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ABU vs. ADU
- What’s the Difference?
Abu
An Accessory Building Unit (ABU) is a detached backyard building designed to expand how you use your property.
ABU's are commonly used as:
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Home office or studio
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Home gym or wellness space
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Lounge / entertaining room
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Kids playroom or teen hangout
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Hobby room, workshop, or creative space
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Guest space (when allowed and designed accordingly)
Key idea: Most ABUs do not include a full kitchen, and they’re typically built as flexible living space, not a separate residence.
adu
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary living unit on a residential property that is intended to function like a small home.
ADUs typically include:
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A bathroom
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Sleeping/living space
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A kitchen (or kitchen facilities)
AdU's are commonly used as:
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Long-term rental income
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Housing family members (aging parents, adult children)
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A dedicated guest house with full living amenities
Which Does Elevate Build?
At Elevate, we specialize in Accessory Building Units (ABUs)—premium, backyard structures built for modern life: offices, gyms, studios, and flexible bonus space.
We also offer Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) for homeowners who want a true second dwelling
Which option is right for you?
Choose an ABU if you want:
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Flexible lifestyle space
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A home office or gym
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A backyard retreat
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A space separate from the main home
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Choose an ADU if you want:
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Rental income
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A full guest house
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Housing for family members
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A legally recognized second dwelling
Not sure? That’s what we’re here for.
WHY ELEVATE?
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