Construction in Los Angeles is expensive (really expensive). Getting projects, even the small ones, permitted and constructed in Los Angeles is complicated, and lengthy (really lengthy). As architects, and problem solvers, we navigate these hurdles every day. Is there a way to manifest nimble and affordable solutions to address the housing crisis in LA using our skillsets and experience?
Yes, there is. It’s called Invisible Infill™.
Using the design skills and expertise of architects, and partnering with homeowners, Invisible Infill™ delivers options for living well, living light and living affordably in desirable and increasingly expensive neighborhoods.
PROBLEM
Diverse and affordable housing choices for the ‘missing middle’: workforce, student, senior, moderate and low income individuals, are scarce in Los Angeles. Bringing new housing options to the city, even ‘affordable’ units, are currently estimated to cost upwards of $500,000 each to construct.
EXISTING SOLUTIONS
Cities look to real estate developers to add large, sometimes massive, multi-family residential projects to the housing stock. Private individuals may also get in the development game, retrofitting, remodeling, and expanding homes for the real estate market. In recent years, homeowners are increasingly seizing the opportunity to construct accessory dwelling units on their property, with the promise of a lucrative rental income. These are good solutions, some more successful than others, primarily for investors who are prepared for a lengthy and expensive design, entitlement, construction and marketing journey.
BETTER SOLUTION
Homeowners, partnering with architects, hold the key to delivering the most efficient and affordable housing choices available, while unlocking a sound revenue stream. Win for the owner, and win for the tenant, in a financial climate gripped by uncertainty. This type of micro-development uses the existing house as the primary building material. Architects ensure design integrity, sustainability and timely delivery of an expertly designed, integrated and independent apartment, know as a ‘stream unit‘, within the four walls of the existing house. The foundations, walls and roof unchanged, with no additional square footage added, the permitting restrictions and regulations are eased, allowing the architectural team to take the project from idea to completion in months, not years. The costs of Invisible Infill™ are a small percentage of any other kind of development, bringing these projects within reach for most homeowners in Los Angeles. This nimble and affordable approach allows owners to engage the expertise of creative and experienced professional architects to deliver a clean, modern and thoughtful result, which pays them back.
CLEANER SOLUTION
Invisible Infill™ does no environmental harm. Durable, adaptable micro-development extends the life cycle and financial viability of homes for the next generation, diverting up to 100% of the demolition and construction waste of a conventional addition. The ‘stream unit’ is parasitic, in a good way. It is served by the existing mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, and requires no additional hook ups, fees or servicing. Invisible Infill™ requires minimal cost, construction time, material, waste, dust and noise. Even though this is LA, Invisible Infill™ allows tenants neighborhood choice, reducing or eliminating the long commute or the need for a car at all!
Invisible Infill™ is purposeful micro-development, striving boldly to partner with homeowners in Los Angeles, building a better, more financially stable, nimble community, without wasted time, money or trips to the landfill. Get in touch with PostFab, and find out if your home is a candidate for Invisible Infill™.
PostFab 