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Building Equity in the Chattanooga Real Estate Market: Why Buying Now Makes Sense

The Chattanooga real estate market is constantly changing, and with uncertainty in the economy, many potential buyers wonder whether now is the right time to invest in a home. The reality is that homeownership remains an effective way to build long-term wealth, even during unpredictable times. Instead of waiting for the “perfect” time, savvy buyers recognize that purchasing now means securing equity and economic stability for the future.

Equity: The Key to Long-Term Wealth

Home equity is the difference between what your home is worth and what you owe on your mortgage. As you make monthly payments and the value of your home increases, your equity grows, allowing you to build wealth over time. Unlike rent, where every payment goes to a landlord with no return on investment, homeownership gives you a financial asset that appreciates. According to a recent Reuters poll, home prices are expected to rise moderately, reflecting expectations from previous surveys, making real estate one of the safest investments.

Interest Rates and the Cost of Waiting

Mortgage rates fluctuate, but they remain historically favorable compared to past decades. While some buyers may wait for lower rates, timing the market is nearly impossible. Delaying a purchase could mean missing out on the opportunity to lock in a rate before prices and demand increase. A recent report from the Associated Press suggests that while interest rates are stabilizing, home prices continue to rise due to low inventory. Buying now allows you to start building equity immediately instead of waiting for an uncertain future.

Cost of Rent is Rising

Rent prices have increased significantly in recent years, with no signs of slowing down anytime soon. According to Investopedia, rental costs are rising faster than wages, making it much harder for renters to save for a home. Homeownership, on the other hand, provides stability. A fixed mortgage payment ensures your housing costs remain predictable while rising home values contribute to growing equity. Instead of spending money on rent with no return on investment, owning a home allows you to put your money into your future and enjoy the benefits of stability and financial security.

Why Chattanooga Homebuyers Are Taking Advantage of the Market

So many people are choosing to raise their families in Chattanooga right now. Gig City is known for its perfect mix of affordability, substantial growing property value, and a thriving local economy. Chattanooga’s magnetic pull for families is sending property values soaring, creating a golden opportunity for current buyers to build long-term wealth, and securing a wise investment for the future.

For over 25 years, Pratt Home Builders has been helping families create their dream homes in this beautiful city we call home. Our communities are designed to create lasting value, blending quality craftsmanship with thoughtful layouts that feel like home. If you’ve considered buying, now is the time to move. Check out our available homes and see why thousands of homebuyers choose Pratt Homes to build their future.

Why Buying New Homes in the Chattanooga Real Estate Market Builds Equity Faster

A brand-new home isn’t just about fresh paint and modern finishes; it’s about making a wise financial investment. Choosing an older home for your investment can come with unexpected repairs; a newly built home from Pratt Home Builders gives you a head start on building equity. New construction homes are designed for energy efficiency, keeping your utility costs low while increasing the long-term value of your property.

Beyond just financial benefits, building a new home also means you can personalize it to your needs. You get to design a space that fits your lifestyle from day one, with no costly renovations or compromises down the road. At Pratt Home Builders, we offer floor plans in the Chattanooga real estate market tailored to how you live, ensuring your home grows with you and your family. Every dollar you put into your new home adds value. You can move into a house without fear of hidden, outdated features or the stress of repairs.

Now Is the Time to Build Your Future

If you’re waiting for the “perfect time” to buy a home, you might be waiting too long. Home prices are rising, and rent isn’t getting any cheaper. The best way to secure your financial future is by investing in a home in the Chattanooga real estate market that builds wealth and not your landlord’s.

The good news? You don’t have to figure it out alone. Brittany and her team at Pratt Home Builder are here to help you find the right home, understand your financing options, and make the process as simple as possible. Whether you’re ready to buy now or want to explore your options, she is here to guide you through every step.

Don’t wait—your dream home is within reach! Call Brittany at (423) 757-7687 to make an appointment today or connect with us here to get early access to the best location and home for you!

Written by: Lexie Bradshaw

Building Equity in the Chattanooga Real Estate Market: Why Buying Now Makes Sensegmwebservices2025-04-13T11:24:10+00:00

The Secret to Designing a Timeless Home

When it comes to new home construction, trends come and go, but timeless design never goes out of style and stays beautiful for generations. At Pratt Homes, we believe in creating spaces that reflect your personality and stand the test of time. Whether you are building your dream home from the ground up or renovating an existing space, making thoughtful design choices ensures a home that remains stylish and functional for years to come.

