The Howard House was originally constructed in 1924 as a home for aged men and today has been adaptively re-purposed to provide permanent supportive housing for area veterans. The project was made possible by a VA initiative to end homelessness among veterans that allows the private sector to repurpose certain surplus VA assets. Windover, Peabody Properties and Affordable Housing and Services Collaborative, Inc. joined forces in the development of the Howard House. In fact, this is the fourth such project that Windover and Peabody Properties have worked on together to help the homeless veteran population. Like their other projects, the intent of this property is to provide a permanent housing option with extensive support services to increase self-sufficiency and well-being of area veterans.
The key project challenge was to repurpose this stately Georgian Revival structure to its original grandeur while adapting it to be a comfortable, functional home for its residents. The adaption of the interior included a complete renovation of all three floors while maintaining bearing and corridor walls. Certain features, such as millwork, doorframes, and a period fireplace mantel, were restored to preserve the historic character of the building. Exterior renovations were performed in compliance with the National Park Service and included reappointment of select areas of the brick façade; replacement and replication of all mahogany dental molding and trim; full restoration of all the building’s antique windows; repair to the slate roof; and refurbishing and repair of the front portico and metal railing.
Today the 13,334 square-foot facility features 14 furnished studio apartments along with common areas and computer lab space for the residents, as well office and support space. The attention to historic detail and craft is evident throughout the revived Howard House and offers its residents a unique mix of old world character with new world amenities.
Photography courtesy of The Architectural Team (TAT)
