At Type Five, we’re on a mission to create diverse housing options for everyone. Our vision goes beyond ADUs and single-family homes, as we believe multi-family developments are key to making housing more affordable and accessible in California. With this in mind, we were excited to participate in a design competition focused on transforming under-utilized lots into urban infill housing in Los Angeles. The Small Lots competition, organized by cityLAB-UCLA and the City of Los Angeles prompted us to think creatively about how our modular design approach can be effectively implemented on a larger scale.

In the sprawling landscape of American cities, particularly in Los Angeles, a significant problem looms large: a lack of diverse and affordable housing options. Traditional housing models have led to monotonous neighborhoods that fail to cater to the evolving needs of today’s residents. Type Five's competition entry centers around the concept of blending multiple housing typologies on a single lot. Imagine a site that includes an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), a single-family home, and an apartment complex, all coexisting in harmony. This design challenges the prevalent trend of uniform housing and promotes a more diverse urban fabric. By moving beyond the limitations of conventional housing models, we can foster neighborhoods that not only accommodate various lifestyles but also encourage community interaction.

At the heart of our approach is the idea that diversity in housing types can lead to vibrant, mixed-density neighborhoods. With the "Missing Middle" housing movement gaining traction, Type Five takes this concept further by suggesting that different housing models can thrive side by side. Our designs create opportunities for various financing processes, co-living arrangements, and homeownership possibilities, addressing the diverse needs of today's residents.

At the heart of our approach is the idea that diversity in housing types can lead to vibrant, mixed-density neighborhoods.

The layout of our proposed site is both functional and inviting. It features a mix of buildings—an intimate single-story 1-bedroom ADU, a spacious two-story 3-bedroom single-family home, and a three-story multiplex with multiple 2-bedroom units. Arranging these structures at unique angles not only enhances visual appeal but also fosters private and semi-shared outdoor spaces. This configuration encourages neighborly interactions while maintaining individual privacy, striking a balance that many urban dwellers seek.

Type Five’s design system and library of building blocks apply uniformly from the smallest accessory unit to the largest single-family home to the densest apartment block. This approach streamlines the processes of design, permitting, and construction, resulting in significant cost savings and increased efficiency. By prioritizing collaboration between thoughtful architects and experienced general contractors, Type Five is poised to deliver not just solutions, but scalable ones that can be implemented in neighborhoods across the country.

In today's climate, where homeownership rates are concerningly low, our backyard homes serve as a vital complement to the ‘middle housing’ concept, providing accessible and affordable options within established communities. This approach not only addresses urgent housing shortages but also enriches local ecosystems by incorporating diverse living arrangements.

Type Five is not just about building homes; it’s about reimagining the way we live together. By creating a patchwork of housing types that cater to individual privacy and foster communal connections, we can redefine urban living. Our vision embraces creativity and practicality, aiming to cultivate vibrant neighborhoods that reflect the diversity and dynamism of modern life.

As we continue to confront the challenges of the housing crisis, Type Five stands ready to innovate and inspire. With thoughtful design and a commitment to community, we can create solutions that not only meet urgent housing needs but also shape the future of urban living for generations to come. Join us in this journey as we work to transform our cities into inclusive, engaging, and nurturing environments for all.