89 Oxbow

Wayland, MA

Client

Oxbow Partners / Building Initiatives

Program

16 units of affordable housing in three buildings, including site planning.

Challenge

Develop a former missile launch site into an affordable housing complex with a design that is responsive to the context of the surrounding residential community. Incorporate sustainable design methods.

Solution

Architecture establishes purposeful relationships with distinct entry porches and front doors oriented toward common spaces, semi-private outdoor spaces for each home, and a variety of floor plans to allow for usability for all families. Site plan minimizes paved surfaces and places homes to take advantage of existing mature trees and respect privacy of neighbors.

Result

All 16 units sold within months of introduction to market. Average family utility savings estimated at $900 annually compared to traditionally-built, similarly-sized homes.