Cottage (ADU) in Thousand Oaks neighborhood of Berkeley, off Solano Avenue

Description

This ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) was built in 2019, and in 2020 McDunn Construction and architect Steve Swearingen won the top award for ADU design and construction from NARI (remodelling association). The design is bright and open, with the bedroom separate with a door. It features skylight, 3 glass doors, high ceilings, and concrete heated floors. It is energy efficient, and located on the rear lot of a 1920's Spanish Mediterranean home. The street is one block from Solano Avenue, with little traffic. Thousand Oaks Neighborhood is at the foot of the Berkeley Hills, featuring many walking paths (over 200!) connecting to parks, and other neighborhoods. Bicycling in Berkeley is very convenient, with the Ohlone class 1 bike route minutes away, and other streets with dedicated bike lanes. El Cerrito BART station is a 20 minute walk, located next to El Cerrito Shopping Center, including Trader Joe's and other businesses.. The 18 bus runs every 20 minutes to Downtown Berkeley, and there is a commuter bus to SF as well one block away, operating during commute hours. Solano Avenue has many boutique shops, award-winning restaurants, 2 grocery stores, and parks and parklets (for outdoor eating). The City of Albany is 2 blocks away as well. A car is not necessary here, but parking off-street is negotiable. In general, it is not difficult to park on the street. The home is most suitable for a single person, and there is only one step if the tenant has mobility concerns. A couple could live here as well, though minimalists are most appropriate. The mid-century modern furnishings were all new when the property was completed and include sofabed, small table and 2 chairs, desk, bookshelves, platform bed with organic foam mattress and dresser. There is one closet which has storage shelves and built-ins.