Building something better
Recovery gave us an unexpected choice. We could rebuild Asher Acres exactly as it had been, or we could apply everything the flood taught us and build something stronger for the people who come after us.
We chose the second. The next chapter is rooted in the same values as the first — hospitality, stewardship, resilience, community — but designed for the realities of tomorrow.
Why the cost changed
Updated floodplain regulations now require our homes to be elevated roughly ten feet above the floodplain. That single requirement drives up the cost of foundations, structural systems, utilities, accessibility, and supporting infrastructure before construction of the homes themselves can even begin.
It also creates an opportunity. A ten-foot lower level cannot be used as living space — so it becomes shared space instead.
Upper floor — the homes
Bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen, dining, and living areas, elevated above the floodplain while staying connected to the property through barrier-free access.
Lower level — common ground
The Asher Acres spice business, a community meeting space, a workshop, and a garage. The part of the building the flood rules forced on us is the part the community gets to use.
Five phases
- Construction of homes and infrastructure — elevated foundations, structure, and utilities meeting floodplain requirements.
- Accessibility improvements — lift access and barrier-free pathways throughout the site, so the homes and shared spaces work for visitors of every age and ability.
- Sustainable resource systems — solar generation, battery storage, and rainwater harvesting to cut long-term resource demand and keep power and water available during outages.
- Riparian and habitat restoration — native vegetation, improved drainage and erosion control, and reestablished creek and floodplain habitat.
- Community spaces and amenities — landscaping and gathering areas that make the restored property a place for connection, education, and community life.
Current site conditions, or construction underway
The budget
| Project and initiative | Amount |
|---|---|
| Construction of homes and supporting infrastructure | $1,200,000 |
| Accessibility improvements | $24,000 |
| Renewable energy and water conservation | To be confirmed |
| Floodplain restoration and native habitat establishment | $32,500 |
| Landscaping, gathering spaces, and community amenities | To be confirmed |
| Total project | $1,443,000 |
How it is being funded
| Source | Amount |
|---|---|
| Family personal funds committed | $500,000 |
| Community donations and family contributions received to date | $343,000 |
| Still needed | $600,000 |
Funds received to date reached us through several channels, including direct community support, volunteer labor, and donated materials. Gifts made through this campaign are received and administered by Gifted Dreamers, Inc.
The site
Master site plan — structures, greenhouse, well, livestock areas, and the three planting zones
Architectural drawing — living space above, shared lower level below