The Little Project: Unlocking the Potential of An Everyday Urban Lot

The Little Project is a pilot initiative demonstrating the transformative power of small-scale urban residential design. Situated on a 40x150-foot lot in St. Paul’s historic neighborhood, this full-site redesign reimagines a traditional lawn-covered front and backyard into a dynamic, nature-rich sanctuary. Blending sustainability, nature play, edible gardening, and outdoor education, the project maximizes every square foot within a modest budget. Designed for year-round beauty and enjoyment, it aims to create lasting memories for a family with a young child while fostering community connections—offering neighbors a place to pause, gather, and immerse themselves in nature.