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Carnes Crossroads: A Model National Community in Homebuilding Excellence

On February 17, 2026, Carnes Crossroads in Goose Creek, South Carolina, earned the distinguished title of Community of the Year and Amenity of the Year from the National Association of Homebuilders (NAHB). This recognition places it at the pinnacle of excellence in residential homebuilding within the United States, showcasing its innovative approach to community living and sustainable practices.

A Unique Community Experience

Carnes Crossroads is not just a neighborhood; it represents a pioneering lifestyle concept known as an Agrihood. This term refers to communities that are designed around agricultural production, allowing residents to engage with their environment in unique and enriching ways. The heart of Carnes Crossroads features an 11-acre working farm run by full-time farmers, with the produce grown available for sharing among the residents. This farm serves as a focal point for community activities, educational programs, and local sourcing, intertwining the residents' lives with a sustainable agricultural backbone.

Awards and Recognition

Andrew Smith, Executive Vice President of Freehold Communities, expressed immense pride in receiving such high honors. He noted, "Being named Community of the Year is an incredible honor and a reflection of the transformation behind Carnes Crossroads." This statement echoes the dedication to not only revitalize a long-cherished community but to elevate its status through an Agrihood concept that focuses on both design and functionality. The Gold Award is a testament to the community's innovative features and the vision that guided its development.

Features That Define the Community

The accolades awarded to Carnes Crossroads highlight various amenities that enrich the lives of its residents:

• - An expansive working farm that supports a sustainable lifestyle.
• - A farm store offering locally sourced products, contributing to the community's ethos by promoting farm-to-table dining.
• - A children's garden aimed at providing hands-on educational experiences about agriculture and nutrition.
• - Recreational facilities such as sports courts, a modern wellness center, and a resort-style pool equipped with a multi-level water slide, catering to various lifestyle preferences.
• - A community clubhouse designed to foster social connections and engagement among residents.

Additionally, Carnes Crossroads is well-known for its events, like the Fourth Fridays Farmers Market, which welcome not just residents but individuals from surrounding areas. These activities emphasize the community's commitment to vitality and engagement within the wider Berkeley County and Goose Creek region.

The Future of Carnes Crossroads

As one of the few Agrihoods in the nation and the largest in South Carolina, Carnes Crossroads stands at the forefront of residential innovation. Developed by Freehold Communities, which has a reputation for creating integrated neighborhoods that promote healthy living, the community is strategically designed to support communal engagement and social outreach. The company aims to build environments that reflect local needs while ensuring the preservation of natural beauty and resource sustainability.

As Carnes Crossroads settles into its place as a national model of community design, it serves as an inspiration for future developments. The combination of agriculture, community amenities, and active lifestyles exemplifies the evolving nature of residential living—one that acknowledges the importance of sustainability, health, and social connection. Residents of Carnes Crossroads not only live in a beautiful setting but also contribute to a healthy and engaged community, setting a benchmark for what the future of housing can and should be.