Story

In the historic town of Fairmount Heights, Maryland, the Housing Initiative Partnership (HIP), a nonprofit green housing developer, partnered with Peabody Architects, Beracah Homes, and WarrenBuilds to deliver six sustainably constructed and operated homes. This collaborative effort is helping to revitalize the second oldest African-American-majority municipality in Prince George's County by providing modern, energy-efficient, affordable homeownership opportunities. WarrenBuilds led the comprehensive site development, which included structural demolition, clearing and grubbing, grading, and utility installation (electrical, water, and sewer). WarrenBuilds installed hardscaping such as driveways, walkways, sidewalks, curbs, and gutters to fully develop each lot. Site landscaping added curb appeal and completed the exterior environment. Each of the six homes is a two-story, 1,600-square-foot standalone structure featuring three bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms. The homes were constructed using modular building techniques, with Beracah Homes supplying the modular units. WarrenBuilds constructed concrete foundations and crawl spaces and managed the modular sections' delivery, placement, and connection. Once in place, WarrenBuilds completed the exteriors with siding, covered front porches, and rear stoops. Inside each home, WarrenBuilds performed all finish carpentry, flooring and carpeting, and installed granite countertops and kitchen cabinetry, appliances, bathroom fixtures, and lighting. The team also completed final utility hookups and interior painting. A pocket park is currently under construction by WarrenBuilds to serve the new homes and the broader community, adding a shared recreational space and enhancing neighborhood connectivity. These homes represent a model for sustainable, resilient residential construction. Designed with high-performance building envelopes and mechanical systems, each home maintains an average net zero carbon footprint. All units are solar-ready, allowing homeowners to install photovoltaic systems that could result in a better-than-net-zero energy profile. This project is a powerful example of how thoughtful design, sustainable construction practices, and strategic public-private partnerships can create lasting community impact. The result is a high-quality, green neighborhood that provides long-term value to its residents while honoring Fairmount Heights' cultural and historical significance.