Thinking about adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) to your property in Tennessee? ADUs are gaining popularity as they provide extra living space, potential rental income, and can increase your property's value.
ADUs are built on the same lot as the main house and offer independent living quarters. They're perfect for use as a private retreat, guest house, rental property, or backyard cottage. With their own separate entrance, it's easy to see why homeowners are eager to add them to their properties.
While ADUs are appealing, we understand that the process of building one can be overwhelming. There's a lot to consider, from local regulations and building codes to interior design, budgeting, and the overall planning process.
To help you navigate this process, here are some essential tips for a successful ADU project in Cookeville.
Before diving into construction, it's crucial to decide on the ADU's intended use. Take your time with this step, as it requires careful consideration.
Ask yourself:
Once you've made your decision, it's time to check your zoning permissions.
Since ADUs share the same residential property as the main house, you'll need to consult with Cookeville's local planning department to ensure you can build an ADU on your property.
This step ensures compliance with local zoning laws, International Residential Codes, and property tax regulations. It also helps prevent any legal issues down the road.
Be sure to check with your local authorities for specific regulations in Cookeville and surrounding areas.
To avoid confusion, accessory dwelling units go by various names:
Next, you can begin the planning process.
After obtaining building permission and determining the ADU's purpose, it's time to start planning. This is a crucial step for any successful design. Here's what to consider:
ADUs are required to have an off-street designated parking area. However, you may be able to sidestep this regulation if your property complies with one (or more) of the following:
If these don't apply to you, you'll need to incorporate a parking bay within your ADU design (which complies with building standards).
Since accessory apartments are independent living quarters, they require ample accessibility, such as:
Pro tip: Install fire extinguishers and smoke and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure your ADU complies with fire regulations.
If the accessory dwelling unit is a rental property, you might want to prioritize privacy. For instance, place the unit's front door facing away from the main house or incorporate screens or hedges to enclose the space. Consider soundproofing insulation - walls, ceilings, doors - to prevent noise between the two buildings.
On the other hand, if the unit is used for family members or aging parents, you might want to position the ADU closer tothe main home for better social interaction.
Take note of where you'll build the ADU, ensuring the ground is sturdy and suitable for such structures. Check that the area isn't prone to flooding (in lower-lying areas) and that there aren't trees overheard that could cause damage in strong winds.
Pro tip: A professional building contractor can assist you.
It's worth investigating if you can connect your ADU to the main housing utility supply (a.k.a water, gas, and electricity lines). This eliminates the need for separate connections - and additional expenses!
Ensure your secondary suite matches the existing architectural design and color scheme of the main building to create a seamless and cohesive look.
Choose long-lasting, durable building materials when planning your design. These items are hard-wearing, made to last, and increase the value of your ADU investment. A few examples include:
ADUs are self-contained buildings with a kitchen, bedroom, bathroom, and living space. Consider integrating eco-friendly and energy-efficient features into your ADU design to reduce your carbon footprint.
These include:
Depending on your style preference, use ethically sourced timber, recycled steel, and natural stone building materials. Not only are these elements visually appealing, but they're kind to the planet as well!
Knowing the basic layout and the elements you want to use, you can now set your budget.
Budgeting is crucial for keeping your project on track financially. The average cost of building an ADU can range from $60,000 to $225,000.
Some budgeting tips:
Pro tip: Set aside a buffer of around 5% - 10% of your budget for unforeseen expenses.
Now that the most important considerations are out of the way, you can start designing your perfect ADU!
rafting ADUs that blend aesthetics, functionality, and adaptability is no small feat. You'll need to work within the confines of your existing space, which can be challenging if your backyard has an unusual shape. Additionally, you must consider the unit's dimensions and what you're allowed to construct according to local regulations.
When it comes to secondary suites, maximizing space is paramount, regardless of whether you're building attached ADUs (connected to the main house) or detached units (standalone structures).
Here are our recommendations:
Opt for furniture that serves multiple purposes. Consider items like storage ottomans, breakfast nooks with hidden compartments, kitchen islands featuring extra drawers and shelves, toe-kick drawers, or adaptable dining tables that double as workstations.
Building on the previous point, ensure every item has its designated place within your auxiliary unit. Overflowing cabinets and cluttered countertops can make a space feel cramped. Install ample storage options and make use of vertical space to avoid this issue. For instance:
Think about implementing an open floor plan to create an illusion of spaciousness. Utilize area rugs, strategic furniture placement, or room dividers to delineate specific zones such as the living area, sleeping quarters, or kitchenette.
Expert design suggestions:
Think about installing sliding barn doors that glide along a track instead of traditional swinging doors. This eliminates the need for clearance space. Another option is to use shower curtains or walk-in showers in tight bathrooms rather than enclosed units.
Look into smaller, energy-efficient appliances. Multifunctional appliances, like washer/dryer combos, can save space while maintaining functionality.
By incorporating these design concepts, you can create a cozy and practical ADU on your Tennessee property, all while adhering to size restrictions!
While DIY projects can be fulfilling, it's wise to consider professional help when constructing an ADU.
Enlisting the services of an architect, contractor, local planning expert, and interior designer can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. They'll ensure your ADU design complies with local regulations, optimizes living space, stays within budget, and meets all building codes.
Reach out to the Cookeville Home Remodeling team today. We're dedicated to creating ideal living spaces for our clients, utilizing only the finest materials and skilled professionals.
Here are several frequent accessory dwelling unit mistakes and ways to avoid them:
The most effective way to maximize space in ADUs is by choosing multifunctional furniture. These space-saving solutions include items like sofa beds, convertible tables and desks, and seating with built-in storage compartments.
A 750-square-foot ADU is often considered a comfortable and practical size.
In general, you can construct a two-story ADU as long as it doesn't exceed the maximum height restrictions for your property. Be sure to confirm these details with your local county office.
There you have it - a comprehensive overview of the best ADU tips and strategies, along with guidance on how to implement them.
Carefully considering your ADU's purpose, securing the proper zoning permissions, and working within a well-planned budget will ensure a smooth, hassle-free construction process.
Whether you need assistance with attached or detached ADUs, don't hesitate to contact Cookeville Home Remodeling today. We're here to support you every step of the way!
