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Nate Helbach, the founder and CEO of Neutral, is redefining sustainable development. Since its inception in 2019, Neutral has been on a mission to minimize carbon emissions in the built environment while creating regenerative housing solutions. With projects spanning Wisconsin, Arkansas, and California, Neutral integrates architecture, engineering, and construction into a vertically integrated powerhouse.
"Our vision is not just about sustainability but also enhancing urban neighborhoods with thoughtful, regenerative designs," Helbach shared, emphasizing Neutral’s commitment to sustainable and community-focused living.
"Soon to be the tallest mass timber building in the world, Neutral is shaping Milwaukee's skyline with The Edison redefining modern architecture, and doing so in a sustainable way (3D render: Instagram: @wearevisuals)"
Neutral addresses one of the real estate industry's most pressing challenges: the environmental footprint of housing. With a portfolio featuring mass timber high-rises and urban infill developments, Neutral combines classical architectural aesthetics with cutting-edge sustainability.
For example, their biophilic interior designs prioritize natural materials and abundant light, fostering a connection between residents and nature. "We see tenants willing to pay a 6-8% rent premium for sustainable living environments because of the unparalleled quality of life they offer," Helbach explained.
Their circular approach extends beyond construction. Leftover drywall is repurposed as cow bedding, and on-site composting transforms food waste into garden fertilizer. Neutral also fosters community well-being through offerings like fitness centers with integrated health assessments and partnerships with local farmers for fresh produce delivery.
The housing sector accounts for nearly 40% of global CO₂ emissions, according to the United Nations1. As cities grapple with housing shortages and climate change, Neutral’s solutions present a model for scalable, sustainable urban living.
Neutral's focus on the “missing middle” housing—urban, low-rise developments in thriving neighborhoods—meets a growing demand. Multifamily housing is no longer a transient choice but a long-term living option for millennials and baby boomers. "Investors and developers must recognize this demographic shift to meet market demands effectively," Helbach noted.
Their use of mass timber for high-rises addresses embodied carbon, a growing concern in construction, while catering to urban centers' aesthetic and environmental needs.
Helbach’s journey reflects the power of combining purpose with innovation. Starting in Wisconsin, his local connections enabled Neutral to secure capital through a bespoke syndication platform, bypassing traditional avenues like Fundrise. "If you're not an operator, partner with one. DIY approaches in real estate are rarely sustainable," he advised.
His philosophy extends to embracing circularity in operations. "Circularity isn't just about reducing carbon but creating healthy ecosystems—clean air, water, and food—while enriching tenants’ lives."
Neutral exemplifies how sustainability can drive profitability and societal impact. By rethinking housing through the lens of circularity and well-being, Helbach is shaping a future where communities thrive harmoniously with the environment.
For more on Neutral’s transformative work, visit their website at Neutral.
Explore The Edison with Neutral.
The Edison, a 31-story luxury multifamily property along Milwaukee's RiverWalk, features 378 upscale apartments and best-in-class amenities, including a cafe, spa, fitness center, and entertainment deck. Leveraging Mass Timber technology and targeting Passive House certification, it combines sustainable design with biophilic architecture to set a new standard for urban living.
Source:
1 United Nations Environmental Program. (n.d.). Global status report for buildings and construction 2022. Retrieved from https://www.unep.org
