Title 24 regulations play a crucial role in ensuring energy efficiency and sustainability in building construction across California. But what exactly is Title 24, and how does it impact Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)? In this article, we'll explore the essentials of...
ADU Resources from SnapADU
Design
Turn your ADU design vision into a reality. Discover inspiring ADU designs, layouts, and décor ideas to make your accessory dwelling unit truly unique. Our curated articles offer a glimpse into the world of ADU design, with real-world grounding in construction.
Two Story ADUs in San Diego: A Complete Guide
The new wave of accessory dwelling units popping up in Southern California neighborhoods continues to captivate the attention of homeowners and renters alike. However, the build process just got more interesting, as two story ADUs have increased in popularity in...
Do I need solar on my ADU?
You may have heard that the state of California is making an effort to move all new construction in the direction of sustainability and renewable energy. You may also hear mixed information about whether solar is or is not required on accessory dwelling units (ADUs),...
Guide to San Diego’s Pre-Approved ADU Plans
You may have heard that San Diego County, as well as the City of Encinitas, Carlsbad, and others are making floor plans for accessory dwelling unit (also known as ADUs, guest houses, second units, casitas, granny flats) available to the public. Read on to decide if...
Ultimate Guide to ADU Exterior Design & Finishes in Southern California
The exterior of your accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is the first impression visitors or potential tenants will have of your property. In this extensive look at ADU exterior styles & options in Greater San Diego, we will explore various aspects of what to consider...
ADU Floor Plan Customization – Design Your Granny Flat
Custom ADU Design with SnapADU: Precision Meets Personalization At SnapADU, our commitment is to simplify the accessory dwelling unit design-build process while ensuring homeowners get precisely what they envision. One of the primary challenges in ADU projects is...
2023 Trends in the ADU Market
Looking to build an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) in 2023? The economic and regulatory environment has been shifting, and we’ve narrowed it down to several important trends in the ADU space. Financing options like fixed rate second position loans offer a solution,...
When do you need a survey for an ADU in San Diego?
Many homeowners ask if they need to get a survey before proceeding with the planning & permitting process for their accessory dwelling unit (ADU). While you will need a site plan to submit for permits, a boundary survey may or may not be required for ADUs in the...
Top 5 ADU Floor Plans & Which is Best for You
Like snowflakes, every accessory dwelling unit floor plan is different and unique in its own way. However, we have found that certain floor plans are constantly revisited by homeowners. They just seem to work. We have narrowed down this list to the top five floor...
5 Steps to Design the Perfect Granny Flat
Designing your accessory dwelling unit (ADU) can be both exciting and a bit overwhelming. There are endless options available to you, which can make it difficult to decide what granny flat design best serves your needs. If you are struggling with your ADU layout, or...
Planning for a Pool Alongside Your ADU
This article is for you if you are considering the addition of a poolside accessory dwelling unit (ADU), a pool house to commune and snack, or just a simple structure for flexible storage or entertainment space. Regardless of the use, there are a number of...
Easements and ADUs: What You Need To Know
If you are thinking about building an accessory dwelling unit on your property, it will be important to understand where you are allowed to build. Setbacks and easements, as well as site constraints, will be the biggest factors driving the optimal placement of the...
ADU Size Limits: Maximum ADU Sizes in San Diego
If you have recently learned that your property can have an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), you may be wondering how large of an ADU you can build and what to think about when determining the size. It's one of the first questions we get from homeowners wanting to make...
10 Best Resources for Decorating ADUs
Designing the floor plan of your accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a very important step. But what about the interior design & decoration of the guest house? For those individuals that are less familiar with interior design, there are many resources online that...
Costs and Benefits of Going All Electric in Your ADU
As the state of California moves towards a more sustainable, eco-friendly society, the topic of renewable versus nonrenewable energy is at the forefront of many legislators' minds. Over the next few years, California will be shifting many regulations to ensure the...
What to Know About ADU Setbacks & Fire Ratings
The placement of your detached accessory dwelling unit (ADU, also known as a guest house, casita, in-law suite, or granny flat) can be just as critical as your choice of floorplan and finishes, as there are a number of regulations property owners are required to...
ADU Feasibility Studies
As you begin your accessory dwelling unit (ADU) design build process, you will eventually encounter the phrase “feasibility study” or "feasibility report." A complete Feasibility Study is an important first step that can help inform your decision of whether or not to...
Do you need an architect for an ADU?
You're thinking about building an accessory dwelling unit, but where do you start? Do you need to first find an architect? A builder? Both?? If you're deciding between hiring an architect or hiring a design-build contractor for your ADU, read on to determine which...
ADU Coalition Awards 2021
Snap ADU is proud to be designated as a 2021 ADU Coalition award-winning design + build contractor specializing in design and stick-built construction. More than 375 attended the Virtual Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Coalition Conference on January 23, 2021, which was...
How to Incorporate Sustainable Design in ADUs
Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important consideration for some homeowners looking to build an accessory dwelling unit (ADU). In talking to families, we sometimes hear from clients who are interested in incorporating elements of sustainable design into...