Get in the KNOW
on LA Startups & Tech
X
Design, Bitches
Looking to Build a Granny Flat in Your Backyard? Meet the Firms and Designs Pre-Approved in LA
Sarah Favot
Favot is an award-winning journalist and adjunct instructor at USC's Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism. She previously was an investigative and data reporter at national education news site The 74 and local news site LA School Report. She's also worked at the Los Angeles Daily News. She was a Livingston Award finalist in 2011 and holds a Master's degree in journalism from Boston University and BA from the University of Windsor in Ontario, Canada.
Adding a backyard home in Los Angeles is now nearly as easy as buying a barbecue.
Homeowners who for years have wanted to build a granny flat in their backyard, but dreaded the red tape, can now choose from 20 pre-designed homes that the city has already approved for use.
The shift, made official last week, will speed up a weeks-long process and bring more badly needed units to an overpriced market. It also has the potential to elevate the 14 startups and firms building the next generation of homes.
The designs for the stand-alone residences range from a 200-square-foot studio to a 1,200-square foot, two-story, two-bedroom unit. And many of the homes are filled with design flourishes, reflecting the diverse architecture of the city, from a house in the silhouette of a flower to one with a spiral outdoor staircase leading to the roof.
It's no surprise. The program was spearheaded by Christopher Hawthorne, a former architecture critic at the Los Angeles Times and now the city's chief design officer.
The firms are primarily local and startup architecture and design firms, while others are well-known with a history of building granny flats, also know as accessory dwelling units, or ADUs.
The standard plans avoid the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety's typical four-to six-week review process and can allow approvals to be completed in as quickly as one day.
Some aspects of the plans can be modified to fit a homeowner's preferences. Eight other designs are pending approval.
Mayor Eric Garcetti believes by adding more such units, the city can diversify its housing supply and tackle the housing crisis. Recent state legislation made it easier to build the small homes on the lot of single-family residences. Since then, ADUs have made up nearly a quarter of Los Angeles' newly permitted housing units.
Because construction costs are relatively low for the granny flats – the pre-approved homes start at $144,000 and can go beyond $300,000 – the housing is generally more affordable. The median home price in L.A. County in January was $690,000.
Here's a quick look at the designs approved so far:
Abodu
Abodu
Abodu, based in Redwood City in the Bay Area, exclusively designs backyard homes. In 2019, it worked with the city of San Jose on a program similar to the one Los Angeles is undertaking.
In October, it closed a seed funding round of $3.5 million led by Initialized Capital.
It has been approved for a one-story 340-square-foot studio, a one-story one-bedroom at 500 square feet, and a one-story, 610-square-foot two-bedroom.
The pricing for the studio is $189,900, while the one-bedroom costs $199,900 and the two-bedroom is $259,900.
Amunátegui Valdés Architects
Led by Cristobal Amunátegui and Alejandro Valdés, the firm was founded in 2011 and has offices in Los Angeles and Santiago, Chile. Amunátegui is an assistant professor at the Department of Architecture and Urban Design at UCLA.
The firm designs work in various scales and mediums, including buildings, furniture and exhibitions.
Its one-story, two-bedroom with a covered roof deck 934-square-foot unit is pending approval from the city.
Connect Homes
Connect Homes has a 100,000-square foot factory in San Bernardino and an architecture studio in Downtown L.A.
It specializes in glass and steel homes and has completed 80 homes in California. Its designs have an aesthetic of mid-century modern California residential architecture.
It has two one-bedroom models pre-approved by the city, one is 460 square feet, which costs $144,500 with a total average project cost of $205,000. The other is 640 square feet, which costs $195,200 with a total project cost of $280,000.
Design, Bitches
The Los Angeles-based architectural firm founded in 2010 describes itself as having a "bold and irreverent vision." Its projects include urban infill ground-up offices to single-family homes, adaptive re-use of derelict commercial buildings and renovations of historic landmarks.
Its pre-approved design, named "Midnight Room," is a guest house/ studio. Its bedroom can be left open for a loft feel or enclosed as a separate room. The design is a one-story, one-bedroom at 454 square feet.
Escher GuneWardena Architecture
Founded in Los Angeles in 1996, Escher GuneWardena Architecture has received international recognition and has collaborated with contemporary artists, worked on historical preservation projects and more.
The company has been approved for two different one-story, one- or two-bedroom units, one at 532 square feet with an estimated cost of $200,000 and another at 784 square feet with an estimated cost of $300,000. The firm noted the costs depend on site conditions and do not include soft costs. Those could add 10% to 12% to the total construction costs.
First Office
First Office is an architecture firm based in Downtown Los Angeles. Its approved ADUs will be built using prefabricated structural insulated panels, which allow for expedited construction schedules and high environmental ratings.
The interior finishes include concrete floors, stainless steel counters and an occasional element of conduit.
