Converting a garage to a music studio and adding an accessory dwelling in Berkeley

Converting a garage to a music studio and adding an accessory dwelling in Berkeley

A Berkeley homeowner, asked New Avenue to remodel his existing garage into a music studio and storage area. He also wanted an ADU to use as a guest house, additional space when needed, or rental home. New Avenue’s designer created a design for both buildings and worked with the city to permit the entire project. Here’s the design.

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Converting a detached garage to a studio workspace in Oakland
projects, accessory building Sarah Foster projects, accessory building Sarah Foster

Converting a detached garage to a studio workspace in Oakland

A New Avenue design professional created the perfect space for Jose’s classic car (a VW Thing) and his bicycles. The designer was careful to create a plan that would protect the big Ponderosa pine in the yard. The garage door entry means Jose can store his VW, motorcycle, and bicycles in the accessory structure when he’s not using it as a workspace. The half bath makes it a great personal retreat and a well-appointed workspace. Here are the drawings and floor plan.

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Expanding an owner’s retreat and adding a detached studio in San Mateo
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Expanding an owner’s retreat and adding a detached studio in San Mateo

Brian and Dawn’s designer created plans to replace the existing accessory structure with a new 352-square-foot detached studio with a half bath. A deck and firepit give the owners and guests a comfortable place to relax or entertain.

The designer created plans to extend the owner’s suite in the main home, giving the homeowners more space in their bedroom and bathroom.

Here are the plans.

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How much does property tax increase when you convert a shed into a two-bedroom accessory dwelling in Berkeley?

Property tax in this area tends to increase by one-half of one percent of the total cost of the project. When you add an accessory dwelling, your existing home is not reassessed. An ADU like this one will cost around $500,000, resulting in a tax increase of $2,500 per year. That’s $208.33 per month.

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Reach out to New Avenue today to begin the transformational process of adding an ADU, renovating your home, and designing and building a custom house for your family.