Southampton Subdivision

Information by State  Print version   Bungalow design, porches and quality construction add up to an attractive, but affordable, neighborhood. Philip Morris, former editor at large of Southern Living explains how bungalow architecture and neighborhood design add up to a livable community. Homeowner Jemell Buckner, HUD Region IV Director Jim Chaplin, Birmingham Mayor Kincaid's representative Carole Clark and HABD Board Chair Karnie Smith cut ribbon in Southampton.

The Housing Authority of the Birmingham District built eleven homes in Southampton subdivision in the Pratt City neighborhood of Birmingham. The design of the subdivision has attracted attention because of the architecture, which mirrors the historic housing of Birmingham, and the layout of the community. According to Executive Director Ralph Ruggs, the Housing Authority set out to build a quality product in a way that would positively influence a neighborhood and then put in place the mechanisms to make it affordable.

Adams Design Associates, Inc. planned both the site and the houses. Ranging from two to four bedrooms, the spacious houses all feature porches and separate storage sheds. They are elevated and face the street in a way to create an attractive neighborhood space. Architecture critic, and former Southern Living editor-at-large, Philip Morris, recognized these features in his comments at the Southampton ribbon cutting.

The Housing Authority knew that substantial subsidies would be necessary to fulfill its pledge to quality design and construction and affordability. Working with the City of Birmingham and AmSouth Bank it managed to make the homes affordable to several former Housing Authority residents. Its lease purchase program has eased the transition between renting and owning for the first eleven residents.