Oakdale Cottages
Watershed worked with Restore Mobile to design four affordable, healthy, and resilient homes for Mobile’s historic Oakdale neighborhood.
Oakdale was settled in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a working-class and middle-class neighborhood with homes reflecting the styles of that period. The Oakdale cottages draw inspiration from traditional vernacular, including Victorian, Craftsman, and coastal vernacular influences.
Two floor plans were developed to have a long life and loose fit, with a simple geometry that can easily accommodate future additions. Four possible facades, differentiated by unique porches, siding, window and trim styles can be mixed and matched with the plans.
The first three homes to be built will utilize the 3-bedroom, 2-bath floor plan with 1,512 SF of conditioned space and an additional 200-300 square feet of porch. Porches help shade the homes, expand the living space and facilitate neighborhood social connections.
Climate responsive and historic elements include porches, high ceilings, generous operable windows, and an elevated floor structure. Modern, high-performance elements include advanced wall framing, air sealing, and insulation; water and energy conserving fixtures and systems; and certified low emitting finishes. The homes will utilize third-party inspections and certification to verify performance, and are pursuing Fortified Gold, Energy Star, and Indoor AirPlus certifications.
Project type: residential new construction
Location: Mobile, AL
Key Team: Keen Living, DSW Homes, Loblolly Building Science