ADU Design Services in San Diego
Ruland Design Group (RDG) is a San Diego-based design firm specializing in Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). Whether a property owner is looking to generate rental income, accommodate a family member, or increase the long-term value of their property, RDG works with clients to design ADUs that align with their specific goals and budget.
California's updated housing laws and San Diego's revised zoning codes have made it more straightforward than ever to add an additional dwelling unit to a residential or mixed-use property. RDG helps property owners navigate this process from initial concept through to approved, permit-ready plans.
The types of ADU projects Ruland Design Group handles include:
- Garage conversion contractor services
- Detached ADU builder projects
- Attached ADUs
- Above-the-garage ADUs
- Multi-family additions
- Junior ADU (JADU) contractor services
Each design is developed individually, based on the property owner's goals, site conditions, and budget. RDG has completed designs for more than 600 ADUs throughout San Diego, giving them a broad understanding of local requirements and common challenges in the permitting process.
A Structured Design Process
RDG uses a proprietary seven-step ADU Design Methodology intended to keep projects moving forward in an organized way. The process begins with understanding the client's vision, funding, and project scope. From there, RDG manages the permit process and guides the client through each phase until the plans are approved and ready for a contractor to begin construction.
During the design and permitting phases, Ruland Design Group focuses on:
- Creating a design that fits within the client's budget
- Navigating the permit process on the client's behalf
- Acting as an advocate throughout the entire process
The permit process can be complex, and unexpected costs or delays are a common concern for property owners. RDG works to identify potential issues early so that clients are not caught off guard by expenses or complications later in the project.
What Is an Accessory Dwelling Unit?
An Accessory Dwelling Unit is an additional dwelling located on a residential or mixed-use property. These units go by many names — granny flat, casita, in-law suite, backyard cottage, guest house, carriage house, and more. Under current San Diego zoning codes, ADUs can include a full kitchen, which means they can be legally rented out as a separate unit.
ADUs can be detached (a standalone backyard cottage or granny flat), attached to the primary residence, or created through a garage conversion. The size of the ADU is generally tied to the size of the primary residence, which in many cases allows for a unit larger than a traditional granny flat.
The benefits of adding an ADU to a property can include:
- Generating additional rental income
- Providing housing for aging family members nearby
- Increasing the overall value of the property
Ruland Design Group's role is focused on the design and permitting side of ADU projects. Once plans are approved, clients work with their chosen ADU contractor or builder to complete construction. RDG's experience across hundreds of San Diego ADU projects means they are familiar with where delays and complications tend to arise, and how to avoid them.
