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The Ultimate Guide to Garage Conversions: Turning Your Garage Into a Functional ADU
An ADU, or accessory dwelling unit, is a self-contained living space built on the same lot as a single-family dwelling. They are often called “granny units” and are miniature homes with a private entrance, living area, bathroom, bedroom, and kitchen. Garage conversions provide homeowners with an opportunity to build an ADU if their budget or lot space is limited. If your garage has become a place to store unwanted junk, converting it to an ADU could provide you with a steady income or serve as a home for a family member. There are many factors to consider when planning a garage conversion ADU. How Long Do Garage Conversions Take? The time it takes to build an ADU depends on several factors. The condition of your garage, whether you plan on expanding the garage footprint, and what kinds of permits are needed are a few of the considerations. A garage that requires several repairs will take longer to convert than one that’s in great shape and already has updated...
Detached or Attached? An ADU Builder in Colorado Springs Explains Your Options
Colorado faces a housing deficit, according to Common Sense Institute, of 10614 to 21150 units. As housing demand continues to rise in Colorado Springs, more homeowners are exploring the benefits of adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) to their property. Whether you're planning to create space for aging parents, a private rental unit for supplemental income, or a home office or guest suite, ADUs offer a flexible and cost-effective solution. However, one of the first and most important decisions you'll face is whether to build a detached or attached ADU. Both options come with distinct advantages and challenges, and the best choice depends on your property, goals, and budget. As an experienced ADU builder in Colorado Springs, we're here to walk you through your options and help you make an informed decision. What Is an ADU? An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary residential structure located on the same lot as a primary residence. Also known as in-law suites, granny...
Introducing The Prospect – Our First ADU Model Is Here (Just in Time for the Colorado Springs Code Change)
We’re excited to introduce The Prospect, our first standardized Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) model—designed to be smart, efficient, and accessible for Colorado Springs homeowners. 🏡 Meet The Prospect 384 sq ft 1 Bedroom / 1 Bathroom Thoughtfully designed for livability, affordability, and ease of construction Streamlined for fast permitting and minimal customization delays Whether you’re planning to house a family member, generate rental income, or build long-term property value, The Prospect offers a flexible and future-ready solution. 🛠️ Can You Build Now? That depends on your zoning: ✅ If you're in an R-2 or other non–single-family zone: You can build this model now. We're ready to help you move forward immediately. 📆 If you're in an R-1 (single-family) zone: Starting June 30, you’ll be eligible to build this ADU under the new Colorado Springs zoning code. Now is the perfect time to schedule your consultation, finalize your lot review, and get ready to start building ASAP. 🧱 More...
The Benefits of Design-Build Construction: Streamlining Your Renovation
If you’re planning a major renovation project (be it a new kitchen, bathroom, or ADU), just thinking about all the different moving parts you need to juggle can be enough to squash your excitement. Instead of letting things overwhelm you in little time, consider design-build construction, a simplified process that eliminates many of the headaches and holdups associated with traditional methods. What Is Design-Build Construction? Design-build construction is an innovative approach that merges design and construction services under a single contract, avoiding the need to deal with separate contractors and multiple companies. A design-build construction company handles all phases of project management, meaning homeowners experience less stress, better communication, and more efficiency throughout every stage from planning to completion. Top 5 Benefits of Design-Build Construction There are many advantages of the design and build method. Understanding these benefits...
The Balance of Input: Navigating Your Role in Home Construction
How Involved Should You Be in Your Construction Project? Here’s the Real Answer. At Stream Home Construction, we’ve heard the question more times than we can count: “How involved do I need to be in the design and construction process?” Whether you're building a custom home, remodeling your office, or adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in Colorado Springs, it’s a fair question—and a smart one. In this episode of the Stream Home Construction Podcast, Licensed General Contractor Alex Kosley breaks it all down. Your Level of Involvement = Your Choice Some clients want to pick every fixture and pore over every blueprint. Others prefer to hand off the vision and let the team handle the details. The good news? Both approaches work just fine. Stream’s design-build process is built around flexibility. Want to be hands-on? You'll have full access to design decisions, progress meetings, and day-to-day updates. Prefer a more hands-off role? No problem—we’ll still check in at key milestones...
