Zoning Path Forward: Heritage District and Our Use Case
As of May 2025, Thrivewell Estate has entered one of its most critical early phases: zoning approval.
When you’re developing a project as intentional and layered as this one, zoning isn’t just a box to check—it’s a dialogue. It’s about alignment, transparency, and shared vision. It’s about asking the town not only “Can this project be allowed here?” but “Can this project be of service here?”
Right now, we’re preparing to present our case to the Northbridge Planning Board and the broader community. We’re working hand-in-hand with local officials to ensure our use of these properties—120 Hill Street and 41 Pine Street—honors the spirit of the Heritage District while introducing something regenerative, sustainable, and deeply community-centered.
Understanding the Heritage District
Both properties fall within Northbridge’s Heritage District, a zoning overlay established to protect the historical, architectural, and visual character of the Memorial Square area. But importantly, the Heritage District also allows flexibility through Special Permits, especially when proposed uses further the preservation and revitalization of existing structures.
That’s exactly what Thrivewell Estate intends to do.
Why Thrivewell Fits This Zoning Intention
We believe Thrivewell is a strong candidate for approval under the current zoning framework because:
We’re preserving through purpose. The Manor is a culturally significant structure that has fallen into disrepair. We are committed to restoring it—top to bottom—with reverence. A project of this scale needs sustainable revenue to succeed, and our phased model will make that possible without compromising historical integrity.
We’re aligned with the District’s goals. Our design plans preserve original elements, use heritage-appropriate materials, and include intentional landscaping that honors the past.
We’re offering a use that serves the community. Unlike high-traffic residential or B&B turnover, our model brings low-impact, wellness-based guests who engage in meditation, journaling, gardening, and seasonal ritual—not parties or loud tourism. Our sister company, Flow to Thrive, will serve locals as much as retreat guests.
We’re enhancing sustainability. We are incorporating geothermal systems, solar shingles, and water-efficient infrastructure—all of which contribute to long-term ecological resilience.
We’re protecting neighborhood character. Business access will be routed solely through 120 Hill Street. The 41 Pine Street entrance will not be used for guest or public access, in order to honor the residential setting of that stretch of the property.
Our Path Forward
Our immediate focus is preparing for the May 13 Planning Board meeting, where we will present our request for Special Permit consideration. We’ve submitted a detailed proposal letter, consulted with the town Building Inspector, and begun discussions about the most comparable allowable uses that match Thrivewell’s vision.
We’re asking to unify the three subdivisions—forest land, The Manor, and the former dormitory—into a single, purpose-driven Estate. This would allow us to operate the two sister companies in harmony: Flow to Thrive and The Thrive Manor, both governed under Thrivewell Estate.
Rooted in Northbridge
This project is deeply personal. My life partner and his extended family are longtime residents of Northbridge. I’ve spent years admiring these grounds, dreaming of what could be possible. And now, I believe that with town support, we can restore not just a building, but a sense of meaning and place for everyone who passes through.
We’re not trying to build over history. We’re trying to awaken it.
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Thank you for joining us on this journey. Your interest, your voice, and your support matter.
We’ll continue to share updates here—because Thrivewell belongs not just to us, but to this entire community.
With Gratitude,
Kelley
Founder, Thrivewell Estate