Focus on Classic Architectural Elements

Timeless homes are built on a strong foundation of classical architectural styles. Picture clean lines, balanced proportions, and symmetry. When thinking of timeless homes, you probably picture Colonial, Craftsman, or Traditional styles because of their elegant simplicity. Including timeless elements like crown molding, wainscoting, and coffered ceilings can add depth and character to your home without feeling outdated. Our team can guide you through integrating these elements seamlessly into your custom home plans through our Pratt Homes Design Center, where we offer a wide range of design options to suit your style.

Invest in High-Quality Materials

A truly timeless home starts with the basics: materials. Natural materials like hardwood flooring, stone countertops, and brick or wood exteriors age beautifully and add charm to your home. At Pratt Home Builders, we provide a selection of high-quality materials chosen for their durability and timeless appeal to ensure that your home remains beautiful for years to come. Our experts will guide you through selecting the right finishes that balance style and longevity.

Choose a Neutral Color Palette

Every year, Pantone comes out with a color of the year. While it’s fun to keep up with the current color trends, a neutral color palette will always remain the cornerstone of a timeless design. The core of this color palette is shades like soft whites, warm beiges, grays, and earthy tones because they create a wonderful backdrop for you to add your style. Starting with a neutral foundation allows you to bring in your personality through furniture, textiles, and artwork. As your tastes evolve, you can effortlessly update your space with new decor without the hassle of repainting your entire home.

Prioritize Functionality and Comfort

Timeless homes are not just about aesthetics—they are designed to be lived comfortably. An open-concept layout, ample storage, and well-planned lighting ensure your home remains functional and inviting. Spaces should flow naturally, making daily activities effortless while allowing for versatility. Thoughtfully designed layouts help create a home that adapts to your needs without frequent modifications. Not sure which layout to choose? Take our finder quiz to help you find the best home plans for your lifestyle.

Incorporate Classic Fixtures and Finishes

When selecting fixtures like lighting, cabinetry hardware, and plumbing features, choose styles that have stood the test of time. Simple, elegant designs in finishes like brushed nickel, matte black, or polished chrome offer a refined look that won’t quickly fall out of favor. We love seeing classic subway tile backsplashes and marble or quartz countertops in homes because these design choices are timeless.

Blend the Old with the New

When you think of timeless design, you probably picture a home with a single design era. However, at Pratt Home Builders, we recommend seamlessly blending old and new elements. For example, heirloom furniture and more modern vintage-inspired lighting can create a home with contemporary comfort and functionality. This mix creates a rich, layered aesthetic that feels curated rather than trendy.

Keep it Simple and Elegant.

The key to timeless design is simplicity. Avoid overly intricate patterns, excessive embellishments, or fleeting fads. Instead, choose clean lines, natural textures, and balanced compositions that exude elegance. Don’t chase trends. Stick to what you love in the timeless elements you are drawn to; your home will feel authentic and timeless.

Make it Your Own

While classic design principles lay the foundation for a timeless home, personalization makes it truly yours. Infuse your home with meaningful details through family heirlooms, custom-built furniture, or artwork that speaks to your style. By combining timeless design with personal touches, your home will remain as unique and inviting as the day it was built.

Take the First Step Toward Your Dream Home Today

At Pratt Homes, we specialize in crafting homes that stand the test of time while reflecting the personalities of our homeowners. If you’re considering a no home build, now is the perfect time to buy! You can get early access to the best home sites and build the home of your dreams with Chattanooga’s #1 hometown builder. With over 25 years of experience, Pratt Homes has built a reputation for quality craftsmanship and exceptional customer service.

Call Brittany at (423) 757-7687 to make an appointment today–let’s build your timeless home together!

Visit our Design Center to explore the possibilities and start designing your timeless home today!

The Secret to Designing a Timeless Homegmwebservices2025-03-10T20:40:58+00:00

Chattanooga’s 2025 Homes: Where Comfort Meets Curated Style

Hey Chattanooga! As we explore 2025, the landscape of home design is undergoing a vibrant transformation. It’s a year where functionality meets expressive style, and every detail whispers a personal narrative. Here at Pratt Home Builders, celebrating over 25 years as your #1 homegrown Chattanooga home builder, we’re excited to guide you through these evolving trends, ensuring your home is both cutting-edge and deeply personal.

Why Does Staying Ahead of Home Trends Matter?

