Best of Both Worlds

The Northland's newest subdivision, Montebella, is now under construction on a bluff high above the Missouri River valley, offering sweeping vistas of the natural environment as well as the architecture of downtown Kansas City's skyline.

Brothers John and David Barth of Barth Development Group have carved the community from the hillside to maximize the views. As John says, “A skyline view is a rare commodity. There are only so many unobstructed views available and to also have a river view is amazing.”

Located in Platte County on 9 Highway west of I-635 between Riverside and Parkville, the neighborhood is adjacent to award-winning Park Hill South High School. Another benefit John points out is that although conveniently located close to downtown and with quick access to all parts of town, Montebella is not located in Kansas City, Mo., rather Riverside, meaning it's not subject to downtown's 1-percent earnings tax.

The flavor of the neighborhood is established immediately at the entry. Large limestone blocks line the hillside corner façade, forming an area known as the Ruins. Massive stone entry monuments reminiscent of Tuscany with rounded towers, arched windows and capstones are planned, as well as a grand waterfall, lakes and extensive, unique landscaping. Walking trails will lead to a villa-style clubhouse featuring the projected community pool. Streets lined with wrought iron street lamps and signs are underway, with many cul-de-sacs radiating from the entry. Street names such as Montebella and Verona add to the Italianesque atmosphere. “Several green spaces have been incorporated, with many lots backing to wooded areas,” John adds.

Eighty-four lots, many of which can accommodate walk-out basements, are scheduled for the first phase of development. There could be up to five phases of construction. Homes inspired by the designs of the Italian Renaissance ranging from $400,000 to $2 million will be offered in a variety of floor plans and styles. According to John, specific design guidelines are not in place to allow for architectural freedom, but plans do require developer approval to ensure homes complement each other.

The developers have established relationships with many upscale builders during their 20-plus years in the industry. To maintain a consistent level of quality workmanship, a list of approved builders is available, or potential homebuyers may bring their own plans and builder to Montebella upon approval. Jay Jackson Builders and Carson Custom Homes are two of the builders with homes completed, and more are in progress. Plans are being refined for a story-and-a-half model priced in the mid-$500,000s soon to be under construction by Jay Jackson. It will be well-appointed with granite counters, high-end appliances and cabinets, high-efficiency zoned heating and cooling, with attention paid to the details and trends that discriminating buyers have come to expect in a new home, such as three-car garages, stamped patios and covered decks.

Both David and John started in real estate sales in 1985. “Starting on the sales side of real estate offered insight into what people are looking for and allowed us to be better developers,” John explains. They are part of a family team at Re/Max of Kansas City that has sold nearly $1 billion dollars in real estate, and they also have developed several large residential and commercial projects. Other Barth Development properties include Thousand Oaks, Highland Meadows, Seven Bridges, Park Forest Estates and Silverbrooke, which also is just opening. A common characteristic among these neighborhoods is the interrelationship between homes and nature.

“Finding land this close in with this potential is rare. We found this pocket of land that was perfect for our vision,” John says.

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www.barthrealestate.com