The Villas In the News

Article published November 18, 2007
RESORT-STYLE LIVING Overlooking the Thames
The Villas at Riverheights Add New Meaning to Luxury
By KRISTEN WICH
The Day

NORWICH -- Set high in the hills of Norwich directly across from the harbor and downtown, is a new and impressive Tuscan villa-inspired community.  The 52-unit complex is designed with relaxed, sophisticated living in mind and delivers that concept flawlessly.

From the lushly landscaped grounds curling amongst native rocks and foliage, to the stepping stone walkways that lead to distinctive, architectural villa retreats, to the uncompromised quality of the contemporary interiors - every detail has been carefully deliberated.

"We wanted a place where people would look forward to coming home," said developer and mastermind behind the project of Distinctive Homes of Connecticut

"And once they're here, everything else goes away - like you're at a resort,"

And the property exudes resort living. A perfect juxtaposition to the classic New England backdrop, The Villas at Riverheights are cosmopolitan, exclusive and private.

We were welcomed by breathtaking views of the Thames, accompanied by Frank Sinatra wafting from the outdoor music system - a sweet taste of the accommodations we would find on our tour.

We meandered along the sidewalk to the courtyard behind building one to find a gorgeous three-tiered fountain announcing the three distinct entryway facades found on the building - one with shorter windows, another wit elongated windows adorned with dark shutters and the third with dual doors.  The unique exterior adds architectural appeal not commonly found in condominium complexes.

There are three models to choose from, each with 1,950 square feet, and a choice of two or three bedrooms, including one unit with a first floor master.  The models have been individually staged to highlight the versatile floor plans and to showcase views across the river.

In each unit, an open kitchen/dining area provides a warm "welcome home" and is donned with gleaming hardwoods, a quartz-topped island and a simple yet elegant design.  The bright space leads to the center hall, a powder room and a living area (or master suite depending on the model) .

The living space is carefully designed with several niches, creating an unusual depth to the room, and permits residents to utilize the space for several purposes.  One of the models incorporated a home office space, while another allowed for a bar.

Each unit also features a gas fireplace and comes standard with a white-trimmed mantle or can be upgraded to a pre-cast stone front. Also standard is a Romeo & Juliet-inspired balcony located on the second floor in each unit.  Accessed through French doors, the balcony adds that special something - a layer of romance - that without it, would not complete the package.

The staircase, hooked, with a landing at its core, provides a dramatic pathway to the second level.  In the first model, three bedrooms, two full baths and the laundry area reside.  The second allowed for two master suites and the laundry area.  And the third unit we saw housed one additional bedroom, a bath and the living area.

Below the unit is the two-car garage and two storage areas, which can be finished for additional space.  One of the three we saw was completely finished and made the term "wet bar" sound like a wet noodle.  The room was amazing, and must be seen to be believed!  A full-service copper-toped bar with beer tap, a plasma TV and a poker table are the only hinter I'll give.

Whichever model you choose, however many bedrooms, finished lower level or not, The Villas at Riverheights have not been done before in southeaster Connecticut.  The surroundings radiate "relax."   Don't you owe it to yourself?

Call a member of the Coldwell Banker 860-460-8144 for more information and your private tour.

Follow Route 12 in Norwich to Thermos Ave. Continue to sales office, and enjoy - we did!

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Article published May 14, 2007
Norwich condominiums draw praise as they progress
By LIZ MUGAVERO
Norwich Bulletin

NORWICH -- The view from the high point of Thermos Avenue reaches across the Thames River on a clear sunny day, just a preview of what the residents of the new Villas at Riverfront condominiums will see every day.

The construction of the 48 Mediterranean-style units is under way, with the seven models to be completed by mid-July. Three of the models will be fully furnished and open for viewing at that time, according to developer of Mid State Construction LLC. One will be a three-bedroom unit, one will have two master suites and one will have a first-floor master suite with additional rooms upstairs.

"The project is going well," "The first seven are almost framed and the roof goes on Monday." The units will boast 2,000 square feet of space, two-car garages, fireplaces with pre-cast stone mantels, hardwood floors throughout and granite countertops. The master bedroom suites will all have French doors opening onto wrought iron balconies with water views.

A large waterfall in the courtyard and a stone wall constructed from native rock from Europe will add to the aesthetics.

Planning Director Peter Davis said he is very happy with the progression of the work. "They're going to be gorgeous units." Neighbors seem to be in agreement.

Philip Lewis lives across the street from the development and said he's got no problem with new neighbors. Lewis, who built his house in 1963, said the view the new occupants will have will be extraordinary. "It's going to be an attractive complex," Lewis said. "And the work hasn't been bothersome at all.