Adding space with an ADU

An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) can be a practical and relatively easy way to maximize use of your property and increase its value.

Homeworks Construction is currently offering no-fee consultation on ADUs for homeowners interested in the potential of adding one to their property, whether as a solution to the need for more space for family members or as a rental.

The award-winning firm has designed and built numerous ADUs, both free-standing and attached units, in neighborhoods throughout Oahu since the new residential ordinance was approved by the City and County of Honolulu in 2015.

“The first step in planning an ADU is to confirm that your property qualifies in terms of size, configuration, setbacks and street access, as well as with relation to the existing structure,” says Homeworks Construction president and chief administrative officer Marshall Hickox. “Running the ADU qualification checklist through the Department of Planning and Permitting is something we can assist with once we discuss the design and budget options.

“Guidelines are updated periodically by the City and County (of Honolulu). We provide information on the most current ADU regulations to property owners who make an appointment for a consultation, which may be on-site or at our office. If an office visit is requested, we ask the property owner to bring along photos of the site, their design ideas, and any other helpful information such as plans and dimensions, so we can assess the scope of the project and the size and style of the ADU that can legally be built there.”

He adds that all coronavirus protocols are observed in the office as well as in the field.

Hickox, a past president of the Building Industry Association, noted that the maximum size allowable for an ADU is 800 square feet, and only one ADU dwelling may be built on a lot. Once it is determined that a property qualifies for construction, Homeworks’ architectural staff will make sure the design meets all relevant codes.

Homeworks recently completed an 800-square-foot ADU as part of a new home on a 6,000-square-foot lot on St. Louis Drive; a custom-designed kitchen is an integral part of the great room layout (see photo at right).

A detached ADU was designed and built by Home-works for the owner of a 5,600-square-foot lot with a 1,100-square-foot existing family home in Kailua; the approximately 700-square foot structure includes two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room and kitchen (see photo on facing page).

Established over two decades ago as a design-build firm, Homeworks provides “all design and construction services under one roof,” the company slogan, and has completed approximately 1,000 new custom homes and remodels throughout Oahu. Homeworks Construction has been chosen as one of the “Best Construction Companies” in the annual Honolulu Star-Advertiser “Hawaii’s Best” awards program for three consecutive years and was named “Builder of the Year” by BIA. The National Association of Home Builders has designated the company a “Built Green Professional” and “Aging in Place Specialist.”

Homeworks Construction is located at 2111 S. Beretania St. Free parking is available in the parking lot to the rear of the building. Visit homeworkshawaii.com to request an appointment for a consultation and to view award-winning projects. For more information, call 808-955–2777.

HOMEWORKS CONSTRUCTION
CONTACT 808-955-2777
ADDRESS 2111 S. Beretania St., Honolulu
WEB homeworkshawaii.com