FAQs Page
What is an accessory dwelling unit (ADU)?
According to the American Planning Association, “an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a smaller, independent residential dwelling unit located on the same lot as a stand-alone (i.e., detached) single-family home”. If your studio is intended to serve as an ADU, zoning and building permits will most likely be required. ADU’s are also known as a granny flat, a multi-generational flat or a guesthouse.
Cost:
STUDIO SPACES provide some general cost information on our website for prospective customers to get an idea about price. Because the cost of your studio involves numerous factors: model, size, selected options & finishes, site conditions and foundation/floor system; we recommend our Feasibility Analysis (See the “Our Process/Feasibility Analysis” page of our website). Our Feasibility Analysis will include a preliminary construction cost for your specific project.
Base Units:
STUDIO SPACES studios are durable, and quality built (designed and built to meet the building code, they are not shed level construction) with 8’ tall 2x4 wood wall framing, dimensional lumber roof framing/trusses, 7/16” OSB wall and roof sheathing, air/moisture barrier on walls, roofing underlayment, pre-finished fiber cement lap siding (7” exposure) and trims, One pair of French doors, Roofing: CRAFTSMAN & NORDIC Models - fiberglass architectural shingles, SIERRA Model – metal roofing, The VISTA Model – Single-ply roof membrane (the roof is not visible). See the “Specifications” page under the “Design” tab of our website for information about the materials/products for our studios.
Units are available as an unfinished “shell” with exposed framing, or with an Interior finish packages.
Foundation/Floor system:
STUDIO SPACES studios are built on a concrete slab-on-grade, traditional crawl space or wood floor framing on concrete piers. The best foundation system for your studio depends on the site conditions and your intended use of the studio.
Zoning & Permitting:
Depending on the size, finishes and use of your studio, zoning and building permits may be required. If your studio is going to be used as a living space, a building permit will be required. If zoning and building permits are required, STUDIO SPACES will handle that process for you.
Timeframe:
STUDIO SPACES was created to provide an efficient and timely design and installation process. Due to the ongoing extended lead times for some materials, installation times has increased. If zoning and building permit approvals are required, the timeframe will be longer.
Service area:
STUDIO SPACES is currently taking new projects in the Richmond, VA and Charlottesville, VA areas.
Who designs my studio?
STUDIO SPACES has partnered with the talented architectural firm of Julian M. Utley Architect, PLLC to design all their studio projects. Julian M. Utley Architect, PLLC really knows how to get the most out of a small space.
Who builds/installs my STUDIO SPACE studio?
Our class A licensed & insured building contractor partner. Everything is handled with a single point of responsibility.
Do you offer custom designs?
Yes, contact STUDIO SPACES for details.
Can the studio be installed as an addition to my house?
STUDIO SPACES studios are generally not designed to be installed as an addition. For efficiency and a timely installation, the studios are intended to be stand-alone structures. We believe the separation provides a physical and psychological separation from the distractions of home. However, our BREEZEWAY unit which is designed to connect multiple larger studios together could potentially be used to connect your studio to the main house given the right conditions. Our BREEZEWAY unit is enclosed with glass to create a small passage between studios.
Can solar panels be added to my studio?
Yes, but depends on your studio’s size and site conditions. We have a partner which can help with that.
Do you offer financing:
Yes, we offer financing.