ADU Builder in Nashville
Welcome to Nashville Garage Builders. We build ADUs and DADUs with or without the construction of a garage. Our team can also convert an existing garage into an ADU or DADU. Your new living space will be a valuable place for an office, extra bedroom, music studio, or even rental income.
Based in Nashville, we serve all of Davidson County, and the surrounding counties. Contact us today to get your new attached garage.
Free Estimate
What is an ADU and DADU?
An ADU and DADU are types of finished living spaces that are independent of the primary house. Though very similar, they have unique differences that are important when considering building codes, availability of space for you to build, and how they fit into your lifestyle or needs.
ADU or Accessory Dwelling Unit
An ADU is a finished space that is not meant to be accessed from the main house. It is often used as an in-law suite or for extra rental income. They can include space for a bed, a kitchen or kitchenette, a full bathroom, and everything needed for someone to live. Homeowners typically build an ADU when constructing a garage in Nashville. Though an ADU is technically a blanket term for this type of structure, it is typically meant to refer to a living space that is attached to the house, while a DADU specifically describes a living space that is detached from the house.
DADU or Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit
A DADU is a specific type of ADU. It describes a finished space that is detached from the main house. Although it can be a stand alone building, it is typically built as part of a detached garage. It can be used as a separate place for someone to live, with amenities such as a kitchen and bathroom. Or it can simply be a finished room to be used as an office, guest room, or that music studio, which is becoming more and more popular in Middle Tennessee.
Benefits of Building an ADU
Building ADU can offer a host of benefits that can enhance your property and lifestyle. The ADU can be constructed as part of your new attached or detached garage project with us, or completely independently of a garage. Many of our customers build a detached ADU, without including a garage. Still other clients requests for us to convert their existing garage into an ADU. There are many options for building an ADU, and each has their own benefit.
Extra Living Space
In the process of constructing a garage, incorporating an ADU provides a valuable opportunity to create additional living space or storage solutions. This space can be used as an office, a guest room, a music studio, an extra family room, a man-cave, a mother-in-law suite, or to provide extra income as a rental unit. There are a multitude of options to fit your lifestyle .

Extra Storage
This added space also provides extra storage, typically for items that need to be in climate control, easily accessible, but not regularly used by the family. These can be things holiday decorations, sentimental items, pictures, excess paperwork that needs to be saved, and anything else that you don’t need to access very often.
Ease in New Structure Addition
One of the primary advantages of including an ADU in your garage construction is the ease of adding a new structure onto your property. Starting from scratch with a new garage allows for more flexibility in terms of space and design. In contrast, adding a new story to an existing house can be a complicated and costly process, involving significant structural modifications. By incorporating an ADU into your garage build, you can streamline the construction process and maximize the use of space on your property.
Additionally, if you are a converting an existing garage into an ADU, the work is significantly less than if building an ADU from the ground up. Since the structure is already there, it essentially becomes a remodel, though a significant remodel.

Increased Property Value
Beyond the practical benefits, building an ADU can also increase the overall value of your property. In many areas, having an ADU can boost the marketability and desirability of your home, as it provides additional living space and potential rental income opportunities in the future. Depending on local regulations, an ADU can include amenities such as a kitchen and bathroom, further enhancing its functionality and appeal to potential tenants or buyers. Property values have been increasing rapidly in Nashville, and all of Middle Tennessee, and a DADU will help your house be more desirable.

Building an ADU as part of your garage construction project offers a range of benefits, from creating additional living space to increasing property value. The ease of adding a new structure and the flexibility of customization make an ADU a practical and valuable addition to your property. Whether you are looking for extra space for your family or potential rental income, building an ADU can be a smart investment that enhances both your lifestyle and your property’s value. Contact us today to explore how an ADU can elevate your property and meet your specific needs.
ADU Construction Price
The cost of a construction of an ADU can greatly vary depending on a number of criteria. It is impossible to provide a simple dollar amount for the cost an ADU, since each project is different. Your ADU will have specific needs and finishes, and the constraints between different properties have an effect as well.
When contemplating the construction of an ADU, one of the primary factors to consider is the overall construction cost. While it would be more cost-effective to leave the space above your garage unfinished, transforming it into a livable ADU comes with additional expenses. Construction costs are fairly high in Middle Tennessee, but we do our best to work with you to keep costs down.
Insulation
Insulation plays a crucial role in maintaining a comfortable temperature inside the ADU throughout the year. Proper insulation in the walls, floor (which also serves as the ceiling of the garage), and roof is essential for keeping the space warm in winter and cool in summer. While investing in additional insulation may increase the initial construction costs, it leads to long-term energy savings and significantly enhances the comfort of the living space.

