Following the City of La Crosse’s Common Council approval of an ordinance allowing accessory dwelling units (ADUs), the City held a design competition in partnership with AARP and AIA Wisconsin. The competition sought to ignite creativity and innovation in ADU design. You can see all of the submissions in the La Crosse ADU Library.
What Is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?
An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a smaller, self-contained residential living space located on the same property as a standalone primary residential building. ADUs offer the potential to make housing more affordable for homeowners and renters alike. They expand the variety of housing options available within the community, allow seniors to remain close to family as they age, and promote more efficient use of existing housing infrastructure in established neighborhoods. As a result, La Crosse residents have expressed their support for ADUs in their comprehensive plan and have adopted zoning regulations that permit ADUs in low-density residential zones.
How Do ADU’s Support Climate Action?
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) contribute to sustainable consumption in several key ways. First, their compact size requires fewer construction materials and results in lower utility usage—water, gas, and electricity—compared to traditional single-family homes or condominiums. Additionally, homes under 1,150 square feet produce 36% less lifecycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions than standard-sized homes, typically around 2,262 square feet. Furthermore, the limited space in smaller homes naturally curbs the accumulation of material possessions, encouraging residents to own fewer items and share tools, equipment, and other resources with their community.
What Are The Benefits of an ADU
There are several benefits to building an ADU on your property or living in an ADU, including:
Flexible Housing Solution: ADUs are appealing not only for generating rental income, but also for supporting multigenerational living, fostering stronger family connections, and simplifying childcare and eldercare arrangements.
Affordable Housing: ADUs can be relatively inexpensive to build and may help increase the housing supply without requiring new land development.
Economic Benefits: Homeowners can offset mortgage costs while optimizing land use by having two distinct living spaces on one property.
Environmental Efficiency: ADUs are praised for their energy efficiency, significantly lowering CO2 emissions due to reduced energy consumption for heating, cooling, and daily operations.
Get Inspired!
Visit the La Crosse ADU Library to see a wide range of example ADU designs to inspire ideas for your property!