JUNE-JULY 2025 | JTNZ | BAM SOUTH

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SOUTH

JUNE-JULY 2025

on the cover

FLORIDA GREEN BUILDING COALITION

BABCOCK RANCH A Legacy in the Living A Legacy in the Living INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Inside the Mind of Robert Lord: Master Builder in Sustainable Luxury Master Builder in Sustainable Luxury LORD GENERAL CONTRACTORS

Built From Brotherhood Built From Brotherhood OMNIBUILD GC

NET ZER The Journey to

Chief Executive Officer Tamara Bellamy-Breen

Chief Financial Officer William Breen

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DEAR READER FROM OUR EDITOR

Welcome to Built America Magazine’s Journey to Net Zero — Par Two- of our three part special edition dedicated to sustainability, performance- based design, and the innovators leading the charge toward a greener future. In this issue, we celebrate the visionaries, builders, and communities who are boldly redefining what it means to build sustainably — not just for today, but for generations to come. At the heart of this issue is the Florida Green Building Coalition , the only state-specific green certification organization in the nation. We also turn the spotlight on Babcock Ranch — America’s first solar-powered town. Designed to withstand the toughest storms and powered entirely by the sun, Babcock is a living blueprint of what’s possible when innovation, planning, and sustainability work in harmony. And finally, we profile Lord General Contractors , where sustainability meets master craftsmanship. Led by Robert Lord, a multi-award-winning builder and advocate for net- zero homes, the firm is pioneering thoughtful, resilient construction across Florida.

“ We commit to fully inclusive journeying with our collaborators, ensuring their stories are shared with integrity and passion. ” Together, these leaders are proving that building green isn’t just good business — it’s a powerful investment in Florida’s future. With each certified project, solar- powered neighborhood, and net- zero home, they are shaping a state where resilience, innovation, and environmental responsibility walk hand in hand. Their work inspires not only the industry — but the communities they serve.

Warm regards, The Editorial Team

INSIDE

SPOTLIGHT FEATURE

FGBC (FLORIDA GREEN BUILDING COALITON)

Building Smarter for a Stronger Tomorrow

MODUS BUILDERS

The Art of Intentional Construction

38 BABCOCK RANCH

BABCOCK RANCH

A Legacy in the Living

LORD GENERAL CONTRACTORS Inside the Mind of Robert Lord: Master Sustainable Luxury Builder

68 OMNIBUILD GENERAL CONTRACTORS Built from Brotherhood

CLOSING LINES

84 BUILDING FOR THE SOUTH’S FUTURE

Sustainability Where it Matters Most

92 UPCOMING ISSUE: FLORIDA

BUILDING MATERIAL ASSOCIATION Exclusive Coverage of the FBMA’s 105 Annual Trade Show and Convention th BUILT AMERICA RECOMMENDS: SUSTAINABLE BUILDING MATERIALS

FGBC

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OPENING LINES

In the second installment of our three-part Journey to Net Zero special edition, Built America Magazine turns the spotlight on the Florida-based leaders and forward-thinking builders who are not only redefining how homes and communities look—but transforming how they function, endure, and give back to the environment. From Florida’s own Babcock Ranch, the first solar-powered town in America, to a powerful conversation with Robert Lord—master builder and visionary behind Lord General Contractors, whose award-winning net-zero homes embody the future of sustainable luxury—to the certification programs of the Florida Green Building Coalition (FGBC) that are raising the bar for sustainability statewide, this issue is a celebration of innovation with purpose. At the heart of this edition is our FGBC Special Interest Feature, diving deep into the organization’s role in guiding cities, builders, and homeowners toward meaningful climate solutions rooted in Florida’s unique ecosystems and challenges. Together , these pioneers are proving that net zero is more than a trend— it’s a powerful, achievable shift in how we build for the future . One home, one project, and one resilient community at a time. The Journey to Net Zero: Building Forward, Living Smarter

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Since its founding, the Florida Green Building Coalition (FGBC) has become one of the most influential forces in sustainable building across the state—setting the gold standard for regionally focused green certification and resilience-driven development. With a mission to lead and promote sustainable practices tailored to Florida’s unique climate, ecosystems, and communities, FGBC has reshaped the way builders, cities, and homeowners approach energy efficiency, environmental stewardship , and disaster preparedness. At the heart of FGBC’s work is the belief that sustainability must be practical, measurable, and deeply rooted in local needs. Through its suite of third-party certification programs—for homes, commercial buildings, local governments, and schools—FGBC is helping Florida thrive one project at a time. Their work extends well beyond certification. With initiatives around education, legislation, community engagement, and climate resilience, FGBC is empowering Floridians to build a greener , safer, and more self-reliant future. Keep reading for exclusive insights from the FGBC team and their partners—and discover how this homegrown coalition is leading Florida toward a smarter, stronger, and more sustainable tomorrow .

