Image provided by ULI Cincinnati

Cost

ULI, AIA and APA Members - $10

(AIA members contact Julie for the discount code)

Non-members - $20

Location

Zoom

Program Overview

ULI Cincinnati is partnering with AIA Cincinnati and APA Ohio Chapter-Cincinnati Section to host a timely online Lunch & Learn exploring how building codes and policy choices are shaping—and often limiting—the future of mid-density housing. In just 45 minutes, this session will unpack current stair and egress requirements, including single-stair restrictions, and examine how targeted code updates could unlock more attainable “missing middle” housing options such as stacked flats, walk-ups, courtyard apartments, and small-lot infill. The discussion will connect the dots between safety, design, and housing supply, offering both practical insight and forward-looking policy perspective. 

Attendees will hear from a strong, cross-disciplinary panel: John Zeanah, Chief of Development and Infrastructure for the City of Memphis, brings real-world public-sector experience; Stephen Smith, Executive Director of the Center for Building in North America, offers a national lens on building code reform; and Greg Albright of New Republic Architecture shares the architect’s and local AIA perspective. 

Designed for planners, architects, developers, and anyone engaged in housing policy and design, this online program offers high-value insight over the lunch hour—plus pending AIA and APA continuing education credits.

Course Objectives

• Overview of current building code requirements impacting stair/egress design and other restrictions preventing mid-density housing

• Key policy changes needed to allow single-access / single-stair buildings and other building code updates

• How these changes could unlock missing middle housing typologies (e.g., stacked flats, walk-ups, courtyard apartments, small lot infill)

During this program, photography, audio, and video recording may occur. By attending this program, you consent to interview(s), photography, audio recording, video recording and its/their release, publication, exhibition, or reproduction to be used for news, web casts, promotional purposes, telecasts, advertising, inclusion on websites, social media, or any other purpose by AIA Cincinnati and its affiliates and representatives. Images, photos and/or videos may be used to promote similar AIA Cincinnati in the future, highlight the program, and exhibit the capabilities of AIA Cincinnati.