Zee Design & Build | Lake Stevens & Kirkland, WA
The Best ADU Builders Helping You Bring Family Closer or Collect Rental Income, Servicing Greater Seattle King, Snohomish, Skagit, Kitsap, & Island Counties | (Based in Kirkland, Washington)
Are you ready to build an ADU to start earning rental income or expanding your space for your extended family? We have built ADUs across Greater Seattle, King, Snohomish, Skagit, Kitsap, & Island Counties in the Pacific Northwest of Washington.
Our Kirkland Design & Build team of general contractors, interior designers and ADU builders have built ADUs and remodeled, renovated and repaired homes and commercial projects since 2012.
Fill out the form below to get started or call us at (425) 451-0174 to schedule a quote!
Where Unused Spaces Turn into ADUs that Help You Bring Family Closer Together or Earn Rental Income
Generate $1,500-$3,000 monthly rental income or create comfortable housing for aging parents—your ADU investment should deliver results that matter. Whether you need reliable rental income to help with your mortgage or independent living space for extended family, professional ADU construction in the Greater Seattle area means building practical solutions that work for decades.
Smart ADU Solutions for Real Financial Goals
Every month, property owners across the Seattle area collect steady rental income from well-built ADUs. This isn't wishful thinking—it's what happens when you build practical, income-generating ADUs with the Pacific Northwest's most experienced accessory dwelling unit specialists.
Every aging parent enjoys independence while staying close to family. Every adult child gets back on their feet without anyone losing privacy. These aren't just feel-good stories—they're the real results of building complete, comfortable ADUs that work as true homes.
Complete, Comfortable Living Spaces That Work
Stop looking at unused space as wasted potential. ADU construction in the Seattle area means transforming existing structures or building new ones into fully functional homes that generate monthly income or solve family housing challenges. Whether you're converting an existing garage, basement, or shed, or building a brand-new structure in your backyard, we're talking about complete living spaces with full kitchens sized for comfortable daily use, private bathrooms, dedicated sleeping areas, and living rooms that actually feel like home—not cramped afterthoughts.
Transform What You Already Have:
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Garage Conversions: Turn your underused garage into a complete rental unit or family home with proper insulation, electrical upgrades, plumbing installation, and flooring that transforms concrete into comfortable living space
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Basement Conversions: Convert basement areas into income-generating apartments with proper waterproofing, egress windows, full bathrooms, and kitchens that meet all safety codes
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Shed or Outbuilding Upgrades: Transform existing sheds or outbuildings into complete ADUs with foundation improvements, electrical service, plumbing connections, and insulation for year-round comfort
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Attic Conversions: Turn unused attic space into livable units with proper structural support, insulation, electrical service, and bathroom installations
It means rental units with proper electrical systems, efficient heating and cooling, and kitchens equipped with full-size appliances that attract quality tenants and generate consistent cash flow. Or comfortable family homes with accessible bathrooms, practical storage, and living spaces where aging parents can maintain dignity while staying connected to grandchildren.
At Zee Design & Build, we've spent over a decade helping families across Snohomish, Skagit, Kitsap, and Island Counties turn backyards into practical income-generating assets and complete family solutions. From efficient rental units with modern kitchens and private bathrooms that consistently attract good tenants, to accessible, comfortable homes with full amenities perfect for aging parents, each ADU we build serves your financial goals and family needs with all the comforts of a real home.
Your ADU Should Work as Hard as You Do
Every morning, you wake up knowing your property works harder for you. Every square foot of your ADU reflects your priorities. Every detail serves your most important goals—generating steady rental income or providing dignified housing for aging parents, adult children, or extended family. This isn't just wishful thinking—it's what happens when you build ADUs with the Pacific Northwest's most trusted accessory dwelling unit specialists.
Ready to see what's possible? Let's start the conversation about your dream ADU.
The Art and Science of ADU Building
Building an ADU in the Pacific Northwest requires more than just construction skills—it demands an intimate understanding of our unique environment and zoning regulations. When winter storms roll in from the Pacific, your ADU needs to stand strong. When summer brings those perfect 75-degree days, your indoor-outdoor living spaces should flow seamlessly together.
