Category: News & Press

  • Now More Than Ever…Neighbors Helping Neighbors

    Now More Than Ever…Neighbors Helping Neighbors

    Now More Than Ever, we are awe-struck by the stories we hear reflecting the camaraderie, generosity, and resilience of Traditions of America residents across our communities.

    Several residents at our Cranberry community have started a neighborhood food drive for the Victory Family Church in Cranberry Township. shopping bags on the ground outside of a homeThis well-known Church in Pittsburgh’s North Hills has become a food distribution center for those in need during the Covid pandemic. victory family churchThe Church coined their drive “Help Your Neighbor” and it couldn’t be more aptly named. In just under 24 hours, Cranberry neighbors mobilized to create a robust pantry of food items to donate. This is an impactful outreach effort that will undoubtedly continue beyond the pandemic.

    At the same time, our Cranberry community is not letting Covid slow them down. They carefully continue to be social from a distance, while having fun and staying active! From Zumba classes and homeowner happy hours via the popular ZOOM platform to brisk strolls in the neighborhood as spring slowly unfolds, our residents find ways to connect with each other in safe yet social ways.

    People spending time at the firepitOur Pinnacle at Adams community – also in Pittsburgh’s North Hills – takes the prize for creative social distancing. The wooded, natural setting that distinguishes this small enclave provides the perfect backdrop for a “Guy’s Night (or Early Evening) Out”. Essential items: plenty of Adirondack chairs, firepit with fresh split wood, boulders, coolers full of beverages, conversation and friends connecting. In difficult times, we are reminded about the importance of community and neighbors. We raise a glass to all our residents as we forge ahead to brighter days and a return to normalcy. We have all been impacted by this pandemic in countless ways, but going through the storm with a strong community at the helm makes all the difference….now more than ever.

     

     

     

  • Now More Than Ever…Traditions of America Communities Rising to the Challenge during Covid 19!

    Now More Than Ever…Traditions of America Communities Rising to the Challenge during Covid 19!

    “Now More Than Ever” Series – we are pleased to share our first post in a new and continuing series!

    Now more than ever, it’s your community that matters most. Family, friends and neighbors are always important, but in difficult times they are EVERYTHING. Right now, across all of our communities, we are witnessing the power of community before our very eyes. Let’s be clear: social distancing is NOT something that comes naturally at a Traditions of America community. In fact, if you had floated that phrase just a month ago, it would have been met with puzzled looks. However, in this new reality of the Covid pandemic, our residents are adapting and finding creative and unique ways to STILL be social, active and productive while distancing. They are rising to the challenge and it is truly inspirational.

    Happy Hours: Social Without Gathering

    A group of clever and determined neighbors are still socializing with a new twist on the beloved happy hour: it’s called “Social Without Gathering”. The rules are simple and FUN. According to the Happy Hour Committee, in the first week, neighbors living in odd-numbered homes pull their chairs, beverages and music of choice to the end of their driveways. Meanwhile, neighbors living in even-numbered houses take a stroll down the block, drinks in hand, and stop to chat with those seated in the driveway, while maintaining a safe distance. The following week, they reverse: odd numbers walk and evens sit. Expressly Permitted: Dancing Alone in the Street! In addition to the social aspect, it’s a great way for the community to find out if neighbors need anything and how they can best help each other.

    The “Sew What” Club Remains Tight-Knit for a Common Cause

    People hanging out in their traditions of America kitchen

    The “Sew What” Club at Lititz, a group of 20 women, has banded together to put their passion to work for the greater good. In the face of the COVID pandemic, they deftly mobilized to make face masks Pile of home made masks for local health care facilities in need. The masks were also offered to neighbors who might have to venture out for an appointment or to the grocery store. They are making a difference, one mask at a time. Normally you’d find them working together in a craft room at the Clubhouse but under the State order, they are busily working away in the comfort of their homes, with sewing machines whirring and humming. We are so proud of their commitment.

    The theme behind these stories is clear. Now more than ever, our residents are coming together – even from a distance – to share their passions, inspire one another, and band together. There is a silver lining here: relationships are strengthening with every day that passes. We are deeply proud to witness the sheer power, resilience and creativity of the Traditions of America community.

    Stay tuned for the next post in the Series!

