Development of the Year

Terra by Cambridge Homes

Nestled in quiet seclusion beside 300-acres of protected parkland in Novi, Terra engenders an “Up North” feeling, with its winding streets and pockets of mature maple and beech trees. With 40 incomparable home sites that take advantage of natural features in the landscape, each custom home will express its owners’ vision. Homes will feature the clean lines of Prairie-style architecture and will be built to the highest quality standards and attention to detail that is the hallmark of Cambridge Homes.

Originally planned as a single-family development, Mark Guidobono, founder of Cambridge Homes, credits his wife, Elizabeth, with the vision of Terra being more aligned with the active adult, empty-nester segment of the market. “Elizabeth has spent countless hours over the years looking for land for Cambridge developments,” said Mark. “She identified the property which is now Terra, and it was her suggestions that made it what it is today. Together, we make a great team!”

Eight of the 26 homes in the first phase are currently under construction. “Sales are going well,” said Mark. “We did our research. In Michigan we have an aging population and that group wants simpler and cleaner lines in low-maintenance homes.” Terra is tucked into the wooded landscape, but still in the heart of Novi. “When you stand on the home sites nature is the only sound you hear,” said Mark. The Frank Lloyd Wright prairie-style homes were designed by HBA member, TK Design & Associates. “Todd Hallett and his team did an excellent job helping us bring our ideas to life,” said Mark. Cedar, stone, brick and exposed aggregate sidewalks and driveway are all elements used with the express purpose of blending with nature. “We view Terra as art – not just the development, but the homes, too,” said Mark.

Mark served as HBA president in 1998 and has served on the HBA Board of Directors for more than 35 years. He founded Cambridge Homes in 1979 and has built the company into one of the premier design/build companies specializing in high-end custom homes and exclusive developments. The company has previously received HBA Development of the Year honors for Woods of Edenderry in Northville and for Bellagio in Novi.