In a groundbreaking effort to address Detroit housing needs, the Gilbert Family Foundation and the North Corktown Neighborhood Association (NCNA) have partnered to launch Tomorrow’s Housing Innovation Showcase (THIS). The initiative aims to demonstrate the potential of factory-built homes as a viable, high-quality and attainable housing solution for Detroiters.
By focusing on both affordability and design, THIS is set to reshape the narrative around manufactured housing.
Understanding the strength of factory-built homes
Factory-built homes, encompassing both manufactured and modular types, offer a distinct set of advantages over traditional site-built homes. These homes are constructed in controlled environments and assembled on-site, which significantly influences their quality and efficiency.
“Today’s manufactured homes are built to a stringent federal building code, with the same materials as any other home, but in a fraction of the time,” said Chris Nicely, CEO of ManufacturedHomes.com. “The speed of production yields significant cost savings for the buyer. Additionally, these homes are extremely strong, with high energy efficiency, a much smaller carbon footprint and an appreciation rate similar to other detached single-family homes.”
Manufactured homes benefit from economies of scale, with materials purchased in bulk and labor specialized for specific tasks. This process not only reduces costs but also minimizes construction time.
A factory-built home can be started and finished in the factory production environment in six to eight working days and set and finished on-site in 45-60 days. Additionally, the absence of weather-related delays and the use of advanced energy-efficient technologies contribute to their appeal.
“Speed of completion allows homeowners to move in faster, without limiting the availability of amenities they desire,” Nicely said. “Open floorplans, island kitchens, huge main bedrooms and luxurious bathrooms deliver great value and maximum comfort for less. A wide spectrum of home designs allow manufactured homes to fit into many neighborhoods.”
By gaining secure home ownership, Nicely noted, families can build “generation wealth while contributing vibrance and energy to the neighborhood.”
THIS: A new model for Detroit
THIS represents a bold initiative to showcase the potential of factory-built homes in addressing Detroit’s housing challenges. The project is set in North Corktown, a neighborhood chosen for its rising homeownership costs, available vacant land and an established community association. The selection of this area reflects a strategic approach to providing high-quality, affordable housing in a region experiencing significant housing pressure.
The project is a collaborative effort from several experts and organizations across the region. Their collective expertise covers various aspects, from factory-built housing to community engagement and financial planning.
Design and community impact
One of the primary goals of THIS is to challenge and redefine perceptions of factory-built homes. The project includes a range of home designs selected through community engagement sessions.
According to Gilbert Family Foundation, the homes will be sold by a newly established land trust called the North Corktown Equitable Housing Land Trust. Community land trusts (CLTs) are nonprofit organizations governed by a board of CLT residents, community residents and public representatives that provide lasting community assets and shared equity homeownership opportunities for families and communities.
The home designs were presented to and selected by North Corktown residents. The involvement of Subject Studio, a local architecture firm, ensures that the homes reflect both modern aesthetics and community values.
A notable feature of THIS is the inclusion of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). These secondary units, which can serve as rental properties or additional living space, are designed to enhance the functionality of the homes and provide additional income opportunities for homeowners.
ADUs were added to THIS development to demonstrate the potential for added storage or additional housing within the project footprint.
Financial and long-term benefits
The financial model for THIS aims to strike a balance between affordability and quality. While the cost of the homes in the showcase may be higher due to design enhancements and additional features, basic factory-built homes generally offer a lower price point compared to traditional site-built homes.
Basic factory-built home can be delivered for less than site-built homes. The Showcase homes are expected to range from $150,000-$300,000. These price points were established for families with incomes ranging from 50-80% AMI, according to North Corktown Neighborhood Association materials.
Future implications and expansion
The success of THIS could pave the way for similar projects in other areas. The Gilbert Family Foundation’s involvement underscores its commitment to innovative housing solutions, as foundation leaders consider future investments based on community needs and successful models.
“Safe and stable housing for all Detroiters is a critical priority for Gilbert Family Foundation,” said Darnell Adams, vice president of Detroit Community Initiatives for Gilbert Family Foundation. “As home prices rise throughout the city, we wanted to highlight the opportunities factory-built housing has in creating more attainable homeownership due to its lower cost, efficient building approach and waste reduction. We also wanted to demonstrate how CLTs can support even deeper levels of affordability for homebuyers.”
By addressing both immediate housing needs and long-term sustainability, THIS exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to urban development. The project not only aims to provide quality homes but also to demonstrate the broader potential of factory-built housing as a solution to quality and affordable housing crises across the country.
“Gilbert Family Foundation will continue to invest in opportunities based on needs identified by the community and supported by data,” Adams said. “Our hope with THIS is to show the potential for factory-built housing to provide high-quality and attainable homes for Detroiters to purchase, while also encouraging manufacturers to consider the Detroit market for expansion.”
With its focus on community involvement, innovative design and long-term sustainability, THIS is setting a new standard for housing in Detroit and beyond.
To learn more about THIS and Gilbert Family Foundation’s involvement in the effort, visit GilbertFamilyFoundation.org.