Despite the mainstream disdain for new construction, Vox explains the research suggesting these so-called “phony” apartment buildings popping across the United States can actually fight displacement.

While the similar look of these new buildings may not be aesthetically pleasing, construction of 5-over-1 units is the cheapest and easiest way to build, which is crucial given the U.S. housing shortage. Growing research suggests that adding market-rate units to neighborhoods, including strictly affordable units, actually decreases gentrification.

Check out more of Vox’s Jerusalem Demsas‘ reporting on housing, gentrification, and zoning laws.