Monica Sweere founded Palladian Homes, Inc. in 1990...

As an architectural student, Palladian Homes' President, Monica Sweere, admired 16th Century architect Andrea Palladio, because he "took something old and made it new again." Specifically, Palladio reinvented classical architecture. Palladio was known for such details as dramatic exterior motifs, economical materials, and internal harmony and balance, all of which are incorporated in Palladian Homes' designs.

But, more importantly, like Palladio, Palladian Homes recognizes the benefit of looking at old themes with a fresh eye. New Urbanist principles, such as mixed use (residential, commercial, and recreational) areas, shared land, small lots, and pedestrian-friendly streets are certainly nothing new but, at Palladian Homes, they have been repurposed for contemporary lifestyles.

Palladian Homes is currently building within the Old Town North neighborhood of Fort Collins, Colorado. Old Town North, according to its web site, is "an exciting new neighborhood where residents can live, work and play all in one locale... Old Town North offers the benefits of newly constructed homes in close proximity to the city's urban center and upholds the small-town charm of the past." The locale offers 5.5 acres of open space and proximity to numerous sought-after local destinations:

• City bike trail system
• Three city parks
• Golf courses
• Recreational and fitness centers
• Grocery stores
• Shopping areas
• Restaurants
• Entertainment venues
• Cultural centers
• City bus line
• Colorado State University

With more development planned for the near future, the Old Town North area will become even more attractive:

• Discovery Center
• Kayak Park
• Performing Arts venue

New Urbanism seeks to achieve a simple, comfortable quality of life. Several characteristics contribute to this end, all of which are incorporated in Palladian's homes within the Old Town North development:

• Pedestrian Friendly - Creates a pleasant atmosphere to encourage walking or biking, leading to reduced dependence on cars.
• Highly Accessible - An interconnected street grid makes it easy to get from one place to another.
• Diversity of Land Use and People - A mix of shops, offices, apartments, and homes, as well as ages, income levels, and cultures promotes richness and warmth.
• Quality Architecture - Elegant surroundings encourage people to get outside and get to know each other.
• Discernable Neighborhood Center - A place for people to gather for a variety of civic, artistic, or cultural functions.
• High Density - Buildings are closer together, making more efficient use of land space.
• Sustainable - Encourages minimal environmental impact, energy efficiency, and decreased use of finite fuels.

Palladian Homes residents are looking for the simple, elegant quality of life encompassed in the New Urbanist lifestyle. They appreciate the socioeconomic mix resulting from a range in home prices; the common land spaces; and a shared sense of concern for the environment. Many are weary of the financial and practical struggles associated with living great distances from work and play and understand the value of a lifestyle lacking dependence on cars. Each household is likely to have at least one adult working within biking distance to home, or even at home. Residents come from all over the globe and are likely to find joy on a Saturday exploring the Rocky Mountains or enjoying the delights of Old Town North.