Urban Village
Multi-Family Housing Development
Cedar Rapids, IA
The Urban Village is a net-zero, micro multi-family housing development located on a series of infill lots in the Time Check neighborhood of downtown Cedar Rapids, Iowa. As Form Function Studio’s first speculative housing initiative with the non-profit organization, Matthew 25, the project reimagines affordable housing through the lens of sustainability, adaptability, and community connection. With a focus on energy efficiency, lifestyle diversity, and progressive contextual design, The Urban Village offers a replicable model for resilient, scalable model for urban infill lots throughout Cedar Rapids.
The Opportunity
Downtown Cedar Rapids faces a critical gap in affordable, high-quality housing that supports diverse lifestyles and long-term sustainability. With Matthew 25, The Urban Village was conceived to address this need—offering a forward-thinking residential solution that blends custom design with community-focused planning. As Form Function Studio’s first venture beyond custom residential work, the project represents a bold step toward creating diverse homes that are accessible, energy-efficient, and deeply rooted in neighborhood context. These homes contributed to a more dense urban population through newer zoning opportunities of ADUs [Accessory Dwelling Units] on single family home zoned lots.
The Solution
Urban Village comprises three multi-family units, each featuring two accessory dwelling units [ADUs] and an enclosed three-car garage. The ADUs, each under 1,000 square feet, meet strict city zoning requirements and provide flexible living options for extended families, renters, or guests. The Primary Home offers a three-bedroom, two-bath layout designed to accommodate a wide range of residents—from young families to multigenerational households.
A defining feature of the project is its net-zero energy certification. Each home produces as much energy or more, as it consumes annually, thanks to rooftop solar panels, high-performance building envelopes and HVAC systems, and passive solar strategies. The offset gable roof design maximizes solar exposure while contributing to the architectural identity of the homes.
Design elements such as welcoming front porches, open-concept interiors, and curated glazed views foster both community interaction and passive energy performance. Material selections prioritize durability, affordability, and contextual sensitivity, allowing each home to maintain a consistent architectural language while expressing its own individuality.
The Impact
The Urban Village has become a meaningful addition to Cedar Rapids—offering net-zero, multi-family homes that respond directly to the city’s need for affordable, adaptable housing units, in the downtown core neighborhoods. By integrating sustainable design with flexible living options, the project supports lifestyle diversity and long-term resilience. For the local community, it represents a shift toward inclusive, environmentally responsible development—setting a precedent for how thoughtful architecture can strengthen neighborhoods and improve quality of life for generations to come.
