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/ BUILDING DIALOGUE / SEPTEMBER 2016
A
s Colorado continues its phenomenal
growth, housing availability remains a
top priority throughout the state. From
the greater metropolitan area to mountain
communities, attainable housing is in short sup-
ply. Covering a full spectrum from affordable
housing for low-income residents to first homes
for young couples and families, to mountain
homes in a medium price range, creating attain-
able housing is a complex process. That process be-
gins with each individual site – well before a single
home, townhouse or apartment is built.
Each property has opportunities and constraints
that must be explored to determine best use. Key
is knowing the target market for the ultimate resi-
dents – their needs, expectations and amenity wish
list. Developers and builders often have much of
this information in hand with completed market
studies and business plans, while others need some
assistance with this information phase. Once all of
these variables have been explored and understood,
programming, site analysis and conceptual design
can move ahead to realize the site’s full potential.
From a planning and design perspective, the
team thinks about both marketability and livability.
What are the socio-political, economic and physical
impacts on the site? What are specific zoning and
entitlement requirements? Is there a special financ-
ing district involved, imposing a specific framework
Mitch Black
Principal
and Partner,
Norris
Design
ELEMENTS
Attainable Housing
A sculpture tower built by local school children is the
centerpiece of Mariposa Phase 4’s courtyard.
Emily Zoeller
The Summit Sky Ranch Aspen House provides a gathering space for residents surrounded by the site’s nat-
ural beauty.
