Garage Conversion to Studio ADU, Laguna Niguel
A two-car garage in a planned community converted into a studio ADU, with the exterior kept to HOA standards.

- Final cost
- $104,000
- Duration
- 6 months including permitting
- Size
- 410 sq ft studio with full bath
- Permits
- City of Laguna Niguel, HOA approval, permitted and inspected
SCOPE OF WORK
- Garage door infill with glass entry door and window
- Fire-rated wall to the main house
- Kitchenette and full bathroom
- Raised subfloor over the sloped slab
- Mini-split HVAC and Title 24 compliance
WHAT WE RAN INTO
State law says the HOA cannot block the ADU, but it can still review exterior finishes. We presented matching stucco, trim and paint up front and cleared architectural review in one meeting.
THE RESULT
A permitted studio inside the existing footprint, approved by both the city and the HOA.
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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