Coker Place Emerges as Closest Home Ownership Opportunity to UNC’s Newly Announced Carolina North Campus
Rendering of Coker Place in Chapel Hill
UNC’s announcement of a new Estes Drive campus signals long-term growth for Chapel Hill. Coker Place is uniquely positioned within walking distance of the future campus, offering one of the area’s few new-ownership opportunities designed for connection, convenience and longevity.
CHAPEL HILL – With the University of North Carolina moving forward on plans for Carolina North, a major new campus destination planned along North Estes Drive, Coker Place is uniquely positioned to offer the closest townhome and condominium ownership opportunity within walking distance of the future development.
UNC leadership has shared that the academic focus of Carolina North will center on research-forward programs, including biology and other science, technology, engineering and math disciplines, reflecting the university’s growing demand for modern learning environments and advanced research facilities. As UNC expands its academic footprint with new lab and research space, it signals long-term momentum for the Estes Drive corridor and the surrounding Chapel Hill community.
Map of the newly announced Carolina North Campus via UNC Chapel Hill
For buyers, that momentum matters. Ownership near a large-scale institutional project like Carolina North is rare, especially in a market where new-construction ownership opportunities, not strictly student housing or rentals, remain limited.
“A live, work, play, learn, research, study environment,” stated UNC Chancellor Lee Roberts in an interview with WRAL this week. “I think everyone knows what makes a campus feel special is the mix of uses. It’s not having just residential or just classroom space or lab space or office space, it’s putting everything together with plenty of recreational opportunities and open space that gives a campus its special feel. And we think we can replicate that at Carolina North.”
According to Roberts’ proposed plan, construction on the first phase of this monumental campus expansion will begin in the Summer of 2027. Phase one is set to include undergraduate housing for more than 2,000 students, academic research buildings - specifically, modern lab and research facilities, a hotel and various retail spaces including shopping, dining and other boutique offerings.
Latest Construction Progress at Coker Place - Phase One Move-in-Ready by Spring 2026
Located just off North Estes Drive, Coker Place offers a fresh take on turnkey Chapel Hill living for those craving ease without compromise. Nestled beneath mature trees and surrounded by winding trails, the community balances natural calm with everyday access to downtown Chapel Hill, UNC, and the homegrown hubs that define the town.
Phase One introduces 40 modern townhomes across eight floor plans, offering two to four bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms, with layouts spanning up to approximately 2,220 square feet. Interiors feature thoughtful layouts, cohesive finishes, and warm textures that feel elevated without losing the comfort of home. Select residences include private elevators, attached garages, and rooftop terraces designed to simplify daily living while adding a rare outdoor escape above the trees.
“Coker Place was designed for people who want to live thoughtfully connected to Chapel Hill’s future,” said Johnny Chappell, Owner/Founder of Chappell and Member of the Coker Place Development Team. “With the announcement of the new UNC campus, that vision has only become more tangible. This community offers a rare opportunity to own a home within walking distance of a major academic destination. It’s truly a generational investment.”
As Carolina North development advances, UNC has also emphasized infrastructure and connectivity improvements, including plans for rapid bus transit intended to connect the main campus with the Carolina North site.
The university has demonstrated flexibility in financing through private-sector partnerships and leasing strategies, while retaining the advantage of owning the land outright. Together, these factors underscore that Carolina North is being built not as a short-term expansion, but as a long-range investment in UNC’s future and the region’s growth.
University of North Carolina Chapel Hill — Main Campus Today
The project has also generated public attention around the potential inclusion of a future basketball arena for UNC’s men’s and women’s programs. While no final decisions have been made, UNC leaders have pointed to the opportunity for a modern arena experience that could address traffic, parking, accessibility, and fan amenities, reflecting the direction collegiate athletics venues are evolving nationwide.
Map of Coker Place in Chapel Hill Showcasing Carolina North Proximity
“Coker Place was designed for people who want to live thoughtfully connected to Chapel Hill’s future.
With the announcement of the new UNC campus, that vision has only become more tangible.”
– Johnny Chappell, Owner/Founder of Chappell & Development Team Member Behind Coker Place
Coker Place sits between Aura Booth Park and the Estes Hills school corridor, placing residents close to greenways, neighborhood parks, and daily essentials. The community also offers quick access to I-40, making it easy to move throughout Chapel Hill, Durham, Raleigh, and the greater Triangle.
Phase One is expected to be move-in ready this Spring. A future Phase Two will introduce condo-style residences, including select price points anticipated to start in the $300,000s.
In a town where buyers often struggle to find new construction that feels both connected and calm, Coker Place offers something increasingly rare. A walkable address near UNC’s next major chapter, paired with modern ownership designed to feel grounded from day one.
Coker Place’s architecture is led by CI Designs, with construction by Concept 8. The community will showcase a modern mix of brick and cementitious siding with varied rooflines to offer both visual interest and design cohesion. Coker Place is co-developed by Lock 7 Development and DevPointe, with sales and marketing led by Chappell [Powered by Compass].
For more information or to join the interest list for Coker Place, visit CokerPlace.com or call 919.525.3215.
Coker Place Rendering of Aerial