On June 24th we opened our newest community – PINNACLE at Adams. PINNACLE is the 20th active adult community opening for Traditions of America. Yet, all of us at Traditions were full of jitters. This was something totally new for us.
Over the past 20 years, Traditions of America has enjoyed a remarkable record of successful communities, primarily centered around a few key features. For starters, most of our communities were large – on average 200 to 300 homes. This scale allowed us to develop resort-quality amenities, including premium Clubhouses, swimming pools – outdoor and indoor – racquet sports and walking trails. We staffed the active adult communities with a Lifestyle Concierge and the communities were vibrant, diverse and bursting with social opportunities.
While thousands of people bought homes from us, many did not. They were looking for something different. Here is what they told us:
- They still wanted a large lot that provided beautiful surroundings and privacy; they just did not want to do the mowing
- They were not downsizing; their ideal home would be spacious and fully customized – indoor and out
- They wanted the flexibility of expanding their home’s footprint, including 3 car garages – attached and detached
- They would forego community amenities for custom backyard pools, spas, expansive patio dining and fire pits, and in-home fitness rooms
- They valued neighborhood, but preferred a smaller, more exclusive setting.
- Most interestingly, they all aspired to live surrounded by natural beauty.
With this feedback in mind, the Traditions of America team, along with our planners, architects and designers went to work. We envisioned an entirely new product brand that would help us better serve America’s largest consumer group with wide-ranging tastes.
Of course, this was a worthless black hole project unless we found a unique piece of property. Two years later, we were presented the Adams parcel. This 90-acre site is situated in a rural setting, but not too far from the suburban convenience of Cranberry and the culture of downtown Pittsburgh. I will never forget my first walk across this land. Climbing the gradual rise to the summit, through a thick, wooded area, as wild turkeys and their chicks watched our slow progress. Cresting at a clearing atop the hill, we enjoyed the view of rolling green hills in all directions. Across the field we spied a wide trail leading down into a forest of fir trees. Following the pine needle path, we came to a tranquil pond nestled between the hills. On our long walk back, we traversed old rail trails, meadows and more wooded areas. We realized that, with careful planning, these natural areas could be preserved. The Adams parcel was an absolute gem. Adams would be the place to introduce PINNACLE by Traditions of America.
As I write this note, PINNACLE is already half sold out! Our home sites include private lots up to 1.5 acres. Our land plan has preserved 34 acres in its natural state to be enjoyed for generations to come. If you haven’t already, come take a walk in the woods someday soon.
