When Andy White first told me what he intended to do, I was intrigued.

We’ve known each other for years.

Andy had been in residential real estate most of his life. He’d run his own successful company, sold it and retired to enjoy life.

Like me, he found retirement boring and started looking for an opportunity.

He found it in a huge tract of land on the Saluda River that another developer had decided to sell.

In this interview, Andy tells that story.

Q. What was your vision for the Saluda River Club?

A. Initially, we saw the opportunity to develop one of the largest land parcels on the Saluda River in Lexington County. We decided we could create a special community that took advantage of the waterfront.

We envisioned creating different neighborhoods with a variety of home styles and sizes so that people from different walks of life could enjoy living here.

Shortly after buying the property, we realized access to the river would be the driving force in the success of the community.

Then it dawned on us rather than build large, grand homes on the riverfront, we should make the river accessible to all residents. That led us to create the riverfront park.

Everyone who lives at Saluda River Club visits the riverfront for one reason or another – walking, jogging, exercising, playing with the kids, playing bocce or volleyball. It is the heart of the community.

Q. How has it developed over the years?

A. We created 3 districts:

• The River District with larger executive homes.

• The Village District which includes both single-family and townhomes.

• The Woodlands district comprising single-family, patio homes and cottages.

Each district has its own distinct personality.

Streetscapes are picturesque and charming.

The blend of the three districts provides ‘something for everyone’ and that has helped Saluda River Club become one of the most desirable communities in South Carolina.

The quaint nature of Lexington with its close proximity to metropolitan Columbia proved to be an important factor in people’s decision to move here.

Q. What amenities does the club offer residents?

A. The magnificent riverfront features meandering walking and cart paths, a river observation deck, kayak launches, a dog park, jungle gym and fitness areas, an amphitheater, outdoor fire pits and a picnic shelter, among other features.

The centerpiece of the riverfront park is the Chickawa Outdoor Center with a beautiful infinity pool overlooking the lawn down to the river and a spectacular open-air pavilion with a grand fireplace perfect for gatherings, parties and special events. There are viewing and changing rooms.

In the Village District, the adults-only Village Club and Fitness Center with lounge and swimming pool are the main attractions.

A community garden where neighbors can grow their own vegetables is a favorite spot. Several parks and gathering spots are located in all three districts.

Q. How did your real estate development experience prepare you for this?

A. Saluda River Club’s partners have all been active in the community development and home building industries for decades. The experience of this team at all levels is well-recognized across the country for its superb innovation and attention to detail.

Q. What do you envision over the next 5-10 years?

A. Saluda River Club continues to grow. We’re planning more innovation and variety in home styles to offer an incomparable lifestyle for folks choosing to live in Lexington.