Outdoor living showcased at the next level during Spring Parade of Homes
Although Sunday is the last day of the Spring Parade of Homes, presented by the Home Builder’s Association of Greater Kansas City (HBA) and sponsored by Stewart Title, it is not too late to check out the latest in home design, construction, technology and more.
Each year the Parade offers single-family homes, townhomes and villas constructed by some of the metropolitan area’s most recognizable builders. This year, a large number of these builders are focusing on unique, “outside-of-the-box” outdoor living designs.
Among them is Lambie Custom Homes Inc., whose distinctive designs, quality craftsmanship and functional creativity have earned it numerous awards locally and nationally for building in some of the most exclusive subdivisions in the highly competitive upper-bracket homes market.
In recent years, homebuyers have become more focused on outdoor living spaces that go beyond a mere covered deck or enclosed sunroom. What they really desire, said Jim Lambie, is to feel as though they are on vacation.
“Outside TVs, fireplaces in lieu of fire pits and complete kitchens have become very popular with today’s homebuyers,” he said. “They also want the inside to flow seamlessly to the outside. One of the ways we achieve this is by using large sliding doors with wide openings that give the allusion of still being indoors, but you get to enjoy the fresh air by actually being outdoors.”
Careful consideration of how one’s outdoor spaces will be used is an important aspect to consider in the design phase. For example, homeowners should consider if the area will be primarily to provide privacy, for large or small group gatherings, as an extension of the inside living areas, or just as an added area to relax.
Lambie’s innovative outdoor living spaces also encompass rooftop covered porches with open decks that take advantage of second-story views.
“We are incorporating upper-level outdoor areas with indoor entertainment spaces including TVs, complete bar areas, and in some cases complete kitchens and game rooms … all under cover but still outdoors,” Lambie said.
Prospective buyers can tour one of Lambie Custom’s model homes during the Parade in the Chapel Hill community in Olathe at 13428 W. 172nd St. This Juniper plan features an outdoor space off the living room highlighted by a 14-foot high ceiling, with a cedar vertical beam-supported covered deck. It features a see-through fireplace with floor-to-ceiling stone, including the mantel, and has maintenance-free composite decking.
Another outstanding home that makes it easy to enjoy the outdoors can be found at 325 NW Thoreau Court in the Winterset Valley community. Built by SAB Homes, this reverse 11/2-story home was featured on the 2013 Boulevard of Dreams, won a Grand Award during the 2013 Parade of Homes, and includes a walkout basement with a patio. Above the patio is a covered deck overlooking the 100 Acre Wood with an impressive floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace and built-in wiring for a TV.
Established in 1989, SAB Homes prides itself on making the building process enjoyable for its customers.
Owner Scott Bamesberger said, “We are passionate about providing the highest value to our customers without sacrificing quality. We have 10 homes on the Parade this year at a range of prices to suit many homeowners. We recommend everyone come out and visit the Parade to find the best home amenities for their family.”
To help prospective homebuyers, the HBA has compiled a free Guidebook listing addresses and information for each of the 377 single-family homes, townhomes and villas on the Parade. There is also an online home search tool at
This story was originally published May 10, 2014 at 12:00 AM with the headline "Outdoor living showcased at the next level during Spring Parade of Homes."