Will The Katrina Cottage Revolutionize Affordable Housing?

Quick and inexpensive yet sturdy and charming, the Katrina Cottage, a housing type born out of the aftermath of the storm, could potentially change the way affordable housing is built.

1 minute read

July 13, 2006, 2:00 PM PDT

By Mike Lydon

While the provision of quality affordable housing is a challenge in many communities, the post-Katrina reconstruction effort is proving to be a valuable testing ground for building low-cost homes. With a new industry springing up around this modern day version of the Sears Roebuck kit home, even traditional affordable housing providers are taking note of the new Katrina Cottages, and making plans to rebuild using the clever and practical designs.

"Over 80 percent of our town was destroyed," says Gayla Schmitt, with the local Mercy Housing and Human Development. "We're determined that Pass Christian will come back, and that cottage is a first step."

Thanks to Katharine Burgess

FULL STORY: Katrina Cottages

Wednesday, July 12, 2006 in Cottage Living

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