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Additional features that are characteristic of a Stewart Builders home are heart pine flooring, marble baths, media rooms and state-of-the-art technologies like audio and security systems, in-house vacuum systems, lightning protection and underground cisterns for gutter systems that can be used for a water supply in case of fire. "We aren't stuck in a certain niche, and we love the challenge of something new to add to our repertoire," she said.

When it comes to staying warm in the winter and cool in the summer, Stewart's mountain homeowners demand the latest technologies for their efficiency and practicality. Gaining popularity is radiant floor heat, the application of which is dependent on the type of flooring surface the client chooses. It is not uncommon for Stewart to install a variety of radiant systems in one house.

Stewart touts the highly efficient Unico air conditioning system because of the smaller (only six-inch) ductwork that can be woven into tight-fitting wall spaces. The duct's narrow profile eliminates the need to take up space with chases or soffits to accommodate bulky ducting. Geothermal heating is also an option for her clients. Environmentally friendly blown cellulose insulation made from recycled newspapers, according to Stewart, has great sound attenuation and higher efficiency than traditional fiberglass insulation.

Her background in post and beam construction prepared her for the many challenges that confront the high-end builder and continues to influence her work. Ongoing education also helps her keep up-to-date with new products, applications and developments in the industry. For that she relies on the Home Builders Association, a group that she has been actively involved with since she first chose to become a builder. After serving as a director for several years, this year she was named president of the Haywood County Home Builders Association.

"I've become much more involved and conscious of the community," Stewart said of her new role. "We have raised money and manpower for Habitat for Humanity. We give scholarships to students for construction-related studies, and in general, we educate ourselves about methods and trends in the field. This year, in October, we are having a Parade of Homes showcasing some of the premier homes in the area. My goal is to make sure everyone in the community knows that we are THE professionals, that we are accountable, and that we care about the industry in general, not just our own businesses."

A strong believer in education, Stewart is also enrolled in the North Carolina Certified Graduate Builder Program, which is an ongoing program of courses offered twice a year by the National Association of Builders. "The greatest education takes place on the job site," she said. "I visit mine every day. A custom builder has to be prepared to switch to plan B, C, or D at any given time. It is the nature of the trade. Though being prepared is the best antidote to emergencies, you have to be flexible. Most of all you have to have the attitude that there are no problems, only solutions."

She values the input of her clients and considers all people who contribute to the job to be part of a very important team. And she has come to depend on her eye for detail to overcome obstacles that can't be predicted in blueprints, such as the way a light fixture can cast shadows, the effect of an elliptical opening on the flow of rooms or how the addition of a window seat can take advantage of a cozy nook. "I'm not a designer," Stewart said, "but I think I know how to finish out a room and make it special."

The future holds growth for Stewart Builders. "Knowledge and experience have given me more confidence and the urge to grow."This growth may take the form of a craftsman-style cluster home development. She is interested in creating low-maintenance homes that encourage a greater sense of community. Until that time, this premium-quality builder will continue to enhance the lives of her clients and team members with her uniquely focused presence.

"I love home building," she said. "I love Haywood County. The end product of my work is that I have many people I call friends - people I respect. That is a gift that can't be bought or advertised or created overnight. You have to start with a strong foundation and work your way up."