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Discover CharlestonDiscover Charleston

Communities of Yesterday, Today and the Future

Our day-to-day lives highlight the importance of integration

PDAs and cell phones that are themselves mini-computers allow people to organize calendars in the palm of a hand or send e-mails from the beach, for example. Many of the newest Charleston developments align with this principle, serving as mixed-use communities—clusters of residential homes, businesses, offices, shops and restaurants—where one need not venture more than a few blocks away from home to find a wide array of activities, goods and services.

Daniel Island, located roughly 15 miles northeast of downtown Charleston, is a "lifestyle community," carefully planned by Daniel Island Real Estate and its affiliates to allow the once-rural area to retain a touch of its former wildness. Parks dot the island, which is also home to the Family Circle Tennis Center, a world-class golf course and the Charleston Battery stadium. Walking and biking are encouraged here, with miles of wide paths running through the town and adjacent forested areas.


The creators of Daniel Island recently announced plans to create a second mixed-use community, called Carnes, about 20 miles up Interstate 26 from downtown Charleston. Daniel Island Real Estate projects that up to 15,000 people will eventually populate Carnes, which will contain a commercial/shopping area called Carnes Crossroads, similar to Daniel Island's central downtown mini-metropolis.

In historic Summerville, Greenwood Communities and Resorts recently unveiled The Ponds, a 1,950-home "authentic Southern town" that combines elegance and charm with practicality and a willingness to engage with the surrounding environment. Live oaks line the streets and ducks splash in the eponymous ponds that dot the landscape, where more than half of the property's 2,000 acres will remain untouched thanks to the efforts of The Ponds Conservancy. Schulz Lake gives residents a chance to kayak, canoe, sail or fish, and permits access to the Ashley River for the adventurous water lover. Hiking and walking trails crisscross the grounds, each with its own historical significance. Greenwood is so committed to honoring the area's past that the developers renovated a 19th-century farmhouse, turning what could've been just an impediment to construction into a community center. The Ponds is also home to an outdoor amphitheater overlooking a 20-acre man-made lake.


Just west of downtown Charleston is Poplar Grove, one of the area's first "conservation communities." Bordered by more than 3,000 acres of pristine land protected by an easement, Poplar Grove has swiftly become a destination for locals looking to experience rural life in a suburban environment. Careful planning allowed for community buildings and amenities designed with sustainable or "green" ideals in mind, and low-impact development techniques were utilized through the planning and building processes. With a full-time naturalist on staff and an inventoried list of the cultural and natural resources of the land, Poplar Grove's dedication to preserving the "ecological integrity" of the area is readily apparent. There are two large lakes on the Poplar Grove property, complete with a boathouse community center and ample fishing and boating opportunities, and an equestrian center and groundbreaking "green" barn are currently under construction.

The years may have advanced, but thanks to conscientious developers and an informed community, the remnants of the Charles Towne of yesterday are still as close as a hike, kayak trip or bicycle ride. A visit to Charleston is just the first step of falling in love with the coastal city that has enthralled visitors since 1670 and will continue to delight residents for centuries to come.

Visit our guide to real estate resources including the Lowcountry's best architects, developers and interior design.


R.M. Buck Builders, Inc. is a family-owned custom home builder with an unsurpassed reputation for building luxury homes. Their attention to detail will satisfy even the most discriminating client. Located on Johns Island, R.M. Buck Builders is unique with a high-end custom cabinet and carpentry shop to offer you architectural and artistic design. Whether your building a luxurious new home or breathing new life into your present home, R.M. Buck Builders can make you dreams a reality.
Where to stay in the Charleston area? Conveniently browse the website for a wide range of exclusive vacation beach homes available on Isle of Palms and Sullivan's Island. Beautiful homes complete with luxurious amenities and prime locations. East Islands Rentals provide a high level of customer service, helping guests find just the right property for their needs. Locally owned and operated. Tel: 866 886 0760
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