Quad City Area REALTORS Announces Winners of their ADU Design Contest

The Quad City Area REALTORS® (QCAR) proudly announces the winners of its first-ever Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Design Contest, celebrating creativity, innovation, and forward-thinking housing solutions in the Quad Cities.

The contest was made possible through the 2025 AARP Community Challenge Grant. QCAR was one of only 383 organizations selected from over 3,450 applicants nationwide, representing all 50 states.
“We believe ADUs are not just another housing option—they’re a powerful tool to advance equity, affordability, community, and intergenerational living,” said Sharon Smith, CEO of QCAR.

Through this initiative, QCAR sought to:

1. Seize the legislative moment. With Iowa’s new ADU-friendly state framework and Illinois policy discussions underway, now is the time to catalyze ADU development in the Quad Cities. This grant allows QCAR to accelerate local awareness and adoption.
2. Create demonstration models. Many people struggle to visualize living in a 1,000 sq. ft. home. The contest provided tangible examples of what’s possible—turning design concepts into real inspiration for future homeowners and builders.

Statewide Support

“Iowa REALTORS® commends the Quad City REALTORS® for their leadership and creativity in promoting Accessory Dwelling Units through this contest,” said Gavin Blair, CEO of Iowa REALTORS®. “Your efforts highlight how REALTORS® can expand housing options, support smart growth, and help communities thrive.”

“It excites me to see local innovation driving statewide conversations about housing solutions,” added Travis Bushaw, 2025 President of Iowa REALTORS®. “This initiative showcases how collaboration among REALTORS®, local leaders, and homeowners can spark real progress in addressing Iowa’s housing needs.”

The Promise of ADUs

As QCAR celebrates these designs, the organization emphasizes the broad potential of ADUs to strengthen communities:

• Increase Housing Supply: ADUs add units within existing neighborhoods—expanding capacity without changing community character.
• Affordability & Flexibility: Smaller, more efficient units provide affordable rental or family housing options.
• Multigenerational Living: ADUs allow older adults to age in place and stay close to loved ones.
• Economic Impact: Building ADUs supports local contractors, suppliers, and tradespeople.
• Resilience & Adaptability: ADUs serve multiple purposes—from in-law suites to caregiver housing or rental income—adapting to changing family needs.

2025 ADU Design Contest Winners

Student Division (3 submissions)

• 3rd Place – “Haven ADU” by Logan Van Daele, Bettendorf High School – $750
  Logan’s design stood out for its thoughtful landscaping and integration with the primary residence.
• 2nd Place – “Grandma’s ADU” by Eloise Brisch, Clinton High School – $1,000
  “I wanted to design an ADU that captured my grandma’s needs and passions, including an art room since she’s an artist,” Eloise shared.
• 1st Place – “Close to Home” by Colton Foglesong, Iowa State University – $2,500
  A Quad Cities native studying architecture, Colton was inspired by his grandparents’ wish to remain in their home. His design balanced accessibility, warmth, and local architectural character.

Professional Division (7 submissions)

• 3rd Place – “Garage to Getaway” by Taryn Kobernat, Keller Williams – $1,000
• 2nd Place – “The Nook” by Bridget Liske, Haven Real Estate – $2,000
  A REALTOR® and home designer with over 12 years of experience, Bridget highlighted her favorite feature: a glass-ceiling breakfast nook offering natural light and a cozy retreat.
• 1st Place – “Clearway Cottage” by Casey Elder & Jasmine Horne, Hazelwood Homes – $4,000
  With over 30 years in home design, Casey saw the contest as a chance to explore smaller, accessible housing models. Her design emphasized efficient use of space and abundant storage.

All winning designs, photos, and floor plans are available at www.QCAR.Realtor.  Photos of the event can be found on our Facebook or Instagram pages.

Join the Movement

QCAR invites homeowners, city leaders, lenders, developers, and advocates to be part of the ADU conversation:

“If you’re a homeowner—talk to us. If you’re a policymaker—ask questions. If you’re a builder or lender—imagine how ADUs can fit your model,” said Becca Poirier, QCAR Marketing & Communications. “Together, we can make housing more accessible, flexible, and community-focused in the Quad Cities.” ### About Quad City Area REALTORS®
The Quad City Area REALTORS® (QCAR) represents more than 900 members across the bi-state region. QCAR advocates for private property rights, promotes homeownership, and leads community-focused initiatives that support housing innovation and smart growth in the Quad Cities.

####About the AARP Community Challenge

The AARP Community Challenge is a nationwide grant program that funds innovative, community-based projects that improve quality of life for people of all ages.