WHAT IF YOUR NEXT-DOOR NEIGHBOR CHANGED EVERYTHING?
An intergenerational duplex design competition challenging communities to reimagine housing through connection, dignity, and age-friendly design.
Mission Statement
Inspire all generations to design age-friendly, intergenerational duplex homes that build connection, community, and a stronger Charlotte County.
About PORCH
Charlotte County, Florida sits at an extraordinary crossroads. It is home to one of the fastest-growing 55+ populations in the state — and, at the same time, it is a community where homeless youth, aging-out foster children, and veterans without stable housing are searching for a place to belong.
"This competition is something fresh, new, and needed. It has the ability to spark curiosity, collaboration, and creativity amongst audiences who may not traditionally cross paths."
WHO CAN COLLABORATE
Schools
We welcome participation from accredited high schools, technical schools, colleges, universities, and other educational programs whose students and faculty are interested in creating innovative, affordable, and age-friendly housing solutions.
FAITH BASED ORGANIZATIONS
Churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, and other faith-based organizations committed to strengthening communities. Through advocacy, volunteerism, outreach, and collaboration, faith communities can help inspire innovative housing solutions that promote dignity, accessibility, and affordable living for older adults.
Senior Organizations
Organizations dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for older adults. Senior centers, aging service providers, advocacy groups, and nonprofit organizations bring valuable insight into the needs and preferences of aging populations, helping inspire innovative, accessible, and affordable housing solutions.
ARCHITECTS & BUILDERS
licensed architects, builders, engineers, planners, landscape architects, interior designers, and other design and construction professionals to contribute their expertise to the Generations by Design Duplex Design Competition. Their knowledge of innovative design, sustainability, accessibility, and constructability helps create practical, affordable, and age-friendly housing solutions.
YOUTH ORGANIZATIONS
youth organizations, student groups, educators, and mentors who are passionate about shaping the future of affordable housing. Through collaboration, creativity, and hands-on learning, participants can develop innovative, age-friendly housing concepts while gaining valuable real-world experience and making a meaningful impact in their communities.
NONPROFITS
nonprofit organizations committed to strengthening communities and improving quality of life. Organizations focused on housing, health, education, aging services, environmental sustainability, neighborhood revitalization, and community development bring valuable perspectives that can help inspire innovative, affordable, and age-friendly housing solutions.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW DO I KNOW WHICH CATEGORY TO ENTER?
Professionals enter Industry. Everyone else enters Community.
CAN PROFESSIONALS MENTOR COMMUNITY TEAMS?
Yes, mentorship is encouraged.
CAN SCHOOLS ENTER MULTIPLE TEAMS?
Yes.
IS THERE A REGISTRATION FEE?
No.
DO I NEED TO VISIT CHARLOTTE COUNTY?
No, but it is encouraged.
WHO OWNS SUBMITTED DESIGNS?
Entrants retain copyright while granting PORCH and AARP display rights.
Ready to Design the Future?
Join architects, students, nonprofits, and community leaders in creating age-friendly homes designed to bring generations together.
