YPS Leadership Luncheon Featuring AEL
YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY (YPS) LEADERSHIP LUNCHEON FEATURING AEL
ArchitectureEL (AEL) Principal Architect Kevin Rothschild-Shea recently served as the featured speaker at the Young Professional Society (YPS) Leadership Luncheon, where he presented Owning a Home Today in the 413. The event brought together emerging and established professionals to discuss one of the most pressing challenges facing Western Massachusetts today – housing affordability.
Local Housing Snapshot
Kevin’s presentation explored the realities of homeownership in the region, drawing from current data and local context.
Did you know?
- Since 2021, rent rose 32. 5% in Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin Counties and 39.7% in Berkshire County
- Eviction filings rose 66% between 2022 and 2024
- The median single-family home price in Western Mass is up by 11% since last year
- Shortage of 183,253 affordable units for low-income renters
- Post war zoning favors low-density, single-family suburbia, reliant on personal auto transportation
These factors together create a difficult environment for many who wish to put down roots in the 413.
What Can Be Done Locally About Housing Shortages?
Despite these challenges, Kevin emphasized that there are meaningful steps communities and individuals can take to improve access to housing.
One key strategy he discussed is the use of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). Some people refer to these as in-law suites, backyard cottages, granny flats, or secondary apartments. These small, independent living spaces can be added to existing residential properties, providing flexible options for first-time homebuyers, multigenerational families, and those seeking rental income.
Kevin explained that while ADUs are not a one-size-fits-all solution, they can play a powerful role in diversifying housing options and adding density to established neighborhoods. In his presentation he shared what is and what is not considered an ADU and about some of the general benefits of this type of dwelling. He also touched on some of the current building regulation challenges and benefits including that many municipalities are now exploring incentives and zoning updates to encourage homeowners to build ADUs, recognizing their potential to create affordable, community-based housing without large-scale development.
If you’d like to learn more about ADU’s – please check out our blog, “Understanding ADUs: What They Are & What They’re Not”.
Sharing Wisdom with the Next Generation of Homeowners
Drawing from his personal longevity and experience in architecture, as well as ArchitectureEL’s broad portfolio of residential, multi-family, and adaptive reuse projects, Kevin shared how thoughtful design can bridge the gap between community needs and practical implementation. He highlighted the importance of balancing historic preservation, sustainability, and accessibility in projects that shape the future of local housing.
The discussion reflected AEL’s continued commitment to advancing design solutions that strengthen the social and economic fabric of Western Massachusetts. By approaching housing through a lens of collaboration and creativity, AEL strives to support the region’s growth while maintaining its character and sense of place.
To view Kevin’s full presentation, “Owning a Home Today in the 413”, click here.
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“Did You Know” Data Sources: