Welcome!
The Anchorage AARP Multi-Generational Housing Design Initiative brings together local architects, builders, and community members to reimagine housing that works for all generations. This collaborative project explores innovative solutions for accessible, adaptable homes that allow residents to age in place while strengthening neighborhood connections.
These architectural concepts showcase creative approaches to:
- Ground-floor accessible units for aging in place
- Northern design principles for Alaska's climate
- Flexible spaces that adapt as families grow
- Smart solutions for 2-4 unit developments
- Cost-effective construction methods
The public debut for the designs was Dec. 6, 2024, at First Friday at the Anchorage Museum
Share Your Voice
Your perspective will help shape the future of housing in Anchorage. Vote for designs that best address our community's needs, and share your own story about multi-generational living. Through this initiative, funded by an AARP Livable Communities Challenge grant, we're working to create housing solutions that strengthen our neighborhoods while promoting accessibility and affordability.
This collaborative effort brings together expertise from Cook Inlet Housing Authority, NeighborWorks Alaska, the Anchorage Museum, Sightline Institute, UAA's Institute of Social and Economic Research, and other community partners, demonstrating our shared commitment to innovative, sustainable housing solutions.
Seth Andersen/ Arete: College Gate
The design allows for flexible living arrangements - from housing aging parents to providing space for young adults starting their careers, with carefully planned shared and private spaces.
- Two-story primary residence (+/-2,500 sq ft) designed for family with 2-3 kids, featuring accessible ground floor and flexible living spaces
- Separate mother-in-law unit (+/-1,500 sq ft) with fully independent, single-level living for aging relatives
- Optional caretaker/ADU units with independent living capabilities, including MIL caretaker unit with private entry and Garage ADU for potential rental or family use
- Adaptable design with shared and private outdoor spaces, semi-shared indoor access, and options for various family configurations
- Located in established College Gate neighborhood with proximity to trails, schools, and community amenities
BDS Architects : Ocean View
- Two-story townhomes with flexible design; Corner unit with potential for small business or community space, featuring an adaptable apartment above
- Accessible units designed for aging in place, with ensuite bathrooms and green spaces
- Innovative use of property lines, pushing building boundaries to maximize sunlight and usable space
- Designed for young families and seniors, with ownership model allowing individual unit purchases
The design supports multiple generations living together while maintaining individual privacy and potential for future growth.
Clark Yerrington - FRamE: Airport Heights
- Two-building configurations featuring a Main House (4-BR, 3.5-BA) and Small House (2-BR, 2.5-BA) on each lot
- Ground-floor suites in Main Houses include accessible kitchenettes and compliant accessibility features, allowing adaptive independent yet integrated living spaces.
- Shared laundry/utility areas between Main and Small Houses; Outdoor features including fire pits, raspberry patches, dog runs, and private fenced yards.
- Attached carports/garages with additional storage solutions
- Sustainability: Flat roofs with parapets allowing solar array mounting
The design prioritizes functional, adaptable living spaces that support multigenerational families while maintaining individual privacy and collective comfort.