LOCATION
Omaha, NE
Mod_RAD
SERVICES
Architecture
STATUS
Unbuilt
Conestoga, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Omaha, has over 650,000 square feet of empty lots.
A cornerstone of the Black community in the city, Conestoga’s churches, small businesses, and homes display its deep history, even as vacant lots mark its disinvestment. These spaces create an opportunity to address a problem affecting most of the country – the affordable housing crisis.
$30,952
Median Household Income
78%
Percentage of Conestoga Residents Living in a Rented Home
$146,250
Median Home Price
Mod_RAD is a kit-of-parts housing system, informed by feedback from residents, nonprofits, contractors, and city officials. Each home is made up of a living module and a sleeping module, connected by a central spine that houses HVAC systems, storage, staircases, and optional bathrooms. The modular approach allows for duplexes and apartment buildings to be constructed with the same system. The scalability and adaptability insure affordability of construction.
The solution is Mod_RAD – Modular Rapid Affordable Dwellings.
The interior options for Mod_RAD were designed for flexibility and everyday adaptability. A built-in pull-out step provides safe access to upper cabinets and doubles as a stool for guests or grandchildren. Eat-in kitchen and bar seating are set at accessible heights, offering casual dining, therapy support, and integrated storage for essentials like medications. These features reflect Mod_RAD’s commitment to inclusive, multi-use living.
Affordable design for affordable housing
Using readily available materials and methods significantly reduces cost of construction. Asphalt singles, pitched roofs, fiber cement siding, and mass-produced wood frames are effective and economic design choices that don’t sacrifice an attractive appearance.
255 potential new units in a growing community
The infill potential of the vacant lots in Conestoga could increase the population by over 500 people, enriching the community and encouraging further economic growth. With possibilities ranging from 1 bed/1 bath units to 6 bed/4 bath units, all kinds of households will be supported by the housing initiative.
