MIXED USE AFFORDABLE HOUSING

This partially abandoned historic building was destined to be replaced by a parking lot. Instead we redesigned the building for 8 units of housing and commercial space and started a revitalization of the deterioration of this main street.

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• We used green strategies to redesign the building. Many of the existing materials were reused. It received a tight well insulated envelope and efficient appliances and fixtures.
• The building received an Energy Star rating.
• For good air quality, a good ventilation systems and only materials with  low volatile organic chemicals   were used.
• Our client, the Lynn Community Development Corporation was able to provide much needed affordable housing with two accessible apartments. They back up to the commercial spaces on the ground floor. The second and third floors are converted to family units with four townhouses and two flats.
• By accessing all units via a common porch we gained the space for an additional unit. The common porch is intended as place for neighbors to meet and interact.

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This historic building was originally constructed with many beautiful details, but having stood empty for many years, it had gone into disrepair. With this conversion, this historic building was saved from demolition and its elegance preserved for the community. For this renovation the Lynn Historical Society gave us an award and the building was featured on the front page of the National Trust for Historic Preservation Publication.

This project was approved by the City Council and Board of Appeals and won an award from the Lynn Museum and Historical Society.