Across the Greater Puget Sound region, communities are evolving towards greater density, flexibility, and multigenerational living. One emerging housing type that is gaining traction but still remains shrouded in mystery for many homeowners is the Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (DADU): an independent, self-contained residential structure located on the same lot as a primary single-family home. As interest in DADUs grows, so do questions about zoning, site conditions, cost, design decisions, and overall feasibility. SZ Design | Build is dedicated to helping homeowners navigate this shift with clarity, design intelligence, and care.
We are excited to announce our new summer podcast series “Do you DADU?”, hosted by SZ Architect Shakiba Ahmadi. This 8-episode series offers a detailed breakdown of the entire DADU process and timeline to answer some of the most common questions faced by homeowners. Each weekly episode will tackle a specific aspect of DADUs, with a dedicated field professional serving as a guest speaker to share their expertise on the subject - ending with the SZ team’s unique approach to DADU design and construction. With these series, we hope to give homeowners a deeper insight into the DADU typology and the confidence to explore their property’s potential to create a home that aligns with their future, families and lifestyles.
The series will release every Thursday at 10 AM, launching July 9 on the SZ Design | Build website, as well as on our YouTube channel. See below for a sneak preview of the episode schedule and be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel below for series updates.
Episode #1: BACKYARD POTENTIALS - Release Date: 7/9
Discover what’s possible on your property and how a DADU can transform your backyard
Episode #2: FEASIBILITY - Release Date: 7/16
Learn how zoning, site conditions, size, and budget shape what’s possible
Episode #3: DESIGN - Release Date: 7/23
The fun part - Explore creative design solutions tailored to your lifestyle, goals, and property
Episode #4: CONSTRUCTION - Release Date: 7/30
A step-by-step look at the design, permitting, and construction process
Episode #5: SUSTAINABILITY - Release Date: 8/6
Discover practical ways to create a more sustainable, efficient, and comfortable DADU
Episode #6: UNIT LOT SUBDIVISIONS - Release Date: 8/13
Understand the benefits, trade-offs, and long-term value of unit lot subdivisions
Episode #7: DEATH & TAXES - Release Date: 8/20
Understand the financial, legal, and tax considerations before you build
Episode #8: HOW WE DADU - Release Date: 8/27
Go behind the scenes to see how SZ guides homeowners from the first idea to the finished home
