In the housing world, the pressure is on: more people, less land, tighter budgets, and high expectations. But what if you could deliver multi-unit developments – duplexes, cottage clusters, quadplexes – that go up faster, cost less, and maintain high quality? That’s exactly what modular construction makes possible.
At Wolf we have refined a multi-unit methodology that balances speed, customization, and economic feasibility. We aim to build residential “Density with Dignity”, by approaching multi-unit housing development with a focus on providing things that make a “house a home” while also providing a thriving community. “Density with Dignity” means less shared walls and ceilings, quality built living spaces that provide the essentials, and shared community spaces that people are eager to utilize. Let’s walk through how our process works and explore real applications.
Why Choose Modular for Multi-Unit?
Traditional multi-unit construction involves multiple trades, on-site coordination, and high exposure to delays. Modular shifts much of the work to offsite factory settings. This offers:
- Reduced schedule risk
- Tighter cost control
- Better quality consistency
- Less disruption at the build site
- Flexibility to meet local code and design preferences
Wolf is a turnkey solution, handling everything from site evaluation to unit delivery and setup so developers can focus on performance and ROI.
The Wolf Modular Multi-Unit Process
1. Feasibility
Identify land use, zoning, and environmental constraints such as sewer access, stormwater, slopes, wetlands, and habitat. Determine if existing building plans can be used or if a new design is needed. Complete a project proforma, preliminary layout, and overall project schedule based on target bed/bath/door counts.
2. Pre-Application
Engage with the jurisdiction having authority (JHA). Collect infiltration rates, slope data, and soil classifications. Order geotechnical and survey work and complete any required archaeological or environmental assessments.
3. Pre-Design & Concept Development
Work with structural, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and civil engineers to create an initial concept. Include site utilities, fire access, and right-of-way requirements. Submit plans for a Planning Department pre-screen review.
4. Engineering
Develop full civil and building engineering sets, including architectural, structural, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and energy code sheets. Prepare detailed site plans, grading, drainage, and utility plans for final review.
5. Final Civil Engineering
Finalize all civil drawings – grading, erosion control, stormwater, sanitary sewer, water, street, landscape, and lighting plans. These become the foundation for permit submission.
6. Permitting
Apply for building permits with the JHA, establish system development charges (SDCs), and complete state plan approval and PUD power plan coordination.
7. Civil Construction
Begin on-site work including mass excavation, utilities, foundations, asphalt, paving, fencing, and landscaping to prepare the site for modular delivery.
8. Volumetric/Modular Production
Construct the homes in factory stages:
- Framing
- Utility rough-in
- Flooring, trim, and paint
- Exterior siding
- MEP trim
- Cabinets, countertops, and QC/QA
9. Button-Up & Closeout
Deliver and set units with cranes if needed, connect all MEP systems, and complete decks and finishes. Conduct inspections for utilities and easements, obtain the Certificate of Occupancy, record covenants, finalize as-builts, deliver O&M manuals, and perform final QC/QA and handoff.
Real-World Examples
Wolf has deployed a variety of modular multi-unit in projects, including:
- Senior living duplexes in Madras, Oregon
- Cottage clusters for rental communities
- Two-story quadplexes for nonprofit housing
- Transitional housing with solar and high insulation
Build Density with Dignity with Wolf
Whether you’re planning a cottage cluster, duplex, or full-scale community, our in-house team can take your vision from concept to completion.
Start your conversation with us today to explore what’s possible for your land.
👉 Talk to Our Development Team