DOES THE DESIGN MATTER?

YES. Whether we see it or not, design is an integral part of everything we do, and great design positively impacts our day-to-day lives. According to the EPA, the average American spends 87% of their lives in buildings. That’s a lot! This is one reason why we think architecture is so important.

There are a lot of “right” ways to approach the design of an ADU, and the range of options can be quite daunting! As the owner, decisions you make must fit together in a way that is functional, on budget, and attractive. An architect can guide you to choices that are right for you while balancing cost, performance, durability and appearance. They will likely have ideas you’ve never even thought of!

While state law may not require you to have a licensed architect on your project team in some circumstances, it is a choice that can greatly increase the odds of a successful project. An AIA architect can help you make the most of every dollar you invest by suggesting features that pay for themselves many times over during the life of a project.  Using their knowledge of codes, construction, and site-specific design, an architect will encourage you to think about a project that is beautiful, functional, economical, fits the site, and is lasting for current and future uses.

Design considerations can include:

PROGRAM

PLACEMENT

SIZE

SOLAR ORIENTATION

AMENITIES

PRIVACY  + ACCESS

STYLE

NEIGHBORS + COMMUNITY

ENERGY PERFORMANCE

MATERIALS

EASE OF OPERATION + MAINTENANCE

VALUE

For a quick sense of how these choices come together in successful projects, take a look at the CASE STUDIES

Now it’s time to discuss the BUILD!