Santa Monica is shaped by ocean breezes, narrow residential lots, and a distinct architectural aesthetic—from clean-lined modern homes in Ocean Park to warm coastal styles in Sunset Park.
Our ADU designs reflect these neighborhood identities, blending minimalist geometry, natural textures, and light-filled interiors suited for coastal living.
Whether you want a rental unit steps from the beach, a home office with outdoor connection, or a sleek backyard retreat for guests, we create spaces that enhance comfort, privacy, and long-term value.
Space is precious in Santa Monica. With tight setbacks, limited lot coverage, and strict height regulations, ADUs here require creative planning and precise engineering.
We design ADUs that feel spacious even on compact lots—using smart layout strategies, clerestory windows, multi-purpose interiors, and seamless indoor-outdoor transitions.
Building in Santa Monica often involves premium materials, coastal-grade engineering, and strict review processes—so accurate planning is essential.
| ADU Type | Average Cost Range | Notes for Santa Monica |
|---|---|---|
| Garage Conversion ADU | $180,000 – $260,000 | Ideal for Ocean Park & Sunset Park lots. |
| Detached ADU | $280,000 – $520,000 | Most popular + highest rental value. |
| ADU Above Garage | $320,000 – $570,000 | Excellent for maximizing limited lot space. |
| Compact Studio ADU | $120,000 – $190,000 | Perfect for remote work or guest stays. |
From Sunset Park and Ocean Park to Pico and North of Montana, we support homeowners across every Santa Monica neighborhood. Our team manages the entire ADU journey—site evaluation, architectural design, engineering, energy compliance, and final city approval.
We focus on creating coastal-appropriate, long-lasting, and beautifully crafted ADUs that elevate your lifestyle and increase your property value.
Let’s bring your Santa Monica ADU vision to life with a design that feels both modern and deeply connected to its surroundings.
Office: 13151 Fountain Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90094
Phone: (213) 618-5456
Email: info@atamanstudio.com
In many areas, yes. Properties within the Coastal Zone may require additional review to ensure the project meets environmental and visual standards. We handle all required documentation.
Two-story ADUs are allowed in many zones, but height limits and privacy rules vary. We design second-story units that comply with local restrictions and minimize impacts on neighbors.
Often no. Most Santa Monica properties are within ½ mile of transit, allowing a parking exemption—even for garage conversions.
Design takes 4–8 weeks, and city review usually ranges from 8–14 weeks depending on complexity and revisions.
Yes, long-term rentals are allowed. Short-term rentals (Airbnb) are restricted, but we can advise based on your zoning.
Santa Monica allows ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft depending on lot size, setbacks, and layout. Compact studio ADUs are also a popular option for smaller properties.