Your home is more than just a structure; it’s the backdrop to your life’s most cherished moments. Staying current with design trends isn’t about chasing fleeting fads; it’s about creating a space that reflects your evolving needs and aesthetic. In 2025, it’s about embracing a home that supports both your lifestyle and your personal expression. This is why a trusted home builder like Pratt Home Builders is essential. We understand that navigating these trends can be overwhelming, and we’re here to shoulder the burden, allowing you to truly enjoy the process.

2025 Home Trends: A Deeper Dive

Here’s what you can expect to see in homes throughout 2025:

The Rise of Textural Depth:
- Forget flat surfaces. 2025 is all about engaging the senses with layered textures. Think natural stone, reclaimed wood, and richly woven fabrics. These elements will add depth and character to every room, creating a tactile experience that’s both luxurious and inviting.
- From textured wall coverings to intricately patterned tiles, these elements are designed to be focal points, adding intrigue and a sense of bespoke craftsmanship.
Organic Shapes and Fluid Lines:
- Say goodbye to rigid angles. 2025 embraces organic shapes and fluid lines, bringing a sense of natural harmony into your home. Curved furniture, arched doorways, and rounded countertops will soften the overall aesthetic, creating a calming and welcoming atmosphere.
- This trend extends to architectural details, with designers incorporating gentle curves and flowing forms to create a sense of movement and connection with nature.
Earthy, Muted Color Palettes:
- Prepare for a shift towards grounded, nature-inspired hues. Muted greens, soothing blues, warm terra cottas, and versatile neutrals will dominate interiors. These colors create a sense of tranquility and connection with the outdoors, fostering a serene and inviting environment.
- These colors will be seen in everything from paint choices to tile selections, offering a cohesive and harmonious palette throughout your home. Expect to see these colors used in small accent tiles for a pop of color, and large format tiles for a grand statement.
Functionality Meets Personalization:
- In 2025, your home will work harder for you. Smart home technology will seamlessly integrate with personalized design elements, creating spaces that are both efficient and expressive.
- From customizable storage solutions to adaptable living spaces, every aspect of your home will be tailored to your unique needs and preferences.
Statement Tiles:
- Tiles will be used to make a statement, from large format tiles that provide a dramatic back drop, to small accent tiles that bring a pop of color into a space.

Let Pratt Home Builders Be Your Guide

At Pratt Home Builders, we understand that staying on top of these trends is essential for creating a home that truly reflects your vision. That’s why we invest in continuous education, attending industry design and home shows, and building strong relationships with our trusted partners. We listen closely to our customers and stay current with the textiles and design elements that shape modern living.

Our entire design process is a “gift with purchase” when you choose to “Build New” with us. This means you’ll have access to our expert design team, who will guide you through every step of the process. Exhale, relax, and enjoy the journey as we handle the heavy lifting. Designing your dream home should be an exciting and stress-free experience, and we’re committed to making that a reality.

We’re Not the Only Ones Seeing These Trends.

Local Chattanooga experts are also recognizing these shifts in home design. In a recent article, NoogaToday delved into the 2025 house trends, featuring insights from Pratt Home Builders and highlighting what Chattanoogans truly desire in their homes. This local expertise reinforces the importance of creating homes that are both stylish and functional, perfectly tailored to the Chattanooga lifestyle.

Your Story Starts Here

2025 is a year of bold expression and personalized design. Let Pratt Home Builders, your #1 home builder in Chattanooga, help you craft a home that tells your unique story. Call 423-757-7687 OR visit prattliving.com to get early access to your dream home today!

Chattanooga’s 2025 Homes: Where Comfort Meets Curated Stylegmwebservices2025-02-27T19:16:04+00:00

Upgrade Your Home’s First Impression: A Designer’s Guide to Front Door Colors

Do you ever wonder what DIY project you can do for your home that is inexpensive & quick? Just head over to your local Lowes, Home Depot or even Sherwin Williams to pick up a gallon of paint for a quick & easy weekend project!

Read below as to what one of our interior designer, Jordan Furtney, has to say about front door paint options!

Many think of the front door of a home is an entryway, but for visitors it is one of the first things they see which sets the tone for the house and the personality of those who live in the home! One of the components that is visually seen from the exterior of your home is your front door. Let your personality show through with the paint color you select whether that be to align with curb appeal, have a bold statement or just want a refresh! Pratt Home Builders is proud to offer hundreds of paint options for your front door paint selection! Your front door is a great place to start if you want to experiment with bold hues or if you want to go with a more classic look of neutral.

