Friday, July 2, 2010

Katrina Cottage Floor Plans at Lowes

From Lowes.com:

What are Katrina Cottages?

Soon after Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast, architect and planner, Andres Duany developed the concept for a small, permanent home designed as a dignified alternative to the FEMA trailer. The first Katrina Cottage was designed by Marianne Cusato as affordable housing for displaced residents and emergency workers and is being considered as affordable housing in resorts, camps, vacation communities, the military and others nationwide as well.

Do the Katrina Cottages meet local building codes?

The cottage blueprints are designed to meet the International Building code. However, since the cottages must be built on-site by a contractor, the homeowner will still need to verify the plans meet the local building codes. Important! Customers must consult local building codes, ordinances, regulations and laws before proceeding with any construction project.

How is a Katrina Cottage different from a trailer or mobile home?

The cottage blueprints are designed to the same specifications as a full-scale house. The only difference between the cottages and a traditional house is the size. The cottages are smaller, more affordable and faster to build.

Do the cottages expand?

Yes. Some of the cottage plans are designed with additions that can be built as time and funds allow.

Can I make changes to the floor plans beyond the existing designs?

It is possible to have custom changes made by hiring a local architect to modify the plans. Modified plans are derivative works based on the original design and may only be used by the purchaser of the original plans for constructing their Katrina Cottage.

Will the Katrina Cottage require ground reinforcement or a foundation?

Because Katrina Cottages are considered permanent structures, they do require a foundation and in some cases, local ordinances may require the house to be built on piers. Make sure to follow all local building codes when constructing a Katrina Cottage. The homeowner will need to check the flood elevation of the lot to ensure the piers are set at the proper height.

How much assembly is required? Do I need my own contractor?

Katrina Cottages are designed to be stick built homes and will require a professional builder. Although much of the work can be performed by a qualified Do-it-Yourselfer, there are several steps in the process that will have to be inspected by a qualified home inspector. A professional builder will be well aware of how to build homes according to local codes. Lowe's does not install or build Katrina Cottages; however, local contractors can be found through an area's Chamber of Commerce.

How long does it take to build a Katrina Cottage?

The construction time of a Katrina Cottage is dependant on the style and type of cottage being built. Always talk with your contractor when working out build timelines.

What is included in the cost of a Katrina Cottage?

Once the Katrina Cottage plan is purchased, work with your local Lowe's Commercial Sales Specialist to obtain a material listing and to provide assistance with purchasing all the necessary materials for your Katrina Cottage.

How much does it cost?

The price for the materials will vary depending upon the size and style of the Katrina Cottage and the current commodity prices.

How is Lowe’s involved?

Lowe's sells the plans and raw materials to construct the home.


Where/How can I get a Katrina Cottage?

The customer can purchase plans online at www.lowes.com/katrinacottage. Customers without access to the Internet can order via phone by calling 866-714-5916.

How will the cottage be delivered?

The materials necessary to build a Katrina Cottage will be delivered in multiple jobsite shipments to help the builder manage the amount of raw materials on the jobsite. Normal delivery fees apply to each delivery.

Who do I contact with additional questions on Lowe’s Katrina Cottages?

Contact your local Lowe’s Commercial Sales Team.

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