City Launches Age-Friendly Housing Design Competition

The City is hosting an age-friendly housing design competition this fall for professionals and students. 

Sponsored by AARP and held in partnership with the University of New Mexico’s School of Architecture and Planning, the Mid-Region Metropolitan Planning Organization, and the New Mexico Chapter of the Urban Land Institute, the competition will explore proposals for cottage-style housing that supports residents as they age.

 Participants will develop concepts for housing suited to aging in place with access to nearby services and amenities while fitting within the surrounding neighborhood. The competition will include separate categories for design professionals and students, with cash prizes awarded for first place and honorable mention entries.

 “Albuquerque needs more housing types that allow people to stay in the communities they know and remain connected to the people, services, and places that matter to them,” said Mayor Tim Keller. “Thoughtful design can make aging in place easier while creating housing that fits into and strengthens our neighborhoods.”

 “AARP is proud to support this competition because housing is critical to helping people age where they choose. By encouraging innovative, age-friendly design, we can expand housing options, promote independence, and strengthen communities for residents of all ages,” said Joseph Roybal-Sanchez, state director of AARP New Mexico.

 The competition brings together the City’s Department of Senior Affairs, Planning Department, Department of Health, Housing & Homelessness, and the Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency to explore housing options that support healthy aging, accessibility, and connection to community.

 The competition will begin with a kickoff event on September 1, with entries accepted through November 13. For more information, including registration details and competition requirements, visit cabq.gov/cottages.