As American cities expand, the tension between urban revitalization and gentrification becomes more pronounced. Residents often worry that redevelopment will displace long-term community members or strip neighborhoods of their cultural identity. At Method Group, we believe there’s a better path forward—one that prioritizes equity, context, and longevity.
That path begins with infill development.
Infill development refers to the practice of building on underused or vacant land within existing urban areas. Rather than spreading outward into greenfields, infill development promotes responsible growth by making better use of the city’s existing infrastructure, services, and public spaces. But the real challenge lies in how it’s done.
The Difference Between Revitalization and Gentrification
At its best, infill development is a tool for revitalization. It breathes new life into aging corridors, brings resources to underserved areas, and fosters economic activity. However, when done without sensitivity to local needs, it can accelerate gentrification, pricing out residents and replacing local character with generic, upscale development.
The key is intent and execution.
Revitalization adds value for the existing community: affordable housing options, improved streetscapes, better access to services. Gentrification, in contrast, often prioritizes outside investment over resident stability.
At Method Group, our approach to infill development is rooted in place-based design. We take into account the unique social, historical, and architectural fabric of each neighborhood and ensure that our projects add to, rather than erase, what makes each place distinct.
For a deeper dive into this topic, read our guide on Infill Development Strategies.
Our Approach: Thoughtful Density and Inclusive Design
In cities like Denver and Kansas City, we’ve seen firsthand how the right type of infill development can enhance livability without driving displacement. Our design process includes:
Contextual architecture that reflects local character
A mix of unit types and price points to support housing diversity
Adaptive reuse of existing structures where possible
Community engagement during the planning process
This thoughtful approach supports equitable development while allowing neighborhoods to evolve organically. For example, our work on mixed-use residential and urban multifamily projects is always guided by long-term sustainability—not just short-term returns.
Want to see how we’ve applied these values in the real world? Browse our portfolio of urban projects to see how our designs respond to community needs.
Interested in how infill design can support your city’s goals? Explore Method Group’s full service offerings.
Addressing Affordability and Accessibility
One of the most powerful benefits of infill development is its potential to address housing affordability. By adding density in appropriate areas—such as near transit corridors or employment hubs—we can increase housing supply without compromising quality or walkability.
This kind of smart growth reduces the strain on public infrastructure and gives residents more transportation options. It also allows for creative housing types like live/work units, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and micro-apartments.
When these strategies are implemented intentionally, they help preserve socio-economic diversity within neighborhoods.
Working on a site near a city center or transit line? Reach out to us for a design consultation: Contact Method Group
Why Policy and Partnerships Matter
Architecture and design alone can't solve gentrification, but they are a critical piece of a broader system. Our team often works with cities, housing authorities, and private developers to align project goals with policy frameworks that support:
Mixed-income housing
Long-term affordability covenants
Transit-oriented development
Green space and public amenity integration
When these efforts are supported by effective urban design, the result is development that serves everyone—not just a select few.
We believe that design is a form of civic engagement, and every project is an opportunity to reinforce that belief.
Moving Forward: People-Centered Urban Growth
Infill development doesn’t have to come at the cost of displacement. With community-forward planning and thoughtful architectural solutions, it’s possible to revitalize neighborhoods while keeping them livable and inclusive.
At Method Group, we’re committed to helping cities grow in ways that benefit both current and future residents. Whether you’re a developer with a complex urban site or a city planner looking to support sustainable growth, we’d love to partner with you.
Let’s build something better—together. Schedule a consultation with our team today.