With financial support from a 2024 AARP Community Challenge Grant, Shelter WF is hosting a visual housing design competition focused on Missing Middle Housing in Whitefish. The effort addresses the immediate need for community-oriented, affordable and accessible housing options.
Participants can do one or both of two design challenge options: an individual lot design and a neighborhood lot design.
Individual Lot Design: Design your home to comply with current zoning regulations in one of Whitefish’s two general zoning districts (WR-2 or WB-2). Increase the chances of creating more housing options closer to downtown. Specific zoning information will be provided to those who select this option.
Design a Neighborhood Block: Design a neighborhood block. This option ignores current zoning restrictions and encourages innovative and potentially paradigm-shifting approaches.
The aim of the competition is to raise awareness and encourage acceptance of missing middle housing, which includes row houses, four-family homes and cottage apartment complexes that cater to people of all ages and abilities.
The competition will also highlight the importance of diverse, affordable, accessible and community-focused housing options to meet the changing needs of Whitefish residents. The competition will open outstanding design proposals for public review and award monetary prizes to recognize outstanding contributions.
The deadline for submitting designs is September 20. Winners will receive a cash prize and will have their designs exhibited at upcoming community events.
For more information about the contest and to express interest in participating, visit www.shelterwf.org/aarp_community_challenge