According to Jennifer Stewart, Multi-family Project Manager at Urban Architectural Group, P.A., the architectural design firm for Palmetto Place, Hardie fiber cement siding is "always the product of choice" for the firm's multi-family developments, due first and foremost to its non-combustible qualities.

Fiber cement also helps Stewart achieve the look of wood, but with more durable performance, she says. The Matthews, North Carolina-based designer appreciates that Hardie products are more termite resistant than ordinary weatherboard, too.

Palmetto Place is built in a neo-traditional architectural style. Two different building designs are used, with both incorporating HardiePlank™ lap siding (6,000+ square feet per building), brick and HardiePanel™ (about 3,000 square feet per building) in a board-and-batten application. When completed, the project will consist of eight buildings, as well as a pool cabana, garages and a mail kiosk.

Stewart says HardiePlank is a nice step up from vinyl, and looks much more pleasing than the teletale glossy look of the cheaper vinyl material. In addition, she adds, "you don't have the issues that vinyl has" when using a masonry product such as James Hardie.

Installation also went smoothly, she recalls. "We didn't have very many calls from the field." She heartily recommends James Hardie to other architects considering it for their own multi-family projects.

Island Charm
Palmetto Place is well-situated to take advantage of Daniel Island's 23 miles of shoreline and natural attractions. The island, owned for decades by the Guggenheim family, has been undergoing a careful development plan that seeks to craft a traditional-style downtown village, along with distinctive low country-style neighborhoods. The site also sits adjacent to protected wetlands.

Palmetto Place will offer the latest in amenities for residents. Features include nine-foot ceilings, oversized walk-in showers, crown molding accents, and a pre-wired computer area. A "bark park," as well as community area with pool, fire pit and grills will also give homeowners an opportunity to interact.

The first phase at Palmetto Place is already complete, with three buildings consisting of 72 units. The project will consist of 1, 2 and 3-Bedroom condominiums, with floor plans ranging from 975 square feet to 1,358 square feet. Prices begin from the low $140,000's up to the mid-$190,000's, with garages available for lease or purchase.

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

Streetscapes Online, Volume 21 <