The City of La Crosse is thrilled to announce the launch of its first-ever Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Design Competition! Following the approval of ADU construction in March 2024 (Municipal Code Sec. 115-405), we are on a mission to ignite creativity and innovation in our community. This competition, in partnership with AARP and AIA Wisconsin, is your chance to shine and contribute to the future of housing in La Crosse.

Why ADUs?

  • Enhance Your Neighborhood: ADUs offer companionship, security, and services for homeowners, while maintaining neighborhood stability and property values.
  • Diversify Housing: Create housing solutions for people at various life stages, making our neighborhoods more inclusive and vibrant.
  • Design Excellence: Showcase your skills and vision for beautiful, functional, and sustainable living spaces. 

Join the Competition!

We invite architects, designers, and innovators to participate in this exciting competition. Submit your best ADU design and compete for prestigious cash prizes. This is a unique opportunity to have your work recognized and contribute to addressing the housing crunch in La Crosse.

Submission Details

  • What to Submit: An application, design concept for the subject site, and supporting documents. Your submission should highlight how your design promotes accessibility, sustainability, and affordability. Include a general floor plan, elevation drawings, and a 3D rendering.
  • Site Information: Find all necessary details here.  The use of this site is for conceptual purposes only.   
  • Compliance: Ensure your design meets the City’s requirements (Municipal Code Sec. 115-405 and Sec. 115-390).

Judging and Awards

  • Initial Review: All submissions will be evaluated to ensure they meet technical requirements.
  • Design Jury: A panel of experts will review qualifying submissions and select a shortlist of finalists.
  • Open House: Finalists will present their designs at a public open house hosted by the City, AARP, and AIA Wisconsin on November 21, 2024. The jury will rate presentations based on sustainability, accessibility, and affordability.
  • Prizes: The top three designs will receive cash prizes of $3,000 each, awarded by the City via check after the competition concludes.

Showcase Your Work

All qualifying submissions will be featured on the City of La Crosse’s ADU Library Website, providing visibility to designers and inspiration to homeowners considering ADUs.

Key Dates
  • Submission Deadline: October 20, 2024, by 11:59 pm. Late submissions will not be considered.
  • Finalist Notification: November 6, 2024.
  • Open House and Winner Announcement: November 21, 2024.

Don’t miss this opportunity to make your mark on La Crosse’s housing landscape. Submit your innovative ADU design and be part of a movement that’s shaping the future of our community. Apply here and let your creativity soar!