Pocket neighborhood developer, Sue Cosentini of Cosentini Construction, announces the availability of low-energy use homes in Amabel, her second foray into community living in the Ithaca area.
Ithaca, New York, June 29, 2020 – Conceived during the completion of the highly successful Aurora Pocket Neighborhood in Fall Creek, Ithaca, NY, Amabel Pocket Neighborhood provides 30 single-family homes in a pastoral setting on Five Mile Dr. Only 1 mile from downtown Ithaca, Amabel also offers easy access to shopping, hiking, walking running, kayaking, and area attractions.
As defined by architect Ross Chapin, pocket neighborhoods are an arrangement of energy-conscious houses that are gathered around a shared open space that has a clear sense of territory and shared stewardship. This common space can be defined by a courtyard, a pedestrian street, a series of joined backyards, or a reclaimed alley.
“Amabel Pocket Neighborhood exemplifies the future,” says Cosentini, “suburbia was a blessing for its time. For many people now, though, the days of car dependence and isolation in high-maintenance suburban homes with oversized lawns have passed. Increasingly, people want less stuff and more fun, ease, and freedom. People also want to be a part of the solution, when it comes to global warming and the creation of a healthier environment.”’
Larger than the lots in Fall Creek, Amabel parcels are individually deeded with a sweeping meadow and organic food gardens, just beyond the front door. Growing and enjoying food, kayaking as a means of commuting, and supportive, yet carefree, friendships are also integral aspects of the cutting-edge community.
In these settings neighbors can easily know one another, empty nesters and single householders with far-off families can find friendship or a helping hand, children and young adults can easily connect with each other. Clearly defined boundaries to private yards and the shared outdoor spaces are key elements.
“Privacy is also a key ingredient of pocket neighborhoods, and Amabel is no exception,” says Cosentini.
Flanked by mature trees, the house, and an optional vegetative fence, the side yard of each home will be a sanctuary to quietly enjoy the site’s amazing beauty or to host private gatherings. Front yards can have layers of personal space between the shared commons and the front door via perennial plantings, the private front yard, and a covered porch large enough to serve as an outdoor room. Within the houses, the layering continues, with active spaces oriented toward the commons and private spaces located further back and above. To ensure privacy between neighbors and maximize yards the cottages “nest” together.
The homes at Amabel will range in size from 1092 to 2136 square feet. Buyers will have the option of a conventional code-compliant energy envelope or an upgraded envelope, together with a choice of finish options. Have questions about these energy-efficient, pocket neighborhood homes? Contact Sue Cosentini at [email protected] or go to amabel.org
