Pergola from sketch to reality

Check out this ADU on the "Seattle Green Homes Tour"

What is an ADU?

Urban Cottages

What is an Urban Cottage otherwise known as an Accessory Dwelling Unit?

An Urban Cottage is a second living space on a property zoned single family. The term Urban Cottage is used because it speaks to the aesthetic appeal the living space should have in its integration in an urban single family home setting. It is a smaller unit than the main house on the lot. The Urban Cottage is fully functional with sleeping area, bathroom, cooking area and living area. There are a variety of ways you can incorporate an Urban Cottage into an existing property.

q Changing a garage or creating an area above a garage into an Urban Cottage

q Attaching an Urban Cottage to the house already on a lot

q Creating an existing space inside the house such as a basement into an Urban Cottage

q Using an open area such as a yard space to build an Urban Cottage

Why is now a good time to invest in an Urban Cottage?

Now is a good time to think about creating an Urban Cottage because of the recent changes to the zoning laws by the Seattle Department of Planning and Development. It allows property owners to create a detached Urban Cottage (http://www.seattle.gov/dpd/publications/cam/cam116b.pdf ).

How can an Urban Cottage add value to my property?

Urban Cottages are attractive for a variety of reasons. Many people would like to be closer to their parents or children. Many people have sons or daughters finishing up with school. Other people would like to have a space open to entertain and/or have a guest house available. Others need a space to keep loved ones close so they can care for them. An Urban Cottage is a nice choice because you can create a space which you can tailor to suit your specific needs. You will be able to have family, friends or associates close yet still have your home space separate.