ARCHITECTURE | HONOR 

Entry Name: Echo Ridge Duplexes
Firm: el dorado inc
Project Location: Topeka, KS
Owner: Topeka Housing Authority
Photographer: Mike Sinclair

Recently, the Topeka Housing Authority received one of twelve HUD grants given nationally to incentivize innovative, sustainable design and construction within the low-income housing sector. The architect for this project was challenged to offer new insights for the duplex typology, executed at the HUD-regulated budget constraints. Additionally, as part of the HUD grant, the architect was required to meet every item outlined by the Enterprise Green Communities Checklist.

Designed with a focus on single mothers, the new configuration of duplexes creates a protected and easily supervised communal space for small children. Materials containing recycled content were specified throughout the design. The result, built for just $115 per square foot, is an energetic and optimistic re-thinking of a low-income housing typology that promotes sustainable living and a strong sense of community.