Brief
In the Kansas City region, demand is growing for housing that supports the needs of an aging population. These shifting demographics present a challenging reality: few of the traditional homes in the region adequately meet the long-term needs of older adults. Accessory dwelling units are a more affordable option than traditional homes, and when combined with universal design and age-friendly features, can be an ideal option for aging in place.
Home Plus One is an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) design competition that incorporates principles of universal design. The competition aims to:
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Educate key stakeholders in the specifics of universal and age-friendly design.
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Generate buildable detached ADU plans which incorporate key universal design elements.
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Provide cash prizes for winning designs
THE CHALLENGE
Focus area
Detached ADUs
Design Approach
Universal Design
Winners Announced
November 2026
COMPETITION OBJECTIVES
1. Educate key stakeholders on the specifics of universal and age-friendly design.
2. Generate awareness around ADUs as a viable option for housing that supports aging in place.
3. Generate buildable ADU plans which incorporate key universal design elements
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4. Provide a cash prize for winning designs (professional, student).
WHAT IS AN ADU?
WHAT IS UNIVERSAL DESIGN?
Universal design is the practice of creating products, environments and services that are usable by all people to the greatest extent possible, without the need for specialized adaptation. Universally designed homes offer features like graded step-free entrances, wider doors and hallways, main-level bathrooms and bedrooms, front-control stoves and space to maneuver wheelchairs and walkers, to name only a few.
Home Plus One is a collaboration between Communities for All Ages, the Greater Kansas City Regional Housing Partnership, and the R.L. Mace Universal Design Institute, with generous support from the William J. Brace Charitable Trust.
Awards
Student
1st Place: $2000
2nd Place: $500
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Professional
1st Place $5,000
2nd Place: $3,000
3rd Place. $2,000
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Winning entries:
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Will be showcased at a community open house.
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Will be featured in a press release, in local media, on betterlivingdesign.org as well as other digital media outlets.
Professional Student
1st Place $5,000 1st Place: $2000
2nd Place $3,000 2nd Place: $500
3rd Place. $2,000
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Winning entries:
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Will be showcased at a community open house.
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Will be featured in a press release, in local media, on betterlivingdesign.org as well as other digital media outlets.
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Winning 1st place submission to be built and displayed...
Kickoff event (Virtual)
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A recording of the kickoff event will be posted to the Webinars page.
Webinar 2
Webinar 3
Registration open
Submission deadline
Competition wrap up event
6.24
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TBD
TBD
6.24–8.31
9.30 11:59 PM CT
​11.19 TBC
Timeline
