Missing Middle

Mid-rise development is a crucial missing piece in North America's cities, and Studio JCI is dedicated to filling this gap. The term "missing middle" refers to housing that falls between low-rise, primarily single-family homes and mid-rise apartment buildings, and Studio JCI is committed to creating innovative, sustainable architectural solutions that restore the "missing middle" in Toronto and beyond.

To understand the need for the "missing middle," it is necessary to look back at Toronto's history. In 1920, Toronto's population rapidly increased to half a million, and new multi-unit buildings were constructed to provide housing for migrants. However, in 1912, Bylaw 6061 was passed, prohibiting the construction of apartment buildings on many residential streets, and reserving them only for single-family homes. This bylaw slowed down the overall housing supply by preventing developers from constructing apartment buildings in large areas within the city. Over time, areas not covered by Bylaw 6061 developed high-rise apartment buildings to accommodate the growing housing needs. The areas protected by this bylaw were made yellow on the city map, resulting in what is now known as the Yellow Belt. The Yellow Belt represents the areas where the "missing middle" could be built, and where Studio JCI is focusing its efforts.

Toronto's council now recognizes the need for and is encouraging "missing middle" projects to create more meaningful density and help rejuvenate parts of the city. At Studio JCI, we aim to expand housing options within residential neighbourhoods by creating more low-rise housing, including duplexes and walk-up apartments. Our studio has produced over 10,800 units, with 15% falling under the "missing middle" housing category. This is a significant achievement, as only 10% of all housing supply in Toronto falls under this category.

Housing shortages and affordability issues have reached crisis status in North American cities. The desire for residents to live within the fabric of their neighborhoods, to be part of their community, and not above it makes advocating for mid-rise development vital. Studio JCI continues to work diligently towards the goal of restoring the "missing middle" to the cities we love to live in.