There are five options:
- A one-story studio, 309 to 589 square feet
- A one-story one-bedroom, 534 to 794 square feet
- And a one-story two-bedroom, 1,200 square feet
Fung + Blatt Architects
Fung + Blatt Architects is a Los Angeles-based firm founded in 1990.
The city has approved its 795-square-foot, one-story, one-bedroom unit with a roof deck. It estimates the construction cost to be $240,000 to $300,000, excluding landscape, site work and the solar array. Homeowners can also expect other additional costs.
Taalman Architecture/ IT House Inc.
The design team behind "IT House" is Los Angeles-based studio Taalman Architecture. Over the past 15 years, IT House has built more than 20 homes throughout California and the U.S.
The IT House ADU standard plans include the tower, bar, box, cube, pod and court.
The city has approved four options, including:
- A two-story including mechanical room, 660 square feet
- A two-story including mechanical room, 430 square feet
- A one-story studio, 200 square feet
- A one-story including mechanical room, 700 square feet
The firm also has another two projects pending approval: a 360-square-foot one-story studio and a one-story, three-bedroom at 1,149 square feet.
LA Más
LA Más is a nonprofit based in Northeast Los Angeles that designs and builds initiatives promoting neighborhood resilience and elevating the agency of working-class communities of color. Homeowners who are considering their design must commit to renting to Section 8 tenants.
The city has approved two of LA Más' designs: a one-story, one-bedroom, 528 square feet unit and a one-story, two-bedroom, 768 square feet unit. The firm has another design for a one-story studio pending approval. That design would be the first 3D-printed ADU design in the city's program.
Jennifer Bonner/MALL
Massachusetts-based Jennifer Bonner/MALL designed a "Lean-to ADU" project, reinterpreting the stucco box and exaggerated false front, both Los Angeles architectural mainstays.
The design has been approved for a 525-square-foot one-story, one-bedroom unit with a 125-square-foot roof deck.
sekou cooke STUDIO
New York-based sekou cooke STUDIO is the sole Black-owned architectural firm on the project.
"The twisted forms of this ADU recalls the spin and scratch of a DJ's records" from the early 90s, the firm said.
Its design, still pending approval, is for a 1,200-square-foot, two bedroom and two bathroom can be adapted to a smaller one-bedroom unit or to include an additional half bath.
SO-IL
New York-based SO-IL was founded in 2008. It has completed projects in Leon, Seoul, Lisbon and Brooklyn.
Its one-story, one-bedroom 693-square-foot unit is pending approval. It is estimated the construction cost will be between $200,000 and $250,000.
WELCOME PROJECTS
Los Angeles-based Welcome Projects has worked on projects ranging from buildings, houses and interiors to handbags, games and toys.
Its ADU is nicknamed The Breadbox "for its curved topped walls and slight resemblance to that vintage counter accessory."
It has been approved for a one-story, one-bedroom 560-square-foot unit.
wHY Architecture
Founded in 2004, wHY is based in Los Angeles and New York City. It has taken on a landmark affordable housing and historic renovation initiative in Watts.
Its one-story, one- or two-bedroom 480 to 800-square-foot unit is pending approval.
Firms that want to participate in the program can learn more here . Angelenos interested in building a standard ADU plan can learn more the approved projects here.
From Your Site Articles
- United Dwelling Raises $10M to Address the Housing Shortage ... ›
- Plant Prefab Raises An Additional $30 Million - dot.LA ›
- How 3D Printing Could Help Tackle Homelessness in LA - dot.LA ›
- New Bills, New Startups Address Housing in California - dot.LA ›
- LA's ADU Culture Still Faces Financial Barriers - dot.LA ›
- What Will Take To Make Modular Homes Mainstream? - dot.LA ›
Related Articles Around the Web
Sarah Favot
Favot is an award-winning journalist and adjunct instructor at USC's Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism. She previously was an investigative and data reporter at national education news site The 74 and local news site LA School Report. She's also worked at the Los Angeles Daily News. She was a Livingston Award finalist in 2011 and holds a Master's degree in journalism from Boston University and BA from the University of Windsor in Ontario, Canada.
Mars, Money, and Makeovers : LA’s Big Week
08:43 AM | December 06, 2024
🔦 Spotlight
Happy Friday, LA!
This week has been full of energy in LA’s tech world, with some big moves that are hard to ignore. From a local company going public to bold partnerships and exciting projects, here’s a look at the stories driving conversations and shaping what’s happening right now.
