The La Hacienda Casitas is a housing reconstruction project designed to provide affordable housing that supports livable and viable communities, in harmony with its natural and cultural context. Located in the Texas Lower Rio Grande Valley (LRGV), La Hacienda provides much needed affordable housing, serving a population with a severe lack of housing choices.

The 56 units and six community buildings are laid out across the site, taking advantage of existing tree cover and creating outdoor gathering spaces which connect residents to community amenities and to each other.

Located in a flood plain, the site is designed to filter and drain runoff using a series of bioswales and planting zones that clean and move water across the site to reduce the impact of storm water that often floods the region.

In keeping with the cultural context of the project, the “Casitas” are modeled off a Mexican housing type meaning “small home”. Energy demands are kept low by using compact floor plans, window shading and natural ventilation. Front and back porches allow residents to engage the street and green spaces.

Completed in September 2013, the La Hacienda Casitas provides an alternative model of development in the LRGV, one that fosters strong and engaged communities.