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Manton Avenue Live/Work

Providence, Rhode Island
Date 2020
Size 3,580 SF per building
Cost $1.3M
Client ONE Neighborhood Builders

Union pushed the boundaries of regulatory constraints to create a unique, small-scale development in the dense, diverse, and thriving Olneyville neighborhood of Providence. The developer of the property had a tall order: create four affordable, homeownership, mixed-use townhomes – each with a rental apartment – on two vacant city lots.

Inspired by the traditional urban fabric where buildings share a common lot line and with careful review and understanding of the local zoning and planning regulations, the project was developed as of right; no waivers or variances were required. By merging and subdividing the two lots into four separate lots and taking advantage of an allowed zero-side yard setback on adjacent property lines, one structure with two townhomes straddles a property line. A firewall at the property line creates two ‘buildings’ where each side is on its own fee-simple lot.

Conceptual site plan

Each home has a second-floor homeowner apartment, ground floor commercial space, and a one-bedroom garden rental apartment. Common driveways with deeded access easement allow each property to have the minimum required parking spaces.

These buildings not only complete the streetscape but also provide much needed affordable housing and economic development opportunity for the homeowners.

3D rendering of building model
Residential entries are setback under an overhang.