Skip to content
Sponsored

Thanks to our advertising sponsor

Talking Headways Podcast: The Missing Middle

This week on the podcast, Dan Parolek of Opticos Design talks about their new website themissingmiddle.com, which explores housing types between high- or mid-rise buildings and single-family homes that cities don't make much anymore.
podcast icon logo

This week on the podcast, Dan Parolek of Opticos Design talks about their new website themissingmiddle.com, which explores housing types between high- or mid-rise buildings and single-family homes that cities don’t make much anymore.

We get into Austin’s development code, Cincinnati’s walkable neighborhoods, and how people are often worried by the phrase “density,” then surprised by density designed well.

Why are developers and bankers scared of “missing middle” housing forms like duplexes? And how come we don’t build rowhouses parcel by parcel anymore?

Join us in the middle and find out.

Streetsblog has migrated to a new comment system. New commenters can register directly in the comments section of any article. Returning commenters: your previous comments and display name have been preserved, but you'll need to reclaim your account by clicking "Forgot your password?" on the sign-in form, entering your email, and following the verification link to set a new password — this is required because passwords could not be carried over during the migration. For questions, contact tips@streetsblog.org.

More from Streetsblog California

Only Porter and Steyer Would Spare Central Valley from More Oil Extraction…and Air Pollution

May 12, 2026

Tuesday’s Headlines

May 12, 2026

Speed Ills! Reckless Driving on the Rise in Car Ads, Study Shows

May 11, 2026

L.A. Street Services Is Resurfacing (Some) Streets Again

May 11, 2026

Transform Talk: Affordable Housing Leaders Committed to Fight to Save Transit

May 11, 2026
See all posts