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Massachusetts-based homebuilder Blu Homes, in collaboration with non-profit shelter and residential service provider Homeward Bound of Marin, will build permanent, supportive houses for low-income families in Marin County, California.

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Transforming the run-down former site of an alcohol and drug rehabilitation centre, Blu Homes will build a new, eco-friendly community of 14 compact one- and two-bedroom family homes in Marine County. The project is dubbed as Oma Village.

When completed, Oma Village will feature a staff-managed community space, laundry, computer learning and training centre for residents, and an outdoor kitchen common area to foster communal pride and responsibility.

Promoting healthy environment, the new home will also include materials featuring zero emissions from paint and other toxic materials, sustainably forested or reclaimed wood, and recycled steel. The scheme is aiming to be a net zero energy building, featuring highly energy-efficient units that incorporate high performance materials and systems throughout, such as radiant heat, Energy Star appliances, and high R-value walls.

The Oma Village housing community will open in the fall of 2013.