ADU Types | ASPACE STUDIOS

All ADU Types, One Space

Get a clear understanding of each ADU type—detached, attached, garage conversions, and junior units—so you can find the right fit for your space, goals, and lifestyle.

DETACHED ADU

A detached ADU is a standalone structure built separately from your main home — offering the highest level of privacy, flexibility, and long-term value.

WHY HOMEOWNERS CHOOSE DETACHED ADUs

Detached ADUs are one of the most versatile additions you can make to your property.

Privacy – completely separate from the main home
Rental income – ideal for long-term tenants or short-term stays (depending on local regulations)
Family use – perfect for guests, in-laws, or adult children
Home office or studio – a dedicated space away from the main house
Property value – significantly increases resale appeal in LA markets

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DESIGN + BUILD FLEXIBILITY

Detached ADUs offer the most design freedom compared to other ADU types.

Because they are built from the ground up, you have control over:

layout and square footage
architectural style
ceiling heights and natural light
indoor/outdoor flow
finishes and materials

This allows the space to feel less like an “addition” and more like a fully realized home.

SIZE + LAYOUT OPTIONS

In California, detached ADUs typically range from 400 to 1,200 square feet, depending on your lot size and local zoning regulations.

Common layouts include:

studio / open concept
1-bedroom, 1-bath
2-bedroom configurations (on larger lots)

The layout is tailored to your needs — whether that’s maximizing rental income or creating a comfortable living space for family.

COST + INVESTMENT

The cost of a detached ADU can vary based on size, design, and site conditions.

On average in Los Angeles:

Starting range: $150,000 – $200,000 (basic builds)
Mid-range: $200,000 – $350,000
High-end/custom: $350,000+

While it’s typically the most expensive ADU type, it also offers the highest return on investment due to its independence and rental potential.

ZONING + REQUIREMENTS (LA FOCUSED)

Detached ADUs in Los Angeles must follow local guidelines, including:

must be located on a residential property
maximum size determined by lot + zoning
required setbacks (distance from property lines)
height restrictions (typically up to 16–25 ft depending on location)
separate entrance required

The good news — California ADU laws have made it significantly easier to build than in previous years.

WHAT IS A DETACHED ADU?

A detached ADU is a fully independent living space located on the same property as your primary residence, but completely separate from it.

These units function like a small home, typically including:

a private entrance
full kitchen
bathroom
living and sleeping areas

Because they are not connected to the main house, they provide true independence and separation.

ATTACHED ADU

An attached ADU is an extension of your existing home — designed to feel connected, while still functioning as its own private living space.

WHY HOMEOWNERS CHOOSE ATTACHED ADUs

Attached ADUs are a smart option for homeowners looking to expand without starting from the ground up.

More cost-efficient than detached builds
Maximizes existing structure and footprint
Ideal for multi-generational living
Easier utility connections
Adds usable square footage without sacrificing yard space

They’re especially popular in Los Angeles where lot space is limited but demand for flexible living is high.

DESIGN + BUILD APPROACH

Because attached ADUs integrate with your existing home, design is all about flow and cohesion.

Key considerations include:

matching or complementing existing architecture
creating a natural transition between spaces
maintaining privacy between the main home and ADU
maximizing natural light and ceiling height where possible

A well-designed attached ADU should feel intentional — not like an afterthought.

COST + INVESTMENT

Attached ADUs are generally more affordable than detached units due to shared structure and reduced foundation work.

Typical Los Angeles ranges:

$120,000 – $200,000 (basic builds)
$200,000 – $300,000+ (custom or larger additions)

Costs depend on:

structural modifications
layout complexity
finish level
utility upgrades

While lower in cost, they still add strong value — especially for long-term living or rental flexibility.

ZONING + REQUIREMENTS (LA FOCUSED)

Attached ADUs must meet local and state guidelines, including:

located on a residential property
must maintain required setbacks (often reduced for ADUs)
must have a separate entrance
fire and safety separation from main home may be required
size allowances depend on existing home + lot

California ADU laws have made attached units much more accessible in recent years.

