Banker & Tradesman

Northampton to Get Historically-Inspired Modular Cottages

June 09, 2011

Northampton will soon get four green modular cottages thanks to an agreement made between MassDevelopment and New York-based Agora Homes and Development LLC, a company specializing in smart growth development using energy-efficient modular homes.

The homes will be placed on Laurel Street at Village Hill Northampton, where every home is energy efficient, according to a statement. The home designs will include a three-bedroom “farmhouse” and a three-bedroom “bungalow.”

“The Agora modular cottages represent the latest in market-rate affordable, sustainable and smart-growth housing designs to arrive at Village Hill Northampton,” said MassDevelopment Executive Vice President of Real Estate Richard Henderson. “Agora’s development adds a new option to the types of housing already available at the site, all of which incorporate green practices and New Urbanist principles important to homeowners locally and statewide.”

New Urbanism is a movement among planners, urban designers, architects, developers, public officials and residents working to promote neighborhood-based development as an alternative to sprawl, according to a statement. The movement seeks to improve quality of life by reducing commuting times, increasing the supply of available and safe alternative transportation options and preserving natural resources.

“We are excited to be a part of the Village Hill community and to bring traditionally designed, yet sustainable, new cottages to Northampton,” said Toby Millman, Agora founder and president. “Given the attractive price point, these â€˜right-sized’ homes will appeal to a wide range of buyers who want to be close to all of the amenities of Downtown Northampton.”