Building Three Groundbreaking Celebrates Growth at Stevens Square
- Brina Stairs
- 10 hours ago
- 4 min read
Portland, Maine - December 2, 2025
Stevens Square at Baxter Woods Building Three Groundbreaking in Portland, Maine – 55+ Active Lifestyle Community
On December 2, the Stevens Square community celebrated an exciting milestone: the official groundbreaking of Building Three, the next major phase in transforming the historic Sisters of Mercy campus in Portland, Maine by Developers Collaborative. The morning followed a fresh snowfall, with blue skies and the sun sparkling across the 19-acre campus, setting the perfect scene for the celebration.
As Portland’s first 55+ active lifestyle community, Stevens Square fosters wellness, connection, and active community life. The groundbreaking event brought together current and future residents, neighbors, project partners, and city leadership to celebrate progress and look ahead to what’s still to come.
A Vision Taking Shape
Ceremony highlights included remarks from Ed Gardner, Kevin Bunker, Mike Coyne, and Mayor Mark Dion.
Ed Gardner, Broker/Owner of Gardner Real Estate Group, shared context on the larger campus vision:
“Kevin Bunker started here in 2017 with a vision for this campus. The Motherhouse has been transformed into 88 apartments, 66 affordable and 22 market rate, and now we’re building 160 condos across the site. With Building Three, we’re offering another 28 homes to Portland families, continuing the mix of housing options that make Stevens Square vibrant and accessible.”
– Ed Gardner
Kevin Bunker, Founder and Principal of Developers Collaborative reflected on the journey:
“Building Three took a long time to get off the ground. Originally, it was going to be a 42-unit building. Adjusting the design and partnering with Optimum Construction helped us unlock the project and maintain an accessible price point. Today, we celebrate a labor of love and another opportunity to welcome families to Stevens Square.”
He also shared a lighthearted moment about the campus’ informal dog park, noting how “it’s become a really fun, community-driven space where residents and neighbors gather." It’s a perfect example of how the campus evolves organically and strengthens our tight-knit community.
Earlier in the day, Kevin led a tour with a national senior living development company, who praised Stevens Square for its intergenerational design, thoughtful amenities, and community-focused approach.
“They told me this is exactly what the market wants nationally. It felt great to see our campus recognized for its innovation, from the daycare to the theater to the health and wellness spaces, the pool, all supporting an active, connected lifestyle.” – Kevin Bunker
Mark Dion, Mayor of Portland, highlighted the importance of Deering Center:
“Everyone wants Deering Center, it’s the neighborhood they hold up as a model. The walkability, the sense of community, and access to the amenities that make the center special are critical. This is a very unique and admired part of Portland, and Building Three adds even more vitality to it.”
– Mayor Mark Dion
With ceremonial shovels in the ground, Building Three is officially underway, marking another step forward for this vibrant smart-growth campus.
🎥 Watch the remarks from Kevin Bunker, Ed Gardner, Mike Coyne, and Mayor Mark Dion from the Stevens Square Building Three groundbreaking here:
Designing for Modern, Connected Living
Mike Coyne, Principal Architect of Archetype Architects, who has been involved with the project since 2017, shared insights into the phased approach and architectural vision:
“Each phase allowed us to blend historically sensitive design with modern, contemporary elements. This project is unique in that we can engage with residents throughout the process, ensuring that the amenities and layouts meet the needs and preferences of the people who call this community home.” – Mike Coyne
About Building Three and the Stevens Square Community Center
Building Three will introduce 28 brand-new condominium homes in Portland, Maine, across four residential floors (Levels 2–5), each with climate-controlled indoor parking. Residents also enjoy access to Mayor Baxter Woods and the Stevens Square Community Center, featuring:
Health & Wellness Center including Health Coaches at Stevens Square
Heated indoor pool
Gymnasium
Café and lounge/work spaces
Good Theater, performing year-round in the restored auditorium
On-site daycare
Portland Winter Farmers’ Market, starting this weekend, December 6th
Additional services and activities including physical therapy, massage, speech therapy, architecture firm, recovery center, Spanish school, basketball, pickleball and more
These amenities support the active, connected lifestyle at Stevens Square, offering spaces for residents and neighbors to gather, socialize, and enjoy local culture.
Home Features
Two- and three-bedroom layouts
Bright, clean, contemporary interiors
Open-concept living spaces
Large windows, high ceilings, and excellent natural light
Walk-in closets and private balconies
Homes range from 1,204 to 1,659 square feet, combining spacious comfort with modern efficiency. Pre-construction buyers can customize finishes or select from upgrade options with guidance from the Stevens Square team.
Looking Ahead
The groundbreaking marks the official start of construction, but the momentum at Stevens Square continues to grow. With homes already reserving in Building Three and the campus community expanding, this is an exciting time for current and future residents alike.
Stay updated on Building Three progress, floor plans, and availability at StevensSquare.com.
For more information, please contact Ed and Kelley at info@stevenssquare.com
#StevensSquare #PortlandMaine #ActiveAdultLiving #55PlusCommunity #SeniorLiving #CommunityLiving #HealthyLiving #WellnessLifestyle #ConnectedCommunity #NeighborhoodLife #ModernLiving #Groundbreaking #CondoLiving #RealEstateDevelopment #SmartGrowth #MixedUseCommunity #UrbanLiving #PortlandRealEstate #DevelopersCollaborative #BuildingThree
