Design
Single-staircase reforms aim to boost middle-scale housing in Michigan
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed two bills last month amending the state building code to allow more multi-family buildings to use single-stair designs. One bill raises the allowable height for single-stair buildings from three to four stories, while the other permits single-stair buildings up to six stories in areas served by certified fire departments. The state says this is expected to reduce construction costs by over 10% and increase housing type diversity. The reform comes as seven states have passed similar measures in 2025, though fire departments remain divided on single-stair safety.
8 notable interviews with multifamily pros this summer
Against the backdrop of a persistently sluggish apartment sales market, companies such as Alliance Residential and Morgan Properties are still actively expanding. Multifamily Dive recently held conversations with leaders from several companies to explore the challenges facing the sales market and new trends in development and design. This article summarizes the core content of these interviews.
Why design is ‘not just a pretty face’ for multifamily anymore
Multifamily residential design is shifting from 'looking good' to 'being functional and value-creating.' Chelsea Kloss, LV Collective's first Chief Design Officer, spoke with Multifamily Dive about how design can enhance community vitality, resident retention, and asset value through 'energy per square foot,' and shared her design philosophy, common misconceptions, and industry challenges.
Resident experience drives investment gains in multifamily properties
The multifamily housing industry is facing dual pressures of oversupply and resident churn. Data shows the national vacancy rate rose to 8.6% in early 2026, with the cost of replacing a single unit at least $4,000. Industry observers note that a shift in mindset from "what amenities to add" to "what pain points to eliminate" may offer investors a clearer path to value creation. Reliable high-speed internet connectivity is becoming a key factor influencing lease signing and renewals, and may improve investment returns by reducing operational risks and enhancing exit valuations.
Transit-oriented development is booming. Here’s how housing pros can make the most of it.
The latest research from the Urban Institute shows that transit-oriented development (TOD) is thriving, creating new opportunities for the housing industry. The study notes that homes near quality public transit are more sought after and command higher rents. On the policy front, multiple states are adjusting zoning regulations to encourage TOD, and federal legislation is also advancing. However, uneven transit service quality and exclusionary zoning remain major barriers. The housing industry should support transit investment and coordinate planning to unlock potential.
How RREAF Holdings built fitness spaces that work
Designing multifamily fitness spaces is not simply about configuring equipment. RREAF Holdings' experience shows that the key lies in collaborating with specialized partners early and planning within budget and spatial constraints. This article, through the perspectives of its asset manager Taylor Kolle and Lorne LaPorte of Johnson Commercial Fitness, dissects the entire process from layout and equipment selection to final completion.
Affordable housing standard evolves from sustainability to resilience
Enterprise Community Partners updates its Green Communities standard for affordable housing, adding resilience assessments, emergency manual requirements, and strengthening the three themes of energy, health, and resilience to help communities achieve both housing and climate goals.
Single-staircase reform proposed in California
A California bill proposes allowing single-staircase designs for multifamily housing up to six stories to reduce construction costs and increase housing supply. The bill's author, State Assemblymember Alex Lee, cites precedents in cities like New York and Seattle, but a March report from the State Fire Marshal's office recommends relaxing the rule only to four stories and emphasizes the importance of a second stair for firefighter safety.
3 affordable multifamily developments break ground
The shortage of affordable housing in the United States continues to trouble renters, and developers face many challenges. Nevertheless, three new projects have recently started construction: Landmark on Scioto in Columbus, Ohio (321 units); the La Maravilla project in San Francisco (382 units total); and the Campello public housing redevelopment project in Brockton, Massachusetts (398 units total).