Rippling Waters: A Sustainable, Elegant Retirement Retreat in Asheville
Nestled along the serene banks of the French Broad River, Rippling Waters is more than just a home—it’s the culmination of a life well-lived, a carefully designed retreat that embraces nature, sustainability, and enduring comfort. For homeowners Geoff and Dorothy, both retired professors, this home represents the next chapter of their journey, seamlessly blending their love for the outdoors with thoughtful, eco-conscious living.
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A Harmonious Connection to Nature
Spanning 3,307 square feet, this stunning residence reflects an organic modern aesthetic, where simplicity meets natural elegance. The exterior is a masterpiece of clean lines and soft edges, with wood, stone, and earthy tones harmonizing with the lush surroundings. Expansive windows and sliding glass doors create a seamless indoor-outdoor transition, inviting breathtaking views of the river while maximizing natural light.
The site itself was chosen with intention—designed to embrace nature rather than compete with it. A meticulously planned landscape, featuring native plantings and walking trails, ensures that the home remains a peaceful sanctuary, effortlessly integrated into the Olivette community.
Designed for Wellness and Sustainability
Every element of Rippling Waters was curated with sustainability in mind. RT Design masterfully incorporated eco-conscious materials and finishes, ensuring a home that not only looks beautiful but also supports a healthy lifestyle.
✔ DOE Zero Energy Ready, ENERGY STAR, and Indoor airPLUS Certifications—signifying superior energy efficiency and indoor air quality.
✔ Low-VOC finishes and FSC-certified cabinetry—minimizing pollutants and promoting wellness.
✔ WaterSense-certified plumbing and 100% LED lighting—reducing environmental impact without sacrificing luxury.
Handcrafted terracotta tile adds warmth and character throughout the home, while a muted off-white fireplace serves as an elegant focal point in the living space. Clerestory windows enhance the home’s light-filled ambiance, reinforcing its connection to the natural world.
Effortless Living, Today and Tomorrow
Designed with aging in place in mind, Rippling Waters ensures that comfort and accessibility are at the forefront:
✔ ADA-compliant doorways and roll-in showers make navigation seamless.
✔ A single-level living layout enhances convenience.
✔ Custom walk-in closets with pull-down rods ensure effortless organization.
✔ Minimal door thresholds and accessible kitchen appliances provide ease of use for all mobility levels.
These elements, combined with smart storage solutions for recreational gear, cater to an active lifestyle while ensuring the home remains a functional retreat for years to come.
A Reflection of Thoughtful Craftsmanship
From the Blanco Ikon 33" Farmhouse Double Basin SILGRANIT Kitchen Sink to the Robern Vitality mirrors with built-in LED lights and defoggers, every detail of Rippling Waters speaks to a dedication to quality and innovation. Blue wall sconces in the bedroom add a personal, artistic touch, while the primary suite’s shimmering glass tiles and silver chandelier evoke a spa-like tranquility.
Despite site limitations, the architectural team—Wilson Architects, Osgood Landscape Architecture, Dunn Structural Engineering, and RT Design—found creative solutions to harmonize the home with its surroundings. Structural elements, landscaping, and topographical considerations were all seamlessly woven together to craft a stable and visually stunning foundation.
An Award-Winning Vision
It’s no surprise that Rippling Waters has garnered accolades, recognized for its craftsmanship and sustainability:
Builders Association of Blue Ridge Mountains Awards: Viewer’s Choice, Best Green Home Feature, Gold Craftsmanship, Motto Award
North Carolina Home Builders Association WNC Stars Awards: Best Green Home Feature
Project Manager Brian DeCosmo perfectly sums up the spirit behind this exceptional home:
"Crafting an award-winning home isn't just about bricks and mortar; it’s creativity, precision, and passion."
A Lasting Legacy in Sustainable Living
For Geoff and Dorothy, Rippling Waters is more than just a home—it’s a sanctuary that reflects their values, lifestyle, and love for nature. Designed with sustainability, accessibility, and timeless beauty in mind, this retreat stands as a testament to the thoughtful collaboration of its design team and the vision of its owners.
Ready to see more of Rippling Waters? Watch Geoff and Dorothy’s homeowner testimonial video to hear why they fell in love with their home and what makes it so special.
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