Charlotte’s first ‘pocket community’ now leasing townhomes near Plaza Midwood

MyNiche Apartments created Charlotte’s first “pocket community” named Anker Haus for those who want a house without the upkeep, or aren’t ready to part with cushy apartment amenities. I’m into it.

Anker Haus has 49 rentable townhouses, ranging from one to three bedrooms, starting at $1,225 a month. There’s a pool, gym, outdoor dining area, and shared green spaces, too.

“This is for folks who are ready to get out of the dorm-style apartments but are maybe not looking to take on a mortgage,” said Adam Purser, Anker Haus’ developer.

Quick background: A pocket community is a small cluster of houses that share amenities and green spaces. Architect Ross Chapin started the trend on the west coast.

“We think the average home size in America has gotten completely out of hand, and we believe there needs to be a shift back to smaller homes designed around common gathering spaces where the community aspect of the development is what makes your house feel like a home,” Purser said.

Why this matters for Charlotte: As Charlotte grows, rent prices have swelled with it. To keep living expenses down, alternative options have begun to appear in pedestrian- and bike-friendly areas — including a car-free community in Seversville and micro-apartments in South End. Anker Haus, located in Commenwealth Park near Plaza Midwood, is also along a bus line and the upcoming Gold Line streetcar expansion.

Design: With bistro lights strung across the garage alleys and mini pocket parks throughout, this place has a European village feel with modern farmhouse elements. The interior of the homes is bright, sleek, and neutral, an IKEA-like blend of Scandinavian and contemporary design.

Amenities: The amenities aren’t open yet. But Anker Haus has a resort-style pool with lounge chairs and a cabana seating area, a small but upscale gym with a Peloton, green spaces, and an outdoor dining area with a fireplace and TV.

Timeline: Some of the units are still under construction and are slated to be finished by August. Most of the amenities are finished but not open yet due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Location: The exact address is 2925 Commonwealth Avenue, about a mile from the heart of Plaza Midwood. You can walk to Legion Brewing, Undercurrent Coffee, and Thomas Street Tavern within about 20 minutes.

[Agenda related guide: 43 best apartments in Charlotte, sorted by hot neighborhoods]

OK, here’s a look around.

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