Page 16-27

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Building Smarter for a Stronger Tomorrow

Written by: Skyler Grey | Editor in Chief Built America Magazine

In the humid heart of the Sunshine State, where the climate tests buildings as much as time does, a quiet revolution in resilience is underway. It’s not just about sustainability — it’s about building smarter, living healthier, and future-proofing communities from Miami to the Panhandle. At the center of it all is the Florida Green Building Coalition (FGBC), a nonprofit driven not by profit margins, but by mission. “We were founded in 2000 by people actually out in the field — builders, academics, folks who truly understood Florida,” says CJ Davila, Executive Director of FGBC. “They knew we needed something different — a green building standard made for Florida’s unique climate and challenges. So, they built it themselves.”

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Built America Magazine | South

“They knew we needed something different — a green building standard made for Florida’s unique climate and challenges. So, they built it themselves.”

— CJ Davila | Executive Director, FGBC

Unlike national green certification programs designed for heating-based climates, FGBC’s standards are tailored to Florida’s cooling- based reality. “The energy component is where we differ most,” Davila explains. “We’re the complete opposite of most other programs. Our standards focus on what Florida needs — disaster mitigation, flood-zone awareness, and efficient cooling, not heating.” This specificity is embedded in FGBC’s five certification programs — covering high-rises, commercial buildings, land developments, local governments, and homes. Together, they’ve touched nearly every corner of the state. From affordable housing to luxury estates, FGBC-certified projects aren’t just structures A Standard Built for Florida, By Floridians

40,000 Certified Projects Across Florida Recognized by the State as Florida’s Go To Green Standard

Helping Communities Save Millions Through Green Retrofits

DJ DAVILA - EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

“Our standards focus on what Florida needs ”

— they’re solutions.

18 S P E C I A L I N T E R E S T BILL KACHMAN

FGBC GREEN ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

Beyond the Surface: Building Efficiently Davila lights up when discussing projects like a non-profit in Miami — a high-rise shelter for women and families. “They told us one of their biggest cost- savers was not heating water in the laundry room,” he recalls. “That one change helped them reallocate funds directly to serving their community.” It’s a powerful reminder: FGBC’s standards don’t just lower emissions — they increase impact. By certifying Habitat for Humanity builds and affordable housing alongside multimillion-dollar homes in places like Alys Beach, FGBC proves that sustainability doesn’t have to be elite — it just has to be intentional. “We’ve certified almost 40,000 homes,” says Davila. “From modest to high-end — and every one of them was built to last.” Built America Magazine | South

Land, Life, and Long-Term Thinking

Florida’s fastest-growing communities — Lakewood Ranch and Babcock Ranch — aren’t just neighborhoods. They’re ecosystems of sustainability, and they’re FGBC-certified.

Walkable schools, biking trails, preserved green space — they’re designed around the kind of life people actually want,” Davila says. Babcock Ranch, in particular, is a national symbol. Built on 73,000 acres, only 18,000 will be developed — the rest remains protected. The community is powered by an 870-acre solar farm and stood strong through Hurricane Ian with almost no damage. “That’s not luck,” Davila notes. “That’s planning.” Greening Local Government FGBC’s local government program is about more than checklists. It’s about change. “We’ve seen departments that never spoke before — fleet, water, energy — come together to form Green Teams,” Davila says. “It reduces redundancy, saves taxpayer money, and builds more resilient cities.” This collaboration is driving innovation. Cities are using drones to detect energy leaks, applying for grants they never knew they qualified for, and using FGBC’s framework as a tool for transformation. Educating the Next Generation

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Built America Magazine | South

FGBC knows the future doesn’t just depend on buildings — it depends on people. Through annual scholarships and specialized training, FGBC is cultivating the sustainability leaders of tomorrow. “One of our first scholarship winners is now Jacksonville’s sustainability manager,” Davila shares. Their training programs — developed with the Florida Solar Energy Center — offer online and in-person options to certify professionals across FGBC’s five standards. “The green building world moves fast,” he says. “We make sure our professionals are ahead of the curve.” Membership That Moves the Industry Membership with FGBC isn’t just symbolic. It’s influential. “Our members help revise our standards every five years,” Davila says. “They’re not just participants — they’re stakeholders.” From showcasing innovative solutions to shaping the future of certification, FGBC’s member community drives the coalition’s momentum. “Our members help revise our standards every five years, They’re not just participants — they’re stakeholders.”

BABCOCK RANCH

CERTIFIED PLATINUM | 2025 GREEN ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

BABCOCK RANCH CERTIFIED PLATINUM | 2025 GREEN ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

Changing the Narrative on Cost

Despite all the progress, one myth remains: that green building is expensive. “It’s not,” Davila says. “It just means making smarter decisions earlier in the process.” FGBC is addressing this head-on with a searchable database that allows buyers to explore every credit earned by a certified home — energy, safety, resilience — so that value can finally be seen and understood. Real Value, Real Change

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Built America Magazine | South

The next frontier? Insurance and real estate.

