The event featured expert presentations by Jersey Solar president Rick Brooke and HHG Development's principals Michael Goldstein and David Henderson.

"When people think of adaptive reuse and going green, they generally sweat over the perceived expense," Goldstein tells GlobeSt.com. "Our goal today was to show them that, with the incentives now available from the state and federal government, green makes great economic sense today, and will increase their home's value tremendously."

The Cracker Factory lofts include green features ranging from extensive insulation and Energy Star-rated windows and appliances. Additionally, every loft is photovoltaic-ready.

"In many condos it's virtually impossible to install a photovoltaic system. The roof is a common element, and condo boards legitimately worry about the impact of putting in a system," says Henderson, a registered architect and one of the designers of the Cracker Factory. "We've pre-installed the attachment points and conduit for the solar panels, and designed the roof system to support them. This eliminates all of the risk from the condo board's point of view, and makes the installation cheaper for the owner."

Working towards creating a diverse community in South Trenton, HHG Development Associates is also in the process of restoring more than 34 residences on the first two-and-a-half blocks of Centre Street, the gateway to the Trenton Ferry Historic District. The partners have also done significant work in the already established Mill Hill, a historic five-block neighborhood of brick and wood Federal-style and Victorian homes.