Hembstead

Project Facts
  • Charlotte, NC
  • Client : Standard Properties
  • +/- 187 Acres
  • 227 Single Family homesites, Late 1970s to early 1990s
  • Residential Community, Master Planning + Full CDs
The Story

Hembstead, a quaint, tree-lined neighborhood nestled amidst the humming side of town, was a testament to meticulous planning and a vision of community.

The land, once a familiar sight to the horse-loving Hemby family farm since the 1930s, was transformed into a residential community with purpose. The neighborhood’s name, with “Hemby Place” and “Cottontail” street names were a nod to the original landowner and his favorite dog. The grandchildren of the Hemby’s family resided in the homes they had built in the 1980s, adding a touch of personal history to the neighborhood.

The neighborhood master plan was prepared in the late 1970s by DPR Design, under the guidance of its founder, Lee McLaren. The meandering streets lined with oak trees, hugged the existing terrain, creating a sense of intimacy and preserving the natural beauty and the ecological balance of the area. It included miles of walking trails that wound through the land, connecting residents to the surrounding natural beauty of stream tributaries and floodplain, that connects to Four Mile Creek and the eventual Four Mile Creek Greenway.

One of Lee’s most cherished elements of the design was the preservation of a grove of majestic oak trees at the front entrance. He worked tirelessly to ensure that these primal giants remained a focal point of the community. The trees were carefully incorporated into the landscape, forming a large, inviting tree island. Another beloved feature of Hembstead was the rugged rock formation that blended in with the creek. This natural wonder had been a sacred spot for generations of children, who delighted in exploring its crevices, biking along the nearby trails, and playing in the creek during rainstorms. The rock became a symbol of the neighborhood’s spirit of adventure and connection to the natural world.

Fast forward again, more than 30 years later, in the early 2010s, Hy Nguyen, DPR’s current president, and his wife Lindsey, moved to Hembstead, drawn to its established charm, mindful streets, and the presence of a nature preserve. Little did they know, DPR was the land planner and site designer of record for Hembstead. Their decision to settle in this neighborhood was a perfect fit for their growing family. Their children were born and raised here, learning to ride bikes and vespas on the trails, exploring the same sacred rock formation, and following the streams that strolled ever gently through the woods.

Hembstead fosters a great sense of community with a nurturing environment. Hy continued to appreciate the thoughtful planning and sustainable design that went into creating Hembstead. The neighborhood became more than just a place to live; it became a cherished part of his family’s story, honoring a past legacy, and a testament to the power of vision and DPR’s legacy of designing places for generations.