New Avenue Blog
The Blueprint
Cost to convert a garage into a studio ADU in Berkeley, CA
When a family decides to add an accessory dwelling unit, they often consider converting an existing garage into a rentable ADU. In this post we will break down the cost of converting a detached 11′ x 22′ garage into a studio apartment for our client’s mother…
From cost savings to comfort, passive homes are a smart and growing trend
Concerns about climate change are mounting, energy costs are on the rise, and homeowners everywhere are looking for answers…
Adding a detached accessory dwelling (ADU) in Atherton, CA
New Avenue created a plan that would fit their property, meet the city permitting requirements, and be a comfortable guest suite for anyone who stayed there. The detached guest suite features a living area, a closet, a bathroom with a shower, a refrigerator, and a sink. The design makes use of natural light to keep the space bright and reduce electricity costs. Here are the rendering and floor plan.
How a small addition made a huge difference for one Tiburon homeowner
This is the story of a four-year project. Of course, most home additions and remodels don’t take that long, but some do…
Converting a detached garage to a studio workspace in Oakland
A New Avenue design professional created the perfect space for Jose’s classic car (a VW Thing) and his bicycles. The designer was careful to create a plan that would protect the big Ponderosa pine in the yard. The garage door entry means Jose can store his VW, motorcycle, and bicycles in the accessory structure when he’s not using it as a workspace. The half bath makes it a great personal retreat and a well-appointed workspace. Here are the drawings and floor plan.
European Style Curbless Showers – Why and How
A common feature associated with European bath design is the curbless, tiled, step-in shower. We love these bathroom designs for a few reasons…
Expanding an owner’s retreat and adding a detached studio in San Mateo
Brian and Dawn’s designer created plans to replace the existing accessory structure with a new 352-square-foot detached studio with a half bath. A deck and firepit give the owners and guests a comfortable place to relax or entertain.
The designer created plans to extend the owner’s suite in the main home, giving the homeowners more space in their bedroom and bathroom.
Here are the plans.
How much does property tax increase when you convert a shed into a two-bedroom accessory dwelling in Berkeley?
Property tax in this area tends to increase by one-half of one percent of the total cost of the project. When you add an accessory dwelling, your existing home is not reassessed. An ADU like this one will cost around $500,000, resulting in a tax increase of $2,500 per year. That’s $208.33 per month.
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