Accessory Dwelling Unit Plans

That Backyard Cottage You’ve Been Dreaming Of? It’s Called an ADU.

We’re Santa Rosa’s Go-To Experts for ADU Design & Permitting

Let’s talk about one of the smartest things you can do with your property in California right now: building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (or an ADU, granny flat, backyard cottage… whatever you want to call it).

Whether you’re looking for a way to generate some rental income to help with the mortgage, need a separate space for your parents or adult kids, or just want a quiet home office away from the main house, an ADU is a brilliant solution. But here’s the catch: the rules can be a real headache. They’re complicated, they change, and every property is different.

That’s where we shine. At The Design & Building Works, we’ve made it our business to be the ADU experts in Santa Rosa. We’ve spent years navigating the ins and outs of the local and state regulations. We know what’s possible, what’s not, and how to design a unit (from a compact 220 sq. ft. to a spacious 1200 sq. ft.) that you can actually get built.

Evelyn's Cottage Fire Rebuild in Mark West Springs

How We Work

Our ADU Process: No-Nonsense and Straightforward

We’ve created a process to get you from idea to permit-ready plans without all the stress.

  1. Free Chat & A Quick Look at Your Property: It starts with a free, one-hour consultation. We’ll talk about what you’re hoping to do. Then, we’ll do a quick analysis of your property to see what the city will allow you to build.
  2. Designing a Smart Space: We’ll design a custom ADU that fits your budget and makes the most of your yard. We’re obsessed with creating layouts that are efficient, comfortable, and feel good to be in.
  3. The Permit-Ready Plans: We create the detailed construction drawings that are ready to go straight to the permit office. We make sure every ‘i’ is dotted and every ‘t’ is crossed.
  4. We Handle the Paperwork: You don’t have to deal with the city planning department. We handle the entire permit application and submittal process for you. Our experience helps things move along much more smoothly.
Evelyn's Cottage Fire Rebuild in Mark West Springs

A Few Common Questions We Hear

Can I really turn my garage into an apartment?
Yes! Garage conversions are one of the most popular and cost-effective ways to build an ADU. We can design a conversion that turns that cluttered space into a beautiful, legal home.
How long does it take to get plans and permits for an ADU?

The design part usually takes a couple of months. The good news is that the state has pushed cities to streamline ADU permits, so the review process is much faster than it used to be.

Kitchen Remodel Plans from The Design & Building Works

Why is Everyone Building an ADU?

  • Rental Income: It’s a fantastic way to offset your mortgage and build wealth.
  • Keeping Family Close: Give parents or kids their own independent space, right in your backyard.
  • A Flexible Space: A home office, a guest suite, an art studio… the possibilities are endless.
  • Boost Your Property Value: A legal, permitted ADU is a huge selling point and a great investment.

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Ready to Talk About Your Project?

Every great project starts with a simple conversation. We offer a FREE, no-pressure one-hour consultation to talk about what you have in mind.

Let's figure out what's possible and how we can help you get there.

Call Us Today: (707) 526-9566

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