
Table of Content
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Introduction: Why ADU Remodeling Matters in Davis, CA
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Understanding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
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Why Homeowners in Davis Love ADUs
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Classic ADU Remodeling: What It Means
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Our Expertise: Remodel California’s Approach to ADU Design & Construction
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Types of ADU Remodels We Offer
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The ADU Remodeling Process: Step-by-Step Guide
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Top Design Trends for Classic ADUs in Davis
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Sustainable & Energy-Efficient Remodeling in California
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Common Challenges in ADU Projects — and How We Solve Them
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Permitting & Zoning Guidelines in Davis, CA
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Budgeting Your ADU Remodel: Costs & Value Insights
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Why Choose Remodel California for Your ADU Project
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Maintenance Tips for Your New ADU
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External Resources & References
Introduction: Why ADU Remodeling Matters in Davis, CA

Davis, CA is known for its vibrant community, environmentally conscious lifestyle, and growing need for sustainable housing solutions. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), also called granny flats, guest houses, or in-law suites, have become one of the most popular ways to expand living space and property value in the area.
At Remodel California, we specialize in classic ADU remodeling in Davis, CA, combining elegant design, modern functionality, and California’s distinctive architectural charm.
Whether you’re remodeling an existing structure or adding a new ADU to your property, our team ensures your project meets your goals, local codes, and long-term lifestyle needs.
Understanding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
An Accessory Dwelling Unit is a secondary housing unit built on the same property as a primary residence. It can be:
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A converted garage or basement
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A detached guest house
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An attached suite to the main home
In Davis, ADUs have gained traction as affordable, sustainable living options. Homeowners use them for:
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Multi-generational housing
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Rental income
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Home offices or studios
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Guest accommodations
Why Homeowners in Davis Love ADUs
Davis homeowners are increasingly remodeling ADUs because:
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High housing demand: The UC Davis community drives rental opportunities.
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Sustainability focus: ADUs reduce urban sprawl.
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Value growth: Properties with ADUs appreciate faster.
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Flexibility: Perfect for aging parents or adult children.
ADUs are not just an investment — they’re a lifestyle solution for modern California living.
Classic ADU Remodeling: What It Means
When we say “Classic ADU Remodeling,” we refer to designs that blend timeless aesthetics with modern performance.
Classic ADUs often feature:
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Neutral palettes & natural materials
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Craftsman or California Ranch styling
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Open layouts with abundant natural light
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Custom woodwork and cabinetry
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High-end finishes that last decades
Remodel California ensures every remodel reflects Davis’s architectural heritage while meeting today’s energy standards.
Our Expertise: Remodel California’s Approach to ADU Design & Construction
At Remodel California, we bring over 20 years of remodeling expertise across Northern California, including Davis, Granite Bay, Sacramento, and Roseville.
Our philosophy is simple: craft each ADU as if we were building our own home.
What Sets Us Apart:
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Licensed, insured, and experienced builders
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Full design-build services (from concept to completion)
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Custom layouts to maximize space
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Transparent communication and pricing
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Commitment to green building standards
Our Davis projects are a testament to craftsmanship, precision, and personalized service.
Types of ADU Remodels We Offer
Remodel California handles all kinds of ADU remodeling projects, including:
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Garage Conversions – Transform old garages into cozy living units.
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Basement ADUs – Add functional lower-level apartments.
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Detached ADUs – Freestanding backyard cottages.
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Attached Additions – Seamlessly expand your main home.
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Interior Remodels – Reconfigure existing ADUs for improved comfort and flow.
Each remodel is fully customized to match your home’s existing architecture and local Davis zoning requirements.
The ADU Remodeling Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s how our Remodel California ADU process works:
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Consultation & Assessment – We discuss goals, site conditions, and feasibility.
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Design & Planning – Our architects create tailored blueprints.
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Permitting & Compliance – We handle city applications and approvals.
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Construction & Remodeling – Skilled crews execute every detail.
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Final Walkthrough & Handover – We ensure satisfaction before completion.
This structured approach guarantees smooth delivery, minimal disruption, and exceptional outcomes.
Top Design Trends for Classic ADUs in Davis
Davis homeowners prefer classic yet versatile ADU designs that integrate seamlessly into their properties.
Trending Styles:
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Farmhouse ADUs with wood beams and white shiplap
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Mid-Century Modern with clean lines and bold accents
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Craftsman Bungalows featuring warm wood tones
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Eco-Modern Studios designed for sustainability
We combine these timeless elements with smart technologies like solar power, energy-efficient insulation, and advanced lighting systems.
Sustainable & Energy-Efficient Remodeling in California
Sustainability isn’t a buzzword — it’s a core principle of our remodeling philosophy.
Our Davis ADU projects emphasize:
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Solar-ready roofing systems
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Water-efficient fixtures
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Recycled materials
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Natural ventilation and daylighting
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EV charging integration
We design ADUs that minimize energy use, reduce costs, and support California’s green initiatives.
Common Challenges in ADU Projects — and How We Solve Them
Remodeling an ADU in Davis can pose unique challenges, including:
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Complex zoning laws
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Space limitations
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Utility connections
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Neighborhood restrictions
Our experienced team navigates all of this for you. We’ve worked extensively with City of Davis Building Division guidelines and know how to streamline the permitting process without delays.
Permitting & Zoning Guidelines in Davis, CA
Davis has progressive ADU laws under California SB 9 and SB 13, making it easier for homeowners to add secondary units.
Key local ADU rules include:
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Maximum ADU size: 1,200 sq. ft.
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Minimum setbacks: 4 feet
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Parking exemptions near public transit
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Owner-occupancy rules removed (per recent updates)
Budgeting Your ADU Remodel: Costs & Value Insights
The cost of classic ADU remodeling in Davis, CA depends on design, materials, and structural conditions.
Average remodel cost range:
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Garage conversion: $120K–$180K
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Detached ADU: $250K–$400K
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Luxury or custom ADU: $400K+
Yet, ADUs offer exceptional ROI, often adding 25–35% in property value while generating monthly rental income between $1,800–$2,800 in Davis.
Why Choose Remodel California for Your ADU Project
Here’s why Davis homeowners trust us:
Locally experienced – deep knowledge of Yolo County regulations
Design-build integration – single-source accountability
Premium materials – built to last decades
Client-focused – personalized service and transparency
Satisfaction guaranteed – from first draft to final finish
At Remodel California, your vision becomes a stunning reality.
Maintenance Tips for Your New ADU
To keep your remodeled ADU in peak condition:
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Perform seasonal roof and gutter checks
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Clean HVAC filters quarterly
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Inspect insulation annually
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Refinish woodwork every few years
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Schedule professional maintenance with Remodel California
A well-maintained ADU remains energy-efficient and beautiful for decades.
Your dream ADU in Davis, CA starts here. Whether you’re remodeling a classic unit or building from scratch, we’re ready to bring your vision to life.