Depending on the overall aesthetic of the selections for the exterior of your home, many paint colors will give a different appearance to your home! Color theory is a proven science and is used by all interior designers! One may think “oh those are just primary, secondary and tertiary colors”, but they have a deeper meaning behind them. The team of designers at Pratt Home Builders have educational backgrounds that have gone through the key concepts of interior design such as color theory which helps the designers understand how to use colors effectively in your home! Believe it or not, colors show emotion, and they have a psychological effect on individuals. All colors show a positive and negative emotion. For example: the color blue – feels clean & calm but also can feel sad & cold. Red is also a great example as it shows excitement, but also anger.

Bold Colors: A bold pop of color on your front door can stand out from the street but can also allow you to play around with small accents within your home to tie in your own personality! Pops of color include reds, navy or denim blue, or even purple!

Classic Neutrals: A neutral color will allow for a classic and timeless look, which is a very popular option in the design market right now. These colors such as black, concrete or even a muted hue allow you to have a framework to work around with pops of color elsewhere!

TOP 10 favorite paint colors for front doors that are trending (in no particular order, of course):

SW2802 Rookwood Red
SW6321 Red Bay
SW6209 Ripe Olive
SW6201 Thunderous
SW6186 Dried Thyme
SW7020 Black Fox
SW6005 Folkstone
SW9155 Slate Violet
SW6244 Naval
SW6523 Denim

When choosing a paint color for your front door, think about how it will affect the other aspects of the exterior of your home such as trim, windows, siding and even your landscaping! Whichever route you go, whether that is a bold paint or a neutral, remember this is your home and only a weekend project to change. We cannot wait to be part of your process and help you design your dream home!

Upgrade Your Home’s First Impression: A Designer’s Guide to Front Door Colorsgmwebservices2025-02-02T00:32:05+00:00

Why Chattanooga Is the Perfect Place to Call Home: Livability and Active Lifestyles

Why Chattanooga Is the Perfect Place to Call Home: Livability and Active Lifestyles

Chattanooga, Tennessee, is a city that perfectly blends affordability, livability, and a vibrant, active lifestyle. Known as the “Scenic City,” Chattanooga offers a unique combination of outdoor adventures, cultural amenities, and community-focused living that attracts people of all ages and lifestyles. If you’re considering making the move, Pratt Home Builders has the perfect home to complement your lifestyle in this thriving city.

A City Surrounded by Natural Beauty

Chattanooga’s location along the Tennessee River and its proximity to the Appalachian Mountains make it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re an avid hiker, cyclist, kayaker, or someone who simply loves scenic views, Chattanooga has something for everyone.

Residents enjoy access to more than 50 miles of hiking trails, including the stunning Lookout Mountain and Signal Mountain. For those who love being on the water, the Tennessee River is ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, or a peaceful sunset boat ride. The Riverwalk, a 16-mile paved path that meanders along the river, is perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling while taking in the city’s picturesque views.

A Thriving Downtown with Southern Charm

Chattanooga’s downtown has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, making it one of the most livable urban centers in the Southeast. Packed with locally owned restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques, downtown Chattanooga is a hub for dining, shopping, and entertainment.

Cultural attractions like the Tennessee Aquarium, the Hunter Museum of American Art, and the Tivoli Theatre add a rich layer to the city’s lifestyle. Festivals and events, such as the Riverbend Music Festival and Chattanooga Market, bring the community together year-round, fostering a sense of connection and belonging.

A Community That Values Healthy Living

Chattanooga is more than just an outdoor haven—it’s a community that actively promotes health and wellness. From yoga in Coolidge Park to local farmers markets offering fresh, locally grown produce, the city makes it easy to live a healthy and balanced life.

The city’s dedication to green initiatives, such as its extensive bike-share program and eco-friendly developments, also aligns with an active and sustainable lifestyle. Families, retirees, and professionals alike can find opportunities to stay engaged and energized while living in a city that prioritizes well-being.

Affordable Living Meets Quality Homes

One of Chattanooga’s biggest draws is its affordability. Compared to national averages, Chattanooga’s cost of living is lower, making it possible to enjoy an exceptional quality of life without breaking the bank. Housing is especially appealing, with options ranging from historic homes in walkable neighborhoods to new construction designed for modern living.

