Question 1

Does each submission team need a licensed architect?

Accepted Answer

No.

Question 2

Can Professionals from outside the Kansas City Region participate?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 3

Can students in programs outside of Kansas and Missouri participate?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 4

Do professional participants need to be licensed in Missouri or Kansas?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 5

What financial resources exist for groups submitting designs?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 6

What is the format for submissions?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 7

Should the designer's name and information be on the submissions or are these judged anonymously?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 8

Can we submit plans for ADUs already built?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 9

Can I submit a design that is being built for a client currently?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 10

Why is the competition emphasizing Age-Friendly design?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 11

Can submitters select innovative elements such as off-grid energy, water and waste lines?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 12

Do the design specifications include wheelchair accessibility?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 13

Will additional points be awarded for aspiring to LEED, Passive House, or other similar standards?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 14

Would energy efficiency be part of the economy consideration for judging?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 15

Do the designers retain ownership of their designs after submitting them or do they forefit ownership of their submissions?

Accepted Answer

Designers retain ownership of their work at all times.

Question 16

Will designers be required to have professional liability insurance if their plans are chosen?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 17

Can groups of students enter as a team?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 18

Is there a fee to register?

Accepted Answer

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

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