American Institute of Architects (AIA) Blue Ridge and the City of Roanoke are partnering to increase public awareness of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and encourage the implementation of ADU supportive policies.
“The City of Roanoke has an aging population and a growing need for affordable housing options. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) can provide affordable housing opportunities, allow individuals to age in place, provide extra space for guests, care of loved ones, or provide income from renting to a tenant. Understanding that ADUs are an important tool in supporting affordable, accessible housing, the City has updated the zoning ordinance to allow ADUs by-right in all the residentially-zoned districts.”
There is a lot that goes into designing an ADU that fits within a single-family lot in a manner respectful of the surrounding community though. In order to have pre-approved ADU plans for the public to use free-of-charge, AIA Blue Ridge and the City of Roanoke hosted a design competition for ADU’s in September 2023, funded by the AARP Community Challenge Grant. We’re excited to announce that Resilient Virginia Board of Directors member, Steve Sunderman (President, Terrazia PC Architecture), won 1st place in the contest! With his ADU plan available to the public, he is making the creation of ADUs more attainable for everyone within the community. Congratulations Steve!
