US Green Building Council Central California

Goal

The 2024 Adaptive Reuse Design Competition asked all participants to adaptively reuse the existing Nippon 2 building in the Japanese part of Fresno's Chinatown to enable residential or mixed-use usage in a beautiful historic part of Fresno with an average age of 50. All designs were asked to highlight sustainability through heat island mitigation, decarbonization, and social infrastructure strategies. The historic background of the building and neighborhood were to be considered in the design. The design needs to include the needs of the aging population and be adapted for accessibility.
Why adaptive reuse?
Using existing buildings for new usages is one of the greenest ways of building since one of the biggest impacts a building has is the materials it is made of. Adaptive reuse reduces waste and saves materials, extends the useful life of buildings, preserves cultural and architectural heritage, transforms underused spaces and communities.
Why Chinatown?
Chinatown Fresno has many underused buildings, including Nippon 2, whose top floor has been empty for years and does not conform to current code requirements. With the High Speed Rail Station in planning close by with one entrance facing Chinatown, this beautiful historic part of Fresno is developing quickly. The Transform Fresno initiative brought investment through pedestrian and urban greening improvements, the Monarch Housing Development by the Fresno Housing Authority, the development of the Fresno Chinatown Foundation and other community investments, however, there are still many nearly empty buildings and many residents in need of housing. The 2024 Adaptive Reuse Design Competition highlights the opportunities and needs in this place of town with aging population.
Winning design submitted by Fresno State student Lee Miyamoto.

IMPORTANT DATES

Public Walk of Building:

Thursday, October 3rd, 3:30 - 5:30PM

Design showcase and public choice election:

Thursday, December 12, 5:30PM
Resources

Competition Guidelines

Addendum

Attachment 1

Attachment 2

The 2024 Adaptive Reuse Design Competition is sponsored by

What is an ADU?

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary housing unit that is either attached to or located on the same property as a primary residence. These units, also known as granny flats, in-law suites, or backyard cottages, provide additional living space while maintaining the character of the existing neighborhood.

Why ADUs Matter:

Sustainability: Smaller, more energy-efficient ADUs contribute to sustainable living.
Flexible Living: ADUs offer a versatile living arrangement for homeowners, renters, or multigenerational families.
Affordability: ADUs can serve as a source of rental income or provide affordable housing options for family members, students, or renters.
Increased Property Value: ADUs often increase the overall property value, making them a sound investment.

HOW TO GET STARTED

ADU Codes and Regulations: Understanding local building codes and regulations is crucial when considering ADU construction. Here are resources and links to help you navigate the legal aspects:

Zoning Codes: Learn about your city's zoning regulations related to ADUs.
Permitting Process: Understand the steps involved in obtaining permits for ADU construction. Remember that these processes can vary by location.
Building Codes: Familiarize yourself with building standards and safety requirements in your area.ADU Program – City of Fresno
Pre-Approved Plans in the city of Fresno can be found here, Pre-Approved Plans
Apply for a Building Permit at Apple for Permit, Fresno CA
State of California Handbook for ADUs California ADU Handbook

ADU’s come in a variety of shapes!

Explore the various types of ADUs, including:

Detached ADUs: Standalone structures like cottages or tiny homes.
Attached ADUs: Part of the primary residence or connected as an addition.
Conversion ADUs: Repurposing existing space, like a garage or basement.
Basement ADUs: These are ADUs created by converting or finishing a basement space. They are often cost-effective and can provide a significant amount of additional living area.
Garage Conversion ADUs: Garage ADUs involve converting an existing garage into a separate living space. This is a popular option for homeowners who don't use their garages for parking.
Above-Garage ADUs: If you want to preserve your garage space, you can build an ADU above it. This type of ADU utilizes the space above an existing garage and is sometimes referred to as a "garage apartment."
Junior ADUs (JADUs): In some regions, there are regulations for Junior ADUs, which are smaller ADUs often located within or attached to a single-family home. They typically have a limited kitchen and bathroom but provide additional living space.
Interior ADUs: These ADUs are integrated into the interior of the primary residence, often as a separate suite or apartment with its own entrance. They can be ideal for multigenerational living.

Find more information on each of these here, ABCs of ADUs AARP

Financing and Funding:

Estimate your construction costs here: Estimate your Construction Cost

Loans, Mortgages, Financial information on ADUs

Home Equity Loans or HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit)
ADU Construction Loans
FHA 203(k) Renovation Loans
Government Grants and Subsidies
Accessory Dwelling Unit Impact Fee Reductions: ADUs under 500sqft are not subject to School impact fees
ADU-Specific Financing Programs:

List of Lenders and Financing Partners. Lenders and Financing Partners

The ADUs for all design competition is sponsored by

USGBC-CC is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. WET Center, 2911 E. Barstow Ave, M/S of 144, Fresno, CA 93740

Address:

2911 E. Barstow Ave, M/S of 144 Fresno CA 93740