Amidst the build-to-rent boom, we are most commonly asked how to thoughtfully design a build-to-rent community without sacrificing density. The simplest solution? Integrating multiple product types into a site.
A site with exclusively build-to-rent homes will likely range between 8 and 14 units to the acre. This can be doubled by adding a higher-density multifamily product like townhomes or garden apartments. For example, in the site plan below on the left, the density is 16 units per acre with two-story build-to-rent paired homes (gray buildings) and 3-story walk-up apartments (brown buildings). In the plan on the right, the density was increased to 18.5 units per acre by eliminating the paired homes and replacing them with 4 and 6-plex townhomes. Beyond a density advantage, offering a mix of product types widens the resident pool and creates a natural move-up opportunity for residents who may start out in an apartment and eventually want more space.
When integrating various product types into one site, we typically design them as independent neighborhoods with their own amenity spaces, and we like the architectural language to be complimentary. We utilize similar color palettes and materials in addition to consistent roof forms to allow for cohesion and unity. In the example below, the board and batten siding, wood fencing, and peaked roof forms are used on both the townhomes and garden apartments. Likewise, the amenity areas relate architecturally and in terms of their offerings.
Interested in learning more about ways we are helping our clients maximize their sites? We’d love to discuss. Call us at 303-832-4474.
