Thriven Design provided architectural, engineering, and planning services for the redevelopment of the former site of Ellis Street Manor – a public housing site that stood vacant for half a decade, at the corner of Lincoln Boulevard (Ellis Street) and Higgins Drive. The new community now offers affordable housing to developmentally disabled and senior residents at or below 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI) of Gloucester County.

One of the goals of Village at Harmony Garden is to provide individuals with developmental disabilities the opportunity to live independently while maintaining access to the supportive services necessary to helping them achieve daily living success. The prime location of the community situates residents close to Rowan Boulevard with local shops, services, and attractions.

The community features 65 one-story cottage units with 57 one-bedroom and eight two-bedroom units. 52 of the 65 units are age-restricted for seniors ages 55 and up. Additionally, 13 apartments are set aside for non-age-restricted individuals with developmental disabilities, and four are set aside for individuals over 55 with developmental disabilities. 100% of the apartments at Village at Harmony Garden have the rent supported by GHA project-based vouchers, helping those in the community in need at all levels access this new housing. The community will both enhance and contribute to the ongoing revitalization efforts of the southwestern section of the borough.

The new development also includes a 2,908 SF community building with a community room, fitness center, and supportive services center. The exterior of the building has a garden for residents to grow their own vegetables, and a gazebo.

Client
  • Pennrose
Units
  • 65
Status
  • Completed 2022
Awards
  • 2022 Supportive Housing Association Project of the Year