A new chapter in building together

In partnership with the Alden B. Dow Home and Studio, we are launching a series of Alden B. Dow Habitat Homes, bringing together thoughtful design, historical inspiration, and modern efficiency in a way that is uniquely Midland.

Where design meets purpose

This partnership began with a simple but powerful idea: what if timeless design could meet today’s housing needs?

“Alden Dow was always focused on growth, the growth of ideas, materials, and knowledge, all for the purpose of the growth of people,” said Craig McDonald, Executive Director of the Alden B. Dow Home and Studio and Trustee of the Alden and Veda Dow Family Foundation.

That vision aligns naturally with Habitat’s mission. “Growth, for us, means creating stability, comfort, and the opportunity for families to thrive,” said Jennifer Chappel, President/CEO of Midland County Habitat for Humanity. “This partnership allows us to do that in a way that also reflects the unique character of our community.”

Bringing historic designs to life

Working together, we have brought forward a selection of small home designs originally created by Alden B. Dow in the late 1930s and early 1940s. These designs, all of which were never built or were intended to meet a future need, are remarkably well suited for Habitat today, featuring practical layouts with two to three bedrooms, one bathroom, and an attached garage.

With the expertise of architect Jeff Haines, these designs are being thoughtfully adapted to meet current building codes and Habitat’s high standards for energy efficiency and durability. The result will be 14 homes within the Humanity Street Neighborhood Development that reflect not only the character of Midland’s Mid-Century Modern architectural heritage, but also the needs of families today.

“In these homes, you will see signature materials and design elements that are instantly recognizable as part of Midland’s architectural identity.” – Craig McDonald, Executive Director of the Alden B. Dow Home and Studio and Trustee of the Alden and Veda Dow Family Foundation

Building more than homes

Just as importantly, this collaboration creates opportunities beyond the homes themselves. Students in local building trades programs will gain experience working with new materials and techniques while contributing to the future of their own community.

“One of the most meaningful parts of this work is seeing how partnership creates opportunity,” Chappel said. “Students gain real experience, and at the same time, we’re creating homes that will serve families for generations.”

What begins as a classroom experience becomes a place a family will call home.

“This is what it looks like when a community comes together around a shared goal. We’re not just addressing a housing need, we’re building something that reflects who we are and where we want to go.” – Jennifer Chappel, President/CEO of Midland County Habitat for Humanity

As we reflect on the progress we’ve made as a community, one thing is clear: none of it happens in isolation. When we build together, we build more than homes, we build a stronger future for our entire community.

You can learn more about the Humanity Street Neighborhood Development and follow ongoing progress here.