Don't Fence Me In

It can sometimes be difficult to give suburban home buyers the sense they are living in the open country-especially when they want the best of city life nearby. Ridgecove in Rowlett, Texas, borders Lake Ray Hubbard and offers that hometown atmosphere area buyers are seeking, though Dallas is only a short drive away.

"We're getting a mix of buyers, both professionals and move-ups with families," says Dave Besser, vice president of the Dallas division for Standard Pacific Homes. "These buyers wanted a country atmosphere, but they also wanted the sporting and cultural events that the city has to offer."

But it takes more than land location to make these buyers happy, and Standard Pacific knows that. Their new model in this neighborhood offers an open plan with natural materials to bring a taste of the open country into their living spaces.

"Move-ups really like the consistent hardwood flooring running from the foyer into the dining room, kitchen and breakfast nook," says Besser, adding that tile is another popular option in the area. This design aspect works in unison with the high ceilings (sloping from 12 feet to 19 feet in some rooms) to hold the open floor plan together, giving a sense of flow from one room to another.

Stone has also been a hit in this market, both inside and outside the houses. "Stone and brick has become very popular for exteriors around Dallas in the last four years or so," says Besser, "and the stone surrounding the cooktop has been such a popular option, we've decided to make it a standard feature."

Besser also notes that darker stain on floors, trim and even cabinets is gaining in use and popularity in Standard Pacific's houses. "We offer a new line of black walnut cabinets, and the people are really loving them," says Besser.

Major Products Used: Appliances: GE; Carpeting: World Carpet; Flooring: Bruce; Roofing: Tamco; Siding: Acme; Windows: General Aluminum; Plumbing Fixtures: Moen; Cabinets: Kentmore; Door Hardware: Schlage

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Housing as Fashion

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Selling Community

Style Sells

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Neotraditional Success