“If I raise my home above flood level and build it to be storm-resistant, why am I paying the same premium as someone who didn’t?” Davila asks. Likewise, homes that are healthier, safer, and more efficient deserve fair valuation. FGBC is working to help the real estate and insurance industries evolve alongside the buildings themselves. A Model Worth Building On

ST. JOHNS RIVER, WATER MANAGEMENT DISTRICT FGBC CERTIFIED

Perhaps no story better illustrates FGBC’s mission than Babcock Ranch — a place where schools, homes, and lives are powered by clean energy and resilient design. Every building is FGBC-certified. Every decision is intentional. “This community was built around nature,” Davila says. “It’s not just about housing — it’s about how people live, learn, and grow.” A Call to Florida’s Builders and Leaders From government offices to groundbreaking developments, the Florida Green Building Coalition is proving that sustainability is not a luxury — it’s a responsibility.

FGBC CERTIFIED GREEN HIGH-RISE RESIDENTIAL ALOFT DELRAY BEACH BY MARRIOTT

And that responsibility starts now.

“This isn’t about prestige,” Davila says. “It’s about performance. About homes that last. Communities that thrive. And a Florida that’s ready for what’s ahead.”

The blueprint exists. The model is working.

VAUGHAN BAY BRIDGE PLAZA FGBC CERTIFIED

Now the question is—will you build to meet it?

“This isn’t about prestige,It’s about performance. About homes that last. Communities that thrive. And a Florida that’s ready for what’s ahead.”

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Built America Magazine | South

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Built America Magazine | South Not a Member of FGBC Yet? Here’s How -and Why- You Should Be Florida’s Green Future Needs Builders Like You Whether you're a builder, architect, developer, or city official—if you care about resilient communities, energy efficiency, and long-term environmental impact, membership with FGBC connects you to Florida’s only state-focused green certification program. Get access to state-recognized certification programs tailored to Florida's unique climate Join a growing network of builders, cities, schools, and developers committed to sustainable leadership

Become a Member Today Visit www.floridagreenbuilding.org/join/become -a-member Questions? Call 407-777-4914

Be part of the movement shaping Florida’s codes, policies, and green future

Receive exclusive resources, educational tools, events, and statewide recognition

Show your clients you’re building smarter— for a stronger tomorrow

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The Art of Intentional

Construction

RJ never set out to be a conventional builder. With a background in architecture and a career that began in the high-end retail spaces of New York City, his entry into construction wasn’t planned — it was felt. "I fell in love with the process,” he recalls. “I wasn’t swinging the hammer. I was organizing, coordinating, building relationships.” After 9/11 changed the construction landscape in New York, RJ pivoted — spending 14 years with another firm before relocating to Sarasota, Florida in 2016 in search of balance. “I wanted to be around for my kids, for their sports, for dinner. I loved the work, but I didn’t want to miss life.” The Birth of Modus By 2018, RJ had become a licensed general contractor in Florida. That same year, Modus Builders was born — a reflection of RJ’s values, craftsmanship, and belief that quality stems from intention. “I started with what I knew — interiors and remodels. But my vision was always bigger: full homes, design-build projects, a complete process rooted in purpose.” Within 18 months, Modus had its first ground-up home — far ahead of the three- year timeline he had originally mapped out. The company scaled quietly, building not through ads, but through reputation. “It’s all been word of mouth. People refer us because of how we make them feel throughout the process — not just the results.” 30 S P E C I A L E D I T I O N

MODEL: OSPREY COASTAL HAVEN DWELLINGS

“Don’t pick me because I’m the best price. Pick me because you believe we can work together.” Innovation with Intention: Enter Steel Frame Homes In 2024, RJ’s trajectory shifted again — this time with a proposition from a young realtor named Connor. “He brought me this idea — steel frame homes, built with precision in a factory, hurricane-rated, and energy-efficient. I was skeptical at first. It felt too much like production building. But the more I looked, the more the pros outweighed my ego.” That partnership birthed Coastal Haven Dwellings, a new division under Modus Builders, focused on steel frame homes that can be delivered in —

Built America Magazine | South

In one project, his clients had sourced a decorative breeze block from Arizona. The transport cost doubled the material’s price. “We found a local fabricator. Built custom molds. Made it here. It turned out better — because it was personal, and because it made sense.” Modus doesn’t chase trends — they define values. Their approach is about integrity: reducing waste, shortening build timelines, and preserving quality craftsmanship without compromising aesthetics. “You don’t need to be wasteful to be luxurious.” Building with People, Not Just Materials

— under 10 months — and at a 20–30% cost reduction compared to traditional builds. “We’re talking 178 mph wind-rated homes, precision-built, with almost zero site waste. It’s not just faster. It’s smarter.” The models range from small ADUs at 300 sq ft to 2,500 sq ft homes — and they’re customizable for both inland and coastal conditions. Green Doesn’t Mean Sacrifice For RJ, sustainability is never a trade-off. “You don’t have to sacrifice luxury to be green. You don’t need to fly in specialty materials from across the country if you can replicate them locally. Thoughtfulness is part of the luxury.”