  • Traditions of America: New Communities in Full Swing

    Traditions of America: New Communities in Full Swing

    Although 2019 is starting to wind down, Traditions of America has “geared up” and is wrapping up the year in a big way. We are pleased to announce the grand openings of our three newest active adult communities: Traditions of America at Southpointe, Richland and East Petersburg!

    Traditions of America at Southpointe: The Southpointe active adult community marks our debut in Pittsburgh’s desirable South Hills and is priced from the mid $300s. Only a short drive from the cultural allure of downtown Pittsburgh, residents at Southpointe have the best of both worlds: fabulous shopping, dining, and golf nearby with on-site resort-style amenities right in their backyard. A clubhouse serves as the social hub of the community, with a swimming pool, tennis, walking trails, and so much more. Southpointe has it all!

    TOA Active Lifestyle

    Traditions of America at Richland: Returning to the North Hills of Pittsburgh, and on the heels of our popular Cranberry community, Traditions of America at Richland is priced in the low $300s. This active adult community is perfectly set atop beautiful rolling hills and surrounded by nature, yet minutes from shopping, dining, golf, and supreme healthcare. In standard Traditions of America fashion, the Richland community is loaded with luxurious amenities, such as a clubhouse, outdoor heated pool, fitness center and more. This new, active community is the perfect place to call home!

     

    Traditions of America at East Petersburg: East Petersburg is our newest 55+ community in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, priced from the upper $200s. Like the nearby Lititz community, this active lifestyle community is set amidst the picturesque landscape of Lancaster County, with scenic countryside, roads, and meandering creeks, but only a short drive from shopping, dining, world-class golf, and amazing healthcare. With amenities like a five-star clubhouse, heated swimming pool, pickleball, tennis, and walking trails – your calendar is sure to be full!

    TOA Neighbors

    The three newest locations join our expansive list of Live Better communities across Pennsylvania with more to come! Don’t miss your chance to Live Better in one of our Traditions of America active adult communities. Learn more about a community near you contact us to hear more about Traditions of America.

  • Traditions of America: A Whole New Look

    Traditions of America: A Whole New Look

    The Live Better lifestyle just got that much better! We are excited to introduce a brand-new Single-Family floorplan and a fresh, new look at the Traditions of America homes, available now!

    Introducing, The Grant. This floorplan is brimming with possibilities. This single-family home boasts  2 or 3 bedrooms and baths and ranges from 1,900 to 2,500 square feet. The Grant is “big” in terms of comfortable and inviting spaces, yet packaged in a manageable scale. It features a dramatic 2-story foyer that is unique to the home with a bistro-like breakfast nook adjacent to the kitchen. Every architectural detail was carefully and thoroughly planned to truly make it one of a kind. Another bonus: it is completely customizable through our DreamHome program!

    Front elevation of a white home from traditions of America

    While we are thrilled about our newest addition to the floorplan line-up, we can’t forget about the array of floor plans that offer something for everyone. Each of these homes is charmingly different in their own ways:

    The Adams: Our best-selling Garden Home! The kitchen opens up into the dining room and the great room, showing off the breathtaking high ceilings.

    The Jefferson: While this home has the look and feel of a single-family home, it is priced like a Garden Home. Some of the amazing features of this home are the two-story foyer, the beautiful kitchen island, and the vaulted ceiling in the Master suite.

    The Betsy Ross: The natural light, high ceilings, window seat for lounging, and plenty of closet space are just a few features that make this home so desirable. One of our most popular single-family floorplans.

    The Washington: This award-winning home exudes elegance with spacious and comfortable rooms. The kitchen opens into the great room and dining room making entertainment effortless.

    The Franklin: This home is truly sensational with a wide inviting foyer, plentiful storage, and an optional butler’s pantry or cedar closet in the loft. Dining room with chandelier from Traditions of America

    The Hancock: This home is considered the entertainer’s home due to the eat-in kitchen, formal dining and living room, and the oversized great room.

    The Lincoln: This home showcases endless designer features that you dream about having in your home.

    You can see the different models by visiting our website or contact us to hear more about our floor plans.

  • Green Pond – A Unique Opportunity to Connect with Nature

    Green Pond – A Unique Opportunity to Connect with Nature

    Traditions of America is excited to bring the 55+ Live Better lifestyle to Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Traditions of America at Green Pond, adjacent to Green Pond Country Club, will be set on 108 acres of picturesque, natural beauty, including a dedicated conservation area. Keeping the environment a priority, Traditions of America has been working closely with wetland experts to enhance the conservation area that has long attracted migratory birds.

