Unique and Varied Home Styles Give Arbor Lake a Distinctive Feel

Over the past 40 years, Bob and Joyce Nottingham have lived throughout Johnson County, but the need to downsize for retirement set them on the hunt for a new home once again.

“We wanted to remain in Lenexa, if possible,” says Bob. “We love the location; it’s far enough out to have an open feel yet is within easy access of K10 and K7 and close to the rest of Johnson County and Lawrence.”

When the Nottinghams found Arbor Lake, they were impressed with the builders within the community. The couple opted for the 1 1/2-story Jameson floor plan by James Engle Custom Homes.

“We walked in and knew it was right for us,” Bob says. “We knew James Engle’s reputation, and he certainly has lived up to it. He worked with us and our timeline and has been more than responsive to the few minor problems we’ve encountered.”

While Bob and Joyce closed on their new home just this May, they’re already settling in happily to their new neighborhood. “Arbor Lake has the right feel for us,” Bob says. “It’s small enough to provide a community environment. The area feels spacious and open. The neighbors are friendly and welcoming. And it doesn’t have a cookie-cutter feel, thanks to a variety of house styles.”

Located at Prairie Star Parkway and Clare Road, Arbor Lake is quickly gaining momentum among homebuyers who demand quality homes in a neighborhood that promises protected value. Fortunately, homebuilders have been hard at work, rebounding from a summer of solid sales just in time for some fantastic fall opportunities.

Among them is the Ridgeview, an elegant 2 story with 4 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths, and a soaring entryway.

“The flow in this home is superb: A see-through fireplace connects the Great Room and the office/den, while the Great Room opens to the kitchen and breakfast room,” says community manager Debi Donner. “The upper level has been beautifully designed with the most romantic master bedroom—complete with a domed ceiling above the bath, which adds a touch of elegance.”

Rob Washam’s Riley III is also available, and families love the fifth bedroom/flex room on the main floor. A truly beautiful kitchen with a walk-in pantry, butler’s pantry, and a long granite island, perfect for large gatherings, serves as the heart of the house.

Rounding out this supreme selection of models are the favorite Abbey II and several classic Cassidy plans, by trusted builder Darol Rodrock Homes.

“The Cassidy is an exceptional 2-story plan with 5 bedrooms and 4 baths,” says Debi. “Numerous windows in the Great Room bring the outside in, while a simply stunning kitchen with Butler’s Pantry (complete with prep sink and command center), makes entertaining a breeze. Meanwhile the Abbey II is a reverse plan featuring an extra large kitchen with tons of cooking space. With 4 bedrooms and 3 baths, this home is one-level living at its finest.”

In other exciting news, the community is open to outside builders, and an astounding 14 quality builders are working on making their mark in Arbor Lake!

“Six foundations are dropped, and those houses should be available by April or May of next year,” says Debi. “One is Rick Hoelting’s Remington and the other five are by Prieb Homes, including the Paxton III, Levi II, Harlow V, and Sydney III.”

Meanwhile, lots are staked for Gabriel Homes’ 2-story Makenna and Samuel plans, while James Engle Custom Homes is putting in an Emery Reverse with a fantastic walkout lower level.

“Drees Built Homes is putting in the 2-story Galloway II, and Harding Homes just took out two lots with plans to build two different plans, including the Birchwood II,” adds Debi. “We have so many fresh floor plans going in, all of which give Arbor Lake a distinctive look. There’s nothing boring or cookie cutter about this community!”

As well, there are a number of lots for those who have their hearts set on building. Ample quiet cul-de-sacs, a picturesque 3.8-acre lake, and family-friendly pool and changing cabana all delight community residents. And Arbor Lake is within the Olathe School district and close to St. James Academy, so families are perfectly situated to grow and flourish.

“If you’ve not driven through this wonderful community, you’re in for a surprise,” Debi says. “Beautiful homes, beautiful streets, a new pool, and an awesome lake that will be open for building in a future phase!”

This story was originally published October 13, 2017 at 9:00 AM with the headline "Unique and Varied Home Styles Give Arbor Lake a Distinctive Feel."