Designing and Planning Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
44mGeneral2025-04-14
Authors

Branka Knezevic
Founder and Principal Architect at Plana
Course details
Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) have become increasingly popular in a world of constrained housing availability. Architects, urban planners, and contractors need instruction and guidance on best practices for design, planning, and construction, alongside homeowners contemplating an ADU of their own. In this course, instructor Branka Knezevic introduces the basics of designing and building ADUs, empowering architects, planners, developers, and homeowners to unlock property potential while promoting sustainable urban development. By the end of this course, you’ll be prepared to navigate design, permitting, and construction challenges while maximizing ADU functionality and value.
Learning objectives
Define the fundamental role of ADUs in addressing housing shortages and promoting sustainable urban development.
Identify key legal and zoning requirements necessary to navigate the permitting process for ADU projects.
Analyze various ADU design principles to optimize functionality, aesthetics, and environmental sustainability.
Evaluate financial considerations and budgeting strategies to ensure a cost-effective ADU investment.
Plan the construction process by selecting contractors, managing timelines, and overseeing project logistics.
Integrate sustainability practices and design elements to enhance energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
Learning objectives
Define the fundamental role of ADUs in addressing housing shortages and promoting sustainable urban development.
Identify key legal and zoning requirements necessary to navigate the permitting process for ADU projects.
Analyze various ADU design principles to optimize functionality, aesthetics, and environmental sustainability.
Evaluate financial considerations and budgeting strategies to ensure a cost-effective ADU investment.
Plan the construction process by selecting contractors, managing timelines, and overseeing project logistics.
Integrate sustainability practices and design elements to enhance energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
Skills covered
Architectural DesignArchitectural VisualizationVisualization and Real-TimeAECOne-Off
Concepts
Conclusion
- 01 - ADUs are reshaping housing
- 02 - What are ADUs and why do they matter
- 03 - Legal and zoning requirements
- 04 - Designing an ADU
- 05 - Financial considerations
- 06 - Building and construction
- 07 - Renting out and living in your ADU
- 08 - Bringing it all together