We just can't get enough of architect Ross Chapin's picturesque pocket neighborhoods in the Pacific Northwest. The concept, which Chapin has been perfecting for several years now, was arguably ahead of its time–conceived well before the credit crunch, fluctuating fuel costs, and eco-consciousness began to give the small-house movement added momentum. Each pocket contains a bouquet of modest, single-family cottages clustered around common landscaped areas on an odd scrap of land that other developers have overlooked. They're small, they're beautiful, they're affordably priced, and they epitomize responsible land use. What's not to love? Judging from the loyal following Chapin has developed–notably among empty nesters and single women buyers–we're not alone in our fandom. One of the latest neighborhoods to hit full bloom is Wyer's End, a pretty little community in White Salmon, Washington. Check it out in pictures.

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    Photo: John Laptad

    Wyer's End is a pocket of 18 small cottages located just three blocks from the center of White Salmon, Washington, a town originally named by Lewis and Clark that has since won acclaim as the windsurfing capital of North America. Houses are clustered around common gardens and a community building, with parking on the periphery.

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    Photo: Karen DeLucas

    Situated in a grove of mature oak trees, the neighborhood offers stunning views of Mt. Hood and the Columbia River. "The larger community is a combination of progressive, sporty, nature-oriented people and small-town residents with rural values," says architect Ross Chapin. "Demographically, it's kind of at the crossroads of America."

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    Making clever use of a small, wedge-shaped land parcel, the pocket development has transformed a high crime area into a close-knit village. Lanes connect to existing streets and alleys of the city grid. "We proposed to the city that we narrow the streets to reduce impervious surface area and avoid overheating of the microclimate," Chapin explains. "They went for it."

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    Photo: John Laptad

    Residents enjoy private gardens, as well as shared green spaces. At build-out, the neighborhood will include 28 homes. Phase 2 (not yet built) will introduce live-work units to the mix.

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    Photo: John Laptad

    Thanks to careful solar orientation and thoughtful window positioning, each home enjoys natural light all day and a feeling of spaciousness inside. Hardwood floors are locally sourced. Built-ins come standard with each plan.

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    Photo: John Laptad

    The cottages are small in size (averaging 1,100 square feet) but big on memorable details, such as fine millwork and playful Dutch doors.

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    Photo: John Laptad

    Not to mention artful backsplashes, custom cabinetry, and low-VOC paints...

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    Photo: John Laptad

    With their fiber cement exteriors and vinyl trim, all homes are durable and low-maintenance. Chapin masterminds the color palette for every project he designs.

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    Photo: Karen DeLucas

    Each house is affordable by nature of its size, yet loaded with personality and playfulness. Small details make a big difference.

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    Photo: Neil Chapman

    Efficient floor plans with space-saving display and storage features make sure every square inch of living area is put to good use.

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    Photo: Neil Chapman

    Construction specs exceed code standards. Walls include extra insulation for sound attenuation and energy efficiency. Landscaping is designed for minimal water usage.

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    Photo: Neil Chapman

    "There is a market in tight times for well-designed, thoughtfully-built, smaller homes in a community setting," Chapin contends. "Baby boomers, especially, are looking ahead and reconsidering their options. Most don't want to end up isolated in a sheetrock castle. We are trying to show, by example, that there are alternatives. That you can have privacy but also have the context of community."

Architect: Ross Chapin Architects
Developer: Smart Development
Builder: Skyward Construction
Landscape Architect: Andrea Flint

Jenny Sullivan is senior editor at BUILDER magazine.

See BUILDER coverage of other projects by Ross Chapin:

Cottage Industry

Pocket Change

Just Right