Kraus Fitch Architects is nationally recognized as one of the most experienced firms working with cohousing.
Mary has been working with cohousing groups since 1990; Laura discovered her interest in cohousing during a trip to Denmark in 1980. We are both residents of Pioneer Valley Cohousing in Amherst, Massachusetts. Our experience as members helps us to understand the issues facing other cohousing groups, and gives us unique insight into the underlying interpersonal and group dynamics that affect the design process.
Cohousing is what we have chosen both personally and professionally, and we bring great enthusiasm and inspiration to our work with communities. Much of our early programming and schematic design is done with groups using on-line surveying and hands-on exercises. We have produced a number of educational slide shows that are available to groups, individuals and educators. We have visited and studied communities in North America and Denmark, and regularly help in the bus tours provided by the Cohousing Association of the US.
Kraus-Fitch Architects can offer a consultant team providing a full range of design and development services, from group dynamics and site search through construction. We recognize that some groups have their own preferred consultants and are open to working with the professionals of your choice, forming a team to suit the character of your particular group.
In addition to the social issues central to community design, the ecological concerns of sustainability are a primary focus for us. Many cohousing groups include sustainability as part of their mission statement, and we have helped them to reflect these goals in the built community. Our deep understanding of sustainability can help each group apply these issues to the extent that fits their particular goals.
Join a bus tour to learn more about cohousing here in New England or elsewhere.
Download one of our free cohousing educational slideshows.