Shaking up Raleigh’s housing market in a green way is IDYLE, the city’s first net-zero energy-ready townhomes. Recently splashing on the scene on South Bloodworth Street just steps from Transfer Co. Food Hall, the collection of 10 mod three-story, three- to four-bedroom dwellings comes tricked out with eco-perks like solar panels, a Tesla Powerwall, EV-car hookups and a home-monitoring system to track energy performance.
“It’s a groundbreaking project for Raleigh,” says Johnny Chappell of real estate firm Chappell and developer DevPointe. “This was a chance for us to do something that felt like it fit well in the Downtown fabric, but also something that stood out and offered something different for people who are looking to live, work and play in DTR.”
The concept first sparked in 2021 with a mission to increase density, expand affordable housing options beyond larger single-family homes and build sustainably so as to “be good stewards of the planet we all live on,” adds Chappell. Bonus: The primo location means max solar exposure—and positions the Downtown core in the front yard.
Courtesy of Chappell
Fully passive-powered, the homes are capable of generating more energy than they use to earn a Home Energy Rating System (HERS) score of zero—aka max energy efficiency—when upgraded to a full package of 32 solar panels. Translation: Homeowners can all but erase their monthly utility expenses while cashing in on major tax incentives.
Still, green doesn’t mean giving up luxe. Think chef’s kitchens with custom cabinets by local pros, quartz countertops, high-end electric appliances, and walls of windows framing views of skyline vistas. Rooftop terraces pull double duty, pairing solar panels that both power the homes and shade the space for optimal lounging and entertaining.
The result plays right into IDYLE’s calling card: boundary-pushing sleek, smart, sustainable living that’s anything but cookie-cutter. “We’ve had a very positive response, not only from homebuyers, but from those interested in something truly original,” emphasizes Chappell. “Anytime we get to do something outside the box or that pushes our creativity, it’s good for our team—and for the Raleigh market.” Call it a blueprint proving that, in Raleigh, sustainability and style aren’t mutually exclusive—they’re the new standard.
Dewitt Carolinas announces new Life Time tower at The Exchange.
Just when you thought The Exchange Raleigh couldn’t get any cooler, the upcoming Midtown development recently announced plans for a premier Life Time athletic country club and Life Time Living residences for Phase Two. The project includes an 80,000-square-foot, three-level luxury Life Time—including a 35,000-square- foot rooftop beach club (!)—along with a Life Time Living tower featuring luxury multifamily apartments, plus work-from-home and lounge spaces, outdoor amenities, and a golf simulator room.
Life Time members will have access to classes like Barre, cycling, HIIT, Pilates, strength training and yoga, as well as a coworking lounge, full-service LifeCafe and more.
“Rising at the east end of The Exchange’s park, Life Time Living embodies everything we’re working for at The Exchange, with wellness-focused luxury amenities designed to elevate and enhance the lives of community members and residents,” says Dewitt Carolinas Executive VP Steven Beattie. Both projects are slated to break ground later this year, with a projected early 2027 debut. theexchangeraleigh.com
Hit the high notes at these six local karaoke nights.
Ready to sing to a different tune? Drop the mic at these six weekly karaoke nights in Raleigh. Even if you can’t carry a tune in a bucket, these bars will provide all the liquid courage you need. Just don’t quit your day job.
Beat the Monday blues by belting your heart out at 9:30pm at the “Classiest Dive Bar in Raleigh.” Pro tip: All bottled beers are $4 on Mondays. Rock on!
Wednesday night at Sammy’s not only includes karaoke, but half-price entrees for students, $9 Busch Light pitchers and $3 Truly’s—all the necessary ingredients for the perfect performance.
Celebrate Friday Jr. by croonin’ some of the weirdest songs to exist at this divey bar where you don’t need to feel embarrassed by your subpar singing skills. #SorryNotSorry
This Hillsborough Street sports bar hosts karaoke every Friday at 9pm. Stage fright? Check out the pool tables and patio while cheering from the sidelines.
