Designing a home—and a community—is never one-size-fits-all. We believe good design should meet people where they are, and that includes creating homes that adapt to changing seasons of life. That belief is what inspired our work at Saluda River Club, where we introduced a new kind of housing option to an already vibrant master-planned community.
And we were honored to have this work recognized with an NAHB 50 Plus Housing Design Award, a national award given to designs that lead the way in creating homes and neighborhoods for those aged 50 and up.
The Vision: A Cottage Court Within a Master Plan
Saluda River Club was already a celebrated community, but we saw an opportunity to add something new: a more compact, community-focused living option within the typical single-family lot structure.
We designed a cottage court, a mini neighborhood of six smaller homes carefully arranged around a shared green space. Each home was thoughtfully scaled for individuals, empty nesters, or retirees—people who wanted the lifestyle and amenities of Saluda River Club, but didn’t need the square footage that often comes with a traditional home. This is key in 50+ Housing Design.
Why It Works
These “right-sized” homes provide the perfect blend of privacy and connection. Nestled around a common courtyard, the layout encourages neighborly interaction without sacrificing a sense of retreat. With intentional footprints, front porches, and architectural details that feel classic and grounded, each home feels personal, inviting, and entirely livable.
From a development perspective, it’s a cost-effective model. From a homeowner perspective, it offers a way to age in place, downsize with dignity, or simplify life without compromising on design.
A 50 Plus Housing Design Model Worth Replicating
As interest in multi-generational and age-targeted communities grows, the cottage court model continues to gain traction. We’re proud that our work at Saluda River Club has not only served its residents well—but also stood out as a national example of what’s possible when housing is designed with intention.
And as always, we’re grateful to our partners, builders, and the residents who bring these projects to life.
