: Discuss how rising construction costs, complex funding requirements (like LIHTC), and "NIMBYism" create barriers to high-quality design.

: Define affordable housing as housing that costs no more than 30% of a household's total income.

: Thoughtful design—not just materials—is a multiplier of value that can reduce long-term maintenance costs, improve resident health, and increase community acceptance. II. Core Principles of Affordable Design

Effective affordable design relies on efficiency and simplicity without sacrificing aesthetics.