Susan Scovell has been in the valley since 1977. But the Ketchum architect is just now bringing a long-held dream to fruition.

She’s teamed up with local architect Rebecca Bundy to create a small but “seriously livable” deed-restricted green condominium housing units that she says working and retired professionals can truly afford.

The two plan to break ground in Spring 2018 and hope to offer a turnkey in Fall 2019.

“I’ve watched housing prices in Ketchum drastically inflate over the years and have seen the negative impact that a lack of affordable housing has had on the community,” Scovell said. “The average working professional can’t afford to live here and retirees can’t afford to stay.”

The conceptual design consists of 16 units, three of which will be built to fit community housing requirements set by the City of Ketchum.

The remaining 13 units are designed for those of median or above income, with the overall costs projected to be 20 percent to 25 percent less than the current market rate.

They will range in size from 800 to 1,200 square feet. Smaller units will have one bedroom and one bath. And larger units will include an office and a half bath.

In a unique twist, the complex will offer two additional bedroom suites, which will be available for all homeowners as guest lodging.

All units will feature spacious kitchens, natural light, views, private balcony, underground parking and bicycle storage. They will meet federal Fair Housing Act requirements and be designed to National Green Building Standard minimum silver certification. They will be water and energy efficient, utilizing active and passive solar technologies.

Scovell and Bundy hope to that the costs can be up to 25 percent less than the current market rate--something they hope to achieve by pre-selling units, eliminating bank and other fees. They also hope to utilize a team or professionals who share their vision and are willing to perform services at less than their typical rates.

The building will be deed-restricted, meaning occupants must live and work in the valley or be recently retired after working in the Sun Valley area. Deed restriction ensures that the units will be sold in the future as owner-occupied residences or, possibly, full-time rentals and that they may not sell for more than a percentage over initial cost.

Those interested in assisting with or buying into the project can contact Scovell at sscovell@gmail.com or 208-720-3009.