Visit New England Builders' sales center at Stonebridge of Lake Bluff.
New England Builders was named a winner in the 2008 Best of 50+ Housing Awards. Presented by the National Association of Home Builders, the awards program is the premier design and marketing competition for the 50 plus housing industry.
Stonebridge of Lake Bluff won in three categories: Home Design -- Home size over 2,400 square feet, Best Overall Web site and Best Overall Sales Center. The project was recognized by a panel of 13 judges that included builders, developers, architects, marketing experts and other industry professionals. Winners were chosen from nearly 300 total entries in more than 40 categories.
The committee chairman said that today's 50-plus consumers are different than the mainstream and demand cutting-edge community and home designs, as well as innovative marketing approaches. Our competition rewards builders, and other industry professionals who step outside the box to meet the unique needs of this evolving market.
"We're thrilled to be honored by this impressive National Awards Program and delighted that the judges have bestowed some important kudos on our behalf," said Vice President Chris Rintz.
Judges' comments regarding the Stonebridge sales center were extremely complimentary. "The historic reuse of the mansion is magnificent and this is the most impressive sales facility we've ever seen. There's been excellent use of historical elements. This project unanimously captured the judges' imagination. We commend the attention to details, relevance to history, and adaptive reuse. A Gold award was not enough to recognize this amazing project."
Within the Home Design category, the Hampshire garnered praise from the judges as evidenced by these comments. "The façade makes a great first impression. A terrific floor plan bridges the gap between classic and contemporary living. We love the flow from the kitchen to the dining room."
"The interactive map is superior and the site map is amazing," said judges who were impressed with the community's Web site design.
Stonebridge of Lake Bluff is a new adult community primarily for those 55 or older being built on the grounds of the historic Kelley Estate designed by architect Howard Van Doren Shaw. New England Builders and the Offices of Shawn Hunt are restoring 47 acres of historic land to its original architectural splendor.
Four single-family and duplex models are being built and expected to open in June. Nine floor plans offer primarily first-floor living with first-floor master suites.
At Stonebridge, upscale European-inspired country manors and villas, all designed with first-floor master suites, have been grouped in "hamlets" and feature two and three bedrooms and up to three baths. Homes range from 2,160 to 3,230 square feet of space and are preview-priced from the high $800,000s to $1.8 million. At a later stage, 14 luxury condominiums will be built in the historic structures.
Buyers have nine country manors or villas to choose from in either stone and stucco or shingle-style façades. Basements are available for finishing on a limited basis. Owners may also add a screened porch on their home in lieu of the standard stone paved terrace.
Residents will enjoy unlimited access to a state-of-the-art business center and fitness center which will be integrated into the historic mansion. Additionally, a full-time concierge will be available to attend to a multitude of residential needs.
In addition to all the architectural renovations, Stonebridge of Lake Bluff will feature the restoration and conservation of 12 acres of historic Jens Jensen designed woodlands and gardens. Landscape architect Bernie Jacobs of Jacobs/Ryan Associates, will take over the restoration of the original Jens Jensen landscaping.
To reach the sales center at 136 Green Bay Road, take Route 41 north to Deerpath Road, east one mile to Greenbay Road, north two miles to the community. The sales center is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Tuesday and from noon to 6 p.m. on Sunday. For information, call (847) 234-4500 or visit www.stonebridgeoflakebluff.com.