Stillwater, Minn. — Bob Appert, an architectural home builder named by Artful Living magazine as a Top Trend Tastemaker, and his business partner, David Washburn, an organic farmer, have turned their industry-discredited idea into a successful architectural and eco-friendly reality —White Oaks Savanna, a 320-acre luxury housing community seamlessly blended into the surrounding acres of rare savanna landscape. “The spirit behind it was to rest as gently on the land as possible and do very well-considered projects,” said Appert.

Appert and Washburn’s vision took shape in 2018 with the purchase of a farmstead 4 miles from historic Downtown Stillwater. Wanting to maintain the beauty of the unique environment, they worked with the City of Grant, Brown’s Creek Watershed District, and Washington County to carefully determine 30 home sites, 5-7 acres each. Each lot had to meet criteria for land preservation, provide great views, and accommodate a home perfectly harmonized with its surroundings.

Next, the pair compiled a dream team of top local architects, builders, interior designers, and engineers as partners for the building process. This group collaborates with homeowners while adhering to the distinct goals of the community. There are a few parameters, but ultimately the experts and homeowners have free reign over the home dimensions and style.

Technology plays a significant role in considering every detail. Digital modeling throughout development clearly demonstrates the relationships between the homes and their outdoor spaces – inside and out. Many of the homes have their own blogs that show the ongoing building progress.

Lots sell for $280K to $550K; home custom build packages range from $850K to $1.5M. Of the 30 lots, 19 are in Phase 1, with 4 still for sale. Phase 2 will begin in 2022. Every lot benefits from the thoughtfully designed Lone Oak Trail and the convenient proximity to Downtown Stillwater, the Twin Cities, the airport, and the St. Croix River Valley.

With proven success, Appert and Washburn are looking forward to growth in 2022. “…. Our primary goal was to preserve this beautiful piece of land and keep it from getting clear cut and chopped up into cul-de-sacs,” reflected Washburn. “We’re really proud of our site plan, since it allows our homeowners to feel as though they own 320 acres of rare oak savanna for the price of 5!”

About White Oaks Savanna

White Oaks Savanna™, a unique, design-driven community with 30 home sites nestled into the lush prairie landscape. Situated just minutes from downtown Stillwater, White Oaks Savanna offers a stunning backdrop for living in harmony with nature, spending time with family and exploring the beautiful St. Croix River Valley. Located at the southeast corner of County Road 12 and Lake Elmo Avenue, Stillwater, MN 55082.

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