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
Tell us about your property and goals. We'll confirm what's buildable, recommend the right ADU type and size, and provide a site-specific all-inclusive price estimate — free, no commitment.
- Lot and setback review — confirm your ADU options
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- All-inclusive price estimate
- Permit timeline for your city and jurisdiction
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ADU Project FAQs
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Contact an ADU Specialist200+ ADU Projects Completed in Los Angeles
From the first consultation to the final inspection — every project follows the same disciplined process and is backed by the same team, warranty, and accountability.
Licensed & Insured General Contractor
ADU Build LA holds an active California General Contractor (B) license with CSLB and carries full general liability and workers' compensation insurance. Every subcontractor on your project is licensed, insured, and verified before they set foot on your property.
200+ ADUs Built Across LA County
We've completed over 200 ADU projects — garage conversions, detached new construction, Junior ADUs, and attached units — across every major LA-area city. That depth of experience means we've seen every site condition, every permit challenge, and every construction scenario.
15+ Years of ADU Experience
Since before the 2020 ADU law reforms, we've been building accessory dwelling units in Los Angeles. We've navigated every iteration of state ADU law, local zoning changes, and city permit process updates — institutional knowledge that directly accelerates your project.
Transparent, Fixed-Price Contracts
We don't use time-and-materials billing or open-ended design fees. Every project starts with a detailed all-inclusive fixed price covering design, engineering, permitting, and construction. What we quote is what you pay — no surprise change orders, no scope creep billing.
In-House Permit Management
Our team has submitted hundreds of permit applications across LADBS, Santa Monica, Pasadena, Glendale, Culver City, and other LA-area jurisdictions. We know each city's plan check process, common correction triggers, and expedite options — reducing wait time and managing every step for you.
Single-Contract Design-Build
Under one contract, our in-house team handles every phase — design, engineering, permitting, and construction. You won't need to coordinate between a separate architect and a separate builder. One point of contact, one schedule, full accountability from first sketch to final inspection.
Services Behind This Project
ADU Design & Architecture
Custom ADU designs tailored to your property, lifestyle, and Los Angeles zoning requirements. From concept to permitted plans.
ADU Permitting & Approvals
We handle the full permitting process with the City of Los Angeles and surrounding municipalities — from plan check to final approval.
ADU Construction
Full-service ADU construction from foundation to finish. Licensed, bonded, and experienced in LA County building requirements.
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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