Missing Middle Housing visual design contest

Shelter WF, with the financial support of a 2024 AARP Community Challenge grant, is having a visual housing design competition focused on Missing Middle Housing in Whitefish. This initiative addresses the pressing need for community-oriented, affordable and accessible housing options.                        

Participants can do one or both of the two design challenge options: individual plot design and neighborhood plot design. 

Individual Plot Design: Design housing that adheres to current zoning regulations for one of two common zoning districts in Whitefish, WR-2 or WB-2, with high potential to create more housing options close to downtown. Specific zoning information will be provided to those who choose this option.                                    

Neighborhood Block Design: Design a neighborhood block. This option will ignore current zoning limitations, encouraging innovative and potentially paradigm-shifting approaches.        

The goals of the competition are to raise awareness and promote acceptance of Missing Middle Housing, such as row-homes, four-plexes, and cottage cluster housing, for people of all ages and abilities.

The competition will also highlight the importance of varied, affordable, accessible, and community-focused housing options to meet the evolving needs of Whitefish residents. The competition will showcase exceptional design proposals for public review and award cash prizes to recognize outstanding contributions.
Design submissions are due September 20. Winners will be awarded cash prizes and showcased at upcoming community events.

For more details and to submit interest in participating in the contest visit www.shelterwf.org/aarp_community_challenge.