A Neo-traditional community "is a very unique concept for Chicago," says Brad King, District Manager for James Hardie Building Products. Kimball Hill Homes, the developer and builder at Settlers Ridge, "has built sixty or seventy to homes just to get the concept across to prospective buyers," he notes.

So far, all of the completed homes in Settlers Ridge feature HardiePlank® lap siding, soffit and trim with pre-finished ColorPlus technology. Kimball Hill Homes is very familiar with James Hardie fiber cement products, according to King. The homebuilder has been using it on projects in states such as Texas for several years.

A ColorPlus Connection Kimball Hill Homes was "really sold on the value of ColorPlus," says King, who has worked closely with the builder for the past two years. The James Hardie product, with its factory-applied color, promises a fast production pace. It also gives the builder access to an inventoried supply without die lot issues—an important factor for any quality-conscious builder. Having "one warranty that they can market" is also a big plus, King believes. Kimball Hill Homes will be offering up to eighteen ColorPlus choices for new homebuyers.

The development broke ground in February 2006. Presently nine model homes are open at Settlers Ridge. When complete, Settlers Ridge will consist of approximately 2,470 homes. Architectural styles include Charleston, Craftsman, Victorian, Colonial and Vernacular.

Creating a successful Neo-traditional concept is "difficult to do with another product such as vinyl or cedar," says King. "They've done a phenomenal job of really mixing in different products and textures" using James Hardie products. Kimball Hill's imaginative use of varying colors and exposures also enhances the streetscape at Settlers Ridge.

"It's a beautiful-looking product," concurs Ruth Stefl, Sales Manager at Settlers Ridge, adding that the HardiePlank® warranty is "wonderful."

Plans for the retail component of Settlers Ridge are still winding through the approval process, but will primarily focus on quaint shops and smaller specialty merchants, Stefl says. In 2008, the developer is slated to break ground on a community pool and clubhouse complex as well.

Conservation in Action
Conservation planning principles are very much in evidence throughout the development. Over 500 acres—or about 40 percent—of the site will be preserved for the enjoyment of residents. Lakes, ponds, and restored wetlands will also be readily accessible via a network of trails.

This dedication to preserving the area's rural character can even be witnessed (of all things) at the new water treatment plant that was built to support Settlers Ridge. The facility is designed to resemble a large red barn. It recently won a "Project of the Year" award from the Chicago chapter of the American Public Works Association.

Additionally, Settlers Ridge has already received two Gold Key Awards for architectural design (its townhome and single family Pioneer model) from the Home Builders Association of Chicago.

Home sizes range from 1,400 square feet to approximately 3,200 square feet. Immediate occupancy pricing starts from $184,990 for townhomes, $259,900 for duplex units, and $284,990 for single family homes.

For more information, visit: http://www.kimballhillhomes.com

Streetscapes Online, Volume 12 <