Affordable Dwelling Units Design Competition

Shenandoah County Dept of Community Development was awarded a competitive AARP Community Challenge Grant to launch this project, which aims to generate creative, context-sensitive ADU designs that support aging in place, workforce housing, and multigenerational living. 

Designs may explore:

• Small detached units
• Garage or carriage house conversions
• Attached suites or interior reconfigurations

The competition directly supports implementation strategies from our Shenandoah 2045 Comprehensive Plan, including:

• Strategy 5.1.7 – Create a library of pre-approved building plans
• Strategy 5.2.4 – Enable housing for all ages
• Strategy 5.3.6 – Incentivize infill and context-sensitive housing development
•  

Entries are welcome from:

Individual Homeowners

Colleges

Design firms

While submissions are not expected to be permit-ready, they aim to curate a collection of professional-grade concepts that can inform future planning, permitting, and public engagement.

Prize money is available and competition details are in the works.

Competition Launch: Sept 1, 2025
Submission Deadline: Mid October
More Information: Shenandoah Housing Design Challenge