As cities like Tulsa, Denver, and Kansas City continue to grow, urban land is becoming an increasingly limited resource. Developers, city planners, and architects are seeking smarter, more efficient ways to meet the demand for housing, retail, and mixed-use space without expanding into undeveloped areas. This is where infill lots come into play.
So, what is an infill lot? In simple terms, an infill lot is a vacant or underutilized parcel of land located within an already developed urban area. These lots can be former industrial sites, unused parking lots, or empty residential parcels in older neighborhoods. The process of building on these parcels is known as infill development, and it plays a critical role in sustainable urban planning.
Why Infill Lots Matter in Today’s Urban Environment
Unlike greenfield development—which requires construction on previously untouched land—infill development makes better use of a city’s existing infrastructure. This leads to:
More walkable neighborhoods
Lower public service costs (utilities, roads, etc.)
Reduced urban sprawl
Greater density and economic activity
By focusing on infill, cities can accommodate population growth while preserving natural resources and reducing commute times. It also opens opportunities to reinvigorate overlooked areas through thoughtful design and community-focused planning.
Looking for examples of how this works in practice? Explore our Infill Development Strategies for insights on zoning, scale, and market viability.
Method Group’s Role in Infill Architecture
At Method Group, we specialize in designing smart, scalable solutions for complex urban environments. Our architectural and planning teams bring deep experience in working with infill lots across Denver and Kansas City, often transforming challenging or irregular parcels into thriving residential or mixed-use buildings.
We consider more than just the physical site. Zoning regulations, neighborhood character, access to transit, and long-term livability all play a role in how we approach each project. Whether designing for multi-use residential, commercial architecture, or historic preservation, our team tailors each infill solution to support both community goals and project success.
Want to see what services we offer? Explore all services from Method Group to see how our full-stack architecture, planning, and strategy services bring value to infill development.
What Makes a Site a Good Infill Lot?
While infill can occur in nearly any developed area, certain qualities make a lot more viable:
Proximity to public transit or major thoroughfares
Existing utilities and infrastructure access
Appropriate zoning or rezoning potential
Community need for new housing or services
Method Group helps clients assess these factors through early feasibility studies and site planning sessions. Our team evaluates the physical, economic, and regulatory context to determine whether a parcel is right for infill—and if so, what design solutions will maximize its potential.
Considering a vacant lot in your city? Let’s discuss your vision and how Method Group can help you unlock its potential.
Challenges of Infill Development—and How to Solve Them
Infill projects can be more complex than suburban builds due to their location within existing urban fabric. Common challenges include:
Navigating neighborhood concerns
Tight or irregular lot dimensions
Environmental remediation (for former industrial use)
Parking constraints
Our experience working in dense urban areas allows us to resolve these challenges early. We develop community-informed design strategies and coordinate with city agencies to streamline permits, improve functionality, and ensure every design aligns with the local vision.
Learn how our space planning and urban design services contribute to successful infill projects on even the most constrained sites.
Infill Development and the Future of Cities
As housing costs rise and land becomes more scarce, infill development offers a realistic and responsible path forward. With smart design and intentional planning, infill lots can become vibrant homes, hubs of commerce, and catalysts for revitalization.
Method Group is proud to help cities grow inward—intelligently and sustainably. If you’re a developer, city official, or community stakeholder considering how to make the most of urban space, we’re ready to collaborate.
Book a consultation with our team today to explore your site’s potential and bring your infill vision to life: Contact Method Group