Recognition

Design Intent

StayWell Home is a modern, age-friendly accessory dwelling unit designed to empower residents to age in place while remaining connected to family and community. It merges comfort, sustainability, and affordability through thoughtful design and innovative construction. Inspired by Scandinavian simplicity, the home's clean lines and balanced proportions create a calm, familiar aesthetic. Its design focuses on accessibility, adaptability, and environmental responsibility-demonstrating how small-scale housing can provide a big impact for aging adults and diverse households in Madison.

Tenant and Accessibility

Every feature of StayWell Home supports independence and safety. A zero-step entry leads into a single-level layout with wide clearances, continuous flooring, and 36-inch doors throughout. The bathroom includes a roll-in shower, forward-approach sink with knee and toe clearance, and ADA-compliant grab bars at both the shower and toilet. The kitchen features 34-inch countertops, forward-approach sink, front-control cooktop, and adjacent workspace. Clear floor space is provided on both sides of the bed, and all switches, outlets, and window controls are positioned within accessible reach. Lever handles are used throughout. Smart technology —including voice-activated lighting, visual and audible smoke and CO alarms, and a Ring video doorbell -enhances safety, while acoustic comfort and natural lighting promote overall well-being. These combined features create a home that adapts gracefully as needs change over time.

Construction and Sustainability

The structure utilizes panelized SIPs construction, achieving high R-values (R-40 roof, R-26 walls, R-10 slab) and reducing thermal bridging.

This system allows for precise fabrication, faster installation, and less construction waste. The home employs an energy-efficient mini-split system for heating and cooling, an ERV for ventilation, and an electric on-demand water heater. A rooftop solar array —20 panels rated at 430 W each (8.6 kWdc)-faces due south at 10 degrees, producing approximately 9,030 kWh annually. Total projected usage is 8,790 kWh per year, achieving net-zero performance with a 2.7% surplus. Low-or no-VOC materials, Energy Star windows and doors, LED lighting, and water-efficient fixtures further enhance indoor air quality and long-term sustainability. Frost-protected shallow foundations minimize concrete use and embodied carbon, supporting environmental goals from the ground up.

Affordability and Context

StayWell Home balances simplicity and sophistication to create a dwelling that is both affordable and replicable. Panelized construction reduces labor and weather delays, while the compact footprint (approximately 758 square feet) minimizes material use without sacrificing comfort. The shed roof form and modest scale complement surrounding residential architecture. South-facing glazing maximizes natural light and solar gain, while landscaping and window placement ensure privacy from neighboring lots. The design blends seamlessly into Madison's neighborhoods and can adapt to a range of lot conditions and architectural styles, making it broadly applicable citywide.

Conclusion

StayWell Home represents the future of accessible, sustainable living —an adaptable model that enables people to remain independent, connected, and comfortable at every stage of life. Through universal design, efficient construction, and environmental balance, it proves that aging in place can be both attainable and inspiring.