What Experienced ADU Designers in California Know that Most Homeowners Don’t
What’s your decision-making style?
This is an important question, especially if you’re doing major construction.
For big projects like remodels and accessory dwellings, some of us want to learn everything there is to know. Others just want to hire the right professional and let them handle it all. Then there’s the middle ground.
Whatever your approach, you’ll need a qualified designer. There’s the design itself, of course, but the best ADU designers in California do so much more than floorplans. Here’s what they know that most homeowners don’t.
With ADU permits in California, there are “hidden” requirements that you have to meet.
You’ve heard the saying “you don’t know what you don’t know.” That’s especially true when it comes to permits.
It’s not that the city is trying to hide their rules; it’s just that there are so many codes, it can be hard to find out exactly what applies to your project. Accessory dwelling permits in California can be complicated.
The best ADU designers know where to find each city’s specific requirements. Experienced accessory dwelling designers have been through the permitting process many times, and they know which questions to ask at the city office. They’re also experts in state law.
[Read how our designer’s expertise saved one client $20,000 at the city permitting office.]
Hiring an ADU designer with experience in California will pay off because they know what to look for in the city’s codes. If you get your permits right, you won’t waste money correcting mistakes.
When it comes to accessory dwelling rules, the city isn’t always right.
City officials have a lot to keep track of. They deal with every type of construction and remodeling, not just ADUs. So when permitting an ADU, city employees sometimes need guidance from the people who know accessory dwellings best: professional ADU designers.
The best ADU designers in California know state and city rules, and they know how to negotiate when officials make mistakes. This is especially important with recent changes to state law. The cities aren’t always up-to-date.
[Learn how SB68 affects your rights as a California homeowner.]
There’s no “best plan” in ADU design, but there are lots of best practices.
Design is both a science and an art. No one plan can fit every property and every situation. Even if you buy pre-made plans, you’ll still need a professional designer to customize them to your site.
A great ADU designer can use the best design practices to create a design that’s perfect for both your site and your purpose.
Energy efficiency in accessory dwellings is more than just solar panels.
Many homeowners ask about solar panels for their ADUs. Solar power will be required on all new homes, including ADUs, in 2020.
But there’s so much more to energy efficiency. The best ADU designers in California can take advantage of the sun’s daily cycle, building shadows, natural shade, and multiple technologies to make your ADU as efficient as possible.
Ask your accessory dwelling designer how you can make your new ADU more energy efficient.
There are a lot of ways to increase value in an ADU.
ADU designers and project managers typically oversee a project’s budget. But they know that increasing value doesn’t only mean keeping expenses down.
Our designers find the best ways to increase the homeowner’s return on investment. These often include:
Choosing materials that cost less, last longer, and look amazing
Getting creative with climate control and lighting
Optimizing storage and pathways in small spaces
Maximizing privacy for all homes on a property
Designing basic shapes that look spectacular
Value can be measured in several ways. Bringing in more rental income and increasing property value are both tangible measures. However, homeowners should also consider their personal enjoyment of the ADU. A great designer uses multiple methods to increase the monetary value of the property and improve the lives of those living there.
When hiring a California ADU designer, make sure you get the best.
Whether you’re super hands-on or want to just sign checks until the project is done, you’ll need an outstanding accessory dwelling designer that knows about design, increasing value, energy efficiency, and ADU regulations.
New Avenue’s designers always have your best interest at heart. Schedule a free call today to talk to a project manager about your new accessory dwelling. We’ll answer all your questions and introduce you to the designer that’s perfect for your project.
