More home on the land you already own.
A well-designed accessory dwelling unit can house family, create rental income, or give you a place to downsize into — without leaving your property. We design and build ADUs that feel like part of the home, not an afterthought.
- Detached ADU
- Generally up to 1,200 sq ft
- Junior ADU
- Up to 500 sq ft inside the home
- Common setbacks
- 4 ft side & rear (state standard)
Summary of state standards; local rules and site conditions apply.
Find the right fit for your property.
The best type depends on your lot, your budget and how the space will be used.
Detached ADU
A standalone backyard cottage with full privacy — the most flexible option for rental or multigenerational living.
Attached ADU
An addition connected to the main house with its own entrance — efficient on utilities and lot space.
Garage conversion
Turns an existing garage into a living unit — often the fastest, most budget-friendly path.
Junior ADU (JADU)
Up to 500 sq ft carved from the existing home, with an efficiency kitchen and its own entrance.
An ADU that looks like it was always meant to be there.
We match rooflines, materials and color so your ADU complements the main home — and we plan the yard between them so both households get privacy, light and outdoor space.
- Site planning for privacy, sun and access
- Full kitchens, laundry and smart storage
- Separate utility metering options
- Aging-in-place and accessible layouts
- Solar, heat pumps and all-electric designs
From “could we?” to move-in.
Lot check
Setbacks, utilities, slope, overlays and what size fits.
Design
Layout, exterior and finishes, priced as we go.
Permit
Plans, Title 24, structural and utility coordination.
Build
Foundation to finish with minimal disruption to the main house.
Move in
Final inspection, walkthrough and warranty.
ADU questions
ADU law changes often. These answers summarize general California rules; we confirm current requirements for your property.
How big can my ADU be?
Under California law, a detached ADU can generally be up to 1,200 square feet, and an attached ADU is commonly limited to 50% of the main home’s floor area or 1,200 square feet. Junior ADUs (JADUs) are limited to 500 square feet within the existing home. Local rules and your lot’s setbacks and coverage determine what actually fits — we confirm this during feasibility.
Do I have to live on the property?
State law currently does not require owner occupancy for ADUs. Junior ADUs have different rules and generally require the owner to live in either the main home or the JADU. We recommend confirming the current requirements for your jurisdiction.
Will I need to add parking?
Often not. State law removes ADU parking requirements in many situations — for example, within one-half mile walking distance of public transit, or when a garage is converted. Your site’s specifics determine the answer.
How long does an ADU take?
Design and permitting often take a few months; construction of a detached ADU commonly takes several more. Garage conversions and JADUs are usually faster. We’ll give you a schedule for your specific project.
Can I rent out my ADU?
Generally yes, for long-term rental. Short-term rental of ADUs is restricted in many jurisdictions, including the City of San Diego. Check current local rules before planning around short-term income.
Find out what fits in your backyard.
Send us your address and goals. We’ll review your lot and tell you which ADU options are realistic.