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Built America Magazine | South

From day one, RJ knew he’d only be as strong as the people he partnered with. “I try to treat my trade partners like family. That means communication, respect, and sometimes, a little yelling — but always accountability.” He applies union discipline learned in New York, even in Florida’s different construction culture. “There’s a way to show up to a job. A way to clean up at the end of the day. A way to prepare. I look at the tools someone brings — and I can tell if they’re ready to do the work or not.” Internally, the Modus team meets weekly. They walk every job. Every detail is checked. “We’re human. It’s never going to be perfect. But we try. And we celebrate the wins. A permit granted. A smooth finish. A job done right — that deserves a lunch, a pat on the back, and real acknowledgment.”

MODEL: HERON COASTAL HAVEN DWELLINGS

The Business of Belief Modus doesn’t advertise. “It’s relationships. That’s our entire marketing strategy. Whether it’s a client, a trade, or a vendor — we’re in this together. And we only move forward if we believe the fit is right.” He tells prospective clients upfront: it’s not just about price. “This is a relationship. A short- term marriage. You’re going to hear hard truths. There will be issues. If you can’t have those conversations with me, don’t hire me.” Many of those initial relationships turn into lifelong friendships. One, a large remodel project, became a referral for RJ’s first full home build — and launched Modus into what it is today. “Rocky and Christine — they were one of our first. I still get together with them. That job changed everything.”

RJ Diaz | Chief Executive Officer

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What Comes Next?

Built America Magazine | South

He’s also working on a solar-integrated roofing partnership, hospitality and residential developments, and representing the firm Fran Silvestre Arquitectos, a world-class modern architect based in Valencia, Spain. “Imagine homes that are art, that are self-reliant, that aren’t just beautiful — but intentional.”

RJ’s roadmap stretches beyond the individual home.

He pocket neighborhoods — sustainable, people-first communities rooted in New Urbanism. dreams of building “I hate the idea of homes designed around vehicles. That’s not how people connect. I want to build communities that make room for life. For walking, talking, sitting, gathering — for being human again.”

“This isn’t just about building homes. It’s about building better futures.”

The Legacy of Modus

MODEL: SEAGULL COASTAL HAVEN DWELLINGS

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Built America Magazine | South

At the end of it all, RJ’s measure of success is simple.

“I want to leave it better than I found it.”

Better for his family. Better for the homeowners. Better for the earth. “I want my kids to be proud. I want them to look at what I’ve built — and believe they can do the same. Or better.” With every detail, every trade partner, every thoughtful decision about steel, breeze blocks, solar panels, or site layout, Modus Builders is quietly shaping something bigger than a business. They’re shaping a world where the built environment breathes with the planet.

Written by Skyler Grey Editor in Chief Built America Magazine

“I want to build communities that make room for life. For walking, talking, sitting, gathering — for being human again.”

MODEL: PELICAN COASTAL HAVEN DWELLINGS

A Legacy in The Living

Written by: Skyler Grey Editor in Chief | Built America Magazine

It began not with concrete, but with conviction.

Before the first beam was raised or blueprint drawn, there was a question burning in the heart of a former NFL player turned visionary developer: What if we could build a town not in spite of nature—but with it? That question wasn’t rhetorical. It was a mission. And in Florida, where development often swallows green space faster than it can grow, it became a revolution. Babcock Ranch is more than a place. It is a possibility—fully realized and still unfolding. And as the sun rises each morning over its solar-powered horizon, it shines not just on homes and parks and lakes, but on a new philosophy of what it means to live well and live wisely.

A Town that Didn’t Take, it Gave Back “My dad, Syd Kitson, is the visionary,” says Tyler Kitson, Senior Vice President of Communities at Kitson & Partners, developer of Babcock Ranch. “He’s always had this calling—this deep belief that development could be different. That it could honor the land, not exploit it. And now? We’re watching that belief become a benchmark.” When the Kitsons purchased the 91,000 acres of historic ranch land that would one day become Babcock Ranch, they made an unprecedented decision: 73,000 acres— the vast majority—were sold back to the state for permanent preservation.

That was not a PR gesture. It was the blueprint.

“From day one, we weren’t just building a town—we were preserving a legacy,” Tyler says. “About 90% of the original Babcock Ranch is in conservation forever. That shaped everything.” And so, Babcock Ranch was born—not in defiance of Florida’s fragile ecosystem, but in collaboration with it. Developers studied century-old flood maps, mapping natural water flow paths, adjusting infrastructure to accommodate—not redirect—those ancient rhythms.

