WHAT IS AN ADU? (Accessory Dwelling Unit)
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a term for a secondary house or apartment that shares the building lot of a larger, primary house. An ADU can go by many different names including accessory apartments, secondary dwelling unit, granny flats, in-law or mother-in-law unit, guest house, carriage house, or backyard cottage. They are self-sufficient dwellings and contain a kitchen, a living area, bathroom facilities, a bedroom, and a separate entrance. ADUs can also be attached as a converted part of an existing home or a new home. Regardless of its physical form, legally, an ADU is part of the same property as the main home. It cannot be bought or sold separately. The owner of the ADU is the owner of the main home.
The legality and use of an ADU will come under differing zoning regulations depending on where you live. Many cities are relaxing restrictions to attract more affordable housing opportunities. Recent amendments to Bozeman city zoning have made it easier to build an ADU in an attempt at a solution to local suburban sprawl. An ADU is also a good way of increasing the utilization of existing municipal infrastructure. Properties in Bozeman with Accessory Dwelling Units are now in high demand.
THE PROJECT
This ADU project replaces an old dilapidated single car garage with a two-car garage and a second level residence. The primary residence is single-family home with a zoning of R2. The existing two-story home is craftsman style. The new ADU will retain that overall craftsman theme.
This new 983 sq. ft. slab on grade footprint will be a two-car garage, a mechanical room, and the entry stairwell for second-level access. The 540 sq. ft. second level addition will be a bedroom, bathroom, living room, kitchen, and an integrated roof deck. A Bozeman ADU is allowed a maximum living area of 600 sq. ft.
THE PROCESS
I put a lot of effort into a design. It is a 3-part process. Coming up with a design that works, and the client loves. Consolidating and presenting the final concept in a way that effectively sells that design to the planning department. And finally producing the documentation necessary to receive a building permit.
With my methods of operation and creative process I use all available tools to communicate my design concepts in a way that will support bringing these ideas into reality. The 5 P’s. Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance. That said, it is only half of the story.
A critical component of my service to a client is to bring a quality builder on to the team. We want to work with builders that we trust and respect. I am particularly excited about this ADU project due to the talent we have on board to execute this work. Our Contractors and project management were Neal Baggett and Jeff Thompson of Thombagg Architects. The day-to-day operations and onsite supervision were delegated to Matt Jespersen of Jesperson Construction.
THE BENEFIT
An ADU has the potential to increase housing at workable price points, create housing options within an established community, and create better use of the existing housing in desirable neighborhoods.
People build an ADU for a variety of reasons –rental income, having friends or relatives live nearby, or to retire in place – ADUs can be a nice option.
As a stand-alone unit, a detached an ADU can be a great living experience for both tenant and homeowner, possibly providing affordable housing where there may be limited options.
If you have any questions about Bozeman Accessory Dwelling Units, feel free to email me at peter@peterqbrown.com
