MFEConceptCommunity 2016

MFEConceptCommunity 2016

Habitat’s Green Efforts Go Multifamily

A Habitat for Humanity condo project shows the nonprofit’s conservation-oriented housing efforts aren’t limited to single-­family homes.

1 MIN READ

Housing one family at a time has been the mantra of Habitat for Humanity International in its efforts to construct affordable single-family housing since its inception in 1976. But some affiliates of the Americus, Ga.–based nonprofit have seen the wisdom of broadening that philosophy to include multifamily housing, as well.

About five and a half years ago, Habitat for Humanity of the Greater Orlando (Fla.) Area purchased a 3.9-acre site for a neighborhood of townhouse-style condos when the third phase of an apartment complex stalled. The location of the eventual 58-unit, 10-building Stag Horn Villas, on a bus line and two blocks from a public high school, seemed ideal. Already, 46 of the two-story, three-bedroom, two-bath condos have been finished and are occupied. But the real success of the development lies in its focus on conservation and green-building practices.

“We wanted to be good stewards of the environment and encourage pride of ownership,” says Terry Eckert, the affiliate’s director of construction. Judging by the local response, he and his team have succeeded. “We get a lot of hugs in this business,” he says.

About the Author

Barbara Ballinger

Barbara Ballinger (www.barbaraballinger.com) is a freelance writer, author, and speaker who focuses on real estate, design, and family business. Her most recent book is The Kitchen Bible: Designing Your Perfect Culinary Space (Images Publishing, 2014). 

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