Shelter WF has launched a ground-breaking housing design competition emphasising “Missing Middle Housing” in Whitefish, backed by the 2024 AARP Community Challenge grant. This challenge seeks to remedy the urgent need for affordable, accessible housing that bolsters the community. It invites architects, urban planners, and designers to propose innovative, practical, and eco-friendly housing solutions aligned with community needs.
Submissions can encompass duplexes, townhouses, courtyard apartments, and comparable housing styles. The designs should foster inclusivity, catering to inhabitants of all backgrounds and abilities. The winning scheme will be awarded a cash prize and the possibility for their design to be materialised within Whitefish’s evolving housing scene.
The competition comprises two design issues: Individual Plot Design and Neighborhood Block Design. For the Individual Plot Design, contestants must devise housing that adheres to zoning regulations of frequently existing zoning districts of Whitefish. For the Neighborhood Block Design, participants must create an overall layout for a small community featuring a mix of the housing types designed for the Individual Plot.
Designs should innovate and consider local context, outdoor spaces, solar orientation, and vehicular and pedestrian access. Sustainability and resilience should be prioritised through efficient building practice, material, and systems.The objective is to harmonise with local character and enrich the Whitefish community.
In the Neighborhood Block Design challenge, participants are encouraged to develop designs offering inventive solutions beyond existing zoning restrictions. Proposed designs should incorporate communal spaces, green infrastructure, and housing diversity.
Whitefish housing design contest overview
In this competition, emphasis is on blending urban planning and architectural creativity, paving the way for resilient and inclusive neighborhoods.
The housing design contest aims to promote awareness and acceptance of “Missing Middle Housing,” which encompasses housing designs like fourplexes, row-houses, and cottage cluster housing. These designs cater to a diverse age range and abilities. The overarching goal is to bridge the gap between single-family homes and large apartment blocks with these “Missing Middle Housing” types, providing high quality, accessible housing options to wider audiences.
Outstanding design entries will be publicly critiqued, and creators of top submissions will receive cash prizes. Winners will also have opportunities to showcase their designs at future community gatherings. Entries must be submitted by September 20. Importantly, plagiarism will not be tolerated. Participation in this competition allows for showcasing creativity and offers a chance to establish connections within the design community. Guidelines for submissions are available online.
Interested parties can find more information or express participation intent by visiting www.shelterwf.org/aarp_community_challenge. This website provides comprehensive details about entering the contest. Start working on your designs today and let your creativity flourish!
