The Enchanted Lifestyle
By Susan I. Shiber, Chester County Life Magazine



Its almost magical in its beauty. A storybook setting with real life characters. A hidden sanctuary embraced by towering trees and pure waters. A place called Burrows Ridge.

Burrows Ridge is styled in the tradition of secluded Chester County neighborhoods. As the newest community presented by award-winning boutique builder Bancroft Homes, it is planned in harmony with nature. The land dictates where houses are set. Because not one of 14 planned homes will view another, privacy prevails.

A conservation easement established with Delaware Nature Society protects 26 acres of the 43-acre site in perpetuity. Hundreds of deciduous trees and shrubs, happy scampering woodland creatures, warbling songbirds and Burrows Run, a tributary of White Clay Creek, complement the wonderment of Burrows Ridge.

Stephen Mockbee, founder and president of Bancroft Homes, originates community and floorplan visions through the eyes of buyers. As a hands-on builder, he is deeply involved in each step of the development process. Burrows Ridge exemplifies his devotion to blend natural and architectural balance, character of homes and customizing wishes of their owners.

“There are three focal points woven through Burrows Ridge,” says Mockbee. “The land, the community, the houses. While acreage is preserved, it is here for the sole enjoyment of residents. Native forests are mature and will remain unspoiled. We protected the view-shed so passersby driving along Burrows Run Road won’t have a clue that there is a community back here. All rainwater is re-charged back into the land just as nature intended.”
In summarizing community allure, Mockbee points out that a “lock the door and leave” philosophy gives residents peace of mind. “All exterior landscape maintenance is included in an association fee,” he remarks. “Grass is mowed, front gardens are weeded and mulched, walks and driveways are shoveled after a snow storm and trash is picked up at the garage.”

“Security is an important community component,” adds Stephanie H. Fortunato, director of sales and marketing. “There is only one entrance to Burrows Ridge, allowing people to see who is driving through. We have Chester County public water and private on-site septic systems. Vantage Control automation is a standard feature that lets homeowners integrate lights, equipment and other devices for convenience, safety and comfort.”

The homes of Burrows Ridge are exquisite in detail and designed for individuals who prefer to downsize without sacrificing large scenic lots. “We have five home collections and four offer first floor owner’s suites,” says Mockbee. “Open floor plans are flexible and follow Universal Design features. There is an elevator option in second-floor owner’s suite models. Although sizes range from 3,397 to 4,014 square feet, the houses are smaller than many in the area and options or customizing provide creative opportunities for daylight basement treatments and other innovative additions.”

Bancroft Homes introduces ample environmental elements at Burrows Ridge. At a recent National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) green building conference, Pete Yost, former member of the NAHB research center staff, reported that in 1999, there were only 7,000 Energy Star certified homes in the U.S. and now there are 800,000! Burrows Ridge dwellings will soon be among them.

The homes, which are designed according to Environment for Living “Silver Package” standards, have two energy-efficient propane-fired furnaces and air condensers with 13 SEER rating. All glass is high-E. Sound-secure insulation combined with mechanicals promise 50 percent less energy consumption. Water tubing and plumbing systems deliver water to faucets and showers faster, while tankless hot water heaters ensure continuous hot water and energy efficiency. Mockbee says that rather than conforming to building codes, they exceeded them. “Our residents can look forward to a healthy environment that costs less to maintain.”

The farmhouse model is cushioned in comfort. A flagstone walkway meanders up to a covered brick porch, complete with two rocking chairs. Inside, magnificent views are captured through every window. Highlights, such as classic crown molding, custom archways and rounded wall corners are bountiful. Granite countertops, stainless steel undermount sink and a Wolf appliance package enhance the kitchen. A see-through fireplace dramatizes breakfast and dining rooms. The piece de resistance is an optional outdoor kitchen and fireplace that graces the stone paver terrace. An elegant pergola shelters state-of-the art appliances, grill and granite countertops. An array of colorful flowers were personally planted and potted by Mockbee.

A quote inscribed on a tile coaster in the model is more than a motto. It is the essence of Bancroft Homes.

“Life is a work of art designed by the ones who live it.”

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