“He’s always had this calling—this deep belief that development could be different. That it could honor the land, not exploit it.”

The result?

A town that breathes with the land it occupies.

73,000 Acres Preserved Over 90% of the original ranch land was sold back to the state for permanent conservation Eco-Engineered Infrastructure Designed with nature, not against it — smart lakes, natural water flow mapping, and a real-time water tracking system protect the town from flooding and hurricanes. America’s First Solar-Powered Town Babcock Ranch runs on a 150-megawatt solar array that powers the community and feeds clean energy back into the grid.

— Tyler Kitson Senior Vice President of Communities at Kitson & Partners

“We’re 30 feet above sea level to begin with, which is virtually a mountain in Florida,” Tyler adds with a smile. “And we built up even more from there. But the real work happens below—smart lakes, smart ponds, and a real-time water tracking system that lets us shift water in preparation for hurricanes. That’s the kind of planning that saves communities.” Solar-Powered. Soul-Driven.

At the literal and symbolic center of Babcock Ranch is the sun.

Long before solar was a buzzword, Florida Power & Light partnered with the Kitson team to create the first utility- scale solar-powered town in America. They started with a 75-megawatt solar array—more than enough to power every home. Then they doubled it. “We actually donated the first 450 acres for the solar array,” Tyler recalls. “At the time, it wasn’t a guaranteed return. It was just the right thing to do.” Today, Babcock Ranch’s 150-megawatt solar field not only powers the town but also feeds energy back into surrounding communities. And it’s not just functional—it’s educational. Residents and visitors alike can climb a three- story viewing tower to see the solar panels stretch to the horizon, visit the Solar Ranch – An FPL Eco-Discovery Center, and learn about clean energy firsthand.

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Because here, sustainability isn’t hidden behind walls or reserved for policy documents—it’s woven into daily life. The Nature of Living Differently

“We’re trying to remind people what it feels like to live outside again. To walk. To bike. To breathe.”

It’s working. Babcock Ranch has more than 100 miles of trails, with plans to exceed 150. Parks— six of them newly built—line a three-mile stretch of community spine road.

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One of them is a fully inclusive playground, funded in part by the state, and designed for children of all abilities. And then there’s the landscape: nearly all of it native. That means less water, less maintenance, and more resilience. Pine needles fall, stabilize the earth, and become part of the cycle again. Oaks, pines, and prairie blend seamlessly into the preserved wilds just beyond town. “We’re not just planting trees,” Tyler explains. “We’re reforesting. We’re giving nature back its place—stronger than before.” Even the wildlife has taken notice. Just a few months ago, conservationists tagged a Florida panther near Babcock Ranch’s edge— proof that when you honor the wild, it returns.

Hurricane after hurricane has tested Florida’s coastlines. But when Ian loomed, Babcock Ranch stood like an exhale in a state holding its breath. “Our homes? They didn’t lose power. Didn’t lose internet. Our residents sheltered in place and watched the storm on TV,” Tyler says, still visibly moved. “It’s surreal—watching something so powerful from a place of safety.” That safety is no accident. All utilities are buried underground. Homes are built above code, with FGBC certifications and resilient infrastructure. Even the town’s shelter is unmatched—the only shelter in the region designed and built to ICC 500 standards , able to house over 1,300 people. Built in response to Hurricane Irma, it stands now as a safe haven not just for residents, but for neighboring towns in times of crisis. Storm-Proven, Shelter- Strong

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“We wanted to be more than prepared,” Tyler says. “We wanted to be a refuge.”

And after the storm? Babcock Ranch’s residents emerged—not to rebuild their own lives, but to help others. Clothing donations. It’s like the whole town breathes in relief and then exhales compassion.” “Food drives. Cleanups.

A Community That Feeds Itself—and the Future 45

From community gardens to flex workspaces, urgent care centers to solar learning stations, Babcock Ranch isn’t just green—it’s alive.

And it’s growing.

“This next chapter is going to be electric,” Tyler beams. “We’ve got restaurants coming, shops, a downtown with parks at its heart. We’re building a place where you don’t need to leave for anything. You live, work, play, and grow right here.” With partnerships like Tampa General Hospital, new mixed-use districts, and light industrial parks, Babcock Ranch is fast becoming a self-sustaining ecosystem. But even as they expand, their core remains unchanged.

“Every meeting, Syd still brings up our core values—resilience, sustainability, innovation. That’s our compass.”

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“Every home here is FGBC-rated. The town itself is certified platinum —the highest rating you can get.”

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FGBC: The Quiet Force Behind the Future

Babcock Ranch wouldn’t be what it is without the Florida Green Building Coalition (FGBC)—and Tyler is quick to say it.

