In association with Taggart Architects
The unit prototype for a housing-neighborhood complex triangulates three concepts in design for creation of resilient and green housing environments. First, the proposal substitutes prefabricated construction technology in SIPs (structural insulated panels) with high energy efficiencies approaching Passive House standards for energy-wasting light wood frame construction. Second, housing affordability is achieved through a small unit footprint of 1,500 square-feet (139 square meters) with flexible open space adaptive to working and/or living. Third, the L-Loft’s geometry promotes a wide spectrum of planning replicability from small urban infill to neighborhood-scaled development with a lot of formal variety.
Housing-neighborhood complexes are multifamily derivatives of single-family housing that incorporate communal space, where shared external spaces like pedestrian walks and micro-greens extend the home’s footprint. Cooperative housing addresses multiple challenges related to affordability, downtown revitalization, and care deficits commonly experienced among children and seniors. Housing-neighborhood complexes bring back the missing middle scale of housing that has not been built in the U.S. for 80 years. The L-Loft elevates average mid-size American town densities from 8 units per acre (3.2 ha) to at least 15 units per acre (6.1 ha) while maintaining household autonomy.
Awards
2025 American Architecture Award
2025 Green GOOD DESIGN Award
Sponsors
The Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund/3x30 Sustainability Ambition
U.S. Department of Agriculture – Forest Service