200 Points

History has demonstrated that architectural environment plays a critical role to the long-term success or failure of social housing developments.  As such, the renovation of existing housing and the addition of infill units and new construction must sensitively balance architectural innovation with the historic, social, and economic context of the community.  It is paramount that development of the architectural aesthetic is inclusive of current and future residents.  Additionally, submissions should demonstrate commitment to principles of sustainable design at building, site, and neighborhood scales; innovation in the integration of various building systems; and creative design solutions for individual units, building blocks, and site and landscaping components.

100 Points

Underlying any successful development is a robust architectural program.  For housing developments, this includes establishing an appropriate mix of uses, unit typologies, and service infrastructure, as well as identifying critical relationships between distinct spaces within the site and beyond to the surrounding community.  The integration of supportive service components and access to transportation, jobs, and education further contribute to a well-programed project.

100 Points

Economic Feasibility is particularly challenging in the development of affordable housing.  An economically viable project can be achieved, however, through a combination of innovative financing mechanisms and subsidies; reduced construction costs per square foot or per unit; operational efficiencies resulting from lower administrative, utility, and maintenance costs; and creative integration of supportive services.

100 Points

With the resurgence of cities in the past decades, lack of affordability has become a deep-rooted contributor to vulnerable urban neighborhoods.  The combination of land scarcity and climbing construction costs jeopardizes the ability to provide quality, affordable units not only for populations of need but also for newly-arrived residents and young adults hoping to remain in the communities of their youth.  The competition seeks to establish a replicable model that can be adapted for future housing development throughout the city of Atlanta and in other cities experiencing similar housing scarcity.