"The ultimate project for any Landscape Architecture firm is one where we are given the chance to play the leading role," states Dudash. "Creating Grand Haven allowed us to implement our creativity and unique design abilities throughout the entire project."

Grand Haven, located in Palm Coast, Florida, is a community which offers the successful combination of neotraditional design principles with today's technology. Neighborhoods boasting picket fences, sidewalks, biking trails and a variety of price ranges are strategically located off the main parkway, ensuring timelessness of design and continuously increasing value. With a 4,000-foot esplanade fronting the Intracoastal Waterway, Grand Haven will also play host to a future Town Center which will include fitness facilities, an indoor/outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, restaurants, shops and an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course, as well as a pro shop and clubhouse.

"We worked on Grand Haven in our Charleston office for more than a year before we actually started any site work," explains Ray McGuirk, DesignWorks project Landscape Architect. "It was important that we create the ideal community which reflects old neighborhoods of the past, the fitness focus of today and the economic success of the development in the future." He adds, "DesignWorks coordinated a team of experts to combine the developer's ideas with the knowledge of those who have years of experience in their respective fields."

After careful review of marketing studies, including those that speak to national trends, DesignWorks conducted comprehensive research and analysis of the site and its context. This process, combined with the firm's extensive experience, was crucial throughout development of the Grand Haven Master Plan. With a main parkway that winds throughout the community, neighborhoods were strategically located to minimize through traffic in residential areas. Tree-lined streets with sidewalks, biking trails, picket fences, and large front porches were incorporated to encourage social interaction among neighbors.

"Although developers have strayed from the trend, it is refreshing to see neighborhood designs which influence the ways in which neighbors interact," remarks Dudash. "Our experience shows us that certain design strategies actually encourage neighbors to spend more time in their yards and public accesses, leading to more socialization. People have a high level of comfort when they move into a friendly neighborhood with activities for all ages."

Incorporating these types of strategies while developing the master plan resulted in a design which gives residents a chance to experience a small town's sense of community, a place where families and neighbors can enjoy life and each other.

DesignWorks wanted to continue the turn-of-the-century style in each home and public building. Architects from Design Traditions, an Atlanta, Georgia-based firm, designed homes with features that will retain the homes' values throughout the years. Big columned porches, gabled roofs and picket fences are part of the exterior plans. Inside, high ceilings and an open layout are conducive to entertaining.

Six of the top builders in the area have been selected to build homes within the neighborhoods of Grand Haven. Architectural Review Board guidelines ensure that the variety of builders will not affect the consistent style determined for each neighborhood, as well as the entire community. Homes have a choice of views which include wetlands, lakefront, fairway, woodland, and Intracoastal Waterway.

In addition to the unique blend of the old style and new design, many other factors were taken into consideration when designing Grand Haven. The abundant wetlands remain protected and are incorporated into the amenities of the community. "It is always important to retain natural systems when developing a piece of land," opines Dudash. "We incorporated the golf course and other amenities around the wetlands so their beauty can still be enjoyed."

Also apparent on this 680-acre site is the existing natural wildlife. Deer, turkey, armadillo and other wildlife continue to live in the area thanks to the effort made to retain their natural environment. The large conservation area which borders one side of the community gives these animals additional places to roam.

With nearly every amenity available, many may never feel the need to leave the gated entry of Grand Haven. "The amenities make this special community feel more like a vacation resort than a permanent residence," offers McGuirk. "Each day offers the opportunities to boat, fish, swim, shop, golf, play tennis, or just relax in a small restaurant overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway."

The 4,000-foot esplanade which fronts the Intracoastal Waterway represents one hub of activity. The windswept oaks were preserved to add shade and character to the 15-foot wide sandshell walkway. Turn-of-the-century style lights, park benches, statues and a fishing pier add to the relaxing yet festive environment.

The future Town Center, located along the boardwalk, will house a restaurant, a community center, fitness facility, putting and practice greens, and a pro shop to serve the golf course. With public access along the waterway, planned events and activities, such as waterside concerts and art shows, will be enjoyed by those living throughout Palm Coast and surrounding areas.

The 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course is strategically located so that those traveling the parkway have terrific views of the course, without disturbing the concentration of the players on the course. "After several design sessions with Jack Nicklaus, it was evident that this course is going to be just as beautiful as it is challenging," enthuses Dudash. "With views of the Intracoastal Waterway, this course will live up to the high standards of the most experienced golfers; yet, residents and guests will continue to enjoy a relaxed round of golf."

The fitness facility will offer residents an indoor-outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, weight machines, various exercise equipment and planned outdoor activities such as hikes and bike rides.

As the first phase of Grand Haven is completed, it is apparent that this community will no doubt have it all. Residents and guests will immediately recognize that no detail has been overlooked. Responsible for the overall character of the community, DesignWorks also established neighborhood guidelines, streetscape designs, signs and lighting; all contributing to the distinct identity of Grand Haven.

"Grand Haven is a community like no other along the Southeast coast," Dudash adds. "Although the beauty and design of this community are immediately noticeable, the family ties and lasting friendships created here just may be the most valuable aspect of Grand Haven." LASN

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Project Team:

Client/Developer:Lowe/Palm Coast, Inc.

Land Planning and Landscape Architecture:DesignWorks, LLC

Architects:Design Traditions

Civil Engineers:Bessent, Hammack & Ruckman, Inc.Real Estate and Development:Lowe/Palm Coast, Inc.

Contributors to this Article:

Steve Dudash, ASLA, DesignWorks, LLC

Ray McGuirk, ASLA, DesignWorks, LLC

Melanie Floyd