous skylight illuminates the interior. Meanwhile, more than 200 tons of fluted concrete walls create a distinct architectural statement, complemented by organic shapes and materials such as metal, wood, and concrete. There is also a solar attic extending the length of the entire home to flood the space with even more natural light.
One bedroom serves as a private retreat, featuring a glass wall that opens to a secluded patio—a delightful place to enjoy Asheville’s mild climate.