ECHO Cottages will revolutionize the way we look at senior living and foster a closer and more supportive family unit. ECHO Cottages is owned and operated by the Novak family of the Hudson Valley in beautiful upstate New York. Three generations of craftsmen and builders have carved out a successful family history that continues to evolve today. In 1907, he and his family immigrated to America wher
e Charles grew to become a successful woodworker and business owner. Bill’s diligence and hard work paved the way for a successful career as a contractor and land developer. Bill’s sons, Bill Jr, Bob, and Tim all continued the family tradition and became contractors, land developers and home builders; each opening their own successful businesses that operated from the Hudson Valley to Georgia. ECHO Cottages LTD was the brainchild of Bill Sr. After being hospitalized late in life and requiring physical therapy, Bill Sr. feared the idea of being institutionalized. He envisioned a living arrangement where he had his privacy and dignity yet was within arms reach of loved ones for safety and relationship. The cornerstone to the Novak’s success has been their customer service. From the very beginning, they have treated each of the over 1000 houses they have built as a single project, often times remaining in contact with original homeowners years after project completion. This same attention to detail and personal care goes into every ECHO Cottage they build. ECHO stands for ELDER COTTAGE HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. ECHO Cottages are 450 square foot transportable units that are placed on the property of a child or loved one of an elderly person in need of safer housing. ECHO Cottages are a more affordable, convenient and practical answer than many assisted living facilities or other elder care options. Our ECHO Cottages are configured to specific specifications, using the finest insulation, high performance windows to maximize comfort and minimize energy costs, low maintenance siding and architectural shingles. Inside, every ECHO Cottage we offer occupants a bedroom large enough for a queen size bed, desk, mirrored closets, paddle fan and windows for healthy cross ventilation. Within steps of the bedroom is a fully functional bathroom with a barrier free shower, elongated convenience height toilet, grab bars and vanity. For extra ease, a linen closet and stacking washer and dryer are close by. Our kitchens are designed to be the focal point of our ECHO Cottages. Amenities include a full refrigerator with top mount freezer, large sink with single hand faucet and sprayer, a 2 burner ceramic electric range, 18″ multi-cycle dishwasher, built in microwave/convection oven and center island that doubles as a table with great storage. Right off our kitchen is a sitting area big enough for a convertible sofa and chair – a perfect place to chat while preparing a meal or have an overnight visit with grandkids. All units are equipped with a 20 gallon hot water heater and a high efficiency heat pump with electric back up. Our ECHO Cottages are powered by electricity so there are no propane or natural gas lines to worry about. All our Cottages come complete with theft and safety alarm system that can alert the host family if the occupant does not get up by a certain time. Panic buttons and other safety features are all available.