This is where Pratt Home Builders comes in. We create homes that combine thoughtful design, high-quality craftsmanship, and energy efficiency—perfectly suited to Chattanooga’s lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly community, a cozy townhome, or a spacious single-family home, we have options tailored to fit your needs.

Why Chattanooga Is Perfect for Active Families

Families love Chattanooga for its abundance of kid-friendly activities and excellent schools. Attractions like the Creative Discovery Museum and the Chattanooga Zoo make weekends fun and educational for children. Outdoor adventures, from hiking to ziplining, provide endless opportunities for quality family time.

For those raising a family, Pratt Home Builders offers neighborhoods with amenities like playgrounds, walking trails, and access to great schools—ensuring that your home is not only a place to live but also a place to thrive.

Make Your Move with Pratt Home Builders

Chattanooga is more than just a city—it’s a lifestyle. With its unparalleled access to outdoor recreation, vibrant downtown, and affordability, it’s no wonder that so many people are choosing to call it home.

At Pratt Home Builders, we’re passionate about helping you find the perfect home in this incredible city. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade to a home that fits your active lifestyle, our communities are designed with you in mind.

Explore our homes and start your Chattanooga journey today. Together, we’ll help you create a life that’s as vibrant and dynamic as the city itself.

Tags: Chattanooga homes, active lifestyle in Chattanooga, affordable living Chattanooga, Pratt Home Builders, new homes in Chattanooga, Tennessee outdoor activities

Why Chattanooga Is the Perfect Place to Call Home: Livability and Active Lifestylesgmwebservices2025-01-11T04:30:03+00:00

New Home Favorite Features: Dedicated Home Office

Here at Pratt Home Builders, we have a plethora of options in floor plans that meet your needs! Within the past few years, many jobs have been moved from office positions to work from home or you may work from home a certain number of days during the week. Did you know Pratt Home Builders offers home plans with a dedicated office?

Some of our plans that include a dedicated office include the Riverbirch, Shenandoah, Waterford, New Haven, Peyton, Quail Run, Emory, Meridian and many more to choose from!

When working from home, it is very important to create a space that keeps productivity a priority! There are many things that affect a dedicated office to ensure a high productivity rate. In the majority of our plans that have a dedicated office, you may see the offices being shown at the front of the house – this allows natural daylight to come into the space, security measures of the front of your house and being tucked away from the noisier parts of your home as well! Even though some plans allow for a dedicated office, you do not necessarily have to use it as an office! Dedicated spaces can be used as a game room, gym/ exercise room, playroom, craft room, home office, storage and so many more purposes that meet your family’s needs. Having that dedicated space within your home allows flexibility for you and your family to use it the way you want!

A dedicated office space allows individuals with the following:

Freedom to create and furnish your own workspace.
Ready for future emergencies.
Shorter commutes decrease air pollution for a healthier environment.
Flexibility.
Increase the value of your home.

At times, when working from home, it can be difficult to keep the work life balance a priority. Having a dedicated office that is enclosed by doors can allow you to mentally and physically shut the door to start and end your workday.

The main goal of having a home office is to ensure productivity is a priority. Color selections that you put into an office can help determine the level of productivity and what impact it can have on the individual utilizing the space. Some individuals prefer to have a room that is dark and moody while others like to have a bright and airy work zone. Pratt Home Builders offers multiple options to add such as wainscoting, Sherwin Williams paint deck to choose from, flooring options and ceiling details to make the room more personable to your aesthetic.

While in Design, the designers will work with you to create your perfect office space that meets your needs. Whether you need a dedicated office or a separate space within your home, Pratt Home Builders has exactly what you need to take priority in your life!

New Home Favorite Features: Dedicated Home Officegmwebservices2024-07-08T15:45:37+00:00

Chattanooga Travel Bloggers Share Three Unique Summer Trips Within Driving Distance

School is out and summer vacation is here! Whether by river, rail, or road, Chattanooga has always been a transportation hub. It’s helped the city grow for centuries, and it makes the Scenic City an easy starting point for road trips to lots of interesting places.

Here are three fun options if you’re planning to hit the highway this summer that you may not have heard of yet!

St. Augustine, Florida

Established in 1565 by Spanish explorers, St. Augustine is America’s oldest city. Explore the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, which is a 17th century fort, then visit the Colonial Quarter, where you can get a taste for Florida life in the 1740s. You can tour Ponce de Leon’s landing site at the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park or try your hand — er, hook — at swashbuckling at the Pirate and Treasure Museum. To break up the eight-hour drive, plan a stop along the way at Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park in Macon, Georgia. These incredibly well-preserved Native American ceremonial mounds are in the running to become America’s next full-fledged national park.

