The ACCESS FOR ALL Universal Design in Federal Facilities challenge is sponsored by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA). The purpose of this challenge is to encourage architecture and design students to submit their ideas for making federal buildings more accessible and inclusive for all people, including those with disabilities, people from diverse gender and sexual orientations, and parents or caretakers of dependents. The GSA is focused on creating buildings that foster community engagement, diversity, and equity while ensuring they are fully accessible to all individuals. As the largest employer in the U.S. and a major owner of federal real estate, the GSA oversees over 370 million square feet of space and strives to ensure that these facilities represent the inclusive values of the nation.
Historically, federal buildings have been designed with compliance-based approaches that meet code requirements but do not necessarily address deeper aspects of accessibility. For instance, restroom facilities might meet regulations but fail to consider gender inclusivity, or elevators may be prioritized over ramps, which may be problematic for some users. This challenge seeks to reimagine how these spaces can be redesigned to reduce disparities for marginalized groups, such as people with disabilities, the LGBTQ+ community, and other underrepresented groups, promoting equitable access for all.
The scope of the competition invites students to submit innovative ideas on how federal buildings can be redesigned to be more inclusive and accessible. This includes considerations such as non-gender-specific bathrooms, inclusive food service and seating areas, and accessible entrances for mobility-challenged individuals. Participants are encouraged to apply universal design principles that go beyond traditional compliance standards and ensure that buildings cater to the needs of everyone. The competition emphasizes that all design ideas should aim to balance aesthetics, cost, constructability, and environmental sustainability while providing superior accessibility.
The competition is open to all students enrolled in architecture or design programs. The winning design will be chosen by a jury panel, and the winner will be awarded a cash prize. The goal is to contribute to the ongoing federal efforts to improve accessibility and equity in the built environment.
Participants must submit their designs by the end of the submission period, which runs until March 28, 2025. The competition offers a total of $4,500 in cash prizes, but no further details about the number of winners or prize distribution have been provided. The official announcement and challenge details can be found on the challenge.gov website.
