New Homes & Homesites
Mountain living in the heart of downtown Franklin, NC
Quick Facts
• 24-acre neighborhood
• Approximately 40% preserved green space
• Walk to Historic Main Street
• Custom homes and homesites available
A different kind of neighborhood
Welcome to Sanctuary Village, a carefully planned mountain neighborhood in Western North Carolina. We’re redefining community living in our region with enduring design, a strong sense of community, and homes built to last.
Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Sanctuary Village combines a prime location in downtown Franklin, North Carolina, with beautifully crafted homes and inviting public spaces—a place where life feels natural, comfortable, and connected.
Everyday Life at Sanctuary Village
Relaxed afternoons connecting with neighbors on welcoming front porches.
Evenings just blocks from Franklin’s shops, restaurants, and local breweries.
Easy access to outdoor experiences with mountain views all around.
Year-round community events that bring neighbors together.
The Vision Behind Our Community
A story of discovery, reflection, and a vision for a more connected living.
While vacationing in North Georgia, Tim Ryan and his family weren’t searching for a new place to live. They were simply looking for something to do with their two youngest sons—who were in elementary and high school at the time—and came across gem mining just over the line in Franklin.
That small, spontaneous detour led them to discover Franklin—and eventually, a 99-acre farm high in the mountains. Remote, private, and peaceful, the property offered a kind of quiet they hadn’t experienced before.
What began as a chance discovery became home, and they spent the next five years living on the farm. During that time, Tim was introduced to the principles of New Urbanism, which sparked a deeper question: what would it look like to create a place designed for connection, daily interaction, and a true sense of community?
That vision became Sanctuary Village—a Traditional Neighborhood Development in downtown Franklin, designed to bring people together while remaining rooted in the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
From Sanctuary Village, everything is within reach. With easy access to major highways, exploring Atlanta, the Great Smoky Mountains, and Asheville is simple.
Closer to home, you’re right in the heart of Franklin—just minutes from local shops, restaurants, and everyday conveniences.
Our Story Unfolds
A new chapter is taking shape at Sanctuary Village. With the first homes already built and early elements of the neighborhood—from the lower park entrance and Mews to sidewalks and gas lamps—beginning to define the landscape, the vision is becoming tangible. Each new home, gathering space, and detail is thoughtfully considered to reflect a neighborhood rooted in connection, charm, and enduring character. As the community continues to grow, Sanctuary Village is becoming a place where meaningful moments and lasting traditions can take root.
Properties Available
Phase I offers a limited collection of homesites, with a select number of thoughtfully designed homes available.
Explore available homesites, view current availability, and find the setting that feels right for you.
Browse available properties
23 Market St, Franklin, NC 28734, USA
Home for Sale in Downtown Franklin, NC | The Cowee...
49 Village Cir E, Franklin, NC 28734, USA
3/3.5 Home for Sale in Downtown Franklin, NC | The...
Community Features
Sanctuary Village is thoughtfully designed for flexibility, offering a range of home sizes to suit your lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a larger home to host family gatherings or a cozy cottage with just enough space for you and an occasional guest, you’ll find options that balance beauty, comfort, and a strong sense of community. Here, you can choose what feels right—without compromising connection or quality of life.
Green Spaces
Frequently Asked Questions
How is Sanctuary Village different from other mountain communities I could call home?
Can I build my own home here, or do I have to buy one that’s already built?
How close is Sanctuary Village to shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities?
We are just a few blocks from historic downtown Franklin, North Carolina, where you’ll find local dining, shopping, and entertainment. The Little Tennessee River Greenway is also nearby, along with plenty of parks and trails to explore. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, outdoor adventures—like hiking, kayaking, and scenic drives—are all within easy reach.
What’s it like to live in Sanctuary Village?
Sanctuary Village is designed to foster genuine connection and a true sense of belonging. Thoughtfully planned features like welcoming front porches, shared green spaces, and neighborhood paths make it easy to enjoy time outdoors and get to know your neighbors. It’s a community where neighbors look out for one another and can easily connect with the vibrant Franklin community.