Trails and rails ate the focus of this 131-unit townhome community in Hillsboro, Oregon, combining the attraction of natural preserves with the convenience of an adjacent light-rail station.  To increase the sense of neighborhood, a New Urbanist approach was used in designing the units, including courtyards and front porches with space to sit and chat.  The townhomes, constructed as individual, fee-simple buildings, mostly are clustered in groups of four.  To emphasize individuality, each unit is defined by architectural style and color, encompassing nine plans and two elevations for each plan.  The 33-acre site embraces a protected wetland area as central green space.

Designer/Architect/Land Planner: Mithun+Architects+Designers+Planners

Builder/Interior Designer: Legend Homes

Developer: Matrix Development Corp.

The post 2003 Platinum Award: Best Neighborhood Up to and Including 150 Units: Stonewater at Orenco first appeared on Best In American Living.