The most memorable homes aren’t defined by a single feature, they’re defined by the vision behind them. That’s why luxury homeowners are beginning to choose integrated solar roofing over traditional panels.
For Kennett Square homeowner and custom home builder Tim Roberts, owner of Roberts Contracting LLC, that vision was to create an all-electric home that would bring a multigenerational family together while embracing thoughtful, future-focused design. Drawing on his experience building homes, Roberts approached every decision with a long-term perspective and meticulous eye; blending clean contemporary architecture with enduring materials and innovative technology that would support the home’s performance for decades to come.
Among the most important decisions was how the home would be powered.
Rather than installing conventional solar panels after construction, Roberts wanted a complete energy solution that would complement the home’s architecture instead of competing with it. His search led him to the CertainTeed SunStyle® Solar Roof, an integrated roofing system that produces clean energy while preserving the clean, contemporary aesthetic the homeowner envisioned.
Unlike traditional solar panels that are mounted above an existing roof, the CertainTeed SunStyle Solar Roof integrated solar technology directly into the roof itself. Each solar shingle functions as both a premium roofing material and an energy-producing component, creating a seamless appearance that preserves the home’s clean architectural lines.
That integration also requires a different level of planning and installation. Every detail, from waterproofing and flashing to electrical integration and roofing performance must work together as a single system, making close collaboration between the homeowner, builder, manufacturer, and roofing contractor essential.
“The goal was never simply to build a beautiful house,” said Roberts. “We wanted to build an all electric home that would serve our family well into the future. Sustainability was an important part of that vision, but so was preserving the architecture we worked so hard to create.” For a custom luxury home where every architectural detail mattered, this technology provided the ideal solution.
Bringing that vision to life required a roofing partner with specialized expertise in both premium roofing systems and integrated solar technology. Roberts selected O’Donnell Roofing, a CertainTeed-certified SunStyle installer, to collaborate on the design and installation of what would become the largest residential CertainTeed SunStyle solar roof installation in the United States to date.
Founded in 1924, O’Donnell Roofing Co. is a fourth-generation family company that brings more than a century of roofing expertise and has been involved in the solar industry for over twenty years.
“We’ve been focused on roofing for more than 100 years, and projects like this are an exciting example of where the industry is headed,” said Kevin O’Donnell, owner/CEO of O’Donnell Roofing Co. “We’re bringing that experience in roofing together with new technology that allows homeowners to generate their own energy without compromising the design of their home. Tim had a very clear vision for this property, and we’re proud to have been part of bringing that vision to life.”
The finished installation includes 329 integrated solar shingles, each producing 110 watts, creating a 35.9-kilowatt system expected to generate approximately 40,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity each year. That production will help power not only the home but additional features designed to support the property’s long-term use.
“Projects like this begin long before the first shingle is installed,” said Kevin O’Donnell. “Tim had a clear vision for a home that would be beautiful, sustainable, and built to last. Our role was to help bring that vision to life with a roofing system that complements the architecture while delivering long-term performance.”
The completed home stands as more than a showcase for innovative building products. It reflects a growing movement toward homes that are designed to last, places where architecture, sustainability, and family come together without compromise.
CertainTeed recently captured the story in an exclusive video interview featuring Tim Roberts and Kevin O’Donnell. Hear directly from them about the vision behind the home, the process of integrating SunStyle solar roofing, and what it takes to complete one of the nation’s most unique residential solar roof installations.
Watch the full video here.
The completed project demonstrates how integrated solar roofing is reshaping residential design, allowing homeowners to embrace renewable energy without compromising architectural beauty. As interest in sustainable, design-forward homes continues to grow, projects like this show what’s possible when thoughtful planning, innovative products, and experienced partners come together.
For Roberts, the home represents more than a successful construction project. It reflects a vision for the future—a home designed to serve generations of family while proving that luxury, sustainability, and exceptional architecture can exist under the same roof.
