Building an ADU in Southern California?

Sean Curley • June 3, 2025

ADUs continue to be a hot topic of conversation in California

Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) continue to be a hot topic of conversation in California as communities throughout the state search for ways to increase the housing supply in the many areas with extremely high demand. These units are also known as “mother-in-law units” or “granny flats.”   This type of additional housing involves adding backyard cottages or converting garages in single-family neighborhoods, giving owners the flexibility of additional space for family or of generating additional rental income. 


At North County ADU Construction Contractors we’ve designed dozens and dozens of ADUs and continue to follow new ADU programs, trends, and prototypes across north county San Diego.


Despite all of the updates to state and local legislation throughout California, creating an ADU on your property can still be time consuming and expensive. 


We work with a variety of ADU models as well as custom design new ones in order to streamline the process of adding an ADU to your property. We are making building ADUs quicker to build and more economical. Instead of spending valuable time and money on the process, smarter builders are expediting the process so your most valuable resources are invested in the final product–your completed ADU.


Quality Materials

We like to see that any ADU that we are involved with will embody a warm and modern design aesthetic with a sophisticated, neutral finish palette and bright, daylit spaces to make them feel both comfortable and homey.  An abundance of daylight brings in warm, natural light throughout the open floor plan that also makes the unit more energy efficient.


We strive with all of our ADU projects to include more than a standard materials package.  Our materials are stylish yet durable.  We can also use upgraded materials to achieve a more deluxe finish. 


Spacious Floor Plans


We carefully craft the layout of our ADU designs to accentuate the modern minimalist design aesthetic and create a good flow within the space. Our layouts emphasizes efficiency, comfort and flexibility allowing you the opportunity to maximize your use of your ADU. 


Indoor-Outdoor Connection

In addition to the abundance of natural light, we strive to create our ADUs to incorporate the surrounding outdoor space, creating a spacious feel as well as actually increasing the livable space. With access from either the living room or bedroom, a patio or deck can provide significant outdoor space for working, or relaxing and recharging. 


What are your options for adding an ADU to your property?

There are seveal options when it comes to adding an ADU to your existing or new property:


The Studio ADU:


A studio ADU project is typically a compact cottage of a few hundred square feet.  It will include a spacious studio sleeping area, full bathroom, kitchen and laundry nook. A studio design provides efficient living space with sufficient separation from the kitchen. A bathroom can be configured to accommodate grab bars at the toilet and shower to improve access for seniors or residents with disabilities. Flexible-use cabinetry could possibly add counter space, a built-in desk, or expanded storage depending on your interests and needs.


The One-Bedroom ADU:


One-bedroom projects range in size from around 600 sq. to 1,000 sq. ft.This size unit provides a perfect space for long-term tenants, extended family or aging parents. 

The one-bedroom unit normally provides a large open living space and kitchen.  Depending on your preferences, we can leave the kitchen completely open, installing flexible and movable islands, counters, and storage units. Typically in this type of  unit, we recommend taking advantage of any shared plumbing walls between the kitchen and bathroom to streamline plumbing installation, and save you money.


Some of our one-bedroom plans offers a full-size kitchen with opportunities for more storage. Bathroom configurations are endlessly versatile depending on your preferneces, needs for other space, and the need for improved accessibility for seniors or residents with disabilities.


The Two-Bedroom ADU


Typically a two-bedroom unit uses a similar floor plan to the one-bedroom option, but adds a second bedroom, usually with access to a deck or patio. We can give you the option of separating the kitchen from the living and sleeping areas with room dividers, a storage unit or a kitchen island for some examples. We strive to make this and all of our units comfortable, yet efficient.  These units are often an ideal space for a family or a someone who wants or needs a dedicated home office. 


Every creation we develop are thoughtfully designed and planned to make the most of the space available and to maximize your comfort and convenience.  These ADUs are great for additional family to live with you, guest quarters, or as a income property that could literally pay for itself over time.


Although we focus on material selection and design decisions to increase comfort, style, and durability we are also cost-conscious where needed. The addition of  living space to your property doesn’t have to be stressful.  We are here to help you create an inviting, comfortable space that you love. 


Interested in building an ADU in north San Diego County?   Please call North County ADU Construction Contractors today!


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A newly constructed ADU in Carlsbad CA prior to the final inspection.