Project Description

While traditional co-housing projects focus on family and children, these Portland, ME based units were designed as a retirement community. Considering owners’ desires to be with aging friends and family, architects designed multi-generational senior living spaces. Co-housing differs from standard condominium development and master-planned subdivisions because the development is designed by, or with considerable input from, its future residents. The design process customarily emphasizes fostering social relationships among its residents. Common facilities are based on the actual needs of the residents, rather than on what a developer thinks will help sell units.

The complex, built for six couples, consists of a main structure and a guesthouse for friends and family. The common space includes a living room, kitchen, laundry, library, art studio, and exercise room. The 4,000 square foot rooftop deck includes a shared garden and hot tub surrounded by Bison Smooth 8-plank Ipê Wood.

Architect: Richard Renner | Architects

General Contractor: Wright-Ryan Homes

Photographer: Peter Vanderwarker

Completion Date: 2015