A second-generation home builder, Stuhmer has long been recognized for the breakthrough design concepts he brings to the market through each of his new projects.

Stuhmer said he was delighted to be recognized for his design achievements and particularly gratified to be honored alongside some of the nation's finest architects.

"As a home builder, it is a true honor to receive this kind of recognition," he said. "The strength of Christopher Homes has always been recognized in our superior design and because of the luxury market we're in, we are continually motivated to be on the leading edge. With each new product we introduce, we never lose sight of the fact that the designs must be fresh, exciting and most importantly, livable. Through our in-house resources and our relationships with some the country's finest architects and designers, we have sustained our position and reputation as an innovator in luxury-home design and a builder that can offer the ultimate in customizing choices to all of our buyers."

Founded in 1981, Christopher Homes is nationally and locally recognized as a leader in luxury home building.

Over the years, the company's innovation in design has earned more than 150 local, regional and national honors, including multiple awards for Home of the Year, Best Community in the Nation, Best in American Living, Best Custom Home in the Nation, as well as being named one of America's Best Builders.

Stuhmer's newest achievement in Southern Nevada is Boulder Ridge, an enclave of 46 estates priced from about $1.7 million and located within the private, 24-hour-guard-gated village of The Ridges, in the Summerlin master-planned community.

Stuhmer said since the models opened in December 2007, Boulder Ridge has experienced five sales -- a figure he deems quite admirable in the current market.

"Even in challenging market conditions, great designs sell," he said. "Boulder Ridge continues to generate a high level of interest among discerning buyers and continues to be a leader in our market."

Boulder Ridge is being built adjacent to the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area and the Jack Nicklaus-designed Bear's Best golf course. The all-new residential designs feature desert contemporary architectural styling and range from about 4,000 to 6,000 square feet. Home sites range from one-quarter to one-half acre.

The enclave overlooks the Las Vegas Valley from an elevated vantage point and home sites are available with views of the city lights, Red Rock Canyon and the fairways of Bear's Best golf course.

"We refer to the style of Boulder Ridge as 'sophistication in the desert,' " Stuhmer said. "It is perfectly adapted to the Las Vegas environment, with strong visual and functional relationships to its surroundings. It reflects the upscale nature of all our communities and the natural desert topography of the surrounding area.

"Above all," Stuhmer said, "Boulder Ridge offers luxury-home buyers the opportunity to create a highly personalized residence without having to go through the process of building a custom home. By providing the choices upscale home buyers expect and a system that respects how valuable their time is, we are, once again, advancing the home-buying experience in Southern Nevada."

Each buyer at Boulder Ridge consults with a design professional from Christopher Homes' full-service, in-house design center. The center's professionals that can help home owners with design.

"The concept is one of time management," Stuhmer said. "Our buyers have the means to build a custom home, but they may not have the time. They count on Christopher Homes to simplify the choices because they respect our reputation for quality and innovative design."

Amenities include Viking stainless-steel appliances, wet bars, steel-pivot front doors, marble and limestone treatments in the baths, imported Todt commodes, vessel sinks and paverstone driveways.

Additionally, buyers have options for outdoor fire and water features, decks, deep patios, trellises and four-car garages, as well as selected floor plan variations, per model.

Residents of The Ridges have full privileges at Club Ridges, a 9,000-square-foot private fitness and health spa facility featuring a resort-style swimming pool, lighted tennis courts, tennis lounge, aerobic room and a park.

To reach Boulder Ridge, take Interstate 215, the Las Vegas Beltway, to Town Center Drive. Go south on Town Center to west Flamingo Road and go right (west) to Marble Ridge. Go left on Marble Ridge to the entrance of The Ridges and proceed to the guard gate. The guard will provide directions to the sales office. Information can also be obtained by calling 838-3000.

For information regarding all neighborhoods being constructed by Christopher Homes, visit christopherhomes.com.