Affordable and Innovative Housing
ORIGINALLY APPEARED IN FORBES ON JULY 18, 2025.
BY JEFFREY STEELE
When it comes to affordable housing options, it’s not uncommon to find they are, well, pretty common. In many cases, ensuring affordability for future residents can limit the extent of what architects and developers can create. As a result, many affordable properties turn out to be comparatively ordinary in appearance and amenities.
Happily, a number of newer residential developments are combining affordability with distinctive if not unique ideas for living. That means the fortunate renters and buyers are able to enjoy residences they can afford, and an array of extras to boot.
Consider Shared Roof, a trailblazing mixed-use multifamily development in the lively Phinney Ridge enclave in Seattle, Wash. The Johnston Architects (JA)-designed building focuses on helping apartment residents build bonds with one another. Price points encourage residents to continue enjoying city living near their workplaces and friends, rather than being forced to move to more attainable suburban residential areas that lack shopping, restaurant and nightlife venues within walking distance.
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Shared Roof / Photo by Andrew Storey