ADU & DADU Design
Feasibility, Site & ADU Strategy
We evaluate your property to determine what type of ADU or DADU is feasible, reviewing zoning, setbacks, utilities, and site constraints. This includes navigating Tacoma-specific requirements such as height restrictions and view-sensitive areas, which can impact placement and overall design.
Through no-cost initial meetings, we align on your goals, budget, and overall approach—helping you understand what’s possible before moving into design.
Layout & ADU Design Development
We develop efficient floor plans tailored to your site and goals, balancing livability, cost, and buildability. ADUs require thoughtful design to maximize space and meet code requirements, and we work closely with you to refine the layout and details.
Preliminary plans are typically delivered within 4 weeks, giving you a clear vision of your project early in the process.
Plans, Review & Next Steps
We work closely with you to finalize the design through two in-person design review meetings, along with ongoing communication, ensuring every detail is aligned with your vision while confirming the design is practical and buildable.
Once approved, we develop a complete, permit-ready set of plans that includes foundation, floor framing, and roof framing layouts, giving your builder and engineer a clear path forward.
All of our plans include a 3D walkthrough, helping you visualize the design and understand how the space will feel before construction begins. We also provide CAD files, ensuring all professionals involved are working from the same information, helping avoid delays, miscommunication, and unnecessary costs. Optional renderings are available for clients looking for a more detailed visual representation.
We can also connect you with trusted professionals, including structural engineers and builders, and support you through the permitting process. This includes responding to review comments, covered within our flat fee, to help keep your project moving forward efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does ADU design take?
Most ADU projects reach preliminary plans within about 4 weeks, depending on site conditions and complexity. Preliminary plans are the first set of drawings developed after we’ve aligned on scope of work and completed the project kickoff meeting. Final plans and permitting timelines vary by jurisdiction.
How much does it cost to design an ADU / DADU?
ADU & DADU design is typically priced as a flat fee based on size and complexity, giving you clear expectations upfront before moving forward.
What is the difference between an ADU and a DADU?
An ADU is typically attached to the main home or within it, while a DADU (Detached ADU) is a separate structure on the same property.
Are there restrictions for building an ADU in Tacoma?
Yes, requirements can include setbacks, height limits, and view-sensitive area considerations, along with utility and access requirements. We help navigate these early in the process..
Can I use plans I find online for my ADU?
Online plans can be a helpful starting point, but they typically do not meet local jurisdiction requirements. Most plans need to be adapted to include site-specific details such as elevations, height restrictions, and code compliance, including energy calculations.
Additionally, many online plan files are not compatible with our in-house systems, so they often need to be rebuilt. That said, if you have a design you like, we can use it as a reference and efficiently develop a permit-ready set tailored to your project.
Will you help with permitting and construction?
Yes! We support you through the permitting process, including responding to review comments (included in our flat fee), and can connect you with builders and engineers we have long standing relationships with to move your project forward.
Still have questions?
Schedule a free consultation and we’ll walk through your project, feasibility, and next steps.
Some ADU & DADUs we have designed