    Green Pond Marsh Background

    The periodic flooding of a 4+ acre portion of the property has resulted in a unique habitat frequently used by a variety of shorebirds, wading birds and waterfowl. This section of the property has been designated as an Important Bird Area (IBA), commonly referred to as Green Pond Marsh. Approximately 182 birds have been documented at Green Pond Marsh over the years, much to the delight of avid birders!

    Innovative Plan

    Traditions of America’s active adult community plan increases the amount of open space and adds a carefully designed buffer around the sensitive habitat. Additionally, the western entrance to the property has been eliminated, pulling the development further away from the Green Pond wetland.

    TOA Green Pond

    Traditions of America has also proposed a stewardship plan to maintain the wetland in a similar state that will continue to provide the habitat elements needed for the migrating avian population. This plan includes the seeding of annual native plant species, in addition to the yearly tilling of the wetland. A hydrologic strategy that results in the periodic inundation of the farm fields will not only continue to maintain the site’s unique wetland environment but will sustain the elements that have attracted migratory birds for so many years. A win-win for this active adult community, the environment, and the birds and birders, alike!

  • Traditions of America at West Brandywine Officially Open

    Traditions of America at West Brandywine Officially Open

     

    Traditions of America at West Brandywine officially opened with a VIP Buying Event that resulted in an astounding 46 reservations.

    Guests were treated to a beautiful assortment of food and drink at Downingtown Country Club with an opportunity to get to know their future neighbors and friends. The excitement of the evening centered around a lottery-style, selection process where prospective homebuyers could finally select their homesite after months of anticipation.

    The event was the culmination of a very thoughtful home buying process pioneered by Traditions of America where prospective home buyers are first invited to an in-depth information event held May 28th followed by individual, one-on-one appointments with the sales team and special, on-site “gator” tours where future residents are taken out on recreational vehicles to explore the homesites. “It’s important to enable people to have a hands-on experience with the land and the location before they make a decision,” says Tim McCarthy, President of Traditions of America. “This process addresses as many questions as possible. That way, our home buyers are both comfortable and confident in their decision.”

    Traditions of America at West Brandywine is the latest active adult 55+ community built and developed by the award winning team at Traditions of America. Known for their “Live Better” lifestyle communities throughout central Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh and the Lehigh Valley, West Brandywine is their first community in the greater Philadelphia market.

    Traditions of America at West Brandywine will include 226 single-family homesites on 130 acres (of which approximately 50% will be open space), a 7,900 sf clubhouse with heated outdoor pool, tennis & pickle ball courts, fitness, billiards, bar, fire pit, patio, paved trails and more all set amidst rolling pastures just minutes from Rt. 30 and 322 in Downingtown, PA.

     

  • Meet the Lifestyle Director – Traditions of America at Cranberry

    Meet the Lifestyle Director – Traditions of America at Cranberry

    We love a good happy hour as much as the next person — but do you ever stop to think about the person who set it up in the first place? We do!

    At Traditions of America, we know you deserve the best in Active Adult living. This is why there are full-time Lifestyle Directors at each of our communities. He or she is there to assist all of our homeowners in planning the activities that matter most.

    Join your friends (and make new ones!) at our seasonal parties, happy hours,  fitness classes, wine tastings, excursions, and so much more!

    Have an idea for a new club? The Lifestyle Director will transform your ideas into reality. The Lifestyle Director is also your source to the latest and greatest productions in town, and can help you plan your night out! Possibilities are endless.

    Now, drum roll please… for our first feature in the “Meet the Lifestyle Director” series, we introduce Lauren Astfalk from Traditions of America at Cranberry.

    Cranberry Lifestyle Director

    Lauren, give us a little history on YOU!

    I grew up in Jefferson Hills and currently reside in Southpointe with my two parakeets. I graduated from the California University of PA  and began my career in healthcare. For the last 10 years, I was the Activity Director in a personal care and assisted living facility. Eventually, I knew it was time to leave healthcare and work with Active Adults.

    What are some fun facts about you?

    I enjoy playing tennis, water skiing, going to Pittsburgh Pirate games and traveling. I love warm weather and sunshine, so Aruba and Deep Creek Lake are my two favorite places to be! Favorite movie? It would be a tie between Step Brothers and Elf.

