Brighton ADU

Accessory Dwelling Unit — Case Study

Brighton ADU

Location
Brighton, Colorado
Category
ADU / Accessory Dwelling Unit
Scope
Full build-out — structural, MEP, HVAC, finishes
Duration
Full build

An existing brick structure became a complete, self-contained accessory dwelling unit — a permitted home with its own kitchen, full bath, efficient heating and cooling, and a bright open living space.

An ADU is a small building with all the complexity of a full house. This one touched every trade: cutting new structural openings into existing brick, framing the interior, running all-new plumbing, electrical, and HVAC, then drywall, flooring, cabinetry, and finishes. We managed the entire scope so the finished unit is code-compliant, comfortable, and move-in ready.

The Starting Point

From brick shell to living space

We started by opening the existing brick structure for new windows and doors and framing the interior into real, livable rooms.

Before — the existing brick structure.
Before — the existing brick structure.
Interior framed into rooms.
Interior framed into rooms.
Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing

Everything a home needs, roughed in

New water, drain, and electrical systems were run throughout and inspected before the walls closed up — the invisible work that makes a small unit live like a full home.

Exterior

New windows and doors in existing brick

Working in existing brick takes care. We cut and framed clean new openings for windows and doors so the unit gets real light while the masonry stays sound.

Finishes

Drywall, floors, and a real kitchen

With the shell sealed and systems in, we hung and finished drywall, laid durable plank flooring throughout, and built a full kitchen with a standout island.

Drywall hung and finished.
Drywall hung and finished.
Plank flooring installed.
Plank flooring installed.
Kitchen cabinetry going in.
Kitchen cabinetry going in.
Bathroom

A full bath with a glass shower

The unit includes a complete bathroom finished with a tiled, glass-enclosed shower — everything a resident needs day to day.

Comfort

Efficient mini-split heating and cooling

Ductless mini-split systems keep the ADU comfortable year-round with quiet, efficient heating and cooling — ideal for a compact, well-sealed space.

The Result

A complete, self-contained home

The finished ADU is a bright, efficient living unit — a full kitchen, bath, and living space inside, and clean, finished brick outside.

Finished kitchen with a custom island.
Finished kitchen with a custom island.
The completed unit from outside.
The completed unit from outside.

Thinking about an ADU?

We build custom outdoor living spaces, additions, and renovations across the Denver metro. Let’s talk about your project.

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