HVAC
Another significant expense in ADU construction is the installation of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems. Equipping the ADU with HVAC systems ensures that the space remains habitable and comfortable year-round. While adding HVAC systems contributes to the overall construction cost, it is indispensable for creating a livable environment that meets the occupants’ needs. For properties in extreme climates of heat or cold, the HVAC system will need to be properly sized to accommodate the temperature ranges.

Plumbing
Considering plumbing is also vital in ADU construction, especially if the unit includes a bathroom or kitchen. Installing plumbing systems is necessary to provide access to water for sinks, showers, and toilets. Depending on the design, a water heater tank or an on-demand water heater may be required to supply hot water efficiently to the ADU, adding to the construction expenses.

Finishes
Finishing touches are essential to transform the ADU into a fully furnished living area. This includes installing drywall and painting the walls, choosing appropriate flooring such as hardwood or carpeting, selecting bathroom fixtures and tiles, and installing kitchen cabinets, countertops, tiles, and appliances. These finishing touches not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the ADU but also contribute to the overall construction cost. The quality of finishes also has an effect on cost, as there is a wide range in price for many finishing materials.

Height of Structure
Constructing an ADU requires the structure to be taller to accommodate the height of individuals who will be using it. Building a taller structure necessitates additional materials and labor, thus increasing the overall construction price. Despite the added cost, the extra height is crucial for creating a comfortable living space that complies with building code regulations.

Our team understands the unique challenges involved in ADU construction and is equipped to handle them effectively. With a group of experienced builders and designers, we will collaborate with you to develop a personalized plan that aligns with your requirements and budget. Whether you intend to expand living space for guests, generate rental income through a secondary unit, or offer a private living area for family members, we possess the expertise to bring your vision to fruition.
An Accessory Dwelling Unit does cost a lot of money to build. However, we provide exceptional value with our costs:
- We build efficiently, yet with exceptional quality,
- We build ADUs that last, reducing costs and headaches in the future,
- We use high quality materials when needed, and cost effective materials when allowed.
By investing in an ADU construction project with us, you’ll not only expand the functionality and value of your property but also create a versatile space that can adapt to your evolving needs. With careful planning and attention to detail, we can help you maximize the potential of your property and enhance your overall living experience. Partner with us to embark on this exciting journey of transforming your garage into a functional and beautiful ADU that complements your lifestyle.
Why Choose Us?
When choosing a company for your ADU or DADU project, Nashville Garage Builders should be at the top of your list. With a solid reputation for delivering high-quality work and attention to detail, we pride ourselves on creating top-notch, livable interiors that exceed our clients’ expectations.
Our years of experience in building homes have honed our skills in crafting comfortable and functional living spaces. We understand the importance of creating a space that not only looks beautiful but also functions well for everyday living. From the layout to the finishing touches, we pay special attention to every detail to ensure a finished product that is both aesthetically pleasing and practical.
At Nashville Garage Builders, we have a team of skilled builders who are dedicated to bringing your ADU vision to life with precision and care. Whether you have a specific design in mind or need assistance in coming up with a plan, our team is here to help every step of the way. We work closely with our clients to understand their needs and preferences, offering guidance and expertise to ensure that the result meets and exceeds their expectations.
Choosing us means choosing a reliable partner for your ADU project. We understand the importance of delivering not just a beautiful space, but one that is built to last. Our commitment to quality craftsmanship and attention to detail sets us apart from other builders in the industry, giving our clients peace of mind that their ADU will stand the test of time.
With Nashville Garage Builders, you can trust that your ADU will be in good hands. From the initial design phase to the final touches, we provide outstanding results that you will be proud to show off. Let us help you transform your vision into a reality and create a space that you will love for years to come. Choose us for your ADU project and experience the difference that top-quality, livable interiors can make.
Based in Nashville, we serve most of Middle Tennessee, including Davidson, Robertson, Sumner, Wilson, Rutherford, Williamson, and Cheatham Counties.



Free Quote