ServiceTitan's IPO Ambitions
Image Source: ServiceTitan - Cofounders Ara Mahdessian & Vahe Kuzoyan
ServiceTitan, a Glendale-based software leader for tradespeople like plumbers, electricians, and HVAC technicians, is gearing up for a major step forward: its initial public offering. The company plans to offer 8.8 million shares priced between $52 and $57, targeting a valuation of up to $5.16 billion. Trading under the ticker “TTAN” on the Nasdaq, ServiceTitan’s IPO is backed by financial heavyweights Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley. ServiceTitan’s software simplifies essential tasks such as scheduling and payments for trades professionals, providing much-needed solutions in an industry frequently underserved by technology. The IPO reflects both the company’s rapid growth and a broader trend of integrating advanced tools into foundational industries.
SpaceX: Shooting for the Stars (and $350 Billion)
Image Source: SpaceX
SpaceX is on the verge of solidifying its place as the world’s most valuable startup, with insiders estimating a valuation of $350 billion, according to Forbes. It’s not just about rockets anymore; this company has its sights on global internet domination with Starlink and a future where Mars isn’t just science fiction. Investors are clearly betting big on SpaceX’s ability to pull off the impossible—time and time again. The company’s achievements not only redefine the limits of private enterprise but also establish SpaceX as a key player in reshaping humanity’s relationship with space. For the LA tech scene, SpaceX’s valuation is more than a number; it’s a reminder of what’s possible when ambition meets execution. The question isn’t “what’s next?”—it’s “what’s not?”
Anduril x OpenAI: The Future of AI Defense
Image Source: Anduril
In a move that underscores the rapid convergence of defense and cutting-edge AI, Costa Mesa-based Anduril Industries announced a partnership with OpenAI. This collaboration aims to bolster U.S. leadership in artificial intelligence while enhancing national security capabilities. Anduril, known for its autonomous defense technologies, is leveraging OpenAI’s advanced AI systems to supercharge its offerings. The implications? Think faster decision-making and smarter tech on the battlefield. This partnership not only signals Anduril’s commitment to innovation but also highlights the growing importance of AI in reshaping defense.
The Rose Bowl Legacy: Preserving an Icon
Image Source: VisitPasadena
The Rose Bowl, Pasadena’s iconic stadium and a symbol of Southern California’s rich history, is gearing up for an $80 million transformation as part of its "Lasting Legacy Campaign." This effort isn’t just about preparing for the 2028 Olympics—it’s about enhancing the fan experience while staying true to the venue’s historic roots. From new field-level club seats to a cutting-edge videoboard, upgraded Wi-Fi, and even a refurbished marquee sign, this project balances nostalgia with modern innovation. The Rose Bowl has always been more than just a stadium—it’s a cultural landmark that represents LA’s ability to honor its past while embracing the future. If there’s a place that embodies where history meets progress, it’s here.
2024 Wrapped: Your Year in Music
Image Source: Spotify
As the year winds down, music lovers are diving into Spotify Wrapped and Apple Music Replay 2024. These features don’t just highlight our favorite tracks; they showcase how deeply music integrates into our daily lives and memories. For anyone in the tech or startup world, these features are a masterclass in how data-driven personalization can deepen user loyalty and turn casual interactions into powerful engagement.
Whether it’s setting the stage for the next space frontier, advancing national security with AI, or revitalizing a cultural landmark, this week’s stories remind us that progress is as much about preserving what matters as it is about reaching for what’s next.
🤝 Venture Deals
LA Companies
- Nectir, an educational technology company that allows educators to design customized AI teaching assistants providing students with 24/7 personalized support, has raised a $4M Seed funding round led by Long Journey Ventures to develop new features and expand its team. - learn more
- Talus Network, a blockchain platform merging AI and decentralized tech to create smart agents, has raised a $6M Strategic funding round led by Polychain Capital at a $150M valuation to advance its ecosystem, including Protochain, Nexus, and an AI dating app. - learn more
LA Venture Funds
- Alexandria Venture Investments and B Capital participated in a $161M Series B financing round for Nuvig Therapeutics, a California-based biotech company specializing in immunomodulation therapies, to advance its second-generation immunomodulator into Phase 2 clinical development and expand its pipeline. - learn more
- Plus Capital participated in a $35M Series B funding round for Sage, a New York-based company specializing in senior living operations, to enhance its technology platform and expand its services across the U.S. and internationally - learn more
- Supply Chain Capital led a $4.5M Seed funding round for Celleste Bio, a cocoa tech company specializing in cell-cultured cocoa production, to scale its manufacturing capabilities and accelerate sustainable cocoa innovation. - learn more
- Village Global co-led a $5.75M Seed funding round for Across AI, a San Francisco-based startup developing AI-driven enterprise solutions, to accelerate product development and expand its team. - learn more
- M13 led a $5.4M Seed funding round for Cat Labs, an Austin-based startup focused on combating crypto and AI-enabled crime, with the funds being used to develop tools and services that address digital asset security threats. - learn more
