New Addition
Author:Lindsey ShookDesign Draw Build designs an ADU worthy of praise
“As both licensed architects and builders, we believe our holistic knowledge and approach of the building process is uniquely grounded in feasible processes while prioritizing unparalleled design,” says Tyler Kobick, founder and principal at Bay Area-based Design Draw Build. “Whether we’re renovating a Historical Landmark in Oakland, or constructing a new residence in wine country of northern Sonoma County, the process/story of making the work is more important than the outcome, though it often yields the most inventive, meaningful and beautiful spaces.”
Founded in Vermont in 2010, they moved west in 2014 to expand their portfolio that includes residential projects as well as housing for previously incarcerated individuals and affordable housing developments. “Our craft-forward, cultural resource approach to design integrates strong tenets of critical regionalism that anchor building and site design in place to embrace a complete vision toward environmental stewardship,” he remarks. When enlisted in 2020 to help a family expand their new home for their extended, chosen family, they devised a semi-modern, Arts and Crafts-style ADU that fit seamlessly into the neighborhood. “Their goals were to integrate the home with the existing neighborhood fabric, add a space where their friend who is a single mother could live and enhance the outdoor space,” says Kobick.
The DDB team is most proud of the porch and trellis that give the ADU architecturally significant edge while increasing the overall value of the home. When asked if the clients appreciate their new backyard addition Kobick notes, “They were thrilled with the final result. Their appraiser at the time of permit close told them they made a quarter of a million dollars from our work!”