WHAT IS AN ATTACHED ADU?

An attached ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) is a residential unit that shares at least one wall with the main home. Unlike detached ADUs, it is physically connected to the primary structure but still operates as its own living space.

These units typically include:

a private entrance
kitchen or kitchenette
bathroom
living/sleeping area

Depending on the design, utilities may be shared or separately metered.

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GARAGE CONVERSION

A garage conversion transforms an existing structure into a fully livable space — maximizing what’s already there while minimizing build time and cost.

WHY HOMEOWNERS CHOOSE GARAGE CONVERSIONS

Garage conversions are one of the most efficient ways to add living space.

Most cost-effective ADU option
Faster build timelines
No major structural expansion required
Maximizes underutilized space
Great for rental income or guest use

Especially in Los Angeles, where space is limited, converting what you already have is a smart move.

DESIGN + BUILD APPROACH

Garage conversions are all about transformation.

Key design considerations include:

raising floor levels (garages often sit lower than the home)
upgrading insulation and ventilation
adding windows or natural light where possible
reworking layout for functionality within a fixed footprint

The goal is to make the space feel like a home — not a converted garage.

COST + INVESTMENT

Garage conversions are generally the most affordable ADU option.

Typical Los Angeles ranges:

$80,000 – $150,000 (basic conversions)
$150,000 – $220,000+ (higher-end finishes or upgrades)

Costs depend on:

condition of the existing garage
structural upgrades needed
plumbing and electrical additions
finish level

Despite the lower cost, they still add meaningful value and rental potential.

ZONING + REQUIREMENTS (LA FOCUSED)

Garage conversions must meet ADU regulations, including:

must be converted into a legal ADU (not just a remodel)
replacement parking may be required in some cases
must meet building codes for living space (insulation, ceiling height, etc.)
separate entrance required

California laws have made garage conversions significantly easier, especially for ADU use.

WHAT IS A GARAGE CONVERSION?

A garage conversion is the process of turning an existing garage into a legal, livable ADU. Instead of building a new structure, the original footprint is reimagined into a functional living space.

These units typically include:

kitchen or kitchenette
bathroom
living/sleeping area
upgraded insulation and finishes

Because the structure already exists, the focus is on upgrading it to meet residential standards.

JUNIOR ADU (JADU)

A JADU is a compact living space created within your existing home — designed to maximize efficiency while keeping the build simple and cost-effective.

WHY HOMEOWNERS CHOOSE JADUs

JADUs are ideal for adding flexible living space with minimal disruption.

Lowest cost ADU option
Minimal construction required
Faster approvals and timelines
No major structural expansion
Great for family use or supplemental income

They’re especially useful in homes where space can be reworked rather than rebuilt.

COST + INVESTMENT

JADUs are typically the most budget-friendly ADU type.

Typical Los Angeles ranges:

$50,000 – $100,000 (basic conversions)
$100,000 – $150,000+ (higher-end finishes or layout changes)

Costs depend on:

level of interior renovation
kitchen + bathroom upgrades
structural adjustments (if any)

They offer strong value for homeowners looking for a low-investment addition.

WHAT IS A JADU

A Junior ADU (JADU) is a smaller unit built entirely within the walls of your primary residence. Instead of expanding outward, it reconfigures existing space into a separate, functional living area.

These units typically include:

a private or semi-private entrance
an efficiency kitchen (smaller than a full kitchen)
a living/sleeping area
access to a bathroom (private or shared, depending on layout)

JADUs are designed to work within what already exists — making them one of the most efficient ADU options.

All ADU Types, One Space

DETACHED ADU

WHY HOMEOWNERS CHOOSE DETACHED ADUs

ATTACHED ADU

WHY HOMEOWNERS CHOOSE ATTACHED ADUs

GARAGE CONVERSION

WHY HOMEOWNERS CHOOSE GARAGE CONVERSIONS

JUNIOR ADU (JADU)

WHY HOMEOWNERS CHOOSE JADUs

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