In Denver, recent zoning and housing policy changes create a unique opportunity for affordable housing developers in 3-story districts. Under the Expanding Housing Affordability ordinance, projects that provide on-site affordable units at enhanced levels can unlock zoning incentives, including an additional story of height—effectively allowing 4-story buildings in areas traditionally limited to three. When paired with the forthcoming single-stair provision in the Denver building and fire codes, these projects gain further efficiency by reducing circulation space and construction costs while still meeting safety requirements. The result is a more cost-effective, compact building type ideally suited to smaller infill lots, producing family-sized and naturally ventilated units at a lower cost. Together, the height bonus and the single-stair typology position affordable housing projects to deliver more units, better livability, and stronger financial feasibility in Denver’s constrained development landscape.
Developed as a proof-of-concept prototype for 4-story affordable housing, this single-stair apartment building affords a 16-unit, 19,200 SF building with 4 units per floor and a shared outdoor space on each level. Each floor consists of 2 one-bedroom units and 2 two-bedroom units ranging from 800 SF to 1,400 SF. Designed for maximum vertical stacking and cost-effective construction, the footprint is only 40’ wide, allowing it to easily fit most typical 50’ wide lots in 3-story zone districts throughout Denver.
LEGEND: 1 Living/Dining | 2 Kitchen | 3 Bedroom | 4 Lobby | 5 Garbage Room
LEGEND: 1 Living/Dining | 2 Kitchen | 3 Bedroom | 4 Landing | 5 Shared Outdoor Space
Next Steps
With a proven track record across Denver’s residential landscape, KGA is well-equipped to guide developers through this new market opportunity with affordable single-stair designs that balance efficiency and livability. We are passionate about affordable housing, delivering designs that create sustainable housing solutions, empower residents, and strengthen communities.
About the Author
An architect with experience on both residential and commercial projects, Scott Dergance is a principal at KGA Studio Architects, where he works with regional and national homebuilders and multifamily developers in numerous markets across the country. During his more than 25-year career, he has gained deep experience in a wide range of projects including multifamily, hospitality, and single-family production builder homes where he has been responsible for the design of hundreds of new construction plans.
Ready to Get Started?
Let’s talk! Tell us more about your project. We respond within 2 business days.
