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.
Read MoreAfter three long but rewarding years, Architectural Intern Delaney Carmen has finally graduated with a Master’s Degree in Architecture at the University of Washington and has returned to SZ Design | Build to kick off her professional career.
I feel very lucky to have been a part of UW's Master's of Architecture program. Architecture is an ocean of knowledge an inch deep, and I feel that I've at least got a sea's worth by now. Through this program, I've come to understand the things I'm passionate about: craft, storytelling, and intentionality. In an age where AI, corporate greed, and conformity dictate so much of our lives (and consequently, our built environment), I have used my education to learn how to actively fight complacency and ensure that my work as an architect is purposeful and authentic. A few of my favorite works throughout the program have been largely driven by those same passions.
Get a glimpse into her experience at UW through her reflection below.
Read MoreAs a Design | Build team, SZ Build offers the unique advantage of leading projects from inception to completion. We thought it would be fun to share in this gratifying process as an SZ Build Video Series. Through these construction vignettes, we’ll give you a sneak peak into the sequencing and technical prowess of our rockstar subcontractors, as our designs come to life!
This 750sf Guest House on Mercer Island is nestled into the hillside, as it opens towards Western sunsets and views. With one bedroom, one bath, two sleeping lofts and a sleeper sofa, this tiny home can accommodate 6 guests comfortably. Finishes have been selected to express an earthy-modern vibe, approachable yet sophisticated. Artisanal tilework is woven into a finish palette of natural stone, concrete and wood. Warm lighting is accented by sculptural pendants and controlled with integrated smart home technology. Its live-roof blankets this Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (DADU), keeping it warm on cool nights and absorbs the heat on sunny days. Cozy, but uncompromised.
We build for the beauty, durability and longevity of our homes.
Read MoreAs a Design | Build team, SZ Build offers the unique advantage of leading projects from inception to completion. We thought it would be fun to share in this gratifying process as an SZ Build Video Series. Through these construction vignettes, we’ll give you a sneak peak into the sequencing and technical prowess of our rockstar subcontractors, as our designs come to life!
This 750sf Guest House on Mercer Island is nestled into the hillside, as it opens towards Western sunsets and views. With one bedroom, one bath, two sleeping lofts and a sleeper sofa, this tiny home can accommodate 6 guests comfortably. Finishes have been selected to express an earthy-modern vibe, approachable yet sophisticated. Artisanal tilework is woven into a finish palette of natural stone, concrete and wood. Warm lighting is accented by sculptural pendants and controlled with integrated smart home technology. Its live-roof blankets this Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (DADU), keeping it warm on cool nights and absorbs the heat on sunny days. Cozy, but uncompromised.
We build for the beauty, durability and longevity of our homes.
Read More
