The Schell Brothers community was designed to encapsulate traits of a five-star resort that homeowners can enjoy

By Brian Alvarado

When Chris Schell founded Schell Brothers in 2003, he had one purpose for his homebuilding business: maximize happiness rather than profit. Established in the coastal towns of Delaware,

Schell Brothers has progressed and extended its footprint to Virginia and Tennessee over the years. 

“Schell Brothers both self-develops and works with regional development partners to create communities with thoughtful site plans, incredible curb appeal and well-planned, oftentimes award-winning, amenities,” Schell, who serves as the builder’s chief executive officer, said.

One of Schell Brothers’ more notable projects is that of The Peninsula on the Indian River Bay. Located in Millsboro, Delaware, Schell Brothers has been building in this 775-acre master plan since 2005. The firm is currently building the final neighborhood, named Still Waters.

The masterplanned community will have 1,265 units at build-out with price tags ranging from the low $ 600,000 to upwards of $2 million. These homes cater to active adults and move-up luxury buyers.

“In this location, we are appealing to residents looking to retire in tax-friendly Delaware and enjoy all that our beaches and small towns have to offer,” Schell said.

The development team included Chapman Coyle Chapman & Associates as the clubhouse and amenity architect while Décor Direct served as interior designer. Most notably, Ocean Atlantic Companies, which is led by Schell’s twin brother Preston, was called on as developer of the project.

“(Ocean Atlantic Companies has) reinvented a once-faltering masterplanned community, injecting vitality and a new direction that aligns with their shared core values and development philosophy,” Chris said. “This project demonstrates their ability to execute resort-style best-in-class communities masterfully.”

A National Accomplishment

There are an abundance of floorplans Schell Brothers has offered over the years at The Peninsula that range from 2,000 square feet to 8,000 square feet. One plan that stands out is the Lilac model, which features four to seven bedrooms and 2.5 to 4.5 bathrooms. 

Covering upwards of 2,431 heated square feet, Lilac was recognized with a Silver Award at the 2024 Nationals in the Best Interior Merchandising of a Model Priced $800,000 to $1 Million category.

“The design focuses on creating an open living space that buyers can tailor to suit various lifestyle needs,” Chris said. “This floor plan can be highly personalized, allowing for additional bedrooms, bathrooms, living area extensions and more.”

Some of the different options homeowners can choose from include primary bedroom extensions, finished basements, interior trims, home theaters and multi-level courtyards. Meanwhile, the exterior lends itself to a classic curb appeal, offering multiple exteriors from traditional to modern farmhouses.

Resort-Style Amenities

When The Peninsula was being designed, the idea was to emulate a five-star resort. Its amenities earned the Regal Award for the Community with Best Amenity Value.

“Every day in this community feels like a luxury getaway, complete with comprehensive amenities that allow residents to enjoy various activities without leaving the area,” Chris said. 

Along with its 33,000-sq. ft. clubhouse, which features a restaurant and a spa, The Peninsula serves as a popular destination for golfers in the area.

“Each neighborhood within The Peninsula boasts golf courses and water views, reinforcing the community’s luxurious and carefully crafted ambiance,” Chris said. 

The coastal environment is also emphasized, as the masterplanned community is equipped with a water recreation area with a 300,000-gallon wave pool.

Outdoor living and activities are also encouraged here, as the community capitalizes the full 775 acres. Residents can enjoy a nature center, miles of walking trails, tennis and pickleball courts, a private beach and garden plots.

Schellter Technology

At Schell Brothers, green building is also a main focus of the brand. The builder coined the term Schellter Technology, which is an approach intended to contribute to home energy efficiency. Per the company website, Schellter Advanced Building Science was developed as part of the continual commitment to provide homeowners with an exceptional home worthy of the Schell Brothers’ name and reputation.

This technology, along with its partnership with Clean Energy USA, facilitates the integration of solar panels.

“The combination of Schellter Technology and solar panel installations enhances energy efficiency and ensures that homes meet high standards of comfort, aesthetics and livability,” Chris said.

All Schellter homes meet requirements in four categories: durability, strength, moisture/water protection and sound attenuation. 

As Schell Brothers continues to innovate itself, its track record has demonstrated its knowledge of the homebuilding industry. The firm’s tenure as a homebuilder has catapulted itself as one of the more reputable names on the East Coast. A business model that puts the homeowner’s needs first has proven to be a winning formula for Schell Brothers.

“Schell Brothers is known for their commitment to creating not only exceptional homes but also an extraordinary home-buying experience, focusing on bringing homeowners happiness through their innovative designs and personalized features,” Chris said.

Brian Alvarado is editor at large for Builder and Developer.