ADU Architect in Brooklyn and NYC
New York City now allows one accessory dwelling unit, or ADU, on the lot of a one or two family home. An ADU can be a backyard cottage, a converted garage, an attic unit or, in some locations, a basement or cellar unit. Most ADUs are limited to 800 square feet.
Whether your lot qualifies depends on its zoning, flood maps, landmark status and the building code. I am Eran Birnbaum, AIA, a New York licensed architect. I help Brooklyn homeowners answer that question first, then design the unit and file it with the Department of Buildings.
What I do
- Check zoning, flood risk maps and historic district status for your lot
- Measure the existing house, garage, attic or basement
- Design the unit, including exits, fire safety, light and air
- Prepare and file the application in DOB NOW and coordinate inspections through sign off
Things to know before you start
- New backyard ADUs are not allowed in historic districts or in some low density zoning districts
- Basement and cellar ADUs are not allowed in mapped high risk flood areas, which cover parts of south Brooklyn
- A legally existing garage may be convertible even where a new backyard cottage is not
- Rules are lot specific, so every project starts with a property check
For the City's own guidance, see the NYC Department of Buildings ADU page.
Related work
I also handle home additions, enlargements and legalization of existing basements and attics. See recent projects and DOB violations and legalization.
Start with your address
Call or text 917.747.0195 or send your address through the contact form. We start by checking what your lot allows before you spend money on design.