MPHA Family Housing Expansion

The Minneapolis Public Housing Authority (MPHA) identified sixteen single family home sites from their portfolio that needed upgrading. In 2021, DJR along with Freirichs Construction and RISE Modular, were selected as the winning team for the MPHA Multifamily Housing Expansion. The project started construction in November 2022. Ten 3 story 6-plex buildings and six, 2-story 4 plex modular buildings were developed.  When complete, this will result in 84 new deeply affordable units for the Minneapolis Public Housing Authority.

The basic organizing principal of the building design was to allow for maximum efficiency of the modules, by locating the core and more private areas in the center of the building, which allows the living spaces to line the perimeter for maximum daylight and air.  A blend of high-quality materials and massing add interest and color to the exterior facade.

The floor plan of 4-plex version of the prototype is markedly similar to that of the 6-plex which is advantageous to the modular design of the projects.  The two versions have a similar massing and entry configuration. These smaller apartment buildings blend into their surrounding context and contribute to the development of the “missing middle”.

Four color variations allow both the 4 and 6-Plex to adapt to the neighborhoods in a unique and thoughtful way.  A significant amount of neighborhood engagement and resident engagement was essential to the process. During entitlements we met with twelve separate neighborhood groups and were able to address neighborhood concerns and adapt our site design based on feedback.  A resident advisory panel also provided direct feedback to the design team. The kitchen layout and finishes were directly influenced by feedback we received from MPHA residents.

A significant amount of complexity was encountered in the project delivery of 16 sites at one time.  Engagement with variety of stakeholders, investors, city officials, state officials and community members was necessary for the success of the project.  A project like this has never been attempted before and we are proud to have been a part of it.