“They’ve been with us since the beginning. Every home here is FGBC-rated. The town itself is certified platinum—the highest rating you can get.”

The partnership is more than symbolic. It’s strategic. It’s guidance. It’s accountability.

“We trust them,” Tyler says. “We ask them what’s next, what’s working. We challenge them, they challenge us. That’s how we grow.” The result? A community where every choice, from window placement to wastewater management, carries purpose. From Critics to Converts At first, people doubted. They laughed at the idea of a solar- powered town. A sustainable city. A resilient future. But doubt doesn’t survive proof. “We’ve been through the storms. We’ve kept the lights on. We’ve earned the right to say—this works.”

Now, instead of scoffing, people are studying. Visiting. Asking: How do we do this where we live?

“We hope they do better than us,” Tyler says. “We want to be the blueprint. Not the finish line.”

Legacy in the Living “We don’t want Babcock Ranch to be remembered just as a place,” Tyler says. “We want it to be remembered as a movement.” It already is. It’s in the child running barefoot through native grass. In the resident who didn’t evacuate. In the developer who dares to plant solar arrays instead of strip malls. In the wildlife that returns when the land is respected. And in every builder, planner, and city leader who hears the story of Babcock Ranch and asks, not “Can we afford to do this?” but “How can we afford not to?” The Final Question Babcock Ranch isn’t asking for applause. It’s asking for courage. It’s not shouting from mountaintops—it’s whispering from wetlands: There’s a better way. Come see for yourself.

So, here’s the question Babcock Ranch leaves us with: If they can build a thriving, solar- powered, storm-proof, community-rooted town in the

middle of Florida—what’s stopping the rest of us?

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Because the future isn’t waiting. It’s already here.

And it looks a lot like Babcock Ranch.

Ready to See the Future?

Babcock Ranch isn’t just a town — it’s a movement. A living blueprint for what’s possible when we choose sustainability, resilience, and community over compromise . Visit. Study. Be Inspired . Whether you're a builder, planner, city leader, or dreamer — Babcock Ranch invites you to witness what happens when we build with purpose .

Learn more at www.babcockranch.com or scan the QR code

Inside the Mind of Robert Lord: Master Sustainable Luxury Builder

"We’re building for a future where the next storm isn’t just survived, but anticipated. We're designing with nature, not in defiance of it."

Written by: Skyler Grey | Editor in Chief Built America Magazine

Not Merely a House, But a Sanctuary In the heart of Florida, where the sun beats down with equal measure of beauty and brutality, there stands a builder who has reshaped the very conversation around what it means to construct a home. Not merely a house—but a sanctuary. Not simply a structure—but a legacy. Robert Lord, founder of Lord General Contractors, is more than a builder. He is a steward of the earth, a custodian of innovation, and an architect of tomorrow.

—Robert Lord

A Foundation Built on Legacy

“My mentor was a post–World War II custom home builder,” Robert begins, his voice tinged with reverence and memory. “He built with integrity and self- sufficiency, developing land, building homes, and using in-house vendors. It wasn’t just business—it was personal.” That mentor was Robert Kettell of the Robert Kettell Construction Corporation in Chicago—a man who would forever change the course of Robert Lord’s life.

ROBERT LORD | PRESIDENT

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Nationally Awarded Master Builder More Than a Contractor—A Mentor, Storyteller, and Innovator

Over 100 Custom Homes Inspired by Heritage, Built with Precision

ROBERT KETTELL | ROBERT KETTELL CONSTRUCTION

“I was just five years old,” Robert recalls, “and I remember him stepping down from a massive earth-moving machine that looked as big as a house to me. He reached into his pocket and handed me a carpenter’s pencil. That was it— that was the spark. That one moment shaped everything. If he hadn’t handed me that pencil, I don’t know where I’d be today.” was more than a gesture. It was an invitation—

—into a world of tools, grit, craftsmanship, and integrity. As a teenager, Robert and his wife would spend weekends showcasing Kettell’s model homes during open houses in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. His parents had built three homes with Robert Kettell—one of them the very first in the subdivision—so Robert literally grew up inside his mentor’s work, watching more than a hundred homes rise from the dirt.

"”That was it—that was the spark. That one moment shaped everything. If he hadn’t handed me that pencil, I don’t know where I’d be today.”

THE ULTIMATE GREEN HOME

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“Kettell wasn’t just my mentor,” Robert says. “He became family.” He was even a guest at Robert and his wife’s wedding. Robert remembers him as a man of patience and principle. A genuine soul who often conducted business from the tailgate of his truck. A builder who welcomed kids from the neighborhood— Robert among them—jumping off the dirt mounds at job sites. He never shooed them away. He embraced them, just like he embraced the community he was helping to build. By nineteen, he had purchased his first home to rehab. In Robert’s hands, he now carried carpenter’s pencils of his own—worn smooth by time and purpose. They weren’t just tools; they were quiet emblems of the spark that started it all.

