On October 8, 2025, our Mid-Atlantic Division was honored at the Northern Virginia Building Industry Association’s (NVBIA) Great American Living Awards. While receiving recognition from industry peers is always encouraging, what truly matters to us is what these awards reveal about the hard work, dedication, and lessons learned along the way. 

What the GALA Awards Mean to Us 

These awards aren’t just about trophies or titles. They’re judged by industry experts who understand the challenges and complexities of homebuilding. When they recognize our work, it’s a nod to the countless hours spent designing floorplans that fit real lifestyles, crafting welcoming exteriors, and paying attention to the little details that make a house feel like home. 

As Chris McGrath, our Mid-Atlantic Division President, said, this recognition reflects the commitment and talent of our teams. But more importantly, it reminds us that building homes is about people — about you and your family’s future. 

A Special Honor: Lifetime Achievement Award 

One of the most meaningful moments of the evening was when Gary Chandler, our Region Senior Vice President of Land Acquisitions & Entitlements, received the Lifetime Achievement Award and was inducted into the NVBIA Hall of Fame. 

Gary’s expertise in identifying land opportunities and managing complex entitlement processes has been crucial in shaping thriving communities across Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia. 

Celebrating Our Marketing and Sales Teams: The Heart of Homebuying 

Behind every homebuyer’s journey is a team that listens, guides, and supports. Several of K. Hovnanian’s Mid-Atlantic Division sales teams were awarded for their exceptional service, dedication, and ability to understand each buyer’s unique needs and help them through the homebuying journey with care and professionalism. 

Sara Hendrick, our Mid-Atlantic Division Marketing Manager, was recognized as Outstanding General Marketing Manager for her positivity, innovation, and commitment to connecting families with their dream homes. 

The Grove at Jackson Village, the teamwork of Tara Brown, John Holmes, Tanner Gaines, and Tony Boxley showed how collaboration leads to exceptional service, quality construction, and comfortable forever homes. Magnolia Hill’s sales duo, Tia Snead and Jessica Byrd, demonstrated the power of partnership in helping buyers find their perfect fit. 

From Gallery Park at Westfields, Jamie Hile, Justina Sheppard, and Michael Morrello were honored for exceptional accomplishments in assisting homebuyers through not only the house-hunting and purchasing process, but also through the process of selecting options, upgrades, and finishes. Joe Macco at The Venue and Barbara Knickerbocker at Ascend at Liberty Run also stood out for their dedication to exceptional customer service and matching families with homes that fit their lifestyles. 

Award-Winning Communities: What Makes Them Special? 

When it comes to creating homes that truly fit the way people live, it’s the thoughtful details and purposeful design that make all the difference. Across our Mid-Atlantic Division, several of our model homes have been recognized for their design and architecture — not because we set out to win awards, but because our teams focus on what matters most: making spaces that feel like home. 

Take Hazel Run Glen in Fredericksburg, VA, for example. Here, the Stavanger III model offers more than just a beautiful farmhouse-inspired kitchen and soaring ceilings. It’s designed to be a place where families can gather comfortably, with open spaces that invite natural light and thoughtful storage solutions that keep everyday life organized. It’s the kind of home where you can imagine holiday dinners, weekend projects, and quiet moments all unfolding naturally. 

Then there’s The Grove at Jackson Village, where townhomes are crafted to maximize every inch without sacrificing comfort or style. These homes show that you don’t have to choose between space and convenience — they’re designed for people who want both, whether it’s a growing family or someone looking to simplify without compromise. 

Gallery Park at Westfields in Chantilly offers a different kind of appeal: two-story condominiums that blend urban living with a sense of calm. Bright, airy, and filled with modern finishes, these homes are made for those who want the energy of the city but also a retreat to come home to. 

At Aspire at Wilderness Shores, the focus is on helping buyers envision their future. The model homes are carefully staged to highlight how versatile and welcoming each floorplan can be, making it easier to see how your own life might fit into these spaces. 

Other award-winning communities, like The Venue in Upper Marlboro, Estates of Tuscarora and Ascend at Liberty Run in Martinsburg, and Magnolia Hill in Perry Hall, each bring their own unique touch — whether it’s classic aesthetics, flexible layouts, or a blend of luxury and practicality. What ties them all together is the care and intention behind every design choice. 

We also put a lot of thought into staging and merchandising these homes. It’s not just about making a space look good — it’s about helping you picture your everyday life there. Whether it’s a massive kitchen island perfect for gatherings, double-height ceilings that fill rooms with natural light, or cozy nooks for quiet moments, these details are chosen to make a house feel like a home. 

At the end of the day, these awards reflect the hard work and care our teams pour into every community. But more importantly, they remind us why we do what we do: to create homes that support your lifestyle and grow with you over time. 

Lessons We’ve Learned Along the Way 

Every award has a story behind it—a story of listening, learning, and growing. Here are some of the key lessons our teams have embraced: 

  • Listen Closely to Homebuyers: Designing floorplans and community features that truly fit your lifestyle is at the heart of what we do. Your needs guide our choices. 
  • Focus on the Details: From architectural design to interior merchandising, it’s the small touches that make a big difference in how a home feels. 
  • Collaborate and Solve Problems Together: Building a home isn’t without challenges. Our teams work closely to navigate obstacles and find innovative solutions. 
  • Commit to Continuous Improvement: We don’t settle. Feedback and experience push us to raise our standards and deliver better homes every time. 

K. Hovnanian Homes congratulates all of the GALA winners, and thanks them for the amazing work they do. 

What This Means for You 

Choosing a builder is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. These awards reflect our ongoing commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. But more importantly, they represent the lessons we’ve learned by listening to you, adapting to challenges, and striving to improve. 

When you build with K. Hovnanian Homes, you’re partnering with a team that values your experience and aims to make the process as smooth and rewarding as possible. 

Ready to Explore? 

Curious to see these award-winning communities for yourself? We invite you to explore our Mid-Atlantic offerings and schedule a tour. We’re here to help you find a home that fits your lifestyle and dreams. 

Choosing a new home is a journey, and we’re honored to be part of yours. These awards remind us that every detail matters, and every lesson learned helps us build better homes for you and your family. 

Visit khov.com/midatlantic to learn more and start your journey today. 

Disclaimer:  

See khov.com for full details.  Artist renderings and photographs; illustrative purposes only. All dimensions are approximate. Features and options may vary. Unless stated hardscape, landscape and decorator items not included. This output was generated by artificial intelligence. See a sales consultant for full details. Equal Housing Opportunity. 

Last Updated on November 19, 2025