The Enterprise Rose Architectural Fellowship

See the Work

Edmundite Renovations

Century-old shotgun cottages get renovated for affordable homeownership

“Amidst the multitude of complicated issues in rebuilding New Orleans, the city’s working class neighborhoods are facing arguably the most substantial challenges.”

— Dan Etheridge, Tulane City Center

Providence Community Housing has acquired nearly 200 scattered sites in the Lafitte/Treme neighborhood of New Orleans. While the vast majority of these properties are either empty lots or tear-downs, nine unique cottages qualify for renovation and rehabilitation. These 100-year old houses are called the Edmundites, and will be converted to single family units under a large-scale affordable homeownership plan.

During Hurricane Katrina, the Edmundites received nearly six feet of standing water and considerable wind damage to many roofs. They have been gutted completely through volunteer labor, and now stand ready for renovation. The Edmundites will retain their original historic facades and architectural fixtures, while undergoing substantial interior modernization and upgrades.

Providence Community Housing is committed to environmentally sensitive reconstruction efforts, and has adopted Enterprise’s Green Communities criteria for this renovation. To this end, the Edmundites will be outfitted with Energy Star® rated appliances, fixtures, windows, lighting and energy efficiency”. Environmentally-friendly products and finishes will be applied during the renovation, as well.

The Edmundites are located in a highly visible working-class neighborhood in New Orleans that experienced significant flooding after Hurricane Katrina. While this area has experienced slow reconstruction efforts to date, these new houses may serve as a catalyst for change.

By providing design services and sustainable building support, Carey is working to build capacity both at her host organization and within the greater rebuilding community. She is also helping to ensure that residents of affordable housing will be able to return to New Orleans, and that their new houses will be beautiful, healthy, and energy efficient.