Concept
The Woodlands near Houston, Texas is what many consider to be the original green community. Started in the late 1960's the community has always sought to build neighborhoods which embrace the natural environment. Green spaces, parks, and abundant trees all flourish throughout the several thousand acre community. Now, The Woodlands is taking the next step towards being green, by building eco-friendly homes. It's newest section Timarron at Creekside Park features green homes built by Beazer, which unite the concept of green building with green community.
The Woodlands was once titled "the invisible city" due to the amount of trees which are abundant virtually everywhere throughout the community. There are over 6,000 acres of green space throughout the communities 110 parks, 7 golf courses, greenbelts, and forest preserves. The community has been awarded the Award of Excellence from the Urban Land Institute and the international Nations in Bloom Gold Award for its environmentally friendly planning
Neighborhood
There are eight villages within The Woodlands. Each village offers residents one or more large community parks which also feature swimming pools, tennis and basketball courts, jogging tracks, dog parks and much more. The parks make perfect places for family gatherings and peaceful strolls. Many of the parks feature wildflowers and other native plants.
The Woodlands is also filled with many ponds and waterways. The largest is the 200 acre Lake Woodlands which hosts kayaking and boat races. Many other ponds which are located throughout the community are great spots for sighting birds. Over 200 species have been spotted throughout the community.
Throughout the community there is over 180 miles of walking and biking paths to explore.
There are several neighborhoods within each village at The Woodlands as well. Each neighborhood typically offers a different style of home. Neighborhoods offer lofts, townhomes, villas, single family homes, and large private estates. Prices vary from the low $100s up to over $3 million. Despite the price variations, every resident enjoys access to the same beautiful public parks and waterways.
The Woodlands features dozens of public and private schools, several places of worship, and abundant shopping and entertainment. Within just a couple miles of each home, there are dozens of walkable conveniences, which makes a quick trip to the store or a fun family weekend available right next to home.
Green Homes
Creekside Park is the only village within The Woodlands currently offering green homes for sale. Creekside park is composed of several neighborhoods, and one of the neighborhoods, Timarron, is where the green building is currently taking place. Beazer Homes is offering several green single family floorplans which range from 1,500 to about 2,400 square feet. Prices generally range from the high $100s to the high $300s.
Homes are built in accordance with Beazer Homes eSMART program, which includes the following energy saving features:
- 95% efficient furnace
- Home energy monitor
- Tankless water heater
- Compact florescent light bulbs
The homes also include water saving features such as low flow faucetry, dual flush toilets and native landscaping. Improved air quality is also assured with low VOC paints, recycled carpeting, and a MERV 10 air filter.
All homes are Energy Star Certified and receive a Home Energy Rating System (HERS) inspection and rating so that homeowners can be assured of their eco-friendly features.
Area & Transportation
The Woodlands contains 180 miles and walking and biking paths, so getting around the community on foot or bike is easy. However, for those looking to travel outside of the community, automobile will be the best option. The community is located near 1-45 and just about 30 minutes from downtown Houston. Within just a couple minutes drive from home, residents can find plentiful shopping, entertainment, and dining. There are over 10 championship caliber golf courses within a short drive as well.
Timarron at Creekside Park - Green Homes
Overview