A spark ignited by a man who, with a simple gesture, saw potential in a child’s awe—and unknowingly set a legacy in motion, far beyond that dirt lot in Illinois. By twenty-six, Robert had come full circle, partnering with that very mentor and fully stepping into the path first traced by a pencil pressed into a five-year-old’s hand.

The Philosophy of a Hybrid Mind

Yet it wasn’t simply a story of construction.

It was a calling.

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He calls his early homes "hybrids," precursors to the Net Zero movement.

As early as 2002, in the frigid Midwest, Robert was building homes that defied the elements and convention alike. One home, tested before drywall, stunned Energy Star auditors. "They thought they were at the wrong address," he laughs. “They said testing was done at completion—not mid-construction, and certainly not before drywall. But I knew that if we wanted true performance, we had to challenge the standard. It was unconventional—but I insisted. And we shattered their expectations.” That moment, he says, sparked something deeper. "We had D.R. Horton’s top brass on our job site a week later. They wanted to know what we had done." Proof in Performance What he had done was everything differently. He used closed-cell foam, dissected every potential air leak, and interrogated each material with precision. The results? Homes ranging in size from just over 4,000 up to 10,000 square feet—each capable of maintaining a steady 70 degrees indoors, even during 30-degree winters —with energy bills under $100. "Hot air doesn’t just rise," Robert explains, "it seeks cold, wherever it resides. We designed our structures to leverage that. It wasn’t theory; it was proof."

But Robert Lord didn’t stop there. The Ultimate Green Home He began designing the “Ultimate Green Home” in 2005—a vision that would be fully realized by the fall of 2008: 15,000 square feet of what can only be described as architectural alchemy. With geothermal systems, convection-reflective materials from DuPont (so advanced they blocked cell signals), paperless drywall, and space- age sealing techniques, the home became a living laboratory. "People walked in and felt like they were on another planet," Robert remembers. "Scientists from the Institute for Chicago Science and Industry came out.”

“We had 200 to 300 people attend open houses in midsummer, and the HVAC units didn’t even turn on. It sustained itself." The home drew national and international acclaim. It earned the National Innovation Award. Robert was invited to undergo a rigorous, year-long audit by the very first Hammers 20 Club—a prestigious benchmarking group within the National Association of Home Builders, composed of some of the most elite custom home builders in the country. The invitation alone was a rare honor. After an exhaustive review of his business model, systems, and building practices, Robert was invited to attend as a guest and ally. In a moment that underscored just how far ahead of the curve he truly was, they told him he didn’t need to join—he was already operating on their level. “Just keep doing what you’re doing,” they said.

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That same year, the NAHB invited Robert to Washington, D.C., where his pioneering work was showcased as a real-world example that helped shape the development of their national green building guidelines. "We didn’t just talk the talk. We walked it. And we had the data to prove it." Awards and Accolades, But Never the End Goal Yet for Robert, the recognition isn’t the point. "The awards are a blessing," he says softly, "but what matters most is helping others see what’s possible." Today, his work continues in Florida—on the barrier islands, in the wake of back-to-back named storms. He’s helping communities rebuild, not just structurally, but sustainably and resiliently.

"The home you build is the water you drink, the air you breathe. We wouldn’t drink untested water, so why would we accept untested air quality in our homes?"

Built on Relationships, Guided by Passion

Yet for Robert, the recognition isn’t the point. "The awards are a blessing," he says softly, "but what matters most is helping others see what’s possible." Today, his work continues in Florida—on the barrier islands, in the wake of back-to- back named storms. He’s helping communities rebuild, not just structurally, but sustainably and resiliently.

"We’re building for a future where the next storm isn’t just survived, but anticipated. We're designing with nature, not in defiance of it." The essence of Lord General Contractors lies in its creator’s philosophy: question everything, honor craftsmanship, and leave behind something that lasts. "The home you build is the water you drink, the air you breathe," Robert says. "We wouldn’t drink untested water, so why would we accept untested air quality in our homes?"

A Philosophy That Breathes

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"It starts with one step. For us, that one step became everything." Built on Relationships, Guided by Passion

His analogy is as clear as it is sobering. And it’s that clarity —and conviction—that has led to lasting collaborations with leading organizations such as;

Robert’s influence now stretches beyond blueprints and construction sites. As an ambassador for the International Builders Show, he walks the floor each year —alongside architects, engineers, and clients— introducing them to the latest innovations in building science and technology. He also serves as a multi-year Best of Show judge, a role he holds in the highest regard. For Robert, it’s an honor and a thrill to witness what’s next—often evaluating the very prototypes that will shape the future of the industry. His collaboration is fierce, intentional, and deeply human. "Relationships have been the heart of our company. Some have lasted over 25 years. We’re not just building homes; we’re building trust." 65

Florida

Green

Building

Coalition, National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), LEED and ENERGY STAR . the "You get a fast pass to understanding when you engage with these groups," he explains. "It starts with one step. For us, that one step became everything."

