Smart Living,
Beautiful Design
Accessory dwelling units designed for multi-generational living, rental income, home offices, or private guest quarters. Built to the same luxury standard as your primary home.
ADU Construction Experts in the Texas Hill Country
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are one of the smartest investments a homeowner can make today. Whether you need a private guest house for visiting family, a comfortable in-law suite, a rental income property, or a dedicated home office, L&M Custom Designs and Build creates ADUs that are as beautiful as they are functional.
As a 3rd-generation builder, Sonja Read understands that an ADU is more than a small building on your property -- it is a self-contained home that requires the same attention to design, engineering, and construction quality as any custom residence. That is exactly what we deliver.
We handle the entire process from zoning research and permit navigation to architectural design, utility connections, and luxury finishing. Our ADUs feature full kitchens, complete bathrooms, independent HVAC systems, and separate entrances -- everything needed for comfortable, independent living.
What Every ADU Project Includes
Full Kitchen Installation
Complete kitchen with cabinetry, countertops, full-size appliances, and proper ventilation. Designed for independent daily living.
Complete Bathroom
Walk-in shower or tub/shower combo, vanity, toilet, and proper waterproofing built to the same standards as any luxury bathroom.
Separate Entrance & Privacy
Independent access, private outdoor space, and sound insulation between the ADU and main residence.
Independent Utility Connections
Separate electrical panel, plumbing connections, water heater, and HVAC system or mini-split for complete independence.
Zoning & Permit Navigation
Complete research into local ADU ordinances, setback requirements, parking provisions, and building code compliance.
Architectural Design
Custom floor plans, elevations, and exterior design that complement your primary residence and neighborhood.
Energy-Efficient Construction
Modern insulation, energy-efficient windows, LED lighting, and properly sized HVAC for low operating costs.
Rental-Ready Options
Smart locks, separate mailbox, dedicated parking, and utility metering for hassle-free rental income if desired.
ADA Accessibility Options
Single-level designs with wide doorways, curbless showers, and accessible features for comfortable aging-in-place.
Why Build an ADU with L&M
Rental Income Potential
ADUs in the Austin area can generate $1,200-$2,500+/month in rental income, often paying for themselves within 5-8 years.
Multi-Generational Living
Give aging parents or adult children comfortable, private living space while keeping family close. Independence with proximity.
Property Value Increase
A well-built ADU typically adds 20-30% to your property value -- often more than the cost of construction.
Zoning Expertise
We research and navigate local zoning ordinances, ADU-specific regulations, and HOA requirements before design begins.
Custom Home Quality
Our ADUs use the same materials, construction methods, and quality standards as our custom homes. No shortcuts.
Turnkey Delivery
From permits to final landscaping, we handle every detail. You get a finished, move-in-ready dwelling unit.
Ready to Transform Your Space?
Join over 200 satisfied homeowners. Book your free, no-obligation consultation today and get a detailed estimate within 48 hours.
No pressure. No obligations. Just expert advice from a 3rd-generation builder.
Our Proven Process
Feasibility Assessment
We evaluate your property, research zoning requirements, assess utility connections, and determine what type of ADU your lot can support.
Custom Design
Architectural plans, 3D renderings, interior design, and material selections tailored to your needs and budget.
Permitting & Construction
Permit filing, foundation, framing, utility connections, roofing, and complete interior finishing with weekly progress updates.
Inspection & Move-In
Final building inspection, certificate of occupancy, walkthrough, systems training, and keys to your new ADU.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are ADUs legal in Austin?+
ADU regulations vary by municipality and zoning district. We research your specific property's zoning during our free consultation and can tell you definitively what is permitted on your lot, including size limitations and setback requirements.
How much does an ADU cost to build?+
Custom ADUs in the Texas Hill Country typically cost $150,000-$350,000 depending on size (400-1,200 sq ft), finish level, and site conditions. We provide detailed cost breakdowns after our feasibility assessment.
How long does ADU construction take?+
A typical ADU takes 4-7 months from permit approval to move-in ready. The permitting process itself can take 4-8 weeks. We provide a complete timeline during the design phase.
Can I rent out my ADU?+
In most cases, yes. We design ADUs to be rental-ready with separate entrances, independent utilities, and privacy features. We can advise on local rental regulations during your consultation.
Will an ADU affect my property taxes?+
Yes, an ADU will increase your assessed property value and therefore your property taxes. However, the rental income or increased home value typically far outweighs the tax increase.
Can the ADU match my home's architectural style?+
Absolutely. We design every ADU to complement your primary residence's architecture, materials, and color palette. From Hill Country stone to modern farmhouse, we match your style.
Ready to Add an ADU to Your Property?
Schedule your free property assessment. We will evaluate your lot, research zoning, and show you what's possible -- no commitment required.
Free estimates within 48 hours. No obligations. Serving Austin and the Texas Hill Country.