Cider Grove: Orchard-inspired homes bear fruit in Huntley
Two new model homes give visitors a taste of the sweet life at Cider Grove, a clubhouse community of 290 single-family homes set in the McHenry County countryside.
The Town and Country Homes development includes an orchard of fruit-bearing trees and a cider house-style community center where residents gather to socialize, exercise or simply relax on the outside deck. A separate children's play area features a themed room with kid-size furnishings and amenities.
The builder's models by MI Designs in Las Vegas are from its new Gala Series, which adds six new two-story designs to its already established Empire Series of homes.
Located on Huntley Road just west of Square Barn Road in Huntley, these plans include front entryways, 9-foot first-floor ceilings, four bedrooms, 21/2 baths, lofts or bonus space, second-floor laundry rooms, basements and attached two- or three-car garages as standard.
"The two new models showcase a professional designer's touch in fully furnished rooms with designer selected colors, finishes and textures," said Brian Murphy, vice president of operations. "We also show several optional features so buyers can see how the various options fit into each home's overall plan and how they can enhance their own new home."
One of the featured models is The McIntosh, priced from $265,995 with 2,638 square feet, four bedrooms plus loft, 21/2 baths, attached two-car garage and partial basement.
This open, flowing floor plan features a textural contemporary interior with dark wood furnishings and ebony, bronze and saddle tan color scheme.
In the combination living-dining room, a sofa and two chairs provide plenty of seating. A round wood dining table sits ready to serve guests while an area rug adds texture and interest.
Beyond a half-arched wall, the family room features a huge sectional in front of a stone fireplace and plasma TV-a comfortable spot for family togetherness.
The kitchen features black appliances, wood cabinetry, corner walk-in pantry and optional center island with breakfast bar and pendant lighting.
In the breakfast nook, a wood table for six is dressed with table runners. Buyers can opt for a large rear deck off the breakfast room. A breakfast bay is also optional.
A wallpapered half bath with pedestal sink sits off the kitchen.
On the second floor, a loft living area at the top of the stairs features built-ins that include a desk, window seats and cubes for kids' stuff.
The master suite shows a four-poster bed with gold draperies at the head and foot of the bed, two free-standing mirrors, chair for reading and an area rug that brings in accent colors. The private bath includes dual sinks, tub, walk-in shower and walk-in closet.
Three secondary bedrooms include a room with an animal motif, guest room with terra cotta walls, and a nursery done in black and white with built-in drawers and shelves in the closet.
A full hall bath features whimsical animal accessories. The laundry room completes the second level.
The second model is The Jonamac, priced from $280,995 with 2,887 square feet, four bedrooms, 21/2 baths, three-car attached garage and partial basement.
This home features a new transitional interior with an updated modern edge in places for a sophisticated, elegant look. Graphite, butter, gold and crisp white present a lot of contrast throughout the home.
In the living room, four white chairs sit around a gold ottoman, a perfect arrangement for conversation or a drink before dinner - a unique setup with a parlor feel. A framed mirror and two large pieces of artwork decorate the space. In the dining area, an oval table sits ready to serve a gourmet dinner with elegant place settings for six.
To the rear of the home, the kitchen features stainless steel appliances, plenty of counter space and a walk-in pantry with optional peninsula and breakfast bar. The breakfast area shows a black table topped with a white runner set up for entertaining.
A half bath features grass cloth wallpaper and pedestal sink.
The family room is outfitted with a cream sectional, media center and a wall of built-ins - shelving, desk and seat. A backgammon game is in progress.
Upstairs, an oversized loft space at the top of the stairs features large windows, sectional, glass table and credenza finished off with contemporary artwork.
Each of the secondary bedrooms is located in a corner, with the hall bath and laundry room located between two of the bedrooms for convenience.
The master suite features gold draperies, butter bed cover with a love seat at foot of the bed, two mirrored end tables and a walk-in closet. The private bath features two sinks, silver accents, tub and walk-in shower.
Secondary bedrooms include a home office with open bookcases and glass-topped table; room with a race car motif, and a room for the fashion diva complete with mirror and fashion display.
Other floor plans in the Gala Series include The Crispin from $248,995 with 2,396 square feet; The Ambrosia from $290,995 with 3,145 square feet; The Cameo from $299,995 with 3,238 square feet; and The Bramely from $322,995 with 3,480 square feet.
To visit Cider Grove, take I-90 to Randall Road, proceed north on Randall to Huntley Road. Turn left on Huntley and travel for about 31/2 miles. The community entrance is on the right. Information center hours are from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday through Monday; closed Tuesday and Wednesday. For more information, call (224) 569-4104 or visit townandcountryhomes.com.