And for those hesitant to make the leap to sustainable design? His message is simple: "Find a mentor. Be willing to change. Start with your own home. If you can do it once, you can do it again." A Legacy Felt in Every Nail When people walk through a Lord General home, Robert hopes they feel something more than admiration. "The attention to detail, the sustainability, the way the light reflects off the trim at sunrise—we design for the senses and the soul. We build dream homes with the care of three perspectives: as if it's yours, as if it's mine, and as if it's for someone we'll never meet. That’s legacy."

And for the next generation of builders?

"I'd rather you try and fail than never try at all," he says. "Follow your passion. Follow your heart. The opportunity is endless." The Question That Changed Everything In the end, Robert Lord has not just built homes. He has built hope—layered it into walls, sealed it into corners, and poured it into foundations. He is a master builder, yes. But more than that, he is a mirror, reflecting back what is possible when one man dares to ask:

How can we build better?

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At Built America Magazine, we believe in honoring the pioneers who redefine the possible. Robert Lord is one of those rare visionaries whose work doesn’t just shape buildings—it shapes futures. His commitment to quality, sustainability, and stewardship stands as a shining example for every builder, homeowner, and industry leader who aspires to do more and be better. As we close this feature, we extend our deepest gratitude to Robert for his extraordinary contributions to the construction world and for the legacy of learning, innovation, and purpose he continues to leave behind. May his journey inspire yours. Let us all, in our own ways, continue the work he has begun —one sustainable step at a time. The answer, it turns out, is found not just in technology, but in tenacity, tenderness, and the timeless desire to leave the world better than we found it. A Closing Tribute

Ready to leave more than footprints?

To learn more about Lord General Contractors, explore their groundbreaking projects, or inquire about collaboration opportunities, please visit their website at: www.lordgccorp.com

Built from Brotherhood

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There’s a quiet rhythm in Floyd, Virginia. A place where the Appalachian hills roll like a hymn, and the air carries the weight of work done right. It’s in this town — unassuming, unhurried — that Omnibuild General Contractors has built more than structures. They’ve built a legacy. “I like sleeping at night,” says Matt Sebas, founder of Omnibuild — and there’s truth packed into that sentence, the kind of truth that doesn’t need dressing. This wasn’t a company born from corporate strategy or aggressive scaling. Omnibuild grew, like things worth keeping often do — slowly, steadily, from the hands of craftsmen who knew the worth of their word. Built From Brotherhood Matt launched Omnibuild in 2011 with a purpose that was part personal, part communal: to stay local, to work better, and to build with people who shared the same values. He didn’t want to build a company that cut corners — he wanted to build trust, one nail, one beam, one home at a time. Not long after, he called Noah Byler. “It was the best thing,” Noah recalls. “We just get to do a lot of great things together.” Their partnership was less a business move and more a natural alignment — like two beams supporting the same roof.

“THERE’S NO PROJECT THAT’S TOO SMALL OR TOO LARGE, EVERY CLIENT, EVERY JOB — THEY MATTER EQUALLY.”

—Matt Sebas

A Family of 50

Omnibuild has never chased size for the sake of it. Still, they’ve grown to a team of 50 — not a corporation, not a startup, but a family of builders, framers, electricians, and project managers who all know each other’s names and show up not just to get the job done, but to do it right.

“We’re different,” Matt explains.

Honesty is their bedrock. “If we make a mistake,” Matt says, “we don’t cover it up. We call it out, we fix it. That’s how trust is built.” It’s a rare kind of transparency in construction — a field often haunted by horror stories and cut corners. But Omnibuild isn’t haunted. It’s grounded. Every Wednesday, from 10 a.m. to noon, the core team gathers. Project managers, specialists, and site leads come together — not to micromanage, but to collaborate. “We review every project,” Matt says. “Ask questions. Push each other to see things differently. It makes the work stronger.” The Courage to Be Honest That ownership shows in everything they do — from the hundred-dollar repair jobs to multi-million-dollar builds. “There’s no project that’s too small or too large,” Matt says. “Every client, every job — they matter equally.” But perhaps nothing reveals Omnibuild’s ethos more than how they approach the work beyond the blueprints. “We want to be friends at the end of the job,” Noah says. And they mean it. You can hear it in their voices — in the way they talk about their clients, not as transactions, but as neighbors. As people.

MATT SEBAS | PRESIDENT

“We don’t sub most things out. We’ve got our own electrical company, our own plumbing company, our own framers, our own trim guys. We do surveying work in- house. That means we’re not waiting on someone else’s schedule — and it means the quality is ours to own.”

Every Job Matters

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