Fairgate Residences

Client: Charter Oak Communities
Location: Stamford, CT
Size: 174 Units
Completion: 2010
Tags: Commercial Development Multi-family Housing Affordable Housing Real Estate Services Architecture Interiors Planning Sustainability

Formerly Fairfield Court, this multi-phase development includes multiple infill projects: Taylor Apartments, 24 units in a four-story building, representing 16 affordable housing options and eight townhouses for sale; the Post House, is a six-story apartment building of 60 units built over first floor office space providing community resources for supportive housing; and Fairgate, including 90 dwelling units and some mixed- use retail lining Stillwater Avenue. A community center, including daycare, meeting rooms and offices for property management and leasing, is a highlight of the Fairgate community.

The Fairgate Revitalization Area represents 174 of the 700 new dwelling units that have transformed much of Stamford's Westside neighborhood into a stable, economically balanced area that nurtures family-friendly living, while stimulating economic renewal. The communities are a model for the revitalization of the residential urban fabric of Connecticut’s inner cities, fulfilling residents’ deep desire for a “home.”

Selected by the Stamford Housing Authority, now Charter Oak Communities, Newman created a master planning vision to renew neighborhood living west of the Mill River, providing affordable housing for low- and moderate-income working families, market-rate housing, supportive housing, and home ownership opportunities. Significant about all the projects was gaining community trust and buy-in from people who had little confidence in what was going to happen to them. Development in phases allowed temporary relocation of residents, ultimately making places for all who wanted to return.