Back Yard Cottages in Seattle

Now that backyard cottages are legal on eligible, see Council unanimously approves code revisions on backyard cottages:

Backyard cottages will be limited to 800 square feet, including garage and storage space. The legislation also prohibits the construction of backyard cottages on lots less than 4,000 square feet or located in a Shoreline District.

The property owner must live in either the principle structure or the backyard cottage for at least six months out of the year. Other requirements include a side yard setback of at least five feet and limiting the total lot coverage of the principle residence, backyard cottage and any other accessory structures to 35 percent.

The legislation also states that if a homeowner currently has an attached unit, such as a basement or attic apartment, those homes would not be eligible to build a backyard cottage.

Now a company has sprung up to make getting a backyard cottage easy. Check out Back Yard Box.

They’re “pre-designed cottages from award-winning architect, Jim Burton, in three sizes with three finishes, and an experienced sustainable building team to construct it. Priced starting at $79,500.”

Click through for their full press release.

Update: Here’s a photo.

Backyard Box Offers Homeowners New Space for Guests, Family, Office or Rental Unit
Custom-architected Backyard Cottages are Pre-Designed for Selection Ease and Cost Savings; Feature Sustainable Techniques and Three Finish Packages

SEATTLE – March 1, 2010 – On the heels of new legislation that allows the construction of backyard cottages on eligible lots throughout the city of Seattle, Backyard Box (www.backyardbox.NET) today launched pre-designed dwelling units that customers can select based upon size, need and usage. Backyard Box cottages feature a contemporary design by award-winning architect Jim Burton of Blip Design, and come in three sizes, three finish packages, and a Smart Box option, which includes solar photovoltaic panels, solar hot water and an energy monitoring dashboard.

From the founder of Seattle’s eco-urban developer, Cascade Built (www.cascadebuit.com), Backyard Box has the easiest and most comprehensive solution on the market for detached accessory dwelling units designed with prevalent uses in mind – a place for baby boomers to retire, for children in college or between home and living on their own, for visiting family members or guests, an office or retreat, or a rental income property.

Another unique feature of Backyard Box cottages is the completed design work, making it simpler, more efficient and cost-effective for customers because they don’t need to go through the design and contractor selection process. Instead, they can choose from thoughtfully laid-out plans that match potential uses, including two plans that emphasize accessibility.

All current Backyard Boxes are also built to Passive House standards with a 10x reduction in heating energy costs and an immeasurable increase in thermal comfort. The smallest home, Match Box, is a one-floor studio in 400 square feet. The Sand Box is a 600 square foot 1 bedroom/1 bathroom home, also on one floor. The Big Box is an 800 square foot living space on two floors with a master suite. Every Backyard Box will be built with rainscreen siding, an efficient lighting package, SIP framing, and non-toxic finishes.

“We’re amidst a cultural shift where families are returning to living more closely, people are working from home more often, and simply selling your house to upgrade is no longer fast and easy,” said Ritchie. “Having the opportunity to add living space is the perfect solution for many providing a multitude of uses while increasing the value and usage of home lots.”

Backyard Box homes start $79,500 and are currently available for purchase. Design options and details can be found at www.backyardbox.NET. Foundation and appliance costs are not included as the cost can vary vastly based on a customer’s lot and personal preferences. Customers can also create a Custom Box if they prefer, using a Backyard Box recommended architect.

Media Contact
Jennifer K. Ritchie
Revolution PR for Backyard Box
206-932-2454 | [email protected]