5 high-density housing concepts

The mere mention of high-density housing can stir a range of emotions. Residents near a proposed project often assume higher-density development will have a negative impact on their neighborhood. As a result, it’s often difficult to gain approval from local planning and zoning boards.

However, in many communities, residents are taking a far different attitude toward high-density housing when they see projects that have been thoughtfully designed to become part of the fabric of the neighborhood. Although this change in attitude is partially due to economic conditions, it’s important to understand that a growing number of buyers truly find higher-density housing appealing. This is especially the case with well-designed projects located in walkable neighborhoods and communities.

Of course, the term high-density housing is hard to define. Each community has its own interpretation of the term. This is evident in the concepts featured in this month’s House Review report. The following concepts range from detached cottages at 13 units per acre to an innovative mid-rise design at 40 units per acre.

1. Bungalow Court

DESIGNER
Larry W. Garnett, FAIBD
254.897.3518
larrygarnett@larrygarnettdesigns.com
www.smartlivinghomedesigns.com

PLAN SIZE
Density: 13.4 units/acre
Site width: 150 feet
Site depth: 130 feet

Plan LWG-635-CP
Living area: 635 sf
Width: 18 feet
Depth: 36 feet

Plan LWG-983-CP
Living area: 983 sf
Width: 18 feet
Depth: 36 feet

Bungalow courts were the dominant multi-family dwelling type built in Southern California in the early 1900s. Grouped around a common courtyard, these cottages blended beautifully within neighborhoods of larger single-family homes. 

Reminiscent of these delightful historic projects, this concept features 635- to 1,050-square-foot homes that provide privacy while at the same time promote a sense of community. They are ideal for buyers who either can’t afford a traditional single-family home or simply desire a home with less upkeep.