- Chapter One Ventures participated in a $4M Seed funding round for Fiamma, a Singapore-based startup focused on decentralized finance infrastructure, with the funds being used to develop innovative tools for secure and efficient on-chain lending. - learn more
- The Games Fund participated in a $3M funding round for Playgama, a gaming platform that simplifies the distribution and monetization of HTML5 games across various platforms; the investment will be used to enhance their Platform-as-a-Service ecosystem, including monetization, quality assurance, and management tools. - learn more
- Fika Ventures led a $6M Seed funding round for StretchDollar, a Pittsburgh and San Francisco-based fintech startup that simplifies health benefits for small businesses through a self-service platform; the funds will be used to enhance their platform and expand their team. - learn more
- OCV participated in a $27.6M funding round for OSSIO, a Woburn, Massachusetts-based medical device company specializing in bio-integrative orthopedic implants; the funds will accelerate commercial efforts, including new product development and establishing a manufacturing and training center in Florida. - learn more
- Avalaunch participated in a $6.5M Seed funding round for Avant, a Palo Alto-based decentralized finance protocol that issues a "stable-value" token called avUSD, to scale its crypto yield products. - learn more
- Rebel Fund participated in a $2.5M Seed funding round for Circleback, a San Francisco startup that uses AI to generate meeting notes and action items, integrating with platforms like HubSpot and Notion; the funding will support expansion and development. - learn more
LA Exits
- Mission Cloud Services, a leading AWS managed services and consulting provider, has been acquired by CDW to enhance its cloud solutions portfolio. - learn more
- Of Kos, formerly VMed, a healthcare marketing agency specializing in digital and creative solutions, has been acquired by ONAR, a global network of marketing agencies, as part of its expansion into the healthcare marketing sector. - learn more
- Rhapsody Voices, a boutique podcast network representing leading content creators and offering tailored solutions for revenue growth through sponsorship representation, content creation, strategy, and marketing, has been acquired by Evergreen Podcasts. - learn more
- TEDIVO, a Long Beach-based software provider specializing in container supply chain tools like BAPLIE Viewer Online, has been acquired by Lynxis to enhance its port orchestration products and improve cargo management efficiency. - learn more
Read moreShow less
LA Tech ‘Moves’: MeWe Taps Apple Co-founder, Aspiration Swipes Tesla Director
12:00 PM | August 05, 2022
Photo by James Opas | Modified by Joshua Letona
“Moves,” our roundup of job changes in L.A. tech, is presented by Interchange.LA, dot.LA's recruiting and career platform connecting Southern California's most exciting companies with top tech talent. Create a free Interchange.LA profile here—and if you're looking for ways to supercharge your recruiting efforts, find out more about Interchange.LA's white-glove recruiting service by emailing Sharmineh O’Farrill Lewis (sharmineh@dot.la). Please send job changes and personnel moves to moves@dot.la.
***
Aspiration, a sustainable financial services company, appointed former Tesla director Tim Newell as its first chief innovation officer. Prior to leading teams at Tesla, Newell also worked under the Clinton Administration as a deputy director for policy in the White House office of science and technology.
All-electric vehicle manufacturing company Phoenix Motorcars hired industry veterans Lewis Liu as senior vice president of program management office and business development. Phoenix also hired Mark Hastings as senior vice president of corporate development and strategy and head of investor relations.
Counterpart, a management liability platform, welcomed Claudette Kellner as insurance product lead and Eric Marler as head of claims. Kellner served at Berkley Management Protection as vice president, while Marler previously served as an assistant vice president at the Hanover Insurance Group.
Legal tech and eDiscovery veteran Mark Wentworth joined compliance software company X1 as external vice president of sales and business development.
Sameday Health, a testing and healthcare provider, named Sarah Thomas as general counsel. Thomas previously served at digital health company Favor.
MeWe, an ad-free and privacy-first social network, tapped the co-founder of Apple Steve Wozniak to its advisory board, and co-founder of Harvard Connection Divya Narendra to its board of directors.
Internet marketplace Ad.net, welcomed former Interpublic CEO David Bell to its board of directors.
Science and technology company GATC Health, appointed addiction specialist Jayson A. Hymes as a new advisory board member.
AltaSea, a non-profit organization that aims to accelerate scientific collaboration, added South Bay philanthropist Melanie Lundquist to its board of trustees.
Correction:An earlier version stated Divya Narendra was added to MeWe's advisory board.
From Your Site Articles
Related Articles Around the Web
Read moreShow less
Decerry Donato
Decerry Donato is a reporter at dot.LA. Prior to that, she was an editorial fellow at the company. Decerry received her bachelor's degree in literary journalism from the University of California, Irvine. She continues to write stories to inform the community about issues or events that take place in the L.A. area. On the weekends, she can be found hiking in the Angeles National forest or sifting through racks at your local thrift store.
RELATEDTRENDING
LA TECH JOBS