Planned architectural and civic elements create scenic neighborhood streets

The master-planned community of Habersham in South Carolina is a residential development that is carefully designed and planned to create a cohesive and functional community. Habersham is located in close proximity to the historic coastal town of Beaufort, SC and offers the best of both worlds - the charm and history of a traditional southern town, combined with the appeal of coastal living. The community is designed around the principles of New Urbanism, a design movement that emphasizes the creation of walkable, mixed-use communities that are connected to the surrounding area. The focus is on creating livable and sustainable communities that are closely connected to nature and the community.

The Habersham community includes a mix of housing options, including the concept of the "not so big house" - a term coined by architect Sarah Susanka in her book "The Not So Big House: A Blueprint for the Way We Really Live". The "not so big house" is a smaller home that is designed to be more efficient and functional, with an emphasis on quality over quantity. Habersham also includes recreational amenities, and commercial areas, all thoughtfully arranged to promote a sense of community and a high quality of life for residents. The community features green spaces, parks, and walking trails to encourage outdoor activities, while also being in close proximity to the natural beauty of the coast, making it a perfect place for those who appreciate coastal living.

The master-planned community of Habersham in South Carolina is a place where residents can live, work, and play in a cohesive and convenient environment, with an emphasis on living in comfortable and efficient homes while being close to the natural beauty of the coast and the charming town of Beaufort, all within the framework of New Urbanism Design principles.

Habersham’s Town Center is just a short walk from neighborhood residences

A walkable community is one where residents can easily access essential services, amenities, and destinations on foot or by bike. In Habersham, we have been committed to making walkability a key aspect of our development. This includes providing safe and accessible sidewalks, street design that reduces vehicular speeds, and buffered lot setbacks; as well as promoting mixed-use housing and preserving the character of the existing environment. By designing and building a walkable neighborhood, we have created a more livable and sustainable community for our residents, making the streets safer and more pleasant for pedestrians and cyclists. To further this goal, our town planners purposely designed rear alleyways, parking spaces, and garages to lessen the presence of automobiles on neighborhood streets. This also plays a large part in the curb appeal and prominent front porches that our residents cherish as hallmarks of a “Habersham home.”

The benefits of walkability extend far beyond just promoting physical activity. For example, walkable neighborhoods have:

• Improved public health by reducing obesity and related diseases

• Enhanced the social fabric of the community by promoting social interactions

• Improved the environment by reducing traffic congestion, pollution, and dependency on automobiles

• Boosted local economy by supporting town center businesses and increasing property values

In addition to Habersham, some examples of highly walkable planned residential developments in the United States include:

• Celebration, FL: Developed by the Walt Disney Company, Celebration is a master-planned community in Florida with a strong emphasis on walkability, with a town center featuring a mix of residential, commercial, and civic uses.

• Kentlands, MD: Kentlands is a planned community in Maryland that was one of the first developments in the United States to incorporate New Urbanist principles, including walkable streets, mixed-use development, and a mix of housing types.

• Seaside, FL: Developed by architects Andrés Duany and Elizabeth Plater-Zyberk, Seaside is a beachfront community in Florida that is known for its walkable streets, mixed-use development, and traditional architectural style.

The importance of walkability in enhancing the quality of life in a community cannot be overstated, and Habersham stands as a shining example of this principle in action. Through our commitment to walkable design, we aim to set a precedent for other developments to follow and inspire them to prioritize walkability in their own communities.

Foot bridges and marshside trails connect the neighborhood to sea island amenities

Active living refers to a lifestyle that incorporates regular physical activity and healthy habits into daily routines. The benefits of active living include improved physical and mental health, reduced risk of chronic diseases, and increased energy and overall well-being. Active living can be appealing to people of all ages and fitness levels, as it can include a variety of activities such as walking, cycling, swimming, and playing sports.

Habersham offers residents and visitors a variety of opportunities to engage in active living, including biking and hiking, racket sports, and access to the water for fishing and water sports. Our community encourages walkability and offers miles of trails in addition to a fitness trail with workout stations and a personal training facility in the town center; making it easy for residents to stay active and healthy.

Overall, active living is a beneficial and appealing lifestyle choice for individuals and communities. Habersham, South Carolina is a great example of a community that encourages and supports active living, providing residents with ample opportunities to engage in physical activity and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Lowcountry sunrise over the tidal marsh of Habersham Creek

The Lowcountry region of South Carolina, of which Beaufort is a part, is known for its rich history and unique geography. The area is characterized by its flat, coastal plain, which is dotted with marshes, salt creeks, and waterways. The region has a long history of human habitation, dating back to the days of the indigenous tribes who lived here for thousands of years. The Lowcountry was also home to some of the earliest European settlements in North America, with the arrival of the Spanish, French and English in the 16th and 17th centuries. The region played a significant role in the colonial and revolutionary periods of American history, and during the Civil War. The Lowcountry's geography and history have also played an important role in shaping the culture and economy of the region, with the waterways and marshes providing a rich source of seafood, and the region's history of rice cultivation and the Gullah culture still present today. The Lowcountry is a unique and fascinating place to explore, with a rich history and culture that is deeply intertwined with its geography and environment.

Living in Beaufort, SC offers a unique and charming small town experience in the heart of the Lowcountry. The town is steeped in history and is home to many beautiful antebellum homes and buildings. The waterfront is a major draw, with opportunities for boating, fishing and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. The downtown area is bustling with local shops, restaurants and art galleries. The community is tight-knit and welcoming, and there are many annual events and festivals that bring residents and visitors together. Beaufort's proximity to Charleston and Savannah allows residents to experience the best of both worlds: the charming small town atmosphere of Beaufort, with the added convenience of being able to easily explore the rich history, culture and vibrant city life of these two nearby destinations. Beaufort has received many accolades, including being named "Best Small Town in the South" by Southern Living magazine and "The Coolest Small Town in America" by Budget Travel. It's a great place to live for those looking for a slower paced lifestyle with a strong sense of community and access to the outdoors, as well as the proximity to two great historic cities.