Converting a Basement Into an ADU: Considerations to Take Into Account
Have you decided to convert your basement into an accessory dwelling unit (ADU)? If so, it’s important to consider several logistical and design factors so you can make the most of your space. Building Codes You need to check local zoning laws and building codes before you start redesigning your basement. It’s best to work with a general contractor that is experienced in basement ADU conversions. They can help you create space that is legal, safe, and up to code. Starting your project independently and without proper research into building codes can lead to a lot of surprise costs. Ceiling Height and Egress Basements often have lower ceilings. You want your new living space to feel spacious and welcoming. If your basement doesn’t meet ceiling height requirements, you may have to raise the ceiling or lower the floor. Both options can be very expensive. You will also need proper egress (a way to exit in case of emergency). Generally, you will need at least one...
Avoid These 7 Common Mistakes When Hiring a Contractor in Colorado Springs
According to Global Market Insights, the home remodeling market in the United States is estimated to grow at a compounded annual growth rate of 4.8% from 2024 to 2030. Embarking on a home or commercial renovation project is both daunting and exciting. You'll need to choose the right contractor to make your vision a reality during this time. However, most property owners make the mistake of hiring the wrong contractor, which leads to financial strain, stress, and subpar results. Let's learn more about seven common mistakes to avoid when hiring a contractor in Colorado Springs. 1. Failing to Carry Out Research One of the common mistakes that property owners make when choosing a contractor is failing to conduct proper research. You must take the time to find out more about Colorado Springs contractors before hiring them. Conduct interviews with various general contractors in Colorado Springs to evaluate their different approaches, expertise, and...
Building Smarter: Why Design Build is the Future of Construction
Why Design-Build Is the Future of Construction in Colorado Springs If you're planning a construction project in Colorado Springs—whether it's an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), a custom home, or a commercial renovation—you’ve probably heard of the term “design-build.” But what does it actually mean, and how does it compare to the traditional construction process? On this episode of the Stream Home Construction Podcast, Licensed General Contractor Alex Kosley explains why design-build is transforming the way we build in Southern Colorado. Design-Build vs. Traditional Construction Traditionally, construction starts with hiring an architect to draw up your plans. Once that’s done, you find a contractor to bring the vision to life. But here’s the problem: the architect and contractor often work in silos, which can lead to miscommunications, delays, and budget overruns. Design-build flips the script. With this method, your architect, designer, and contractor are all part of the same team...
Creative Ways to Use an Accessory Dwelling Unit on Your Property
An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a secondary residential space that’s placed on the same lot as a larger home. There are many different ways you can use an accessory dwelling unit, depending on your needs and interests. Guest Suite An accessory dwelling unit is a great option if you like hosting friends and family members. An ADU provides your guests with their own private space when coming into town to visit. You can use your ADU for short-term stays or extended holiday visits. A fully-equipped guest suite includes a kitchenette and bathroom to make your guests feel at home. Home Office If you work from home or have a hybrid role, you understand the importance of having a dedicated workspace. An accessory dwelling unit offers the convenience of remote work while also allowing you to separate your personal and professional spaces. Detached ADUs provide you with a distinct work area that is just footsteps from your home. Imagine how much more productive you’ll be...
🎉 Big News: Colorado Springs ADU Code Update Officially Approved!
As of today, the City of Colorado Springs has officially approved a major update to the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) code — and it's a huge win for homeowners, investors, and anyone passionate about more flexible housing solutions. This is a game-changing step toward increasing housing options, building wealth, and meeting the real needs of our community. Below, we’ll break down exactly what was approved, when it goes into effect, and what it means for you. ✅ What’s Changing with the New ADU Code? The updates simplify and expand the ability for homeowners to build ADUs — also known as backyard homes, in-law suites, casitas, or secondary units. Here’s what’s included in the new code (Effective June 30, 2025): ADUs now allowed by-right in all single-family zonesNo more special use permit process — if your lot qualifies, you can build. One ADU per lot (attached or detached)Detached ADUs are especially popular for rental income or separate living spaces. Increased size limits Maximum:...