Washington, D.C. – January 22, 2015 – (RealEstateRama) — Oxford Mills, a mixed-use development of apartments and commercial space in Philadelphia, has been selected as the North Atlantic regional winner in the 2015 Best in American Living Awards (BALA) by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).
Developers of Oxford Mills succeeded in their mission to create a vibrant, synergistic education-based community that offers discounted-rate housing for teachers as well as office space for small businesses.
Two dilapidated warehouses were converted into 114 market-rate quality apartments. The wide variety of units includes studios with grand historic windows, one-bedroom apartments with lofts between exposed trusses, and larger two-bedroom apartments featuring exposed brick and restored timber framing.
The project also includes 35,000 square feet of commercial office space for local startups and non-profit organizations.
BartonPartners of Norristown, Pa., served as the project’s architect, designer, remodeler and interior designer. The developer and interior merchandiser was D3 Real Estate Development, Inc., of Huntingdon Valley, Pa. And the land planner was Cornerstone Consulting Engineers of Landsdale, Pa.
BALA judges said they were initially drawn to the unique teacher aspect of this old warehouse renovation, and further impressed by the development’s unique design and creative use of materials. They also commented on its seamless integration of different units and the notable preservation of historic character.
In its 32nd year, BALA recognizes outstanding achievement by builders and design professionals in all sectors of the residential housing industry including single-family production, custom, rental, affordable, interiors, remodeling, community and international, based on the principle that good design is not and should not be limited to high-priced and/or custom homes. Even the simplest, most affordable homes can receive an award if they showcase good design.
Award winners were announced during the annual NAHB International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas. Additional Information about the BALA program can be found at www.nahb.org/BALA, including the 2015 BALA Portfolio, featuring a review of design trends and project photographs.
CONTACTS
Stephanie Pagan
202-266-8254
