Susan Morris and Chip Newell | Principals at Newheight Group
As principals at NewHeight Group, Susan Morris and Chip Newell have a direct hand in the development of Portland. “We aim, in a small way, to support business growth in Portland and create a sense of community along the way,” says Morris of the duo’s condominium projects, 118 on Munjoy Hill and Luminato Condos. Luminato features shared amenities, including a guestroom, lounge, rooftop terrace, and fitness room, that aim to deepen the sense of community and reduce overall living costs for professionals who contribute to Maine’s economy. Previously involved in development in Washington, D.C., Morris and Newell came to Maine for the lifestyle, but soon realized that their skills and passion could positively impact the state, especially Portland. Both want to invigorate the startup community in Maine, especially through their nonprofit work. Newell is on the board of directors at Coastal Enterprises, Inc., the Maine Center for Economic Policy, and Community Housing of Maine. Morris focuses on inspiring entrepreneurs by organizing events such as Maine Startup and Create Week, House of Genius, and TEDxDirigo, and mentoring individuals through Maine Center for Entrepreneurial Development’s Top Gun Track, Women Standing Together, and 2 Degrees Portland. The pair believes that their condominiums play a role in continuing to make Portland attractive for young professionals and other workers. “I see Portland as the economic driver for the state of Maine,” says Newell. “It’s important to keep what makes the city special, like its historic buildings, restaurants, and breweries, but to bring in more workers to drive the economy and benefit the whole state.”