November 17, 2005

STREET SCENEGarrett Court

In a picturesque neighborhood setting, tranquil Garrett Court, located off of Glenview Drive, features homes with manicured lawns beneath towering trees radiant with autumn foliage. The area’s natural beauty adds to its charm, while the court itself boasts a spectacular view of Almaden Valley.

2,500-3,000-square-foot homes priced from $1.2 to $1.4 million grace 10,000- to 14,000-square-foot lots along Garrett Court.

Residents choose this area due to its ideal location, as well as its appeal. Williams Elementary School and Glenview Park are but a block away, with Quicksilver Park, Hicks Road and other hiking trails nearby.

The homes along Garret Court feature 2,500-3,000 square feet of living space on 10,000- to 14,000-square-foot lots, priced from $1.2 to $1.4 million.

For Darren and Jennifer Faulkner, who have lived on Garrett Court for about a year and a half, the school system was a major attraction in their decision to move to the Valley. “We’re big fans of public schools,” says Jennifer, “and we felt that we could find a good educational opportunity for our kids anywhere in Almaden.”

The Faulkners also appreciate Almaden Valley’s small-town feel and being part of a close-knit community. They enjoy seeing friends and neighbors at the grocery store and having kids in the same Little League. In addition, their church is ‘just around the corner,’ and Darren’s job is only a short commute away. “It’s wonderful for us,” says Jennifer, “The parks are great and we’re so excited about the new Almaden Library and Community Center. We moved to Almaden at just the right time.”

Family life and a sense of community are evident on Garrett Court with its collection of basketball hoops, scooters and skateboards. Neighbors here are friendly and welcoming to newcomers.

“We know most of the neighbors on the court and on Glenview,” says Darren. “A couple of times a year, we have holiday get-togethers. It’s very nice and we enjoy it.” Jennifer agrees. “Everyone’s been so friendly,” she says, “The day we moved in, the college-age son of the people across the street came over to help us with unloading. How great is that? It was so generous.”

Anne Hanna and her family have lived on Garrett Court for about two years. As Anne and her husband are both realtors (as is Jennifer Faulkner), they have had the opportunity to experience various Almaden schools and neighborhoods and have been happy with both. The Hannas adore having a view of the mountains and living near the hills. “That’s one of the things that drew us here,” says Hanna, whose family enjoys running on the local trails.

“There’s something special about Almaden with its country feel,” she says, “and this is a nice community with a lot of stay-at-home moms involved in the schools.”

The Almaden schools were the first and foremost consideration in the Kirkland family’s decision to move to Almaden. Although they moved to Almaden almost two years ago, they made do with an apartment for the five months it took to find a home. The Kirkland children currently attend Holy Spirit School, but it was also important to their parents that they live in an area that offered great public schools as an option.

The family likes being situated on a court. “We lived on a courtyard in Washington, D.C.,” says D’Arcy Kirkland, “and loved it as far as the children being able to play safely.” On Garrett Court, they also found friendship. “My children became friends with the children two doors down,” says D’Arcy, “and we get together with neighbors for parties. It’s been great.”

Kirkland also appreciates Almaden’s natural surroundings. “It’s a really nice area,” she says. “Our family enjoys biking and hiking. We’re happy to be here and we’re not moving anywhere else.”

—By Lorraine Gabbert