ADUs

Expanding Your Living Space

Whether you need an extra suite for family, a rental-ready accessory dwelling unit, or more room for everyday living, Bernard King Construction plans and builds high-quality spaces that feel integrated with your home. We manage plans and permits and coordinate all trades so your new square footage is thoughtfully designed and built to last.

What Is an ADU?

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary, self-contained residential space located on the same lot as a primary home. It’s designed to function independently with its own living area and typically includes a sleeping area, bathroom, and a kitchen or kitchenette. ADUs add flexible living options—whether for multi-generational living, a private guest space, or potential long-term use.

Types of ADUs

• Detached ADU (Stand-Alone Unit): A separate structure positioned on your lot for maximum privacy and flexibility.

• Attached ADU: Shares at least one wall with the primary house while maintaining a separate living space.

• Garage Conversion ADU: Converts an existing garage into a livable unit, often the fastest path to create functional square footage using an existing footprint.

• Interior Conversion (within existing home): Reconfigures unused areas—such as a large bonus room—into an independent living space with its own entry where feasible.

ADU vs. Home Addition: What’s the Difference?

ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit)

• Use: Independent living space on the same lot as the main home.

• Access: Typically has a separate entrance for privacy.

• Layout: Includes living/sleeping area, bathroom, and kitchen or kitchenette.

• Utilities: May involve dedicated or shared connections as appropriate.

• Benefit: Adds flexible, independent housing while remaining part of your property.

Home Addition

• Use: Expands your existing home’s floorplan (e.g., new bedroom suite, larger family room, expanded kitchen).

• Access: Integrates directly with current hallways/rooms—no separate residence.

• Layout: Extends current rooms or adds new ones to improve everyday flow.

• Utilities: Extends existing systems into the new space.

• Benefit: Seamlessly grows the primary home without creating a separate dwelling.

When to choose which?

• Choose an ADU if you need an independent living arrangement on your property.

• Choose a home addition when you want your current layout to expand and function as one cohesive residence.

ADU Planning & Building

A well-executed ADU starts with a clear plan that respects your lot, budget, and long-term goals. We evaluate site constraints, set a functional layout, and coordinate technical requirements to keep the project organized and compliant.

Planning Focus

• Site use, access, and privacy

• Efficient floorplans with natural light and storage

• Kitchenette/kitchen, bath layout, and ventilation

• Coordination of structural needs and utilities

• Plans and permits managed by our team

Building Focus

• Foundation and framing appropriate to the design

• Plumbing, electrical, and HVAC aligned with code and the unit’s needs

• Durable, easy-to-maintain finishes suited to everyday living

• Clean craftsmanship and clear communication throughout construction

Home Additions (Integrated with Your Home)

We design additions that feel original to your house—from matching rooflines and exterior finishes to interior trim, flooring, and lighting. Common additions include primary suites, expanded living rooms, kitchen bump-outs, and flex spaces such as offices or playrooms.

Whether you’re adding an independent ADU or expanding your home with a well-integrated addition, we’ll help you choose the right approach and execute it with care. From design direction to permits and construction, our goal is a result that looks great, functions smoothly, and fits your property for years to come.