    What attracted you most to working for Traditions of America as a Lifestyle Director?

    Knowing that I had the opportunity to work for a successful company that takes pride in what they do, and values their employees, was something important to me.  Everyone I spoke to during the interview process expressed how great is be a part of the TOA team and work for the company. I quickly learned all of that was true and I also love the fact that my position is an important part of the community. People come to TOA communities to enjoy an active lifestyle, socialize and meet new people, and live better. I get to help them do that!

    What are you most looking forward to bringing to Traditions of America at Cranberry?

    Bringing a vast range of activities. I know that the possibilities are endless, and if someone has an idea for an event or activity, I will make it happen.

    What do you like best about being a Lifestyle Director? 

    I love being a Lifestyle Director because I can use my creative abilities and incorporate them into the activities. I get to meet all kinds of people and, most importantly, I get to promote fun. It’s a perfect job for me and I couldn’t see myself doing anything different.

    What’s your favorite memory thus far as a Lifestyle Director? 

    Watching friendships form and seeing people doing things they never imagined or thought they would have the opportunity to do.

    What are some of the highlights potential new homeowners can look forward to when they move to Traditions of America at Cranberry? 

    New homeowners can attend Friday night happy hours, yoga classes, water aerobics, pool parties, and use other amenities that our state-of-the-art clubhouse offers!  As the community grows, even more activities will start taking place. I want to find a way to meet every suggestion brought to me by the homeowners. In the future, I’d like to be able to offer group day trips via bus.

    What do you think sets TOA at Cranberry apart from the rest?

    We are a smaller, brand new community with 102 homes. Cranberry continues to grow and develop, providing opportunities for homeowners. There are numerous restaurants in the area and we are only a short drive from Pittsburgh. Everything you could ask for is right here in Cranberry and living at TOA allows its residents the opportunity to make new friends and experience something new.

    We are so lucky to have someone like Lauren working at one of our communities! Getting to know your Lifestyle Director is the easiest way to start living better and enjoying the active adult lifestyle. Stay tuned for our next feature in the “Meet the Lifestyle Director” series coming soon!

  • Better, Better, BEST Defines the Latest Betsy Ross Home

    Better, Better, BEST Defines the Latest Betsy Ross Home

    It’s hard to improve a floorplan that is wildly popular, time-tested and in a word: great. But, our in-house architects and designers accomplished just that! The latest iteration of the revered Betsy Ross home at Cranberry has been met with rave reviews by all who have toured it. The most noticeable change is in the kitchen. Walls and half-walls were eliminated to create a more open feel with direct views to the dining room and great room. This welcome extra space allows for a 72″ island – the perfect size for a weeknight dinner, Sunday brunch, or entertaining a crowd.

    kitchen with white cabinets

    Almost as important as the kitchen, the Master Suite was enhanced, as well, to include two walk-in closets instead of one. The layout of the Master Bath was tweaked to allow for better natural light, and the entry to the Master Suite was reworked to allow for better flow and ease.

    To match the new floorplan, the interior design of the Betsy Ross had to be bold and beautiful from the start. And, it achieved just that! The designers crafted the style around the word “honest” – which in “design-speak” describes a space that is not contrived and a space that is allowed to breathe. The result is a home that is happy, clean and comfortable and, most importantly, has that “livable” feel from day one. Pops of color surprise at every turn, from the bright red counter stools at the kitchen island to the warm shade of admiralty blue on the sunroom walls. Feedback from customers who have toured the new Betsy Ross at Cranberry has been overwhelmingly positive and enthusiastic.

    Betsy Ross modern living room with teal accents

    A few more photos show the thought and detail that were put into the design of every room – including the Master Bath and the loft.

    bathroom with orange flowers sectional couch in living area

    And, the video tour shows off this home in full splendor – click here to take the tour! As is true for all of our homes, the best way to experience them is IN PERSON. To see the new Betsy Ross, contact the Cranberry community. Or, visit any of our communities to learn more about living better in a Traditions of America community.

  • The Hancock “EnHANced” for Classic, Timeless Appeal

    The Hancock “EnHANced” for Classic, Timeless Appeal

    The Hancock floorplan has been enhanced – subtly yet impactfully – for better livability and flow. The most noticeable differences are a deeper kitchen and nook and the den and second bedroom have also become larger. The kitchen island countertop, previously a two-tiered design, has been leveled off to a sleek, flat expanse for ease of serving and entertaining. Not to forget the Master Suite, one of two walk-in closets has grown in size – a minor detail that makes everyone happy!

