Supporters of Rhode Island’s Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) Initiative were treated to an inspiring showcase of creativity and problem-solving at the RI State House. The event highlighted a collaboration between AARP Rhode Island and RISD’s Interior Architecture department, resulting in innovative designs for ADUs that address the pressing needs of Rhode Island's aging population.
Exploring Community Needs with Design
Led by AARP RI’s Catherine Taylor and RISD faculty member Elizabeth Debs, the partnership engaged Interior Architecture students in a department-wide charette. This annual event focuses on real-world design challenges, allowing students to collaborate with experts in various fields. In this case, students delved into strategies for aging in place and universal design approaches, equipping them with essential skills for their future careers.
"We want to empower our students to make a positive impact in the world," says Department Head Wolfgang Rudorf. "The charette not only builds community within our department but also strengthens our relationships with organizations in the larger Rhode Island community."
Unveiling Ingenious Design Solutions
The students were divided into 10 teams, each assigned the task of developing small, freestanding dwellings on residential lots with existing single-family homes. Despite limited time, the teams presented their solutions through architectural renderings and cardboard models. While one team emerged as the winner, elements from all the projects have the potential to inspire future ADU builders.
Size, affordability, sustainability, and innovative construction methods were among the key design constraints that the students encountered. They carefully considered how each ADU would complement the primary structure and cater to the needs of older adults and disabled individuals. The concepts explored also drew inspiration from the pioneering work on universal design by late RISD faculty members Jane Langmuir 66 IA and Marc Harrison.
Above: A backyard ADU design brings in natural light via floor-to-ceiling windows
A Collaborative Celebration
The ADU designs impressed State Representative June Speakman when she first laid eyes on them in November. Speakman, a sponsor of the ADU bill, attended the State House presentation alongside Senator Victoria Gu, Senator Meghan Kallman, and Speaker of the House Joe Shekarchi. Serving as VIP guest judges at the charette, these legislators recognized the value of the students' creative solutions.
"RISD's unique collaborative educational model is truly remarkable," remarked RISD's new Provost Touba Ghadessi. "These cutting-edge student projects demonstrate how art and design can solve complex problems and drive meaningful action. The collaboration between RISD and AARP RI has provided students with a powerful opportunity to directly address critical issues, such as housing for Rhode Island's aging population. We are grateful for bringing RISD into this important conversation."
Below: Visitors check out student ADU designs at the State House library
This inspiring collaboration between AARP Rhode Island and RISD's Interior Architecture department showcases the immense potential of blending expertise and creative thinking. The resulting ADU designs not only serve as prototypes for future builders but also highlight the vital role that design can play in addressing the needs of our communities. Through innovative approaches, these students have redefined what it means to create inclusive living spaces for all.
