Pasadena Detached Backyard ADU
A new 650 sq ft Craftsman-influenced ADU built in the rear yard of a 1921 bungalow in Pasadena's Bungalow Heaven historic neighborhood. Designed, permitted, and built in under 11 months.
All-inclusive project cost covering design, engineering, permitting, construction, and certificate of occupancy.
Challenge, Solution, and Result
Historic Overlay Design Compatibility Review
The property sits within Pasadena's Bungalow Heaven Landmark District — one of the most significant historic neighborhoods in Southern California. Any new structure requires design review by the Pasadena Design Commission to ensure compatibility with the area's architectural character. The homeowners had received an initial rejection from a previous contractor whose submitted design used contemporary flat-facade aesthetics that clashed with the district's Craftsman bungalow character. We were brought in to redesign and resubmit.
Craftsman-Authentic Design With Modern Livability
Our architectural team conducted a detailed survey of the surrounding streetscape and primary residence before drawing a single line. The new ADU design referenced the main house directly: matching exposed rafter tails, a low-slope gable roof, wood shingle siding in a complementary earth tone, divided-light windows, and a covered front porch with tapered Craftsman columns. Critically, we made the case to the Design Commission that the ADU's rear-yard placement — not visible from the street — warranted expedited review rather than full committee deliberation. The Commission agreed, and the project received administrative approval in 6 weeks rather than the standard 12-week committee cycle.
A Craftsman ADU That Outperforms Market Rents
The finished unit is a spacious, high-quality one-bedroom that doesn't feel like an afterthought. The 9-foot coffered ceilings, Craftsman-detail built-in bookcase in the living room, and private rear garden create a living experience that commands premium rents. The homeowner leased to a Caltech visiting researcher at $2,600/month on a 24-month lease — significantly above the initial rental income projection — and has since received inquiries for the next vacancy. Annual rental income of $31,200 represents a 15.8% gross yield on construction cost.
Build Highlights
The specific decisions, solutions, and features that defined this project.
Phase-by-Phase Breakdown
From initial design through certificate of occupancy — every phase, every duration.
Design & Architecture
5 weeksExisting conditions survey, streetscape analysis, Craftsman reference documentation, full architectural drawing set, and Design Commission application package with architectural narrative and material board.
Permitting
16 weeksDesign Commission administrative review (6 weeks), Pasadena Building & Safety plan check (8 weeks), one correction round (2 weeks). Geotechnical report not required — lot confirmed as standard flat soil condition by early soils investigation.
Construction
16 weeksNew engineered slab foundation, wood framing, roof assembly, window installation, rough mechanical, insulation, drywall, tile, cabinetry, built-ins, and all finish work. All city inspections passed on first visit.
Final Inspection & Occupancy
1 weekFinal Pasadena Building Department inspection, utility activation, and certificate of occupancy issued. Unit leased within 10 days of listing.
Project Cost: $198,000
All-inclusive — covering architectural design, engineering, permitting, full construction, and certificate of occupancy. No surprises, no change order culture.
- Architectural design and engineering
- All permit fees and city approval management
- Full construction — foundation through finish
- Final inspection and certificate of occupancy
- LocationPasadena
- Project Cost$198,000
- Monthly Rent$2,600/mo
- Timeline11 months
Build Something Like This on Your Property
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Services Behind This Project
ADU Plans & Design
Custom ADU plans and architectural design tailored to your property and Los Angeles zoning requirements — from initial concept to permit-ready drawings.
ADU Permits & Approvals
We manage the full ADU permitting process across Los Angeles and LA County — plan check, corrections, and final approval handled end to end.
Detached ADU Construction
New-construction detached ADUs in Los Angeles — from foundation to certificate of occupancy. Full-service design, permitting, and construction under one contract.
Related City Guide, ADU Model & Projects
Dig deeper into the location, the model used in this build, and other completed projects from our portfolio.
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