Newest Cambridge Lakes townhouse series optimizes the use of space

Buyers looking for attached living in the beautiful Cambridge Lakes subdivision now have three different series of homes to consider, including the newest Legacy II series townhouses.

The Pingree Grove development by Cambridge Homes is a village in itself with residences to fit almost every budget and lifestyle. Quality of life is a major selling point, with the community's natural surroundings, recreation and social activities.

The land plan includes 360 acres of open space, wooded park areas, natural conservation areas, 12 lakes and miles of walking and biking paths. Located on Higgins Road east of Route 47, the community also features five public parks with baseball fields, soccer fields, a skateboarding course and playgrounds, and seven smaller neighborhood parks. A 30,000-square-foot community center includes an indoor gym, three outdoor pools, meeting rooms and more.

Residents can indulge in all these amenities whether living in single-family homes, attached homes, condos or townhouses such as the Legacy II series.

"Based on research from our customers, we have upgraded the Legacy II series townhouses with striking kitchens, 9-foot ceilings and open floor plans, which look just spectacular," said Dave Smith, vice president of marketing for Cambridge Homes.

"Now with the open floor plans, we see a lot of people gravitating to the Legacy II series. Also, these are front loaded townhouses where there's room for a backyard for entertaining and barbecuing, and that's difficult to do with the more common court-style homes," Smith said.

"Another perennial favorite is that the designs are very flexible with many options including a den on the first level, which is unique at this price point."

One of the Legacy II decorated models is the Butterfield, priced from $162,000 with 1,489 square feet, three bedrooms and 21/2 baths. This contemporary interior features a black, gold and cream color scheme and smaller-scale furniture for a more open, airy look. Decorated with very pretty fabrics, this model is especially appealing to the single female.

Upgraded ceramic tile flooring covers the main level. Straight ahead the two-story living room with optional fireplace includes a media center with plasma TV.

In the formal dining room, a black wood table set for four is topped with candles and a floral centerpiece. Doors open to the patio.

The island kitchen has a rich look with crown molding, upgraded cabinets with 42-inch upper sections, granite countertops, black appliances and a pantry.

Overlooking the living room, the upstairs loft with travel motif offers a multipurpose space furnished with a comfortable chair and lamp for reading and desk and chair for working at home. A black bookcase displays books and whimsical accessories.

The master with walk-in closet is decorated with a gold bed cover and features gold and black ruffle and pillows. Pictures of a lady walking dogs hang on either side of the bed.

The wallpapered master bath features dual sinks, soaking tub and walk-in shower with clear glass door.

Showing black and gold colors, the second bedroom with walk-in closet is furnished with a day bed.

A laundry room and full hall bath complete this level.

This design is shown with the loft in lieu of bedroom three or a sitting room.

A second decorated model, the Carlyle, is priced from $169,000 and features 1,546 square feet, three bedrooms and 2 1/2 baths. Also featuring contemporary decor, this design is outfitted for the couple that likes to entertain. You'll see dark wood floors, teal, cream and chocolate colors and lots of textures throughout.

In the two-story living room with optional fireplace, a chocolate sofa contrasts with a teal wall and accents. Woven chairs and accessories add a touch of the islands while an area rug brings more color into the room.

With an elegant ambience, the formal dining room shows a round wood table with teal and blue place settings and candle centerpiece. The eat-in kitchen with pantry features stainless steel appliances and dark wood cabinets.

A half bath with pedestal sink shows teal and chocolate striped wallpaper.

The extended loft features an old-time movies theme with media center, TV and framed movie posters.

The master bedroom with walk-in closet features a teal, green and chocolate striped bed cover and matching draperies. The private bath has a double bowl sink, soaking tub and separate walk-in shower with clear glass door.

The second bedroom is furnished with a day bed while another is outfitted with a single bed for the skateboarder.

A convenient upper level laundry and full hall bath complete this design.

This design is shown with an extended loft in lieu of extended master bedroom with loft or fourth bedroom or a second master bedroom in lieu of bedroom two and three.

Other Legacy II plans include the Andover from $159,000 with 1,330 square feet, two bedrooms and 2 1/2 baths, and the Deerbrook from $177,000 with 1,621 square feet, three bedrooms and 2 1/2 baths.

Pingree Grove is about four miles southeast of the I-90 and Route 47 interchange. To visit the Cambridge Lakes Legacy II series, enter the main entrance on Higgins Road and proceed over the bridge to the sales center and models. For information, call (847) 984-4882.

Cambridge LakesPrice range: $159,000 to $177,000Square footage: 1,400 to 1,639Schools: Gary D. Wright Elementary, Dundee Middle and Hampshire High schools in Community Unit District 300 and Cambridge Lakes Charter School (preschool through eighth grade)False20001333The master bedroom of the Butterfield model is decorated in black and gold. This floor plan is in the Legacy II townhouse series at Cambridge Lakes in Pingree Grove.Brian Hill | Staff PhotographerFalse