Garage Converted into a 1×1 ADU – Gardena, CA

Existing Garage Not Built for Habitable Use
The original garage structure required upgrades to meet California ADU building codes, including foundation reinforcement, new framing, and shear walls to comply with seismic requirements.

Utility Tie-Ins & Limited Access
Connecting new plumbing, electrical, and sewer lines to the existing home required careful planning due to limited access points and existing underground utilities.

City of Gardena ADU Permitting Requirements
Navigating Gardena ADU permits and inspections required detailed plan coordination, corrections, and strict adherence to local zoning and Title 24 energy standards.

Space Optimization in a Compact Footprint
Designing a functional 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom ADU within an existing garage required efficient layout planning to maximize living space while meeting egress, ventilation, and clearance requirements.

Fire & Safety Code Compliance
Upgrades were required to meet fire separation, smoke and carbon monoxide detector, and safety standards between the ADU and the main residence.

Noise, Dust & Occupied Property Conditions
Construction was completed while the main home remained occupied, requiring careful scheduling, dust control, and coordination to minimize disruption.

Inspection Sequencing & Final Approval
Passing multiple city inspections on a converted structure required precise sequencing of work and timely corrections to achieve final sign-off.

Convert an Existing Garage into a Legal ADU
Transform the existing garage into a fully permitted 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom accessory dwelling unit that meets City of Gardena and California ADU requirements.

Maximize Livable Space Within the Existing Footprint
Design an efficient layout that optimizes square footage while maintaining proper clearances, natural light, ventilation, and code-compliant egress.

Ensure Full Code & Permit Compliance
Achieve full compliance with local zoning laws, California Building Code, Title 24 energy standards, and fire safety regulations.

Create a Comfortable, Modern Living Environment
Deliver a high-quality ADU with a modern kitchen, full bathroom, durable finishes, and energy-efficient systems suitable for long-term living.

Increase Property Value & Rental Potential
Add functional living space that enhances property value and provides an ideal solution for rental income, guest housing, or multigenerational living.

Minimize Impact on the Existing Home
Complete construction efficiently while keeping the primary residence operational and minimizing disruption to the homeowner.

Deliver a Turnkey ADU Solution
Provide a fully finished, move-in-ready garage conversion ADU from design and permits through final inspection and occupancy approval.

400 Sq Ft Legal ADU Completed
The existing 20×20 garage was successfully converted into a 400 square foot, 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom accessory dwelling unit (ADU).

Final City Approval Achieved
The project passed all required building, electrical, plumbing, and energy inspections and received final approval from the City of Gardena.

New Habitable Living Space Created
A non-habitable garage was transformed into a fully functional living unit with a kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and living area.

Rental-Ready & Move-In Ready
The completed ADU is suitable for long-term rental, extended family use, or guest housing.

No Footprint Expansion
Additional living space was added without increasing the home’s building footprint by utilizing the existing garage structure.

Improved Property Utility & Value
The conversion added a legal second dwelling unit, increasing overall property functionality and market value.

Code-First ADU Design Strategy
Developed a garage conversion design that fully complies with City of Gardena ADU guidelines, California Building Code, and Title 24 energy requirements, reducing permit revisions and inspection delays.

Structural Reinforcement & Seismic Upgrades
Implemented foundation upgrades, new framing, and shear walls to bring the existing garage up to habitable space and seismic standards required for a legal ADU conversion.

Efficient Space Planning
Utilized smart layout planning, built-in storage, and efficient room sizing to create a comfortable 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom ADU within the original garage footprint.

Coordinated Utility Integration
Strategically routed new plumbing, electrical, and HVAC systems to tie into the main residence with minimal disruption, ensuring reliable service and long-term performance.

Permit & Inspection Management
Handled all ADU permit submissions, plan check corrections, and city inspections to streamline approvals and maintain project momentum.

Energy-Efficient Building Approach
Installed insulation, high-efficiency HVAC, and energy-compliant lighting to meet California energy efficiency standards and reduce long-term operating costs.

Occupied Property Construction Plan
Scheduled work phases to minimize noise, dust, and daily disruption while maintaining safety and access for the existing home.

Quality Control & Final Delivery
Performed detailed inspections at each phase to ensure workmanship quality, resulting in a turnkey, move-in-ready ADU approved for occupancy.