Plaza fountain adds to The Stratford of Palatine views
Rome's Fontana di Trevi and Chicago's Buckingham Fountain attract thousands of visitors who pitch coins in the hope of having their wishes come true.
The Stratford of Palatine Condominiums now joins their ranks with its own fountain, the ideal spot for relaxing on a bright summer day.
"Now that the fountain is flowing, this European-style landscaped plaza is perfect for a relaxing summer day with benches and evening accent lighting that creates an oasis or an inviting place for neighbors to meet and greet one another," said Ray Franczak of R. Franczak and Associates, the developer.
Located at Palatine Road and Smith Street in downtown Palatine, the 4,000-square-foot plaza centered about the fountain was designed by HKM Architects.
"The downtown plaza is our opportunity to create and donate a professionally designed green space to the village of Palatine," Franczak said.
The parklike plaza includes chanticleer pear and ivory silk lilac trees, snowdrift crab apple trees and dwarf Japanese junipers and Taunton yews. It also boasts flowering shrubs such as Miss Kim dwarf lilac, as well as an assortment of additional plants, including ground cover, perennials and grasses.
Suzanne Adamski owns a second-floor condominium at the Stratford with a north view of the park.
"My residence has a wonderful balcony view that overlooks the plaza," Adamski said. "It is so pleasant to sit on my balcony and look over at the garden with benches."
A guidance counselor at William Fremd High School in Palatine, Adamski enjoys the convenience of downtown living, as well as her short commute to work.
"Because the Stratford building is a smaller community with only 32 condominiums, I'll probably end up knowing everyone in the building," Adamski said.
The Stratford of Palatine has six floor plans with eight units per floor. Homes range in size from 1,364 to 1,594 square feet of living space. Prices range from $296,900 to $389,900.
Within walking distance of the Palatine Metra station, stores and restaurants, the community is convenient. Four models are open for viewing.
The sales center at 190 W. Johnson St. is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. For information, call (847) 705-6238 or visit www.rfranczak.com.