Our process begins long before the first shovel hits the ground. We start with conversations—deep, thoughtful discussions about your primary goals.
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Are you looking to generate $1,500-$3,000 monthly rental income to help with your mortgage or retirement planning?
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Do you need comfortable, independent housing for aging parents who want to stay close but maintain their dignity and privacy?
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Perhaps you have adult children navigating career changes or housing costs who need temporary family support?
These priorities matter because they shape every decision we make—from kitchen layouts that work for daily cooking to bathroom designs that ensure accessibility and comfort.
Once we understand your goals, our team of architects and designers creates practical blueprints that work within your budget while maximizing rental potential or family comfort. We consider everything from efficient layouts that make the most of every square foot to smart placement that provides privacy and accessibility. Full electrical systems ensure your ADU can handle modern appliances and technology needs. Proper plumbing installation means reliable water pressure and drainage that won't cause problems down the road. Site analysis helps us determine the best location on your property while maintaining proper setbacks and keeping costs reasonable.
The magic happens during construction, where skilled craftsmen bring plans to life within compact, efficient spaces that still feel like real homes. Foundation work in Western Washington isn't just about pouring concrete; it's about creating a moisture barrier that will protect your investment for generations. Framing requires precision engineering to handle both seismic activity and our notorious wind storms while maximizing every square foot for comfortable living. Every board, every joint, every connection is placed with intention.
As your ADU takes shape, the practical benefits emerge. Quality construction materials provide durability and low maintenance—reclaimed Douglas Fir that's both affordable and attractive, practical siding that weathers well in our climate, and efficient systems that keep operating costs down. Modern electrical work handles everything from kitchen appliances to home office setups. Thoughtfully designed bathrooms include proper ventilation and storage. These aren't luxury finishes; they're smart choices that provide long-term value and attract quality tenants who appreciate well-built homes.
Three Practical Styles for Different Needs
Modern Efficient ADUs: Smart Design That Actually Works
Picture clean, simple spaces with full kitchens, private bathrooms, and comfortable living areas that are easy to maintain and appeal to a wide range of tenants. Modern ADUs focus on efficient layouts that make every square foot count while including all the amenities renters expect—full-size refrigerators, proper countertop space for meal prep, bathrooms with real storage, and living areas sized for actual furniture.
These ADUs work for property owners who want straightforward rental income or clean, simple family housing that doesn't skimp on comfort. Complete electrical systems handle modern life, from charging stations to home office setups. Smart features like programmable thermostats help control utility costs, while open floor plans make small spaces feel larger and more functional without sacrificing privacy between sleeping and living areas.
Does a modern efficient ADU sound right for you?
Let's start the conversation about your dream ADU.
Traditional Comfortable ADUs: Familiar and Fully Equipped
Comfortable, traditional-style ADUs appeal to families who want warm, welcoming spaces that feel like real homes. These units work well for extended family housing because they're familiar and non-intimidating, especially for older relatives who appreciate traditional layouts with separate bedrooms, full bathrooms with bathtubs, and kitchens designed for actual cooking—not just reheating meals.
These ADUs are perfect for housing aging parents or adult children who need temporary family support. Simple, accessible design ensures everyone can navigate safely, with wide doorways, grab bars in bathrooms, and no-step entries. Traditional styling feels comfortable and homey, while full amenities mean your family members never feel like they're living in a compromise. Covered porches provide outdoor space for relaxation and family visits.
Does a traditional comfortable ADU sound right for you? Let's start the conversation about your dream ADU.
Energy-Efficient ADUs: Built for Low Operating Costs Without Sacrificing Comfort
Smart property owners choose ADUs that keep utility costs low for both rental income and family housing while still providing all the modern conveniences people expect. Energy-efficient ADUs prove that practical design choices can reduce monthly expenses while providing comfortable living spaces with full kitchens, spa-like bathrooms, and cozy living areas.
These ADUs feature practical energy-saving features that keep costs down—efficient windows that reduce heating bills, insulation that maintains comfortable temperatures year-round, and simple systems that are easy to maintain. High-efficiency appliances in fully equipped kitchens mean lower electric bills. Smart water heaters provide reliable hot water without waste. They're smart investments for families who want to minimize ongoing expenses while maximizing tenant satisfaction and family comfort.
