Midland Apartments: A Model for Public-Private Modular Housing in Buena Vista

The Midland Apartments in Buena Vista, Colorado, are a standout example of how innovative thinking and collaboration can solve housing challenges. This workforce housing project combined public land, private investment, and modular construction to create a development that’s affordable, efficient, and community-focused.

Public-Private Collaboration in Action

The Town of Buena Vista worked closely with private developers to bring this project to life. Through this public-private partnership, the town provided land and local incentives, while the private side delivered financing, construction, and project management.

This collaboration balanced public goals with private execution, helping to deliver housing faster and with greater cost control. It’s a model that other small communities facing housing shortages can learn from and replicate.

Built with Fading West Modular Construction

A key to the project’s success was its use of offsite modular construction. The apartments were built using Fading West modules, manufactured just minutes from downtown Buena Vista. These modules were trucked to the site and installed quickly, reducing construction time and minimizing neighborhood disruption.

Modular construction also improved quality control and allowed for simultaneous site and building work — accelerating the entire process.

Designed by EVstudio

Architecture and Engineering firm EVstudio led the design effort with seamlessly integrated Architecture, Structural Engineering, and MEP Engineering services for the project. Their team focused on creating a community-forward development that fits seamlessly into the fabric of downtown Buena Vista.

The Midland Apartments feature efficient floor plans, thoughtful site layout, and a logical and efficient style. This intentional design helps support affordability and aligns with the town’s long-term planning goals.

World of Modular 2025 Case Study

The project’s innovative approach earned it a spotlight at the 2025 World of Modular conference. There, the Midland Apartments were featured as a leading case study in workforce housing through modular construction.

The presentation focused on:

• Public-private financing strategies

• Modular construction efficiencies

• Small-town implementation challenges and solutions

The full slide deck from the conference is available to the public here: World of Modular Tackling Missing Middle 2025-04-10

A Blueprint for Other Communities

The Midland Apartments prove what’s possible when communities think creatively about housing. By blending public land use, private development, and modular building technology, Buena Vista delivered much-needed housing without compromising on quality or design.

As more towns face similar pressures, this project offers a replicable, scalable solution that delivers real results — faster and smarter.

Looking for more examples of successful modular housing? Contact us at EVstudio.