BWA Architecture was contracted by the Newton Housing Authority (NHA) to design new construction affordable senior housing. The building’s form and interior unit layout is our response to the challenging site constraints of topography and property boundaries. Our design includes 55 one-bedroom, mid-rise affordable senior apartments, and integrates with an existing housing development. The project provides a new community center, laundry facility and fitness center that also serves the Newton Housing Authority community.

 

During the conceptual design phase BWA eliminated structured parking and increased the unit count from 35 to 55. The structure is wood framed with a high efficiency hydronic heating/cooling system and was designed with an emphasis on sustainable and durable materials and applying universal design principles

allowing people of all abilities to easily navigate their individual units and enjoy the common facilities. The project underwent a prolonged and exhaustive community review and zoning process. BWA assisted the Newton Housing Authority throughout the process and through several DHCD OneStop Funding rounds. NHA was able to secure a mix of financing including Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC). The project was constructed through Chapter 149A CM at Risk and completed in February 2023.