LANDSCAPES OF THE ‘MISSING MIDDLE’
Project Status: Ongoing
The “missing middle” in housing refers to the range of building types that fall between single-family homes and large apartment complexes—townhouses, duplexes, triplexes, and small multi-family developments. These housing options have been largely overlooked in recent years, leaving a gap in the market for moderately dense, affordable housing. With rising urban populations and increasing demand for more sustainable living solutions, missing middle developments are gaining attention. But what if these developments could do more than simply fill a housing gap? What if they could offer valuable shared outdoor spaces that enhance both community life and long-term returns for developers?
The Value of Shared Spaces in Missing Middle Developments
Shared spaces—such as communal courtyards, small parks, green corridors, and rooftop gardens—play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for residents. In missing middle developments, these spaces become vital for creating a sense of community, fostering social interaction, and providing much-needed access to nature. But beyond the obvious social and environmental benefits, integrating sustainable landscape architecture into these projects offers tangible advantages for developers and the surrounding neighborhoods.
Maximizing Land Use Efficiency
One of the biggest advantages of missing middle developments is their ability to make efficient use of land while offering a higher quality of living. Shared green spaces can turn underutilized areas into vibrant community assets, adding value without requiring more square footage for private yards. A well-designed landscape can create functional outdoor areas that serve multiple purposes—recreation, relaxation, stormwater management—while maintaining a compact building footprint.
Enhancing Property Value and Market Appeal
Sustainable shared spaces are more than just an amenity; they are a strategic investment. Studies have shown that developments with green infrastructure and communal spaces tend to command higher property values and attract discerning buyers or renters. In competitive real estate markets, having well-designed, sustainable outdoor areas can differentiate a project and make it more attractive to environmentally-conscious residents. This means faster lease-up or sales cycles, higher rents, and greater long-term appreciation—benefits that directly impact a developer’s bottom line.
Supporting Sustainability and Climate Resilience
Integrating sustainable landscape architecture into missing middle housing goes beyond aesthetics—it actively supports environmental resilience. Features such as rain gardens, native plantings, and permeable pavements can manage stormwater, reduce heat island effects, and improve local air quality. These green infrastructure solutions can reduce a project’s environmental footprint and contribute to broader sustainability goals, while also reducing operational costs for developers through energy savings, lower water usage, and potential tax incentives.
Building Stronger Communities
Missing middle housing is often situated in transitional or emerging neighborhoods where affordability is key. By incorporating shared spaces, these developments create opportunities for connection, fostering stronger social bonds among residents. This not only enhances the living experience but also contributes to long-term neighborhood stability. Research shows that when people have spaces to gather, interact, and feel part of a community, they are more likely to invest in and care for their surroundings, resulting in higher retention rates for property owners and less turnover.
Boosting a Development’s Brand Identity
In today’s real estate market, where buyers and renters are increasingly prioritizing sustainability and quality of life, missing middle developments that integrate well-designed landscape architecture offer a unique selling point. Developers can brand their projects as forward-thinking, environmentally responsible, and community-oriented, tapping into a growing demand for housing that aligns with social and environmental values. This kind of identity enhances the project’s reputation and makes it more appealing to municipalities, investors, and potential residents.
A Holistic Approach to Development
Landscape architecture for the missing middle is more than just an aesthetic layer; it’s an essential component that enhances the functionality, sustainability, and marketability of these developments. By integrating shared, ecologically sound spaces into these projects, developers can create housing solutions that offer real value for communities and investors alike. It’s time for missing middle housing to not only fill a market gap but to elevate the conversation around how we live together in sustainable, connected environments.
At Soft Systems, we’re passionate about designing landscapes that make a meaningful impact on the communities they serve. We believe that well-designed, sustainable outdoor spaces can unlock new potential in every project. Let’s work together to build developments that are not only financially successful but that contribute to the social and environmental well-being of our cities.