Designed with purpose. Built with care.
Build a Detached ADU
(DADU)
with Confidence
Building a detached accessory dwelling unit is different from a typical remodel or addition. Zoning, lot constraints, utilities, and budget all influence what is possible. Beginning with a thoughtful planning process allows you to move forward with confidence while avoiding costly surprises later.
At Artisan Build Construct, we help homeowners throughout Brentwood, Franklin, Gallatin, Hendersonville, and surrounding Middle Tennessee communities evaluate the possibilities for their property before construction begins, ensuring every decision is supported by expert guidance, thoughtful planning, and exceptional craftsmanship.
Understand feasibility, costs, and next steps, then schedule a discovery call in under two minutes.
What Is a DADU?
A Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (DADU) is a standalone secondary home built on an existing property. These structures are commonly used for rental income, guest housing, home offices, or long-term living solutions.
While DADUs are allowed in many areas, every property is different. Feasibility depends on zoning, lot size, setbacks, utilities, and overall project budget. Our process is designed to help you understand what is possible before investing heavily in design or construction.
Interested in Building A DADU?
Answer a few quick questions about your property, goals, and timeline. Based on your responses, we will recommend the most realistic next step and give you the option to schedule a DADU Discovery Call.
Still have questions?
DADU Planning and Construction Services
Feasibility and Site Evaluation
Review zoning, setbacks, utilities, and access to determine what can realistically be built on your property.
Concept Planning and Budget Alignment
Develop early layout options and align them with realistic cost expectations before moving into design.
Design and Engineering Coordination
Work with architects and engineers to create permit-ready plans tailored to your property.
Construction and Project Management
Build your DADU with a coordinated approach that includes scheduling, communication, and quality control from start to finish.
Whether you're exploring the possibilities or ready to move forward, beginning with a thoughtful feasibility assessment provides the clarity and confidence to plan your project the right way from the start. Artisan Build Construct proudly serves homeowners throughout
Brentwood,
Franklin,
Gallatin,
Hendersonville, and surrounding Middle Tennessee communities.
Our Process
A step-by-step approach to understanding feasibility before building
01 Quick Check + Discovery Call
Confirm goals, site basics, and budget range.
02 Site + Feasibility Review
Review zoning, setbacks, access, utilities, and constraints.
03 Concept + Budget Alignment
Develop early layout options and establish realistic cost expectations.
04 Design + Engineering Coordination
Create permit-ready plans based on approved concepts.
05 Permitting + Pre-Construction Planning
Finalize selections, schedule, subcontractor scope, and logistics.
06 Build + Closeout
Construction, walkthrough, punch list, and warranty.
Why Homeowners Choose Artisan
A structured approach to DADU projects, focused on feasibility, transparency, and long-term quality.
At Artisan Build Construct, we take a structured and transparent approach to DADU projects, focusing on feasibility and planning before moving into design or construction. We work closely with homeowners to evaluate site constraints, zoning requirements, and budget considerations early in the process, allowing us to develop a clear and realistic plan. This approach supports our fixed-fee pricing model and ensures your project is aligned from the beginning.
Our experience building in Nashville allows us to navigate local requirements while delivering DADUs that are functional, well-designed, and built to last.
FAQs
What’s the first step to building a DADU?
The first step is reaching out. Every DADU project is unique, and it starts with understanding your property, zoning, and goals. From there, we’ll help you map out next steps.
Do I need plans to start?
No — you don’t need plans to start. Most DADU projects in Nashville begin with a conversation and a zoning review. We are happy to help you understand what’s possible on your property based on zoning, overlays, and site conditions before any design work begins.
How long does a DADU take?
Most DADUs are completed in about 4-6 months, depending on zoning requirements, permitting, design complexity, and finish selections. After reviewing your property, we can provide a clearer timeline and full build schedule.
Can you help with design?
Yes! We work closely with trusted design partners to help develop DADU layouts that meet Nashville zoning requirements and fit your goals. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refining an idea, we’re happy to guide the design and feasibility process.
Can I use a DADU as a rental?
In many cases, yes! Depending on zoning and overlays, a DADU may be eligible for long-term or short-term rental use. Owner-occupancy rules can apply. We’ll help determine what your specific address allows and walk you through the approval process.
What else can I use a DADU for?
DADUs are extremely flexible spaces. The possibilities are endless! Common uses include:
- Guest house
- Home office or live-work space
- Music or recording studio
- Yoga, fitness, or wellness studio
- In-law suite or family housing
A DADU is a practical way to expand how your property works for you.
How will DADU Construction affect my day-to-day living?
We work to keep DADU construction as unobtrusive as possible. Temporary fencing is typically installed to separate work areas, and utility connections are coordinated to minimize interruptions. Construction will be happening on your property, but we prioritize clear communication and thoughtful site planning.
Does a DADU increase my property value?
We highly recommend talking with a realtor about this, but in most cases, yes. A permitted DADU can increase property value by adding usable square footage, rental potential, and long-term flexibility — especially in high-demand Nashville neighborhoods.
How large can my DADU be?
DADU size is determined by Nashville zoning regulations, lot size, setbacks, and any applicable overlays. A zoning review will clarify what’s allowed on your property.
Does my DADU need to match my main home?
Not always. In some historic overlay districts, there may be requirements related to roof form, eaves, or exterior materials. Outside of those areas, a DADU does not typically need to match the main house exactly, though complementary design is encouraged.
