MISSING

MIDDLE

HOUSING

Filling the Middle

With skyrocketing property prices making it difficult for many people to find affordable homes, the housing crisis in Canada continues to be a struggle for many Canadians. The current housing market is dominated by single-family homes and large apartment buildings, creating a significant gap known as the "missing middle."  The missing middle is comprised of small-scale multi-family units like duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes in walkable neighbourhoods. In practicing “gentle density”, we can begin to bridge the gap between single-family detached homes and large apartment buildings. In offering a variety of housing options in existing neighbourhoods, we can create affordable, walkable and lively communities.

Addressing Housing Affordability and Diversity

The development of small scale multi family housing is vital in beginning to tackle the housing affordability crisis. Traditional single-family homes drive up property values, making housing increasingly out of reach for many. Small-scale multi-family housing helps to provide more affordable alternatives which can can support a wider range of residents, from young professionals to retirees to immigrants and those new to the city. Triplexes and Fourplexes can offer housing solutions to people at various life stages and income levels, which ultimately fosters more inclusive and diverse neighbourhoods.

Optimizing Existing Infrastructure and Economic Stability

Small-scale multi-family housing is also effective in maximizing existing infrastructure. In contrast, if cities continue to expand with primarily single-family homes and apartments, the need for new infrastructure grows as well in turn straining municipal resources. Therefore, integrating small scale multi-family into established neighbourhoods can make better use of existing roads, utilities, and services, reducing the cost and impact of new infrastructure projects within the city. It broadens the tax base, reducing reliance on single-family home taxes and ensuring more stable funding for community services and infrastructure.

Walkability and Enhancing Community Vibrancy

By accommodating more residents in close proximity to amenities, small-scale multi-family housing encourage walkability, reduces car dependency, and supports sustainable living. The presence of sidewalks in many mature communities offers a safe environment for children and families to grow and live, and easy access to transport can assist in supporting local businesses which creates lively and active neighbourhoods. By adding infill into mature neighbourhoods, we can bring new life into often aging communities.