In the vibrant West 7th neighborhood of Saint Paul, Minnesota, a groundbreaking urban infill development named “The Little Mod” is setting new standards for residential architecture. Designed by Double Jack Design Workshop in collaboration with visualization studio NOMINN, this duplex project redefines urban density with its innovative approach and Nordic-inspired aesthetic.
HOUSING
Recently awarded the Jury Selected prize in the Architecture +Models & Rendering Category at the 12th Annual Architizer A+ Awards, The Little Mod is celebrated for its design and visualization excellence. The project’s renderings, crafted by NOMINN, played a pivotal role in securing funding and approvals, showcasing the development’s potential to investors and city officials.
The Little Mod embraces a Nordic aesthetic, using a combination of wood and large format panels to create a harmonious blend with its surroundings. The building’s design features large south-facing openings, maximizing natural light and passive heating during the winter months. This thoughtful approach ensures that the structure complements rather than competes with the neighborhood’s existing character.
The project site presented significant challenges, including sixteen feet of grade changes in two directions and near-surface bedrock. Despite these obstacles, Double Jack Design Workshop aimed to create a simple structure with minimal impact on the site. The result is a design that not only addresses these challenges but also enhances the overall functionality and appeal of the development.
The Little Mod is targeting Zero Energy Building status, pairing a high-performing building envelope with intelligent mechanical systems. Energy modeling is integral to the design, ensuring that the building’s envelope, windows, and doors contribute to energy efficiency. The goal is to produce more energy than the home consumes annually, making The Little Mod a pioneer in sustainable residential design.
In early 2024, the exterior renderings produced by NOMINN were crucial in advancing the project. These stunning visualizations helped secure significant funding from sources such as Statewide Affordable Housing Aid, 2023 HRA Levy funding, and American Rescue Plan Act funding. The renderings effectively communicated the project’s potential, capturing the essence of Little Mod across the changing Minnesota seasons.
The Little Mod project is managed by Jacob Zikmund of Double Jack Design Workshop, with contributions from collaborators David Booth and Alex Zikmund. Environmental engineering is provided by the Center for Energy and Environment, civil engineering by Design Tee, and structural engineering by Meyer Borgman Johnson. The landscape design is handled by Calyx Design Group, ensuring that the outdoor spaces are as thoughtfully designed as the building itself.
With construction set to begin in late 2024, The Little Mod promises to be a smart and natural addition to the West 7th neighborhood. This project addresses the need for increased urban density and sets a new benchmark for sustainable residential architecture.
Project Name: Little Mod
Location: St. Paul, Minnesota
Client: GRO LLC
Builder: GRO LLC
Architect: Double Jack Design Workshop
Project Manager: Jacob Zikmund
Collaborators: David Booth, Alex Zikmund
Environmental Engineer: Center for Energy and Environment
Civil Engineer: Design Tee
Structural Engineer: Meyer Borgman Johnson
Landscape Architect: Calyx Design Group
Visualization: NOMINN