Does an energy-efficient ADU sound right for you?
Let's start the conversation about your dream ADU.
Premium Custom ADUs: When You Want Something Special
For property owners who envision their ADU as more than just practical housing, we also create custom spaces with premium finishes and luxury touches. These might include high-end kitchen appliances, spa-quality bathrooms, smart home integration, or architectural details that complement your main home. While still designed for functionality and rental potential, these ADUs offer the elevated finishes and custom features that make them truly exceptional spaces.
Does a premium custom ADU sound right for you? Let's start the conversation about your dream ADU.
The Zee Design & Build Difference
Are you looking for an ADU builder near you to build your ADU? Since 2012, our Kirkland-based ADU builder company and Design & Build team have been building practical, well-constructed ADUs that work as complete homes, not glorified storage sheds. We're not just ADU builders—we're problem-solvers who understand that most families need cost-effective solutions that actually work as real living spaces. When challenges arise during construction, our experience helps us find practical solutions that keep your project on budget and on schedule while ensuring every system works properly.
Our commitment goes beyond construction. We believe building an ADU should be straightforward and stress-free, not overwhelming. That's why we handle everything from initial design through final walkthrough, including all electrical, plumbing, and HVAC installations that make your ADU a complete home. You'll always know what's happening with your project and when it will be completed.
Every member of our team focuses on building ADUs that work well and last long as complete living spaces. The carpenter installing your kitchen cabinets knows they need to function for daily cooking, not just look good. The plumber installing your bathroom fixtures ensures everything works reliably for years. The electrician wiring your unit makes sure you have enough outlets for modern living and everything is safe and up to code. This attention to getting things done right shows in every finished ADU.
We Build Financial Security and Family Solutions Through Our ADUs
An ADU from Zee Design & Build becomes part of your family's security and connection. It's where rental income provides monthly financial stability, where aging parents maintain independence in a real home while staying close to family, and where adult children get back on their feet in comfortable, dignified housing without sacrificing anyone's privacy. These structures don't just provide shelter; they solve real family challenges while building wealth.
The families we've worked with often tell us their ADU exceeded their expectations in ways they never imagined. The rental unit with a modern kitchen and private bathroom that generated thousands in monthly rental income. The comfortable home with an accessible bathroom and full kitchen where Mom could age gracefully, just steps away from grandchildren but with her own complete living space and dignity. The temporary housing with all the amenities that their adult son could live in after they finished school.
Ready to Begin Your ADU Journey?
Your practical ADU solution is waiting to be built. Maybe it's a modern rental unit with full kitchen and private bathroom that attracts premium tenants, an accessible single-level home with complete amenities perfect for aging parents, or an efficient family unit with all the comforts that keeps utilities low while keeping loved ones close. Whether you're focused on rental income or family housing, we're here to help make it reality with complete, comfortable living spaces.
The first step is always a conversation. We'll discuss your primary goals—whether that's generating rental income or housing extended family—explore your possibilities, and help you understand what's achievable within your timeline and budget. There's no pressure, no obligation—just experienced professionals ready to listen and advise about building real ADUs that feel like homes, not tiny compromises.
Call us at (425) 451-0174 or schedule your complimentary consultation today. Let's explore what's possible when you build complete, comfortable ADUs in the Pacific Northwest.
What Drives Everything We Do at Zee Design & Build
Behind every ADU we build are the principles that have guided Zee Design & Build since our founding. These aren't just words on our website—they're the foundation of how we approach every project, every decision, and every relationship with our clients.
Efficiency in Every Detail: Building an ADU is complex enough without unnecessary delays or wasted effort. We've refined our process over a decade to maximize every resource, every hour, and every decision. This efficiency doesn't mean rushing—it means working smarter so your income-generating ADU becomes reality sooner.
Precision That Matters: In ADU construction, there's no room for "close enough" or "we'll fix it later." Our commitment to accuracy means doing things right the first time, using precise measurements, carefully selected materials, and meticulous attention to detail. When you invest in an ADU, you deserve perfection from foundation to finish—especially in critical systems like electrical, plumbing, and HVAC that make your ADU truly livable.
