No.

We are not accepting submissions from professionals outside of Kansas and Missouri.

No, we are only accepting submissions from those enrolled in programs based in Kansas and Missouri.

Professional participants do not need to be licensed (in Missouri, Kansas, or elsewhere) to submit a design for consideration.

The competition does not include financial support for submitters. Winning entries will receive a cash prize and publicity via the competition announcement and awards ceremony.

All submissions must be made digitally. See the Competition Guidebook and contact hannahp@udinstitute.org if you have further questions.

Submissions will be judged anonymously. See the Competition Guidebook for instructions on how to name files and label sheets.

Yes, we welcome designs of existing homes as long as the design can be replicated on the competition site and under the local zoning code you choose.

Yes! You will be asked to locate it on the theoretical site provided for the competition but you can decide what municipal codes govern the site.

While many residential design competitions are conducted, few focus on homes with universal and age-friendly features despite the growing population of older adults and the lack of appropriate housing. Through this competition and others like it, we hope to increase public and professional awareness of the need for more universal homes and to showcase good examples.

Yes, as long as the design elements are consistent with local building codes. The intent of this competition is to serve as a catalyst for key conversations regarding current codes and potential changes that might better serve the needs of the community.

We are asking for universally designed (UD) submissions which are inherently age-friendly. Age-friendly features such as step-free entrances, wider doorways, and bathrooms with maneuvering room all make living easier for people who use walkers or wheelchairs. All UD housing is more easily customizable and adaptable than traditional homes. These resources will explain more about universal housing.

Points will be given for how well the Judging criteria are fulfilled but no additional points will be awarded for reaching specific standards.

Yes! Energy Efficiency Consider the short- and long-term environmental impact of the project across its full life cycle — from siting and design through construction, operation, and maintenance — prioritizing resource efficiency, environmental responsibility, and occupant health and wellbeing.

Designers retain ownership of their work at all times.

Designers are not required to have professional liability or E&O, in order to participate in the competition.

Yes, we welcome students working on their own or as a team.

No, there's no fee to register or participate.