When most people think of cabins built in the mountains, the first thought that comes to mind probably isn’t the builder's use of technology, but Developer Cliff Davidson is challenging the idea that a cabin can’t be both rustic and energy efficient at the same time.
 

    Davidson moved to McMinnville, TN in 1976. He studied business administration at the University of Tennessee where he focused on real estate and minored in architecture. From that point on, he began to do both residential and commercial building and also supply services to other area builders. Cliff Davidson and his company Ivy Investments, Inc., was ready for another challenge. Cliff purchased lots for the first two buildings and took on the task of developing the condominium project at Long Branch Lakes.

    The Condominiums at Trout Hill located in the gated community Long Branch Lakes at Fall Creek Falls, are energy efficient concrete homes resting on 5,000 acres of open pasture and forest land in Spencer, Tennessee. These highly-efficient concrete homes are being built using Amvic Insulated Concrete Forms. Using this technology these condominiums are able to offer many advantages over traditionally built homes.

    “We chose the Amvic® ICF system for all the exterior and between-unit load-bearing walls for the Trout Hill project,” Davidson said. “The modular, expanded polystyrene blocks are locked together with steel reinforcing and then filled with concrete. The result are walls that deliver superior strength, fire-resistance and sound-proofing. This non-organic construction method also delivers increased resistance to storms and wind, mold and insects.”
 

    Being built from concrete doesn’t mean that these condos are uniform grey cubes stacked beside one another. The condos have all been designed by Tennessee Log Homes and are just as attractive as they are efficient. The homes feature rough-sawn wood exteriors, log and natural stone accents, large windows, private balconies, and tall chimneys.
 

    “This place is all about experiencing nature,” said Davidson. “We’re not just throwing houses up in the trees, nobody wants to live like that. The place is well and thoughtfully developed.  The area is available to all kinds of people, hikers, birdwatchers, star gazers, and others. We’re offering a place to stay other than the park.”
 

    Each condo is estimated to have a 30-50 percent reduced annual energy cost for residents. In addition each is also equipped with on-demand water heaters and high-efficiency heating and cooling systems.
There are currently seven condo units available for purchase.  As a part of the property management package available to condo owners, units may be put in a vacation rental program which will be offered by Cliff Davidson and his company Ivy Property Management.
  

   There are two or three bedrooms condo units, all fully furnished. A great-room (most with propane fireplaces),  fully equipped kitchens, a balcony or terrace, and covered parking. Renting one of these condos allows residents access to the Long Branch Lakes community and facilities. Lakefront pavilions, a heated pool and waterfall, creeks, boat docks, tennis and basketball courts as well as the equestrian village where barns, instruction and guided rides along the 30 miles of community riding trails are only some of the options available to those who visit.
   

   Trout Hills recently launched its website www.trouthillcondos.com where further information can be found.