In the heart of Chesapeake, Virginia, a city rich in history, economic opportunity, and natural wonders lies The Viridian Reserve at Hickory. Based along the Intracoastal Waterway in the heart of Coastal Virginia, Chesapeake is known for its widespread sightseeing and outdoor recreational activities ranging from bird watching, golf, and fishing to biking, hiking, boating and kayaking.
In addition, Chesapeake boasts the third largest population in the state of Virginia and has one of the strongest and most highly skilled workforces in the U.S. Since 2003, the total number of employers has increased by more than double the national average, while the number of workers rose by more than 12 percent and total wages tripled the average countrywide.
“This is an incredibly beautiful and vibrant community in which to live, work, and learn,” says David Slawson, founder of Classic Design Builders and a lifelong resident of Virginia Beach. “I’ve dedicated my life to making the area a better place to live.”
The Design
Founded in 1986, Classic Design Builders of Virginia Beach began as a custom builder and today specializes in the design and build of homes averaging about $450,000 apiece. These 2,700- to 3,100-square-foot residences specialize in comfortable living and are often highlighted by amenities such as extra-large kitchen islands overlooking family rooms, two-car garages, and four to five bedrooms.
Most recently, Classic Design was involved in the development of 33 lots at the Viridian Reserve.
“This has become a premier destination for educated buyers,” says Slawson. “The school system is especially good. Many of the people who come to view these homes hold well-paying civilian positions at local military bases. Having done a great deal of Internet research, they are very particular, know what they want, and ask a lot of questions. Walk-throughs can be problematic if you don’t have the answers. So, you better be prepared if you want to make the sale and earn their trust.”
Featuring spacious front porches and tapered columns, every Classic Design home at Viridian Reserve is complemented by blue, tan and gray siding in various shades and stone accent exteriors.
According to Slawson, “Everyone wants to make a statement and express some individuality, especially in a community where styles tend to blend together. As a result, value, quality, aesthetics and durability play a very prominent role in everything we specify.”
The Windows
The process extends to windows. For Viridian Reserve, this included the install of approximately twenty-five 3500 Series vinyl single-hung windows from MI Windows and Doors in every home. The single-hung combines handcrafted quality and exceptional durability with energy efficiency. Standard features include a pre-punched mounting fin, removable sash for easy drywall pass through, full-length lift rail, and metal reinforcements at the meeting rail.
“I used MI’s series in about 30 other homes at local developments,” says Slawson. “They exhibited the quality we wanted to display in our homes, while being very price competitive. Plus, we’ve never had a call back. The windows’ operation has been impeccable no matter the circumstances.”
The Durability
According to Slawson, his customers have also been especially impressed with the 3500’s durability. In the rare instance of damage, the sash and/or glass were easily replaced, eliminating the need to install a new window. The window’s safety features lock soundly, but also allow easy opening in the case of emergencies.
Slawson notes this is due to the window’s dual-opposing locks, which create a stronger, safer seal, as well as its optional tempered glass, which is four times stronger than non-tempered glass. Other key features include heavy-duty weather stripping, a warm-edge spacer system designed to improve the seal performance of insulated glass units, and a welded, multi-chambered frame and sash that ensures superior strength and energy efficiency.
“During most walk-throughs, someone always questions the windows,” adds Slawson. “But, they never ask again after a brief demonstration—even the techies are impressed.” He also likes having all of the product information clearly listed on the 3500. “One look at specification values and they’re satisfied,” he adds.
The Latest Bid
As for the future, Classic Design has already included the series in its latest project bid. This includes the design and build of homes averaging 2,700 square feet and about $460,000 in price for other developments in the region.
