I've done a lot of iterations over the years as we've advocated for these housing options, but in this version I'm looking at stepping in the side yard setback where it is adjacent to single family front yards. It also provides a bit of transparency to the stair and entrance.
That makes sense! I'm in Washington, DC, where we mainly have zero-side-setback housing, which is why I was wondering if a "smooth-front" version existed!
Oh yes, all throughout europe and most of the rest of the world they allow party-wall single stair buildings. The best ones have shallow floor plates (~35' to 45' max) and adjacent green space / courtyards. Just follow @holz-bau.bsky.social and he'll talk your head off about it.