Who it is for
Consider daily routines, accessibility, storage, guests, and what a future occupant may need from the space.
02 / ADU design
Photography by Melati CitrawirejaA small home with room to live.
Start with who will use the space, how they will get to it, and how it could sit alongside the main home and garden.
Planning a cottage
Three things to bring to the conversation.
Where it might fit
Share what you know about the property layout, grade, existing trees, and the route from the street or driveway.
How it meets the garden
Think about outdoor space, windows, privacy, and how people will move between the main house and cottage.
Planning questions
Good to know
Can the site tell me what I can build?
Property and permitting questions need a site-specific review. Use the inquiry to ask what information the studio would need to discuss feasibility.
What should I gather first?
Your project city, a short description of the intended use, and any site photos or existing drawings you can share.
ADU planning
Compare ways to use the property.
Detached cottage
A separate unit raises questions about its entry, privacy from the main home, and how much garden space you want to keep.
Conversion
If you have an existing garage or other space in mind, gather photos and dimensions and ask what would need to be checked before considering a conversion.
A home that adapts
For family, guests, or future occupants, consider step-free access, storage, daylight, and where a private outdoor space could fit.
Check the property early
Oakland provides guidance on zoning review and building permits. If your property is outside Oakland, use the guidance for your own city.
Start with your property
What could your place become?
Share your city, what you have in mind, and any questions about timing or availability.