Design Freedom, inc.
Architect for
MISSING MIDDLE HOUSING
Working with Real Estate Investors and Small-Scale Developers on
ADUs and Infill Homes
Duplexes, Triplexes & Quads
Townhouses and Small-scale Multifamily
Design that balances density, constructability, and long-term value.
Evaluating a property or idea? Start with a Feasibility Study to understand what’s possible before moving forward.
More about a Feasibility Study
THE PROW RESIDENCES
Designed for flood resilience, efficient construction, and strong rental or resale potential in a high-demand beach market.
Project #25-05, Madeira Beach, FL
Two sleek duplexes (four units total) with prow-shaped balconies, elevated concrete block lower levels, and wood-and-metal finishes, combining flood resilience with a durable, modern beach aesthetic perfect for rental or resale.
The images shown illustrate two closely related design schemes. One scheme includes an optional rooftop deck with a covered outdoor kitchen, designed to take advantage of Gulf views and enhance rental appeal.
In design Summer 2025.
MIDTOWN DUPLEX
Maximizes density on a corner lot while maintaining a scale compatible with the neighborhood.
Project #20-14 Tallahassee, FL
A new duplex over parking completes this 4-dwelling corner property near downtown. Modern style and materials keep it fresh!
In design 2024-2025.
COASTAL DUPLEX
Designed to increase unit flexibility and rental potential with separate in-law suites and shared amenities.
Project #22-02, Indian Rocks Beach, FL
A new duplex with a lake-house-style peeks between existing buildings for views. The top floors of the 3-story portions have open layouts for Entertaining inside and out, with the Bedrooms on the middle level and parking below. Each unit also includes an in-law-suite with private entrance and parking below. A shared pool rounds out the property!
Construction Completed 1st Quarter 2025.
The projects shown above fall under what’s known as Missing Middle Housing.
WHAT IS THE MISSING MIDDLE?
This concept includes a variety of housing types that sit comfortably between single-family homes and large apartment buildings, both in size and density. It's a smart solution for providing diverse housing options to meet the needs of different households and income levels.
These housing types are designed to blend seamlessly into existing residential neighborhoods. Typically, they’re low- to mid-rise buildings, usually two to four stories high, and they match the look and feel of single-family homes in the area.
These housing options are flexible enough to meet different household needs, from young professionals and small families to retirees and single individuals. This adaptability helps create inclusive communities.
Missing Middle Housing offers a smart way to bridge the gap in housing options. It provides diverse, affordable, and well-integrated living spaces that enhance neighborhood diversity and sustainability.
Housing Types
ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) AKA In-Law Suites, Granny Flats, Casitas
Tiny Homes
Townhouses (Rowhouses)
Duplexes, Triplexes and Quads (Fourplexes)
Courtyard Apartments & Bungalow Courts
Live/Work Units
Low-rise Apartments (Garden-style Apartments)
Other small-scale multifamily buildings
Image by Candace Opticos - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=149321181
Cathy Svercl, ArchitectCathy Svercl, RA, is a registered architect licensed in Florida and Virginia with over 20 years of experience.
As a Real Estate Investor herself, she understands the balance between design, construction cost, and long-term value. Her own projects include the renovation of a 1964 triplex and replacing the flat roof with a gable.
We work with investors and small-scale developers on:
Renovations and repositioning of existing properties
Additions that increase unit count or livable area
New construction on infill lots
Every project is approached as a problem to solve—balancing zoning, structure, layout, and budget to create a buildable and profitable result.