Pinecrest is a model for what a modern urban village should
be, with a location and historic
legacy no other single-family home project in Durham can claim. It is
a place where walkability, thoughtful design, and community connection come
together in one of Durham’s most historic settings. Located within the Forest
Hills Historic District, this carefully planned neighborhood blends timeless
architecture with modern convenience. Inspired by the principles of New
Urbanism, Pinecrest encourages a lifestyle that values connection,
sustainability, and a strong sense of place. Shared green spaces, walking
trails, and pedestrian-friendly pathways create opportunities for neighbors to
gather and enjoy the outdoors while offering direct access to the American
Tobacco Trail and downtown Durham.
Each home within Pinecrest is designed to honor the architectural legacy of the area, featuring Tudor inspired homes with refined interiors that merge classic craftsmanship with contemporary living. Mature trees, natural hardscapes, and elegant landscaping preserve the estate’s beauty and create a setting that feels both established and new. Residents enjoy the tranquility of a private retreat while remaining moments from Durham’s best dining, arts, and cultural destinations. Raleigh-Durham International Airport is also a convenient 20-minute drive away.
We currently have one home available on Bivins Street, located next to Pinecrest. Learn more.
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A Storied Past, Reimagined for Today
The grounds that now comprise Pinecrest have a rich and distinguished history. The Forest Hills neighborhood was originally envisioned by former Durham mayor W. J. Griswold and landscape architect Earle Sumner Draper as a “garden suburb” featuring large estate lots in a lush, park-like setting. In the 1920s, architect George Watts Carr designed several of the first homes here, including the Tudor Revival-style mansion built for financier George Watts Cobb and his wife, Virginia. In 1935, the estate was purchased by Mary Duke Biddle, who named her new home Pinecrest. For decades, the property remained in the Duke family and served as a place for gatherings and special events.
In 2018, the estate began a new chapter when it was purchased by a group of Durham-based developers who were committed to preserving its legacy while shaping its future. Their vision carefully integrates the original mansion, now a designated historic landmark, with new homes designed to complement its Tudor elegance. This restoration honors the craftsmanship and story of Pinecrest while welcoming a new generation to live within its storied grounds.
The Designer Home Collection allows you to move in quicker while being able to enjoy a home that has had all the details chosen by one of our professional interior designers.
Ready to custom build?
View our curated plans that can be built in this community or contact us to customize your own plan.
A Legacy of Design, Nature, and Community
Today, Pinecrest offers a rare opportunity to live within a historic estate that has been thoughtfully reimagined for modern life. The 10-acre property retains its original 1927 mansion and caretaker’s cottage, both of which will be meticulously restored, alongside new luxury residences that reflect Durham’s evolving urban identity. Residents enjoy shared parks, walking trails, and convenient access to the area’s cultural attractions, educational institutions, and health systems. Pinecrest is more than a place to live. It is a community built on legacy, connection, and enduring beauty.