We are building and renovating 25 houses by 2025 in Paoli, Indiana.
A brief history
Based on a recent community survey that gathered over 400 responses, we learned that we need to include single-family housing in the town limits and that a home should be in the $90-$100,000 range, with a yard and natural space to ensure connection to the land and rich rural landscape.
With this in mind, a model home will be built with the assistance of students from Lost River Career Cooperative. This program will invite Orange and Washington County students involved in building and trades classes to collaborate with Indiana University faculty and students at IU who have already assisted with the design of the home. Using state-of-the-art building technology, this model home will offer the amenities homeowners are seeking and reduce energy consumption.
The model home
On September 7, we hosted a groundbreaking ceremony at the model home site, 729 E. Water Street, Paoli.
Lost River Career Cooperative students from Orange and Washington counties, under the leadership of construction trades department instructor Jon Shellenberger, are constructing the home with innovative insulated concrete forms that increase energy efficiency and reduce construction costs. The home will be sold to a private resident upon completion, and project leaders hope it will serve as a model for future housing development.
The home’s design was led by Indiana University Eskenazi School of Art, Architecture, and Design faculty member Jon Racek and inspired by the work of his students in a partnership with Orange County residents through IU Center for Rural Engagement initiatives.
Updates On The Model Home
Front of House
Backside of House
Lost River Career Cooperative Student installing flooring
Lost River Career Cooperative Students installing flooring
Possibilities In Paoli Showcase & Housing Expo took place June 4th at the model home on Water Street in Paoli!
The event was a success with several attendees from the community coming to learn about the initiative.
The model home was built with a modest footprint, unique construction materials, passive solar design and the main feature was affordability!
The estimated base cost of the home + Upgrades from the buyer
$152,000 + $38,000 = $190,000
(includes materials & all subcontracting)
