A Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit, or DADU, is a standalone structure built on the same lot as your primary home. Unlike an attached ADU that shares a wall with the main house, a DADU sits separately in the backyard, giving both occupants genuine privacy. In Seattle, where lot sizes can be modest and neighbors are close, that separation matters. Whether you plan to rent it out, house a parent or adult child, or create a dedicated workspace, a well-built DADU adds real, lasting value to your property.
Hiring the right DADU backyard cottage Seattle contractor starts with a property assessment. Not every lot can accommodate a DADU, and the ones that can have specific constraints around size, setbacks, and access. Seattle’s zoning code allows DADUs on most single-family lots, but the maximum size, height, and placement depend on your specific parcel. An experienced contractor will pull your lot’s zoning information, assess the site conditions, and tell you honestly what is feasible before you spend money on design. At AmyWorks, this feasibility conversation is part of our initial consultation at no charge.
The design process for a DADU is genuinely different from a standard remodel. You are creating a complete home from the ground up, which means every square foot has to work hard. Storage, natural light, and circulation are especially important in smaller footprints. Our team at AmyWorks designs DADUs that feel spacious and livable despite their compact size, using smart layouts, high ceilings where zoning allows, and well-placed windows to bring in light. We also pay close attention to the exterior, ensuring the DADU complements the style of your main house rather than clashing with it.
One question we hear often is about the timeline.
A typical DADU project in Seattle, from initial design through final inspection, takes roughly 12 to 18 months. Permitting alone can take several months, depending on SDCI’s current workload and whether any design revisions are required. Construction typically takes four to six months once permits are issued. AmyWorks manages this timeline proactively, keeping the project moving and communicating clearly at every stage. If you are thinking about adding a backyard cottage to your Seattle property, reach out to AmyWorks to start the conversation.