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**Reducing NIMBYism Through Thoughtful Landscaping in Affordable Housing Developments**
*Pictured: Monarch Apartments*
![Vince Nicholas – Vice President of Real Estate Development, Community Housing Opportunities Corporation (CHOC)]
*Vince Nicholas*
The lack of affordable housing in the U.S. continues to be a pressing issue. However, alongside growing demand are persistent challenges, including community resistance, often fueled by misconceptions and stigmas.
“Communities are often divided about adding new affordable housing due to unfair stigmas about integrating with seniors, working-class, or underserved populations,” said Vince Nicholas, Vice President of Real Estate Development for Community Housing Opportunities Corporation (CHOC).
Perceptions that affordable housing is unattractive or negatively impacts neighborhood aesthetics also persist. Nicholas noted that residents frequently express concerns that such developments won’t blend with meticulously designed neighborhoods — especially when it comes to visual and architectural integration.
![Joy Silver – Chief Strategy Officer, CHOC]
*Joy Silver*
Nicholas and CHOC Chief Strategy Officer Joy Silver suggest that design and landscaping can help overcome some of these barriers. In particular, thoughtful architectural styles and landscaping plans can help ease community resistance from so-called NIMBYs (“Not In My Backyard” opponents).
“If a multifamily developer is proposing an attractively landscaped complex, then surrounding residents are more welcoming to have it built in their backyards,” Nicholas explained. “The key is designing it in a way that enhances the surrounding environment — adding value to everyone.”
### The Case of Monarch Apartments
One prominent example of this strategy in action is the 60-unit Monarch Apartments, located on 3.62 acres at 3130 N. Indian Canyon Dr. in Palm Springs, California. CHOC developed this property on land owned by the City of Palm Springs Successor Agency.
Silver pointed out that the Monarch was designed with Palm Springs’ local architecture in mind. Adjacent neighborhoods feature western-themed, Mediterranean, and contemporary designs, and the CHOC team integrated these stylistic elements into the apartment complex.
The Monarch Apartments also embrace a cohesive theme, inspired by the Monarch butterfly. From signage to splash pads and sculptures, the butterfly theme is woven throughout the property’s design. Landscaping was also crafted with intention — including milkweed plants that attract migrating Monarch butterflies, as well as palm trees and drought-resistant vegetation that offer both practicality and beauty.
![Monarch Apartments Exterior]
![Monarch Property Grounds]
### Community Reaction and Occupancy Success
Silver shared that early tours with neighbors sparked astonishment at the design quality. Rather than questioning the development, neighbors wanted to know if units were for sale.
“When you look at the Monarch, you would not say ‘that’s affordable housing,’” she said.
The Monarch began accepting applications in late 2023 and officially opened in early 2024. It has remained 100% occupied since its debut. As of now, the waitlist has reopened due to high demand.
Nicholas emphasized the broader impact, noting that following the Monarch’s success, two more affordable housing projects were approved nearby. He believes the engaging landscaping helped shift attitudes.
Developers looking to replicate this success should adopt a people-centered approach. For example, in senior-focused communities, allergy-free plants can improve resident satisfaction. Furthermore, water-efficient irrigation systems and drought-tolerant species — like succulents — are especially effective in arid climates.
“A people-first approach to multifamily landscaping doesn’t just make for a stronger community inside the gates,” Nicholas said. “It also enriches the surrounding neighborhood.”
*Photos by Noe Montes*
*This feature was originally published on ApartmentBuildings.com.*
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