Cottage Housing
On November 18, 2008, the Kent City Council adopted a Cottage Housing Demonstration Ordinance to allow up to two (2) cottage housing communities in Kent.
On March 16, 2010, the Kent City Council amended the Demonstration Ordinance to allow the Cottage Housing Committee flexibility regarding the maximum number of cottage units allowed in a demonstration project.
The Cottage Housing Committee selected one proposal to move forward with permitting. The selected demonstration proposal is called Blueberry Cottages, to be located at the northwest corner of SE 240th Street and 116th Avenue SE.
What is Cottage Housing?
Cottage Housing is an innovative housing style consisting of small, detached single-family homes (less than 1,500 square feet) clustered around a common open space, with garages and parking located away from the homes.
Why is Cottage Housing popular?
Cottage housing is an emerging trend across the Pacific Northwest and the nation. This type of development offers a home ownership option that appeals to Washington's changing demographics ofsmaller families, young professionals, singles, and empty nesters.
The smaller home sizes attract those who want to own a detached home, but don't necessarily want all the space that comes with a larger home in a typical subdivision. Interaction with neighbors is fostered through pedestrian-oriented design, large front porches, common open space and shared community buildings.
Several successful cottage housing developments have been built in the Puget Sound region. These cottages tend to sell quickly and not have a lot of ownership turn-over, even in these tough economic times.
Links to articles in the Kent Reporter regarding Kent's process in adopting the Cottage Housing Demonstration Ordinance:
"Kent City Council Oks demo projects for cottage housing" - November 30, 2008: http://www.pnwlocalnews.com/south_king/ken/news/35223669.html
"Is Kent ready for cottage-style developments? Council votes Tuesday" - November 15, 2008: http://www.pnwlocalnews.com/south_king/ken/news/34496799.html
"It's back to drawing board for law on cottage-style housing in Kent" - November 4, 2008: http://www.pnwlocalnews.com/south_king/ken/news/33829554.html