Excellence Without Compromise: We hold ourselves to the highest standards because your investment deserves nothing less. When mistakes happen (and occasionally they do), we take immediate ownership and make it right. This dedication to excellence is what transforms a backyard structure into a true asset that functions as a complete home.
Innovation Through Listening: The most creative solutions come from truly understanding your unique goals and constraints. We don't believe in one-size-fits-all approaches. Instead, we listen carefully to your vision and use innovative thinking to solve challenges and create possibilities you might never have imagined—while ensuring every ADU includes all the systems and amenities of a real home.
Why Homeowners Choose Zee Design & Build
When you're investing in an ADU—likely one of your most significant property improvements—the builder you choose makes all the difference. While other contractors in the Greater Seattle area may promise similar results, our approach sets us apart in meaningful ways.
Many builders rely on shortcuts and lower-grade materials to maximize their profits, or worse, they build glorified sheds that lack proper kitchens, bathrooms, or electrical systems. We believe your ADU should be built to last generations while providing consistent rental income or comfortable family housing. We source premium, eco-friendly materials that not only look beautiful but perform exceptionally in our Pacific Northwest climate.
Every ADU includes complete electrical systems, full plumbing with proper water pressure, and HVAC systems that maintain comfort year-round.
Our partnerships with local organizations like 911 Glass Rescue and the Rotary Club reflect our deep commitment to both environmental responsibility and community involvement. Perhaps most importantly, we use advanced 3D design technology that lets you see and experience your entire ADU before construction begins. This isn't just convenient—it's transformative. You can walk through your future rental unit's kitchen, see how the bathroom layout works for accessibility, check sight lines from the living room, and make adjustments while changes are still simple and cost-effective.
While some builders leave you wondering about timelines and costs, we provide clear communication and efficient processes that respect both your time and investment. This transparency and reliability have made us the trusted choice for discerning property owners throughout the region who want complete, comfortable homes, not compromised living spaces.
Why Professional ADU Construction Matters for You, Your Extended Family and/or Future Tenants
The internet makes DIY ADU projects look simple and appealing, but professional ADU construction is where expertise becomes invaluable. What looks straightforward in online tutorials often involves complex zoning compliance, electrical system design, plumbing integration, HVAC installation, and building code requirements that can quickly become overwhelming and expensive for property owners.
Our specialists bring decades of combined experience, professional-grade tools, and relationships with the best suppliers in the region. More importantly, we understand how different systems interact within your ADU's compact design and how local regulations affect every decision. The foundation affects the electrical layout, which influences the plumbing, which impacts the HVAC design, which determines kitchen and bathroom placement—it's all interconnected in ways that require professional coordination to create truly livable spaces.
When you build with Zee Design & Build, you're not just avoiding the headaches and potential disasters of DIY—you're investing in craftsmanship that will serve tenants and generate income for decades. Our ADUs are built to withstand everything the Pacific Northwest can deliver, from seismic activity to winter storms, while maintaining their beauty, functionality, and all the modern conveniences that make them feel like real homes.
Are you ready to experience what it is like to work with a state-of-the-art design and build firm?
Book an appointment now by calling us at (425) 451-0174 or scheduling your consultation today.
Beyond ADUs: Complete Property Enhancement Services
While ADU construction is our specialty, many homeowners throughout the Pacific Northwest trust Zee Design & Build to enhance their entire property investment. Whether you're adding a custom deck to complement your new ADU, upgrading electrical systems to handle additional units, installing energy-efficient HVAC systems, or addressing maintenance that maximizes property value, we bring the same meticulous attention to detail and innovative thinking to every project.
Our comprehensive property enhancement services encompass every aspect of maximizing your investment. From whole-property improvements that increase overall value to targeted updates that optimize rental potential, and from emergency repairs that protect your assets to preventive maintenance that preserves long-term returns, we coordinate every trade and manage every detail so you can focus on your property's income potential.
Property maintenance often requires immediate attention to protect your investment value and tenant satisfaction. Whether you're dealing with storm damage from Pacific Northwest weather, wear and tear from rental use, or unexpected issues that arise in any building, our repair expertise covers everything from structural concerns to cosmetic fixes. We understand that maintenance issues can impact rental income, so we work efficiently to restore your property while identifying opportunities to improve upon the original condition.
