Barcci Builders: ADU Construction in the Bay Area
Barcci Builders is a Bay Area-based construction company specializing in Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). With over 40 ADUs completed across the region, they offer end-to-end services covering design, permitting, and construction for a range of ADU types — from detached backyard cottages to garage conversions and Junior ADUs (JADUs).
An Accessory Dwelling Unit is a self-contained residential unit located on the same lot as a primary home. Also referred to as a granny flat, in-law suite, backyard cottage, or casita, an ADU includes its own entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area. It can be rented out independently or used for multigenerational living arrangements.
Since 2020, California has significantly expanded ADU rights under legislation including AB 68, SB 13, and AB 881. Under current state law, virtually every single-family lot in California is eligible for at least one ADU and one Junior ADU. Cities are required to approve or deny ADU applications within 60 days and have limited ability to impose fees or restrictions beyond state minimums.
ADU Types and Costs
Barcci Builders works with all four primary ADU types. Each project is assessed individually based on the specific lot, zoning requirements, and homeowner goals.
- Junior ADU (JADU): Up to 500 sq ft, created within the existing home's footprint. Bay Area cost range: $60K–$130K, with average monthly rent of $1,800–$2,800.
- Garage Conversion: Converting an existing attached or detached garage into a livable unit. Bay Area cost range: $100K–$180K, with average monthly rent of $2,200–$3,200.
- Attached ADU: An addition connected to the primary home. Bay Area cost range: $150K–$280K, with average monthly rent of $2,800–$4,000.
- Detached ADU: A fully separate structure on the same lot. Bay Area cost range: $200K–$400K+, with average monthly rent of $3,200–$4,500+.
Bay Area ADU costs run 30–50% higher than the California average, largely due to labor costs, permitting complexity, and site conditions. Barcci Builders provides a fixed-price contract after the design phase is complete, so there are no cost-plus surprises during construction.
A general breakdown of where the ADU budget is typically allocated includes foundation and framing (25–30%), mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (20–25%), interior finishes (20–25%), exterior finishes (10–15%), permits and engineering (8–12%), and site work (5–10%).
The Building Process
Barcci Builders follows a structured seven-step process from initial consultation through to certificate of occupancy:
- Free Feasibility Assessment: Evaluation of the property, zoning, lot coverage, setbacks, and utility connections.
- Design and 3D Rendering: Custom architectural plans with photorealistic 3D renderings so clients can review layouts, finishes, and details before construction begins.
- Permit Application: Preparation and submission of all permit documents, including architectural plans, structural engineering, Title 24 energy compliance, and utility coordination.
- Permit Approval: Management of all city communications and plan check responses across Bay Area municipalities.
- Construction: Building to residential quality standards with daily photo updates provided to the homeowner throughout the process.
- Inspections and Certificate of Occupancy: Coordination of all inspection milestones through to final sign-off.
- Move-In Ready: Full walkthrough, documentation for rental listing or refinancing, and a one-year craftsmanship warranty on all workmanship.
The typical timeline from design to move-in is 8–14 months: approximately 1–2 months for design and engineering, 2–4 months for permitting, and 4–8 months for construction depending on size and complexity.
Barcci Builders operates across several Bay Area cities including Los Gatos, Saratoga, San Jose, Palo Alto, Cupertino, and Campbell. Each city has its own specific requirements beyond state minimums — such as hillside development review in Saratoga or design review thresholds in Palo Alto — and Barcci Builders verifies current local requirements for every project at no additional charge.
Floor plans are custom-designed for each lot, accounting for setbacks, lot coverage, and the homeowner's goals. Every ADU project also includes full 3D architectural renderings covering exterior elevations, interior views, and material selections before any permits are submitted.