LOCATION: Amid lakes and ponds, native prairies, and wetlands near Grayslake, Illinois, just northwest of Chicago.

HOME IN THE HEARTLAND: Prairie Crossing is designed to combine small-town architecture with preservation of open land and easy commuting—just one hour to downtown Chicago by train. Clusters of homes create an old-fashioned community where people know their neighbors.

LIVELY AND THRIVING: Once complete, Prairie Crossing will have 362 single- family homes on 678 acres, more than half of which is open, protected land. There’s a ­village green with a gazebo, a community organic garden and food co-op, on-site farmer’s market, petting farm, children’s garden, horse stables, and a restored historic barn that serves as a community center.

GREAT OUTDOORS: Ten miles of trails give ample opportunity to walk, run, bike, and bird watch. Lake Aldo Leopold provides an area for fishing, boating, swimming, and ice skating. Prairie Crossing is linked to the 3,000-acre Liberty Prairie Reserve.

CONSERVING RESOURCES: Construction methods and materials reduce energy use by 50 percent. Homes are outfitted with a built-in recycling bin, water-conserving toilets and faucets, aerators, and insulated exterior doors.

MEET THE FOLKS: PrairieCrossing.com; (847) 548-5400.