ADUs, JADUs & SB9 Lot Splits

Maximize Your Property Value California’s new housing laws (SB9) allow for more density than ever before, but Pasadena has specific overlays that change what you can build.

  • ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit): Detached units up to 1,200 sq. ft. for rental income or aging parents.

  • JADU (Junior ADU): Converting a bedroom or garage (up to 500 sq. ft.) into a separate rental suite.

  • Feasibility: We quickly determine if you can fit a 2-bed/2-bath unit while maintaining your required setbacks and garden space.

Modern white ADU in Pasadena backyard with wood pergola, sliding glass doors, and drought-tolerant landscaping.

Modern white ADU in Pasadena backyard with wood pergola, sliding glass doors, and drought-tolerant landscaping.

Maximize Your Backyard. Designed under California’s SB9 regulations.

Maximize Your Backyard. Designed under California’s SB9 regulations.

Volume & Warmth. To make 600 square feet feel spacious, we skipped the traditional drywall ceiling. Instead, we used exposed architectural plywood to add warmth and vertical height. The kitchen features custom sage green millwork and open shelving, w

Volume & Warmth. To make 600 square feet feel spacious, we skipped the traditional drywall ceiling. Instead, we used exposed architectural plywood to add warmth and vertical height. The kitchen features custom sage green millwork and open shelving, which keeps the visual weight light. Large-format glazing connects the dining area directly to the garden, blurring the line between indoor and outdoor living.

Privacy by Design. One of the biggest concerns with ADUs is privacy for the main house. We oriented this unit to face away from the primary residence, utilizing high clerestory windows on the rear facade to bring in light without creating sightlines

Privacy by Design. One of the biggest concerns with ADUs is privacy for the main house. We oriented this unit to face away from the primary residence, utilizing high clerestory windows on the rear facade to bring in light without creating sightlines into the neighbor's yard. The compact footprint respects all Pasadena zoning setbacks while preserving garden space.