Kitchen and bathroom upgrades in ADUs often provide the most dramatic impact on rental rates, turning basic spaces into premium amenities that command higher rents. We understand that your ADU's kitchen needs to function beautifully in a compact space, where every cabinet and appliance placement matters for daily cooking and food storage. Similarly, bathroom designs create spa-like experiences with proper storage, good lighting, and accessibility features that tenants appreciate and remember when lease renewal time arrives.
Visit Our Kirkland, Washington Showroom
We'd love to welcome you to our design center and headquarters, conveniently located in the heart of Kirkland (meetings by appointment only):
Zee Design & Build
570 Kirkland Way, Suite 100
Kirkland, WA 98033
Our central location puts us just minutes from major transportation corridors, making it easy to reach us whether you're coming from downtown Seattle via I-405 or from Everett along I-5. During your visit, you can explore material samples, review our portfolio of completed homes, and meet the team who will bring your vision to life.
Want to meet us in person?
Book an appointment now by calling us at (425) 451-0174 or scheduling your consultation today.
We Build ADUs Throughout the Greater Seattle Region
Our commitment to exceptional ADUs extends throughout a 75-mile radius from our Kirkland headquarters, covering the communities where Pacific Northwest property owners want to maximize their investments. From urban lots in Seattle's most desirable neighborhoods to sprawling properties in the Cascade foothills, we bring the same level of craftsmanship and attention to detail to every project.
King County: Bellevue, Bothell, Burien, Carnation, Cottage Lake, Covington, Des Moines, Duvall, Fall City, Issaquah, Kent, Kirkland, Maple Valley, Medina, Mercer Island, Newcastle, Preston, Redmond, Renton, Sammamish, Seattle, Snoqualmie, South Center, Tukwila and more.
Snohomish County: Bothell, Edmonds, Everett, Granite Falls, Lake Stevens, Maltby, Marysville, Mill Creek, Monroe, Mukilteo, Northgate, Shoreline, Smokey Point, Snohomish, Sultan, Tulalip and more.
Skagit County: Burlington, Mount Vernon, Stanwood and more.
Island County: Camano Island, Whidbey Island and more.
Kitsap County: Kingston and more.
Have a property outside our typical service area? We're always interested in unique projects and exceptional opportunities. Give us a call to discuss your vision—if it's the right fit, we'll make it work.
Ready to start your ADU journey?
Call (425) 451-0174 or schedule your consultation online today.
Featured Projects
See our work in action!
From a sleek kitchen remodel to a modern home addition, our projects showcase premium craftsmanship.
SPACES
PROJECTS
What Our Clients Say
"After moving from California, my husband and I bought a 1964 rambler. it looked like it hadn't seen any love or attention since the day it was built! Erik and his crew gutted the entire house and, from start to finish, ALL was done in around 4 months. We are thrilled with the outcome!"
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My daughter recommended Erik to my husband and i, and he did a full kitchen remodel for us. Our house was built in 1999, and we were looking to do new cabinets. We met with Erik and were so impressed by his visions and experience that we decided to instead do a full kitchen remodel. Erik and his team did new cabinets, appliances, countertops, trim...AND an island with cooktop and seating. Erik was extremely friendly, communicative and organized. We definitely plan on working with him again for future projects!"
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"I used Erik's company to finish renovations on our property of 380 apartments. Not only was he very professional, but the speed and quality and scheduling of each unit was done with precision and created great results. I would without hesitation use Erik's company again."
Frequently Asked Questions
What services do you offer?
We provide premium kitchen, bathroom, living and dining room, bedroom, exterior, addition, basement, carpentry, repair, design, new construction, ADU/garage, duplex, electrical, plumbing, deck, HVAC, and appliance installation services for residential properties across our service area. Book your quote now—call (888) 736-6883!
Get Started Today
Don’t let outdated spaces or damage limit your home’s potential. Zee Design & Build’s specialists deliver stunning, durable solutions across our service area, transforming every space into a cohesive masterpiece. Call (888) 736-6883 or book your quote online now to transform your home before it’s too late!