Mammoth Cave, Kentucky

Wanting to delve underground for spring break? Head to the world’s longest cave system. Located in south central Kentucky, Mammoth Cave National Park features hiking, biking, horseback riding, canoeing, camping, stargazing, and exploring on 52,000 acres of land. Its thousands of years of human history and rich array of flora and fauna have earned the park status as both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve. Mammoth Cave is just a three-and-a-half hour drive from Chattanooga, so it makes a great weekend getaway, too.

Hot Springs, Arkansas

While Native Americans have known of the healing powers of the thermal waters of Hot Springs for centuries, the Arkansas town didn’t transform into a European-style spa destination until the 1800s. The famous “Bathhouse Row” sprung up next to the springs in the early 1870s, when six bathhouses and two dozen hotels and boarding houses were built following the Civil War. You can now visit some of these historic structures as part of Hot Springs National Park and even soak your cares away with traditional thermal spa treatments. The park also has 26 miles of hiking trails and a spring-side promenade that’s turn-of-the-century — the 19th century, that is. Break up the eight-hour drive with a stop in Memphis for some mouth-watering barbecue and a visit with the Peabody Hotel’s world-famous ducks.

Looking for more inspiration for your next road trip or around-the-world adventure? Visit wemarriedadventure.com.

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Mike and Angela Ballard are passionate about travel. They’ve visited over 150 countries and territories on all seven continents, and they are travel correspondents for The Daily Refresh on ABC television (NewsChannel 9). In addition to their work in TV, the Ballards are contributors to Lonely Planet, Atlas

Chattanooga Travel Bloggers Share Three Unique Summer Trips Within Driving Distancegmwebservices2024-05-30T21:11:11+00:00

Earth Day 2024: 8 Tips for Reducing Plastic Consumption Starting at Home

This year’s Earth Day theme is Plastics vs. Planet, with a goal to slash plastic production by 60% by 2040.

With Chattanooga currently vying for the first-ever #NationalParkCity, it’s safe to say our residents care about the health and beauty of our hometown area. With studies showing plastics affecting wildlife, human health, and disrupting ecosystems across the world, we’re passionate about living thoughtfully to keep our home safe and beautiful. After all, we live here, too. Fortunately, there are some excellent ways to prevent using plastic in the first place, starting with hardly-noticeable swaps that are easy to do at home. In many cases, these tips these save a significant amount of money, too!

1. The first way to save money and dramatically reduce plastic use is to make the switch from bottled water to reverse osmosis (they even have counter-top ones!), filtered pitchers, or regular tap water. The U. S. population spends at least 11 billion dollars annually on bottled water. Typically, each person on average spends around $2,227 on bottled water, compared to tap water, which is just $2. Many may not realize that especially in cities like Chattanooga, water municipalities have much higher standards for water than water bottling facilities, which often simply filter and bottle tap water. So grab your Stanley, Yeti, Swell or a good ole’ fashioned Mason jar and drink up! Cheers!

2. Bring your own shopping bag. Although plastic bags are easy to pile up, there are hardly any recycling facilities for them outside of Publix or Walmart. Save yourself the trouble by getting a beau coups of cute canvas or cotton bags you can reuse, then toss without having to worry about the biodegradability.

3. Carry your own Mug. Plastic-lined paper cups and plastic lids to hot coffees and teas are more sneaky culprits that really add up over time. Unfortunately, many of these plastic types can’t be recycled locally. An easy solution is to bring your own mug and ask for it to be filled, or worst case skip the lid and pour your beverage into the thermos later.

4. Find reuseable lunch containers. Talk about a triple-bottom line shift! Packing lunch at home can not only save on materials, but is one of the easiest ways to save time and money, too. In most cases, it’s a great way to ensure healthy options, too!

5. Make the switch from soap bottles to bars. Average use can be up to 24 bottles a year according to UNICEF, so it’s a great opportunity to take advantage of skin-friendly soaps that are made or sold locally, too. A few of our favorites can be found at Good Fortune Soap, High Road Soap, and of course there are plenty of options at The Chattanooga Market.

6. Store leftovers in jars or with silicone covers. Who else loves looking at those perfectly organized refrigerators on Pinterest and YouTube? Consistent containers add to an organized home aesthethic, and save the plastic wrap, lunch bags, plastic bags that can all be part of a typical takeout or storing leftovers process.