    To complement the updated floorplan, the Hancock model at Cranberry is a dramatic interior designing feat. The look is tailored and timeless. Clean lines and classic style are the focus of the fresh, new design style. The most striking space is the living room with the ebony piano as the graceful focal point.

     Clean lines and classic style are the focus of the fresh, new design style for The Hancock Model at Traditions of America

    The finished lower level features an eclectic wine cellar, a comfortable sitting area, bistro table with stools for wine-tasting, and an additional guest bedroom. Walk right outside for more entertaining possibilities with an inviting patio and outdoor grill area.

    The finished lower level of the Hancock Model features an eclectic wine cellar and more

    The office or den is smartly finished with a wall of richly-colored custom built-ins for books, photo display, and special “objets d’art”.

    The office or den is smartly finished with a wall of richly-colored custom built-ins for books and more in the Hancock Model

    The tailored look is smartly and seamlessly woven into every room and works nicely in the Master Bedroom and family room.

    The tailored look is smartly and seamlessly woven into every room and works nicely in the Master Bedroom in the Hancock Model at Traditions of America The tailored look is smartly and seamlessly woven into every room and works nicely in the Family Room in the Hancock Model at Traditions of America

    Home-cooked meals and casual entertaining are a breeze when your kitchen looks like this:

    Home-cooked meals and casual entertaining are a breeze when your kitchen looks like Hancock Model

    The best way to experience the striking design details of the Hancock is during an in-person visit if you’re in the Pittsburgh area. If you live out of the area, click here for a video tour of this gorgeous home. You’ll be glad you did!

  • The “Franklin” Edit: Optimized for Maximum Enjoyment with a Sophisticated Flare

    The “Franklin” Edit: Optimized for Maximum Enjoyment with a Sophisticated Flare

    The Franklin floorplan update features more modifications than any of our other models. A fantastic floorplan from the beginning, our in-house architects and designers felt with some tweaking, it could go from fantastic to spectacular with a few well-planned pen-strokes. While some modifications are small, others are more impactful and immediately noticeable.

    The kitchen, for starters, has two design alternatives. The traditional kitchen layout features the angled island with an ample pantry and tons of counter space. The new kitchen alternative introduces a butler’s pantry and wet bar tucked in between the dining room and kitchen. With wine storage, a large sink and loads of extra cabinet, shelf and counter space, visitors are raving about the entertaining convenience the butler’s pantry brings to the home. And, we couldn’t agree more!

    Franklin wet bar in new kitchen
    The Wet Bar/Butler’s Pantry

    Franklin modern kitchen in designer model home

    Other enhancements to the floorplan include an all-new Master Suite with two walk-in closets, a Master Bath with private commode, double sink vanity and an optional soaking tub (the perfect ending to any day!). To maximize the size of the second floor loft, we opted for a straight stairway and eliminated the stair turn and landing in the former plan. The loft – now a whopping 29’ by almost 18’ room with a window – provides endless possibilities to fit every lifestyle. A game room, a craft room, a comfortable, private area for guests and grandkids who might be visiting in the third bedroom upstairs…the choices are limitless.

    To match the floorplan update, the interior design of the Franklin needed to be top-notch, as well. The home’s design style was inspired by the Danish word “hygge”, which translates to “a quality of coziness (feeling warm and comfortable) that comes from doing simple things such as lighting candles, baking or spending time at home with your family.” The Franklin has definitely achieved “hygge”! From the moment you step inside the home, your senses are treated to a subtle yet dazzling display of comfort. Inviting tones of warm grays combined with earthy neutrals create the perfect ambiance. The kitchen literally sparkles with blown-glass pendants over the island, sleek white Cambria countertops and a bold, bronze-y backsplash in the shape of pennies! The warmth of the bronze is complimented by the shimmer of the metal tile creating a wonderful and unexpected juxtaposition.

    Here are a few more interior shots:

    Franklin alternative angle of wet bar

    Franklin rustic master bathroom

    But, the best way to experience the all-new Franklin is to visit Traditions of America at Cranberry today! Set up a tour. Your senses will be delighted.