Garage Conversion on S Dalton Ave, Gardena
On S Dalton Ave in Gardena, an attached two-car garage was converted into a permitted studio ADU with its own entrance and kitchenette.

- Final cost
- $89,000
- Duration
- 5 months including permitting
- Size
- 400 sq ft studio ADU with full bath
- Permits
- City of Gardena, permitted and inspected
SCOPE OF WORK
- Garage opening infill with new framing and stucco
- Fire-rated separation wall to the main house
- Kitchenette and full bathroom with new plumbing
- Raised subfloor over the sloped slab
- Mini-split HVAC and Title 24 compliance
WHAT WE RAN INTO
The water heater and laundry both lived in the garage and had to stay functional for the main house. We built a separate exterior-access utility closet into the design, so the ADU stayed self-contained and the main house never lost hot water.
THE RESULT
A permitted studio that now rents long-term, with the main house utilities untouched.
DISCUSS YOUR PROJECT WITH 1 SMART BUILD
Licensed, bonded and insured design-build general contractor serving Los Angeles County and Southern California. Tell us about your property and goals, and we'll walk you through feasibility, permitting and a clear plan.
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