San Jose reduced the annoying and lengthy process of applying for a permit and construction by pre-approving accessory dwelling units (ADUs) that residents can buy and install in their backyard in as little as two weeks.
Abodu, a Bay Area housing startup, had its prefabricated model approved as part of the city’s plan to incentivize the creation of more housing stock. The backyard builder tapped U.K. studio Koto to adapt its Scandinavian-style cabins for U.S. customers. Like other Koto designs, Koto’s $199,000 model for Abodu is clad in lightly charred timber and features a subtly angled roof, lending the house its distinctly modern character.
The one-bedroom dwelling sports pale wood floors and stark white walls inside. Buyers can opt for fancier (and pricier) finishes, built-in furniture, landscaping, and a curated furniture package that makes renting the space hassle-free.
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