i-House: Innovation, Inspiration, Intelligence, Integration, Sustainability

Clayton Homes has long been the leader in manufactured housing - the introduction of the solar powered, energy efficient i-House is placing Clayton at the top of sustainable housing production as well.

Based on the traditional, rectangular form of a mobile home, the i-House puts an entirely new twist on the classic trailer.  It also introduces a new option for sustainable pre-fab living.  Four of Clayton's home manufacturing plants are already set up to produce the innovative i-House - beginning with the 1,000 square-foot prototype displayed in Knoxville earlier this year.  

Build Your i-House

With a layout unlike any other mobile home, the Clayton i-House prototype is designed to resemble an 'i' - featuring the traditional, rectangular 'core' house, plus a unique 'flex' room forming the dot above the 'i'.  Owners can opt for an L-shaped layout instead.  Both plans feature 2 ground-level decks, plus a rooftop deck above the optional 'flex' room.

The i-House went on sale nationwide in early May and can easily be custom-configured online.  Choose between a 1-bed, 1-bath core house or a 2-bedroom model, then select the original 'i' layout or the L-shaped design with a larger porch space.  The flex rooms are also customizable with either 1 or 2 bedrooms, depending on your space needs.  

Eco Features

From the roof to the appliance options, the i-House has an array of eco-friendly options.  The v-shaped metal roof promotes rainwater recycling while offering an ideal spot for the optional solar panels.  With all the optional features, the i-House could be heated and powered for less than $1 a day in optimal conditions.  

• Energy Star-rated design - 6-inch thick exterior walls, 'low-e' glazed windows, corrugated metal siding.
• Optional solar panels.
• Eco-friendly bamboo flooring.
• Tankless water heater.
• Dual-flush toilets.
• Energy Star kitchen appliance package.
• Energy Star washer and dryer.

The Future of the i-House

Clayton Homes projects widespread desire for their first attempt at sustainable manufactured housing, estimating that the i-House will account for 10% of their sales within the next year-and-a-half.  According to an Associated Press report, three developers are already considering mini-developments and Clayton believes there is a great deal of potential for vacation i-Houses.

The intriguing design, along with the home's eco-friendliness, are probably enough to drive the success of the i-House.  If not, the price will definitely boost sales.  The i-House can be purchased for less than half the price of a similar stick-built home.  A furnished, 2-bedroom model with 1,000 square feet was priced at $140,000.

Visit the i-House website for layout options and more information.

Source: The Clayton i-House

Images via Clayton Homes