The Emerald Homes Story.
On the banks of Smith Lake, something is taking shape.
On the emerald-green banks of Smith Lake, something different is taking shape. Emerald isn’t your typical developer. We find the land, design each home in-house, and build it as if it were our own — a place we’d proudly live in, vacation in, and pass down. That mindset guides everything: how we choose a lot, how we shape the layout, how the light moves through a room, and how a family might gather on a Saturday afternoon. Every detail is considered with intention — not for mass production, but for the people who will one day walk through the front door and feel like they’ve arrived.
While most spec homes aim to hit a price point, we develop to a standard — one that prioritizes design, experience, and enduring value. You won’t find builder-grade finishes or cookie-cutter plans here. Our homes are custom, turnkey, and thoughtfully crafted to balance style with substance. From the first sketch to the final walkthrough, our goal is simple: create a home that feels effortless to own and unforgettable to experience.
Emerald develops exclusively on Smith Lake, Alabama. It’s a place we know well and love deeply, and we believe the shoreline itself deserves better than generic, short-sighted construction. So we build with care — for the lake, the land, and the lives lived here.
The Founders
Shannon Fondren
ConstructionA retired teacher and baseball coach, Shannon is now the licensed general contractor and head of construction — the standard-keeper on every Emerald build.
Derek Miller
DesignThe creative force behind the design of every Emerald home, Derek also runs a global creative agency — bringing an editorial eye to the lake.
Together, they bring a unique perspective to real estate — equal parts strategy, beauty, and heart.
