Natural Harmony

Have you ever visited newer neighborhoods that have rows of identical homes, devoid of character, trees or natural beauty? Instant turnoff. Can the benefits of new home construction along with the marketable value of a mature, planned neighborhood be just a dream? Such places really do exist.

Urban Home spoke with Phil Di Iorio, sales and marketing director of the Cunnane Group, a family owned and operated Charlotte home builder. Named Charlotte builder of the year in 2005 and recipient of 29 quality, design and performance awards since 1997, Di Iorio explains, "Our neighborhoods have a mature look by preserving as many trees as possible; we don't cut all the trees to fit the maximum number of homes allowed on the site." Physical beauty is a given bonus and there are hidden attributes to keeping trees and bushes intact.

Bion Howard, an environmental scientist, author and former homebuilder states, "Deciduous trees reduce the impact of solar heat gains during hot afternoon hours." Serving as wind breaks, air and noise filters, trees add market value and curb appeal to communities.

The Cunnane Group, fourth generation builders and contractors, are descendents from one of the largest American landscaping firms of the mid- 1900's. Common areas and parks have been and still are important elements for their community-friendly home sites. Di Iorio states, "People are drawn to communities that encourage interaction." Easy access to parks, bike riding, walking trails, outdoor spaces and a sense of community are desirable features for homeowners.

Walk through Cunnane's communities and experience quality craftsmanship, unique architecture, and universal design combined with natural beauty.

Cunnane's community, Ardrey, the first community in Charlotte developed under the new Tree Save Ordinance, designated 50 out of 140 acres as tree-save common areas; 95 percent of the homes are sold. Ardrey Commons, a luxury townhouse community in South Charlotte, received the 2007 STARS Attached Community award and Best Landscape Design by the N.C. Homebuilders Association.

The Cunnane Group is building at Springfield, in Fort Mill, offering 640 acres of outdoor options such as state-of-the-art swim and tennis centers. Nearly half of that community is dedicated to open space, including walking trails, sidewalks and parks. Golf Villas are offered and overlook the spectacular Springfield Golf Club.

State-of-the-art, historic-style homes and ranch homes at Cureton in Union County are also offered by Cunnane. Their latest venture is in Cornelius, called Antiquity. Di Iorio explains, "Antiquity is a nationally recognized Smart Growth plan and a vibrant, pedestrian friendly neighborhood integrated with commercial, retail and park areas in close proximity to the future transit-rail station."

For more information, call The Cunnane Group at 704-341-1414 or them online at www.cunnanegroup.com