The National Association of Home Builders announced that Natelli Communities won a Best in American Living Award for large-scale residential communities for its development of the Bay Forest community in Bethany Beach. The award was announced Feb. 20 at the NAHB International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas, which was attended by approximately 90,000 people.

The award spotlights the most creative and talented building industry professionals who have redefined design excellence for homes and communities nationally and internationally. Winning projects showcase what building industry professionals need to know to set their products apart and hit the right mark with discerning home buyers.

The Bay Forest community is approximately four miles west of the oceanfront resort of Bethany Beach. The master plan for the 400-acre community is designed to take advantage of several key environmental features of the site, including the Collins Creek tributary and several expansive areas of mature forestland.

Amenities include an entry lake with fountains, miles of interconnecting pathways, two clubhouses with fitness facilities, a recreation barn, outdoor bar, yoga and aerobics studio, three pools, bocce ball, putting green, volleyball, basketball courts, tennis center, private marina with boat storage for canoeing and kayaking, playgrounds, outdoor fireplace settings, community herb garden with potting shed, and a community shuttle to downtown Bethany.

In awarding the top prize to Natelli Communities for the 950-home Bay Forest community, the judges said, “The project team maximized water and green spaces, and created a nice sense of micro- communities inside the natural habitat. The community has a lovely pool and resort-like amenities, and the outside of the [recreation] barn is spectacular.”

Tom Natelli, CEO of Natelli Communities, thanked his entire staff for their dedication to fulfilling the original vision for the community and also thanked the team of consultants who have supported their efforts. “Goodwill and appreciation are earned by consistently exceeding the expectations of others, and our team of professionals understands that this is a fundamental part of our company’s DNA. We take tremendous pride in delivering living environments that exceed expectations and contribute positively to the quality of life our customers desire,” he said.