WHY BUILD A CUSTOM ADU?

What Is a Custom ADU and Why Build One?

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a fully independent living space built on the same lot as your primary home. For homeowners on the San Francisco Peninsula, a custom ADU provides the perfect solution for multigenerational living, private guest quarters, or a high-end home office. Unlike prefabricated options, our custom ADUs are site-built to integrate flawlessly with your existing architecture, maximizing both your property value and daily lifestyle.

01
Architectural Harmony

We build ADUs that seamlessly match the design and exterior finishes of your main home.

02
Full-Service Construction

From site preparation to final inspections, we manage the entire build process.

03
Premium Quality

We use the same high-performance materials and craftsmanship found in our large-scale luxury custom homes.

04
Flexible Living Space

Ideal for aging parents, adult children, or private executive office space.

05
Transparent Pricing

No hidden fees. We provide detailed budgets and timelines before construction begins.

OUR SERVICES

Our Custom ADU Construction Services

01

Detached ADU Construction

A detached ADU, often called a backyard cottage or guest house, offers the highest level of privacy. These freestanding structures are perfect for long-term guests, aging parents, or dedicated home offices. We specialize in site-built detached ADUs that respect your lot's natural landscape, including heritage trees, while maximizing functional square footage.

02

Attached ADU Additions

If your property layout makes a freestanding structure difficult, an attached ADU is an excellent alternative. We construct these units to share at least one wall with your primary residence, ensuring they look like a natural extension of the original architecture rather than an afterthought. Attached ADUs provide convenient access while maintaining a distinct, private living area.

03

Luxury Garage Conversions

Converting an existing garage into a livable ADU is a highly efficient way to add space without altering your property's footprint. We transform underutilized garages into premium living spaces, complete with full kitchens, luxury bathrooms, and high-end finishes. We handle all necessary structural upgrades, insulation improvements, and utility connections to ensure the space is comfortable year-round.

04

Multi-Generational Living Spaces

Custom ADUs provide the perfect balance between togetherness and privacy for multi-generational families. Whether you're creating a home for aging parents or adult children, we design living spaces that offer independence, comfort, and long-term functionality while complementing your property's architectural style.

OUR PROCESS

How the ADU Building Process Works

01
Initial Consultation

We visit your property to understand your vision, evaluate the site conditions, and discuss how an ADU fits into your long-term plans.

02
Pre-Construction and Budgeting

We collaborate with your architect or introduce you to our trusted design partners. During this phase, we provide a clear, detailed budget and timeline.

03
Permitting and Approvals

The Peninsula has strict zoning and building codes. We coordinate the complex permitting process with local city planning departments.

04
Site Preparation and Construction

Our experienced project managers oversee daily construction, ensuring minimal disruption to your daily life while maintaining strict quality control.

05
Final Walkthrough and Handover

We conduct a thorough final inspection, provide you with all warranty documentation, and ensure you are completely satisfied with your new space.

LOCAL ADVANTAGE

Why Choose Supple Homes for Your ADU?

01  Peninsula Expertise
Since 2005, we have successfully navigated the strict building codes, heritage tree ordinances, and complex site conditions unique to the SF Peninsula.
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02  Uncompromising Craftsmanship
We do not cut corners. Your ADU will feature the same meticulous attention to detail as our multi-million dollar custom homes.
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03  Clear Communication
We provide weekly progress updates, including photos and schedule reviews, so you always know exactly where your project stands.
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04  Trusted Trade Partners
We work exclusively with the region's top subcontractors and artisans, ensuring every element of your ADU is executed flawlessly.

OUR WORK

Recent Projects Across the Peninsula

Renovations
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ATHERTON REFRESH
New Construction
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STANFORD NEW BUILD
New Construction
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EAST CREEK
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MENLO PARK NEW CONSTRUCTION
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MENLO PARK
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SAN CARLOS NEW CONSTRUCTION
New Construction
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TRANSITIONAL TWO STORY
New Construction
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PORTOLA VALLEY
New Construction
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MENLO PARK TRADITIONAL
New Construction
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MENLO TRANSITIONAL
New Construction
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MENLO MODERN
New Construction
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PORTOLA VALLEY NEW BUILD
New Construction
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LUCERO
New Construction
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REFINED TRANSITIONAL
New Construction
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MENLO PARK - CONTEMPORARY
New Construction
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STANFORD NEW BUILD
New Construction
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EAST CREEK
New Construction
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MENLO PARK NEW CONSTRUCTION
Renovations
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ATHERTON REFRESH
ADU
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Menlo Oak House
ADU
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TRANSITIONAL ADU
ADU
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Atherton ADU
FIND US

Building Across the San Francisco Peninsula

Supple Homes is proud to serve the most exclusive neighborhoods on the SF Peninsula. Whether you are adding a modern guest house in Menlo Park, a traditional detached ADU in Atherton, or converting a garage in Palo Alto, we understand the specific architectural standards and zoning requirements of your community. We also build custom ADUs in Los Altos, Woodside, Portola Valley, Hillsborough, and surrounding areas, ensuring your new structure enhances the prestige of your property.

Client Reviews

What our clients say

"

"We now have our dream home and he and his team have made sure everything is 100% perfect."

— Gina G

"

"From our first meeting, we found Sean Supple to be a seasoned professional, with great communication skills."

— Farzi A

"

"We now have our dream home and he and his team have made sure everything is 100% perfect."

— Nina A

Related Services

Explore Related Services

01

Large Home Renovations

Update your primary residence to match your new ADU with our comprehensive whole-home remodeling services.

02

Custom Home Additions

Need more space but an ADU is not the right fit? Explore our second-story and room addition options

03

Custom Home Building

Planning a ground-up custom home on the Peninsula? Discover our full-service luxury home construction process.

START YOUR PROJECT

Ready to Build Your Custom ADU?

Maximize your property's potential with a custom ADU built to the highest standards. Our team is ready to walk your site, discuss your vision, and provide a clear, detailed budget with no surprises.

(650) 649-4480

Ready to get started? Book a call today.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQs

1
How much does it cost to build a custom ADU on the Peninsula?

Costs vary significantly based on size, site conditions, and finishes. Because we focus on premium, site-built custom ADUs, our pricing aligns with high-end residential construction standards. We provide a detailed, transparent budget during the pre-construction phase.

2
Do you build prefabricated or modular ADUs?

No, we specialize exclusively in custom, site-built ADUs. This approach allows for complete architectural harmony with your main home and offers greater flexibility to navigate challenging lot conditions and heritage trees.

3
How long does the ADU construction process take?

While faster than a full custom home, a site-built ADU typically requires several months of construction, preceded by design and permitting phases. We will provide a realistic timeline based on your specific project scope.

4
Will you handle the city permits for my ADU?

Yes. We work closely with your architect and local city planning departments to manage all necessary permits, ensuring full compliance with local ADU regulations and zoning laws.

5
Can an ADU have its own address and utilities?

Yes, custom ADUs can be designed with separate utility meters and their own address, which is particularly useful if you plan to use the space as a long-term rental property.