February Topic: The Missing Middle – What Is It?
Definition –
As defined by Opticos Design –
“Opticos Design founder Daniel Parolek inspired a new movement for housing choice in 2010 when he coined the term “Missing Middle Housing,” a transformative concept that highlights a time-proven and beloved way to provide more housing and more housing choices in sustainable, walkable places.” (Read more)
“Missing Middle housing types supply the demand for locations in a walkable context. Buyers and renters of these housing types are often trading space (housing and yard square footage) for place (proximity to services and amenities).” (Marketable)
“These housing types typically have small- to medium-sized footprints, with a body width, depth and height no larger than a detached single-family home. This allows a range of Missing Middle types—with varying densities but compatible forms—to be blended into a neighborhood, encouraging a mix of socioeconomic households and making these types a good tool for compatible infill.” (Types)
“Missing Middle Housing is simply constructed (wood-frame/Type V), which makes it a very attractive alternative for developers to achieve good densities without the added financing challenges and risk of more complex construction types. This aspect can also increase affordability when units are sold or rented. As providing single family detached sub-$200,000 starter homes is becoming increasingly out of reach for builders across the country, Missing Middle Housing can provide.” (Affordable)
What is the Goal? –
To provide more houses people can afford in the limited space in the urban ring resulting in walkable context, small-footprint buildings, lower perceived density, smaller, well-designed units, fewer off-street parking spaces, simple construction, creation of community
OR
To disrupt current (single family) zoning and land use policies to create diversity and equity by affording opportunity for every person to have the ability to live in any neighborhood. Minneapolis and Portland have eliminated single family zoning
End Single Family Housing Downside
OR
To benefit developers by allowing maximum density, creating overall cost reductions and allowing for construction phasing
Coming Soon -
Lack of housing stock – Albemarle County continues to grow at a rate of 1,200 – 1,400 new people per year looking to live in Albemarle County. The county does not have the inventory to satisfy these numbers. Rather than expand Albemarle County’s Growth Areas (you live in one called The Village of Rivanna) the county is looking to “infill” existing neighborhoods.
Infill Definition – “Development of new houses, business buildings, etc. on land between other buildings in already developed areas…” (Cambridge Dictionary)
Question – Can Albemarle County support this influx not only with homes, but jobs, infrastructure, schools, and now, supply chain?
Call To Action – We need YOU to help Albemarle County plan for an comprehensive and resilient future! Click here for more info.
The reality - Existing Examples
Oregon Business: Portland historic preservation rules get a revamp
Lincoln Institute of Land Policy: Gentle Infill: Boomtowns Are Making Room for Skinny Homes, Granny Flats, and Other "Missing-Middle" Affordable Housing
ArchDaily: Missing Middle Infill Housing / Haeccity Studio Architecture