When it comes to pre-approved ADU plans, San Jose takes the cake for one of the best programs in the game.

San Jose’s take on pre-approved accessory dwelling unit (ADU) plans takes a unique approach that pulls in the community of local designers and architects to contribute their own plans. Since the program has started, the city has built a diverse library of ADU plans that offer a variety of sizes and designs that will suit a wide range of homeowners’ needs.

In this special feature, we’re highlighting three of those plans provided by architect, Adam Mayberry AIA, Founder of Mayberry Workshop.

Why Choose Pre-Approved Plans for Your ADU?

First, a quick overview of pre-approved ADU plans.

The term “pre-approved” simply means that the structural plans of the ADU have been approved by the city. They follow the majority of the health and safety requirements for a living space. However, this doesn’t mean that you’re ready to receive your building permit. Your local planning department still needs to know how the ADU will sit on your property, connect to utilities, and interact with surrounding structures.

This is where San Jose’s program excels. Because the plans are still owned by the architects and designers that drafted them, homeowners will work with those professionals to complete the permit set. A program like this helps homeowners save money and especially time.

The average time for the design process is about 2-3 months, possibly more depending on the complexity of the design. Pre-approved plans allow you to cut that chunk out of your timeline.

The only scenario in which pre-approved ADU plans may not work for you is if you are looking for a fully custom ADU. Something as presumably small as moving a window will mean the plan needs to go through the entire permitting process. But, with the variety of plans available, there’s a good chance you’ll find one that meets most of your needs, if not all.

And when it comes to versatile ADU designs, Mayberry Workshop knows how to get it done.

Top 3 Pre-Approved ADU Designs

If you’ve been following Maxable for a while, you may be familiar with Mayberry Workshop already. Adam Mayberry was the architect behind Maxable fan-favorite ADUs like Nicole’s 740 sq ft stand-alone ADU and even 2021 ADU of the Year, Cecilia’s studio loft garage conversion.

It’s clear that the Mayberry team are no strangers to effective ADU design all over the Bay Area. Let’s take a look at their three pre-approved ADU plans in San Jose.

The Mews ADU

First up we have a straightforward one bedroom design clocking in at 532 sq ft., designed to fit perfectly into a compact area of approximately 17 feet by 32 feet. It’s an ideal solution for smaller lots without compromising comfort and functionality.

You can see the show-stopping feature of this ADU before you even walk in. A full corner of this ADU features a large window and sliding glass door, flooding the living room and dining area with natural light. The vaulted ceilings and additional high window further enhance this effect.

Continuing on you have the galley kitchen. In this design, two parallel countertops run along both sides, creating a central walkway in between. This space-efficient layout is perfect for smaller kitchens. This configuration maximizes the use of available space and keeps everything within easy reach, making it ideal for cooking and meal preparation.

Through the kitchen, you reach the bedroom. It features vaulted ceilings, another large window, a mini-split A/C unit, and a spacious closet.

Finally, you have the bathroom which even contains space for a stackable washer and dryer. This ADU is perfect for a single occupant or even just for hosting guests.

The Agrarian ADU

Need something larger for a family? There’s a pre-approved ADU plan for that too.

The Agrarian ADU is a stunning 749 sq ft split-bedroom design with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. A split-bedroom design is where the communal living spaces, such as the living room and kitchen, are situated in the middle of the floor plan and the bedrooms sit on either side. This layout is popular for offering privacy and it’s a practical design for families or roommates.

This is yet another design with plenty of natural light and 16-18 ft tall ceilings.

The spacious master bedroom has it’s own sliding glass door that can open onto a patio and a private bathroom with a double vanity.

On the opposite side of the ADU, you’ll find the other bedroom, bathroom, and the stackable washer and dryer.

This ADU is perfect for growing families.

The Barnhouse ADU

Finally, we have the Barnhouse ADU, which could certainly be mistaken for a full-sized primary home. This design sits at 900 sq ft and occupies approximately 24 ft x 42 ft.

As you walk into the main entrance, a vast communal space immediately greets you. The kitchen lines the back wall of the ADU, allowing the dining table to take center stage. Similar to the Agrarian ADU, this ADU is a split-bedroom design, with the bedrooms on either side of the communal areas. The main difference is that the extra square footage allows for more storage space throughout and a dedicated utility room where the washer and dryer sits.

Skylights dot the ceiling, allowing natural light to flood in throughout the day. This design even takes outdoor space into consideration. It includes two patios: one for entertaining guests and one for the occupants of the master bedroom to enjoy privately.

How to Use San Jose Pre-Approved ADU Plans

If you see a design you like, the next step is easy. Just reach out to Maxable, and we’ll connect you with the architect or designer who drafted the plan. Our team works with the most reputable professionals throughout the Bay Area, ensuring you’re in good hands not just through the design phase. Our network also includes vetted general contractors and lenders to ensure you have support for every important milestone.

Once you meet with your matched architect or designer, they’ll guide you through the process, from locating your property’s electrical and gas lines to measuring the lot and discussing the best placement for your ADU. If the architect determines the pre-approved plan is a good fit for your property, they’ll handle preparing the rest of your permit set. It’s a streamlined, hassle-free way to get your ADU project moving forward. Schedule a free phone consultation with our ADU experts today.