Collaboration Driving Change in Housing

April 27, 2026

If you live in California, you already know—we’re in the middle of a housing crisis. The big question is how to create more housing that people can actually afford.

That’s why our co-hosted Missing Middle event in Sacramento felt so important.

The city, working with Opticos, has introduced California’s first Missing Middle Housing Ordinance. This change allows for small multi-unit housing—like duplexes and fourplexes—on lots that were previously limited to single-family homes. It’s a practical step toward increasing housing options in existing neighborhoods.

At the same time, Robert Ng has launched MissingMiddles.com, a platform to help people actually build these types of projects.

The event itself was organized by AIA Central Valley’s Emerging Professionals (EP) group. They had been planning their own competition but chose to support the larger national Missing Middle competition instead—a smart and collaborative move.

EP leaders Arnulfo Rodriguez, Yuri Avramenko, and Christine Fantle organized a panel discussion with voices from development, community leadership, and city planning. The conversation was clear, honest, and focused on real-world challenges and opportunities.

The room was full, and people were engaged. It wasn’t just talk—it felt like momentum.

What stood out most to me was the sense that architects need to be part of this conversation. We have the skills to help shape solutions, and events like this show what’s possible when we step up.

I’m grateful to see AIA Central Valley so involved in the community, and especially encouraged by the leadership of the Emerging Professionals. Their effort made this event meaningful—and gives me confidence in what comes next.

Matthew Sites, AIA

AIACV Vice President