2025 ADU HANDBOOK
The 2025 ADU Handbook in California highlights significant changes to ADU regulations, including the removal of owner-occupancy requirements, streamlined permitting processes, expanded opportunities for multifamily properties to build ADUs, and the ability for pre-approved ADU designs to be utilized by local agencies, making it easier for property owners to build and rent Accessory Dwelling Units without additional restrictions; essentially aiming to increase housing availability through simplified development processes.
COMPRESSED EARTH+MULTIFAMILY
TBE Architecture is working with Brian Jaffee of the California Cottage Company and Verdant Structural Engineers to prototype a multifamily development template utilizing Senate Bill 9 (SB9) – The California Home Act and Senate Bill 8 (SB8) – the Housing Crisis Act of 2019 to develop projects on existing lots that include a duplex with 2 ADUs that then can be eligible for a lot split. Another notable innovation that Brian is bringing to the project is Compressed Earth Blocks (CEBs). Brian manufactures the blocks locally at the companies’ facility in Rohnert Park.
4545 TWIG AVE
SEBASTOPOL, CA Previous Next PROJECT DESCRIPTION This ADU is a 1bd/1ba, with ample storage and open living area connecting to the kitchen. TBE worked with owners Emily and Otto to create a efficient and flexible plan that features Japanese Timber Framing by Owen Laine of Woodenheart, Structural design by Verdant Structural and General Contracting by […]
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), Granny Flats & Quarantine Huts
The Napa Valley Community Foundation and the Community Foundation Sonoma County have announced a partnership with jurisdictions in Napa and Sonoma Counties to promote Accessory Dwelling Units. This partnership has resulted in The ADU Center of Napa and Sonoma County. Resources available at The ADU Center’s website include: ADU Workbook, ADU Calculator, and spotlights of your Napa and Sonoma County neighbors who have built ADUs.
REED GARAGE REMODEL
This “garage” rebuild was restricted by the footprint of the original garage that was rotting in place. To create a greater sense of space, the building was built to the maximum height allowed and shed roofs were utilized to create generous volumes. A major wall was “canted” from the base up to allow the loft area to expand outwardly from the floor below. Aluminum and glass garage doors and french doors were utilized to allow the ample Southern light to flood the spaces.