ADU Design Challenge Winners Announced

Designed by: Catalano Architects - Alexander Catalano, Starr Warner, Elena Stancheva, Garrett Avery, Maeve Kelley, Sarah Glennon
Contact: acatalano@catalanoarchitects.com

Big ideas often start small—and this year’s Massachusetts Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Design Challenge proves it. The Healey-Driscoll Administration launched the statewide challenge with a clear goal: make it easier, more affordable, and more inspiring for property owners to build ADUs. The results are in, and they’re worth a look.

The newly released ADU Design Challenge Showcase highlights a collection of winning and qualified designs that bring creativity, flexibility, and practicality together. These new designs build on the momentum of the Small & Smart ADU award winners announced in November 2025, expanding the range of options available to homeowners across the Commonwealth.

Whether you’re thinking about housing for a family member, creating a rental opportunity, or adding value to your property, these designs offer a strong starting point. From compact backyard cottages to thoughtfully designed in-law suites, the showcase reflects a wide range of needs and property types. Each design demonstrates how ADUs can fit seamlessly into existing neighborhoods while expanding housing options in a smart, community-minded way.

For North Adams property owners, this is a timely resource. As housing demand continues to grow, ADUs present an opportunity to add gentle density, support multigenerational living, and create new income streams—all without major redevelopment. Best of all, the plans are free!

If you’ve been curious about building an ADU but didn’t know where to start, this is it.