ADU Design & Architectural Plans in Palo Alto
Custom architectural plans, structural engineering, and 3D renderings sized to your lot and budget.
Plans That Are Designed to Actually Get Approved
Good ADU design starts with the constraints of your specific lot — setbacks, lot coverage, height limits, and how your ADU relates to your main house — not a generic floor plan dropped onto your property. We start with a site survey and zoning analysis before drawing anything, so the design you fall in love with is one the City of Palo Alto will actually approve.
Every design package includes full architectural drawings, structural engineering, and 3D renderings so you can see and adjust the space before construction ever starts.
- Site survey and zoning analysis before design begins
- Full architectural drawing set ready for plan check submission
- Structural engineering included
- 3D renderings so you can visualize the finished space
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do ADU plans cost?
Design and architectural plan packages typically run $8,500 to $18,000 depending on the ADU size and complexity. This is often credited toward the total project cost if we also build it.
Do I have to build with you if you design my ADU?
No, though most clients choose the design-build path because it is faster and avoids miscommunication between separate architects and contractors. Standalone design packages are available.
How long does design take?
Most ADU design packages, from site survey to a plan-check-ready set, take 6 to 10 weeks depending on complexity and revision rounds.
Can you design an ADU that matches my house style?
Yes — we regularly design ADUs to complement an existing home's architecture, or as a clean modern contrast, depending on what you want for your property.