7. Consider skipping the confetti – or making your own. Hole-punching flowers or construction paper is a great alternative that’s just as cute but without the tiny plastics.

8. Simplifying your cleaning routine. Baking soda, lemon juice, and old-fashioned vinegar are staples for a green-cleaning arsenal. Plus, these items can easily be stored in reusable or recyclable glass jars.

9. Swap your sponge. This is a simple swap that’s so easy to do. Most sponges are made of plastics that can break apart and get flushed down the sinks. Natural sponges are a great alternative.

10. Enjoy the dog park with biodegradable bags. Fortunately, our communities tend to have spacious yards that can be fenced that are perfect for Fido to roam, but for visits to our dog park, compostable bags like these can cut back on plastics over time.

Earth Day 2024: 8 Tips for Reducing Plastic Consumption Starting at Homegmwebservices2024-04-22T22:18:15+00:00

Pratt Design Team Visits Shaw

Pratt pre-sale customers typically travel to Pratt Home Builders for design sessions, but our design team also travels on behalf of our customers! One of the
most fun and exciting aspects of designing a home is being able to choose among the new stylish and high-quality inventory coming into the Design Center Showroom.

Travelling for Trends

A few weeks ago, the Pratt Home Builders interior design team traveled from our design center in Chattanooga, Tennessee to Atlanta, Georgia to Shaw Contract. We were on a mission to find new and current inventory for all of our clients here at Pratt Home Builders. During the
designers’ time at Shaw, we met with our Sales Representative for the Chattanooga area to learn more about all of the new products that are coming to the market. We went over so many different types of flooring examples included engineered
hardwood, luxury vinyl plank, carpet, subway tile, and penny round tile – small applications and large – we covered it for you!

Flooring Options for Every Style

As interior designers, it is our responsibility to keep our showroom updated for clients and stay in touch with our vendors to see what is going in & out of the market. We are so excited
for these new items to come to the showroom and be able to show clients going through design as well as prospective clients! One of the greatest aspects of the construction and design field is being able to create
reliable connections through the vendors we work with. Although many would think of the design showroom here at Pratt being a “one stop shop” for clients, we have several vendors that we partner with to be able to create an unlimited design palette to walk you through.

Shaw is one of the main vendors that Pratt showcases various products from in the design showroom – examples include engineered hardwood, luxury vinyl plank, backsplash, carpet, floor tile & wall tile. These are not only options for pre-sale customers to choose from, but go-to options that our design team will curate for design market homes.

Sustainability Matters

Our team loves that Shaw has a focus on sustainability, which is shown through the materials health, circular economy to reuse and recycle product back within itself, creating a priority of cradle to cradle standards vs cradle to grave, recognizing the importance of carbon impact of their products as well as keeping diversity, equity and inclusion a priority. Shaw holds themselves to a high standard and we think highly of them for that.

We had so much fun being able to pick out new products for future clients while in Atlanta and we hope you will have the same amount of fun in the showroom designing your future new Pratt home!

Pratt Design Team Visits Shawgmwebservices2024-03-18T17:18:21+00:00

Serial Yoga Studio Owners, The Wrights, Find A Peaceful Retreat at Engel Park

The Wright Family, comprised of Ryan, Jenna and Stella, has called Engel Park “home” since May 2023. Their Lynden plan has been a perfect place to land while they focus on family, community, fitness, and their respective entrepreneurial ventures. The couple recently opened their third local yoga and pilates studio, purchasing an existing studio off East Brainerd Road, just minutes from their much-loved home at Engel Park.

Jenna’s work with online fitness powerhouse Eschelon brought her opportunities to the Chattanooga location. Then she met husband Ryan and decided to trade the big city for the scenic city. It’s been the perfect backdrop for the couple to chase fitness center endeavors of their own.

Jenna says: “I appreciate the convenience of where we live. It offers a peaceful retreat from the downtown hustle, yet it’s just a 20-minute journey away. East Brainerd is a gem, boasting everything one could need, including several of our top downtown eateries that have added locations here. With the addition of a new Southern Soul Yoga and Pilates studio just five minutes from our neighborhood, it’s the perfect spot for us. Our neighbors have become like family, and the sense of community and lifelong bonds we’ve formed this year is incomparable. We love with our home and our builder, Tyler. I’d be thrilled to have you as my neighbor!”