Waterbury House is a 2025 MADACS Award finalist in the Innovative Amenity category, recognized by the Minnesota Multi Housing Association. The nomination celebrates one of the building’s most practical and forward-thinking features: the Parking Matrix system.
The Parking Matrix improves the resident parking experience by solving a common challenge in city apartment living: limited space.
About the MADACS Awards
Each year, the Minnesota Multi Housing Association (MMHA) presents the MADACS Awards to recognize top achievements in apartment design, amenities, marketing, and resident experience. With hundreds of entries across many categories, the awards highlight the best in Minnesota’s rental housing industry.
The Innovative Amenity category highlights solutions that go beyond trend and convenience, focusing on usefulness, creativity, and execution.
Solving for Space with the Parking Matrix
Waterbury House is located in the desirable West Lake area, just steps from Bde Maka Ska (formerly Lake Calhoun). While this setting offers walkability and scenic views, it also presents logistical hurdles, especially with parking.
Waterbury House found a new way to handle parking in the city. They created something called the Parking Matrix.
This solution is different from only allowing one vehicle per resident or using overflow lots. Residents can store two vehicles vertically in one stall using this mechanical system. This is ideal for households with multiple cars, work vehicles, or seasonal rides like convertibles or motorcycles.
The Matrix is accessed via a secure keypad or app, making it easy for residents to retrieve their vehicles. Whether storing a pickup truck or an SUV, the system accommodates a variety of vehicle sizes without compromising efficiency.
A New Standard for Convenience
For many residents, the Matrix is more than a novelty—it’s a practical daily asset. One resident stores their classic convertible in the Matrix year-round, accessing it on summer weekends using the app. Another parks a secondary work vehicle there, freeing up their main space for everyday use.
This flexibility helps residents avoid the hassles of off-site parking or the unpredictability of street parking. The system also reflects a thoughtful approach to design and livability, integrating function and form into one of the most used parts of the building.
Setting Waterbury House Apart
Mechanical parking systems are rare in the Minneapolis rental market. Waterbury House is one of the only properties in the area to offer this kind of amenity, especially with the added convenience of app control and multi-vehicle support.
Instead of cutting back on parking to fit more units, Waterbury House chose to serve residents who rely on cars—while keeping the footprint efficient and uncluttered. The result is an amenity that feels as natural as it is necessary.
Looking Ahead
Being nominated for a MADACS Award in this category is a meaningful milestone for the Waterbury House team. The Parking Matrix represents what’s possible when thoughtful design meets the needs of real people, in real time.
We feel honored to stand alongside some of the state’s most creative projects and look forward to celebrating this fall.
The Parking Matrix is a helpful feature at Waterbury House. It makes life there easier and more enjoyable. The Waterbury House team designed every detail—from rooftop views to on-site dining—to enhance daily living. Explore more amenities at Waterbury House or view our available residences to find your new home in Minneapolis.
