"These are similar in size to the starter house that we used to build," Hutchins said."They have all the amenities and livability of a small house." Cast architecture designed this unit, which the owners customized.It has a overhang that allows those that live in the house to sit outside no matter what the weather is — something designed especially for rainy Seattle, Hutchin said.
The siding of the house is Shou Sugi Ban, a type of wood that is treated with heat to make it resistant to water and pests.Peter Bohler for CAST Architecture Cast designed the home with these massive windows like the one in the main room of the home, to maximize light that comes in on Seattle's many dreary days.Peter Bohler for CAST ArchitectureThe bedrooms are designed to maximize storage space in the tiny home. Hutchins used the high ceilings to include a storage space on top of the closet.There is also an office space in the house.
The city also axed the parking permit, something that made it impossible for many residents to build ADUs.So far, the total number of permits issued has tripled since the law went into affect, Hutchins said. A bill modeled after Seattle's ADU laws has been making its way through the state's legislature. If passed, there could be a swell of ADUs in the state, Hutchins said.
"It's great for people that are downsizing, aging in place, building for a family member," he said."If your city doesn't allow it, you should have them look at what these units really are, and get them approved."