Infill Design in Cincinnati

The local demographics of Indianapolis and Cincinnati are similar, yet the growth in downtown housing markets has been distinctly different. Jake Dietrich, project developer for Milhaus says, “Indianapolis is blessed to have a well-qualified, well-capitalized development community driving Indianapolis’ downtown revitalization. However, the downtown housing market in Cincinnati is relatively underserved, and the city is just beginning the push to attract urban residents by encouraging private development.”

After a ten year stint as a vacant lot, the former Myron G. Johnson & Son Lumber Co. property, located at the corner of Hamilton Avenue and Blue Rock Street in Cincinnati’s Northside was placed in the able hands of Milhaus who will begin construction of a LEED, silver-certified, mixed use project of 100 apartments with 8,000 square feet of commercial space. “The lot’s long-term vacancy wasn’t for lack of interest;” Dietrich explains, “the project site is a real gem that sits at the corner of ‘main and main’ serving as a gateway to a vibrant downtown neighborhood. The city rejected earlier proposals because they failed to fit in with the community’s ideals.”

Although a proven entity in Indianapolis, Milhaus is relatively new to the Cincinnati scene, and being the new kid on the block comes with its challenges. Cincinnati presents a greater barrier to entry due to smaller parcels, density, topography and the great mix of uses and parking configurations. Also, the city’s architecture is older and often well preserved. Residents have a strong interest in maintaining the character of their neighborhoods, so it takes time to explore different building styles and reach consensus on an appropriate architectural expression.

So, early in the year, Milhaus assigned a local steering committee to point them in the right direction about the units, parking, and commercial space needed. Approximately 50 citizens attended a charette to express their ideas, concerns, and wishes for the project. Dietrich emphasizes, “Some might see the community’s concern as an obstacle to development, but when looking at Cincinnati for our next project, we saw a grassroots effort similar to what we’ve been doing in Indy for several years—involving the community, inviting their input and being willing to make the project fit the people who already live there. Honestly, we would rather build in a neighborhood where people care; then we know our project will be more accepted long term.”