[I-Hate-Hulse]

Originally Posted by DoubleF

I think zero parking units could work well in our city, but you'd have to build them within walking distance of a bus loop/train station IMO. Something like the university city build would probably work great as well.

Agreed on this. Calgary's parking policies speak to this in the context of TOD and other 'zero parking' alternatives with respect to LRT/BRT (primary transit).

Originally Posted by Mazrim

Are you sure? It's easy to say that but "up not out" shouldn't fall exclusively into 500 square foot rectangles. If that's all they keep building for densification, don't be surprised when people are looking for a little more breathing room. 1200-1800 sq ft townhouses/condos/etc that can be lived in by more than 1 person would be appreciated.

1,800 is pretty ambitious for even a townhouse, let alone a condo but in principle I agree with what your saying. I don't think the issue of discussion here is the form of housing here, but about what developers are trying to get away from a bylaw standpoint in terms of shoe horning these onto parcels ill suited for them from a neighborhood impact perspective.

Originally Posted by blankall

It's more about having different options for different living styles. When I was single, a 500 square foot place was fine. With a partner, a 700-900 square place was great. With a kid a 12-1400 square foot townhouse would be ideal. The only way I would ever see myself needed a house, with 2500+ square feet, would be if I had 3+ children, and I don't see that happening.

I really don't see anyone pushing for more 500 square foot condos. I see people pushing for middle density that decreases commute times.

I've lived the missing middle lifestyle and completely appreciate it. However, so long as detached options exist - 7/10 people will revert to basic 'most for your money' economics.

And it's not just about space for kids. The long term sustainability of the "missing middle" is a matter largely ignored by housing developers and the real estate industry. Most of these missing middle units are less than 12 units which in Alberta means that the owners can complete their "own" reserve fund study without involving independent professionals. While some buildings do this properly, those same basic human economics kick in and typically underfund the long term capital needs of the building. I've seen some places have a "Board" in name only. Total governance dumpster fires.

That and you just get curmudgeonly when you get older and don't want to be told what to do (or not do) by some Board.