At Alair Homes-Orlando, we take pride in every challenging project we undertake, but there’s something truly special about being selected to build The New American Home® (TNAH) for the final International Builders’ Show in Orlando, FL. It’s a unique honor and an incredible responsibility that we approach with the utmost dedication, knowing we’re building a showcase of the future in our industry.
Spec Home Vs. Exhibition Home
Building a regular spec home and an exhibition home like TNAH 2026 are two entirely different experiences. A spec home is typically designed with a broad audience in mind, balancing design, cost, and functionality. It’s about creating a home that appeals to potential buyers in the market, with a focus on practicality, and market trends.
On the other hand, building TNAH 2026 is about pushing boundaries and setting new standards. This isn’t just someone’s residence; it’s a platform to showcase cutting-edge products, innovative construction methods, and the latest in energy efficiency. Every detail is scrutinized, from the materials used to the integration of smart home technologies. The goal is to inspire and educate, demonstrating to builders, architects, and homeowners what’s possible when creativity meets technology, with hopes that these building professionals will continue building upon these trends.
Collaboration with Suppliers and Product Selection
One of the most exciting aspects of building TNAH 2026 is the level of collaboration with suppliers. Unlike a typical spec home, where product selection is driven by cost and availability, TNAH involves working closely with industry-leading suppliers who are eager to showcase their latest innovations. In turn, these suppliers are partners in the creative process, helping to shape the home’s design and functionality.
Product selection becomes a collaborative effort, with suppliers providing the latest in energy-efficient materials, cutting-edge products, and sustainable technologies. The involvement of these suppliers is crucial because TNAH isn’t just about building a home—it’s about setting new benchmarks for the industry. This collaboration allows us to incorporate state-of-the-art products that might not yet be widely available in the market, giving the home an edge in innovation and sustainability.
Building on an Accelerated Timeline
Building a custom home of this size and complexity typically takes 16 to 20 months. The planning, permitting, and construction processes are extensive, allowing us to carefully execute every detail. However, with TNAH, the timeline is dramatically shortened to about 10 months. This accelerated schedule presents a significant challenge, requiring detailed planning, efficient execution, and a team that operates like a well-oiled machine.
The key to meeting this timeline is our experience and ability to anticipate and resolve issues before they become roadblocks. We also rely heavily on our relationships with suppliers, distributors, and subcontractors, who understand the importance of deadlines and are committed to delivering their best work within the compressed schedule. It’s a high-pressure environment, but it’s also incredibly rewarding to see the home come together so quickly and beautifully.
Jonathan’s Landing
Jonathan’s Landing is an Orlando-based nonprofit creating an intentional community where adults with autism can live and work together and pursue independence, dignity and purpose. The goal for this foundation is to house 500 adults in a self-sustaining community through social enterprises like Techtonic. The team is committed to sharing what they build and learn freely so other communities around the country can replicate it.
The connection to The New American Home 2026 is special. Jason Eichenholz, the founder of Jonathan’s Landing, is dedicated to matching the value of all funds donated to the home and writing a check to donate directly to Jonathan’s Landing to accelerate site development, residential planning and device-repair training. At the International Builders’ Show 2026, NAHB will present a ceremonial check reflecting total donations, spotlighting industry generosity amongst suppliers and manufacturers. We’re excited to be chosen as the selected builder for TNAH 2026 and the partnership with Jason has resulted in one of the most incredible show homes built to date.
