Monarch Mills, An Intergenerational Community
Columbia, Maryland
client
Shelter Group
size
257,100 sf
certification
Green Communities, LEED Gold
type
New Construction
stats
279 Units
Formerly Guilford Gardens, this development was previously home to a typical 1970s-era, automobile-oriented apartment complex. Creating a new vision for this mixed-income, inter-generational community, Monarch Mills replaced the outdated development with a vibrant 21st Century neighborhood that incorporated sustainable design features to improve the quality of life of residents.
Vision For The Community
The owner’s vision for this project was a cohesive, village-like neighborhood that could serve the needs of all family types and generation levels. Each building was to be designed as a unique, craftsman-style structure with its own identity. The design arranges the buildings to define a large "Village Green" and smaller spaces for gathering and outdoor activity that help to provide a "sense of place."
The careful design and planning of this new development made it a priority to keep existing residents of Guilford Gardens comfortable, and to minimize displacement required for development. Monarch Mills was phased to required existing residents to only move once during the construction process.
Family-Oriented Amenities
This community offers many different amenities to provide residents with a place to gather, interact, and entertain with family and friends. A LEED Gold Clubhouse sits at the center of this neighborhood, making communal space easily walkable.
Closing Thoughts
The LEED Gold clubhouse at the heart of the complex provides residents with a common "living room" to promote community.
Awards
Housing Achievement Award
Housing Association of Nonprofit Developers (HAND)
Rental Housing Excellence Award
Governor's Housing Conference
Pioneer in Housing Award
Nan McKay and Associates
