ADU Design and Architecture Services by Oztan Studio
Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) have become an increasingly popular housing option for homeowners in Arlington, VA. They offer flexibility, the potential for additional income, and can contribute to increased property value. Oztan Studio is a locally based residential architecture firm that works with homeowners looking to design and build ADUs in the Arlington area.
An accessory dwelling unit is a secondary housing unit located on a single-family property. These can take several forms, including a basement apartment, a backyard cottage, a detached ADU, or an above-garage suite. ADUs are designed to provide additional living space — whether for family members, guests, or as rental units.
Common reasons homeowners pursue ADU projects include:
- Extra income: Renting out an ADU can generate additional revenue through long-term or short-term tenants.
- Multigenerational living: ADUs allow families to house elderly parents or adult children nearby while maintaining privacy.
- Increased property value: Adding an ADU is generally considered a long-term investment that can boost a property's market value.
- More affordable housing options: ADUs can help ease housing demand in areas like Arlington while fitting within existing residential neighborhoods.
Arlington, VA ADU Requirements
Building an ADU in Arlington is permitted, but homeowners must follow specific local guidelines. Arlington County recommends scheduling a pre-submission meeting with the Zoning Division before applying for a permit. This meeting covers property eligibility based on zoning, requirements under the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (VUSBC), and environmental considerations from relevant county departments.
To be eligible for an ADU in Arlington, a property must:
- Be located in a district zoned R-20, R-10, R-8, R-6, R-5, R-10T, R-15-30T, or R-2-7.
- Not already have an existing ADU or family/caregiver suite on the property.
For detached ADUs constructed after May 18, 2019, specific design requirements apply. Height is limited to 1.5 stories or 25 feet, whichever is lesser. Footprint limits are 560 square feet in R-5 and R-6 districts, and 650 square feet in other eligible zones. Setback requirements vary depending on whether the lot is an interior or corner lot. The nearest wall of the accessory building must also be at least 25 feet from a street and 8 feet from the main dwelling.
Regarding size, if the main dwelling is at least 1,000 square feet, the ADU cannot exceed 35% of the combined floor area, with a maximum of 750 square feet. If the main dwelling is under 1,000 square feet, the ADU may be up to 45% of the combined floor area, with a maximum of 500 square feet.
Arlington County also has parking requirements. Properties with at least one off-street parking space are generally permitted to proceed. Properties with two or more spaces must maintain at least two. Properties with no off-street parking may still qualify if one space is created or if a parking study confirms the block is less than 65% parked.
Cost considerations: Building an ADU in Arlington typically ranges from $100,000 to $300,000 or more, depending on the scope of work. Factors such as design complexity, permit fees, and whether the project involves a conversion or new construction all affect the final cost.
Working with Oztan Studio on Your ADU Project
Oztan Studio is a residential architecture firm based in the area, with experience guiding homeowners through the ADU design and permitting process. Their team can assist with navigating Arlington's zoning requirements, developing designs that meet local code, and creating spaces that align with a homeowner's practical needs.
Whether the goal is a backyard cottage, a garage conversion, or a detached ADU, Oztan Studio works with clients to develop architectural plans suited to their property and objectives. Their focus is on residential architecture, making them a relevant resource for homeowners considering an accessory dwelling unit project in Arlington, VA.
