
In Wisconsin, Sala Hars elevates middle-income housing with a gridded enfilade plan clad in brick
The methodology behind 301 Vanilla, a new mixed-used housing project in Madison, Wisconsin, was inspired by the words of Abraham Lincoln. “We use this quote: ‘If you give me eight hours to cut a tree, I would spend six hours sharpening the axe,’” said Juan Sala, cofounder of architecture firm Sala Hars. The firm used this in its prefabricated design approach, which allowed it to be prepared for the project before it was even really in commission. Sala and cofounder Douglas Harsevoort designed a grid-based system for middle-income housing as an effort to help developer Neutral conceptualize a new component-centered identity. The mise en place approach relies on prefabricated cross-laminated timber (driven by Neutral’s sustainable focus), creating a detailed yet flexible modular plan. The project is a proof of concept for housing that meets the economic constraints facing the middle-income sector, which the city lacks. Taking into consideration factors such as budget, size, and sustainability, the system revolves around 12-foot-by-12-foot modules, which ultimately make up the 40,000-square-foot building. “We started off with: What is a comfortable grid that’s not too excessive and not too small?” Harsevoort told AN. ...more Leo's notes: This Wisconsin project is a useful reminder that middle-income housing should not be treated as a lesser design exercise. SALA HARS demonstrates how thoughtful planning, durable materials and architectural character can be incorporated into housing intended for working households—an important counterpoint to the idea that affordability must come at the expense of quality. As Wisconsin expands workforce housing production, the goal should be not simply more units, but well-designed homes and neighborhoods that remain desirable for generations. Ken Notes: READ THIS ARTICLE. We need an array of housing solutions and this one is unique.
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Our Sponsors - - Volume: 26 - WEEK: 34 Date: 8/17/2026 3:43:32 PM -

In Wisconsin, Sala Hars elevates middle-income housing with a gridded enfilade plan clad in brick

The methodology behind 301 Vanilla, a new mixed-used housing project in Madison, Wisconsin, was inspired by the words of Abraham Lincoln. “We use this quote: ‘If you give me eight hours to cut a tree, I would spend six hours sharpening the axe,’” said Juan Sala, cofounder of architecture firm Sala Hars. The firm used this in its prefabricated design approach, which allowed it to be prepared for the project before it was even really in commission.

Sala and cofounder Douglas Harsevoort designed a grid-based system for middle-income housing as an effort to help developer Neutral conceptualize a new component-centered identity. The mise en place approach relies on prefabricated cross-laminated timber (driven by Neutral’s sustainable focus), creating a detailed yet flexible modular plan.

The project is a proof of concept for housing that meets the economic constraints facing the middle-income sector, which the city lacks.

Taking into consideration factors such as budget, size, and sustainability, the system revolves around 12-foot-by-12-foot modules, which ultimately make up the 40,000-square-foot building. “We started off with: What is a comfortable grid that’s not too excessive and not too small?” Harsevoort told AN.

...more

Leo's notes: This Wisconsin project is a useful reminder that middle-income housing should not be treated as a lesser design exercise. SALA HARS demonstrates how thoughtful planning, durable materials and architectural character can be incorporated into housing intended for working households—an important counterpoint to the idea that affordability must come at the expense of quality. As Wisconsin expands workforce housing production, the goal should be not simply more units, but well-designed homes and neighborhoods that remain desirable for generations.

Ken Notes: READ THIS ARTICLE. We need an array of housing solutions and this one is unique.

Share this article on your social outlets

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- - Volume: 26 - WEEK: 34 Date: 8/17/2026 3:43:32 PM -