500 SF Detached ADU in Albany
This 500-square-foot detached ADU in Albany transforms an underused backyard area into a highly functional and rental-ready living unit that meets modern California energy and zoning standards.
Aging backyard space with limited functionality
The existing rear yard lacked usable living space, suffered from poor drainage, and offered no insulated or code-compliant structures. The homeowners needed a compact ADU that would provide privacy, natural light, and long-term rental income potential.
Backyard before the ADU build.
Old storage structure prior to the ADU project.
Site constraints before starting the ADU build.
Light-oriented layout + efficient utility routing
The design prioritizes natural light by orienting windows toward the southern exposure while maintaining privacy from adjacent homes.
A simple rectangular footprint allows cost-efficient framing, and a consolidated mechanical core minimizes plumbing runs, reducing construction cost.
High-efficiency insulation, mini-split HVAC, and Title 24-compliant glazing deliver comfort with minimal operating expenses.
Floor plan showing the open studio layout.
Exterior elevation with balanced window placement.
Structural framing layout for the ADU.
A backyard transformed into a private living retreat
The new ADU provides a serene, self-contained living environment with warm finishes, flexible furniture placement, and energy-efficient building systems.
High rental ROI + long-term flexibility
The ADU adds significant value to the property while offering a reliable rental income stream and full compliance with Albany zoning and Title 24 requirements.
Typical rents for 500 SF ADUs in Albany.
Based on comparable sales in the neighborhood.
Improved envelope and heat-pump systems reduce utility costs.
Beyond the Numbers
Private living
Ideal for guests, family, or long-term tenants.
Code-compliant build
Full structural, fire, and egress documentation included.
Low utilities
Optimized envelope reduces long-term operating costs.
Ready to Realize Your Property's Potential?
Whether it's a garage conversion, a home addition, or a full-scale remodel, our expert team brings vision, precision, and passion to every project. Don't settle for ordinary—let's build something extraordinary together.