Fort Wayne Launched Pre-Reviewed Home Catalog
The city introduced six architectural designs to streamline the construction of new housing on urban lots.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Interior Decorating
Live Poll
Should local governments provide pre-reviewed home designs to help developers build housing faster?
Fort Wayne has released a new housing catalog containing six pre-reviewed designs to help builders address the local housing shortage. The initiative aims to return vacant lots to productive use by simplifying the design and approval process for new home construction.
Why it matters
By providing pre-vetted plans, the city hopes to speed up development on vacant urban land and create new opportunities for emerging builders. This effort serves as a strategic move to boost housing inventory while revitalizing neighborhoods across the city.
The HOME Catalog includes designs ranging from 560 to 2,368 square feet. Builders can access these plans for a nominal fee for private properties or at no cost if participating in the A Lot to Love program.
The players
Flintlock LAB
This architecture firm based in Fayetteville, Arkansas, was contracted by the city to develop the housing plans.
Allen County Building Department
This local agency was responsible for conducting the pre-review process of the building designs.
The details
The Allen County Building Department and the Department of Planning Services completed the pre-review process for all six designs created by Flintlock LAB. These plans are specifically tailored for urban lots to help developers maximize limited space effectively.
Timeline
March 2025: The A Lot to Love program officially launched.
October 13, 2026: The city announced the release of the HOME Catalog.
Culture Shift
This initiative follows the structure of the A Lot to Love program, extending its reach by providing standardized architectural plans to reduce barriers for local builders. It marks a shift toward city-led design standardization to accelerate neighborhood infill and housing production.
Residents may see an increase in construction activity as developers utilize these pre-reviewed plans to build homes on formerly vacant lots. Builders can lower their upfront design costs by accessing the catalog for their next housing project.
The takeaway
Standardized housing designs can significantly reduce the administrative hurdles for small-scale developers in urban areas. Prospective builders should evaluate whether these pre-reviewed plans align with their property dimensions to expedite the permitting process.
Further reading
Learn more about local development resources in the Interior Decorating section.
More information
View the design plans and program details on the Engage Fort Wayne online catalog.
Live Poll
Should local governments provide pre-reviewed home designs to help developers build housing faster?
