YDS Architects — Resources

Explore YDS Architects resources: design guides, project case studies, and expert insights on minimalist homes, ADUs, and multifamily developments across Los Angeles and Southern California.

Residential architecture

From minimalist designs to sustainable practices, we'll provide inspiration and guidance for your dream home project.

ADU & SB 9 in California

Our blog covers everything from ADU & SB 9 design to permitting helping you navigate the process with ease.

Multifamily Architecture

Demystify the complexities of multifamily and TOD project. We'll help you understand the process, budget effectively, and obtain necessary permits.

CASE STUDies

Stories and resource for architectural design and discover how we create inspiring spaces.

Recent Posts

A photorealistic image of a Southern California residential lot subdivided into six smaller lots. Each lot features a modern, small home with a clean design, set in a sunny, landscaped environment with a clear blue sky. The image visually demonstrates how a large lot can be divided for small housing development under SB 684, with natural boundaries and an urban infill feel.

SB 684: Streamlining Multifamily Development in CA

10 April 2025

Individuals working together on a reconstruction project in Los Angeles, sorting materials and discussing plans.

Step-by-Step Guide to Qualifying for a Like-for-Like Rebuild in Los Angeles

27 February 2025

Expedited Permits for Like-for-Like Rebuild: Everything You Need To Know

Like-for-Like Rebuilds After the 2025 Los Angeles Wildfires: A Comprehensive Guide

26 February 2025

Alt Text: “Father hugging his child at sunset with mountains in the background, symbolizing hope and resilience after the 2025 wildfires. Text overlay reads: ‘New Relief Grant for Wildfire Victims: LA County Household Grant.’ Logos of Los Angeles County and partnering organizations are displayed at the bottom. ydsarch.com branding is included.”

LA County Household Relief Grant: Financial Support for 2025 Wildfire Victims

19 February 2025

Altadena business owner Steven Darden fills up sandbags on January 24, 2025. The Eaton Fire Incident started January 7, 2025, in Altadena. The fatal fire forced residents to evacuate and destroyed 9,418 verified structures. Residents are now allowed to re-enter their neighborhood to access the damage. The Department of Public Health and Mental Health distribute PPE and metal health resources for returning residents. (Mayra Beltran / Los Angeles County)

Urgent Weather Alert: Prepare for Heavy Rains & Debris Flows

12 February 2025

CalVet Home Loans: A Key Resource for Veterans Rebuilding after the LA Fires by YDS Architects

CalVet Home Loans: A Key Resource for Veterans Rebuilding Together

10 February 2025

Case Studies

Case Study: Architectural Development of a 1200 sqft Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit by Yifu Design Studio

17 July 2023

Case Study: A Two-Story ADU with Rooftop Oasis – Merging Classic Minimalism and Elevated Design

30 May 2023

Multifamily Architecture Resources

ADU in Los Angeles showing the promise of California's New ADU Laws increasing housing supply and affordability

California ADU Laws 2025: New Housing Laws & Impact Fee Changes

1 December 2024

California’s housing landscape is set to undergo significant changes in 2025, thanks to a series of new laws aimed at

This multifamily home design offers a high degree of privacy. Imagine a home divided into distinct wings or sections, providing each generation with their own living spaces. These wings often surround a shared area – think a welcoming courtyard, a relaxing patio, or a garden where everyone can come together. This design does require more space but the benefits in privacy and shared connection might be worth it!

Multigenerational Living Is Back in LA: Architect Insights

24 April 2024

If you’re intrigued by the potential of multigenerational living, contact Yifu Design Studio for a free consultation. Let’s explore how

New to ADU?

ADU in Los Angeles showing the promise of California's New ADU Laws increasing housing supply and affordability

California ADU Laws 2025: New Housing Laws & Impact Fee Changes

1 December 2024

California’s housing landscape is set to undergo significant changes in 2025,

Up to 8 ADUs on Your Multifamily Lot with SB 1211 California ADU Law

22 November 2024

California is on the brink of a housing transformation with the

family earning $3000 with an ADU in california posing for a photo outside their ADU for YDS Architects

How Much Can You Earn with an ADU in Southern California?

23 October 2024

Rental income is one of the main things that drive homeowners

An architect gestures and discusses plans with a homeowner in a sunny Southern California backyard, likely the site of a future accessory dwelling unit.

Finding and Hiring the Right ADU Professionals

3 October 2024

Building an ADU in California? This guide helps you find and

ADU Financing

A graphic titled “Why Should You Convert Your ADU Into a Condo?” by Yifu Design Studio. The graphic depicts a smiling South Asian woman with short black hair and glasses holding a gold key in front of a smiling Asian man with short black hair. Both are casually dressed and standing in front of a white background. Text at the top of the graphic reads “YDS” and “YIFU DESIGN STUDIO”. Below the image is the text “AB 1033” and “ADU CONDO LAW”. The question “WHY SHOULD YOU CONVERT YOUR ADU INTO A CONDO?” is in the center of the graphic in large, bold font. Below the question is the word “FOR” in large font, followed by the word “SOLD” in smaller font and red text. by Yifu Design Studio

California AB 1033 ADU Condo Law: Why Should You Convert Your ADU into a Condo?

10 February 2024

Three Californians share how the $40,000 grant helped build their ADUs

How Three Californians Built Their Dream ADU with the CalHFA $40,000 ADU Grant

7 November 2023

ADU Regulations

A photorealistic image of a Southern California residential lot subdivided into six smaller lots. Each lot features a modern, small home with a clean design, set in a sunny, landscaped environment with a clear blue sky. The image visually demonstrates how a large lot can be divided for small housing development under SB 684, with natural boundaries and an urban infill feel.

SB 684: Streamlining Multifamily Development in CA

On a narrow lot in Pasadena, a local couple stands amid overgrown grass imagining a cluster of cottages that could

ADU in Los Angeles showing the promise of California's New ADU Laws increasing housing supply and affordability

California ADU Laws 2025: New Housing Laws & Impact Fee Changes

California’s housing landscape is set to undergo significant changes in 2025, thanks to a series of new laws aimed at

Up to 8 ADUs on Your Multifamily Lot with SB 1211 California ADU Law

California is on the brink of a housing transformation with the passing of Senate Bill 1211 (SB 1211), effective January

How to do ADU feasibility study in California

ADU Feasibility Study: Is an ADU Right for Your California Property?

An ADU feasibility study is crucial in determining if your California property is suitable for building an Accessory Dwelling Unit.

accessory-dwelling-units-ADU-CA-monrovia

Monrovia ADU: Architect’s Guide to Building Your Backyard Home

Discover how Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are transforming Monrovia’s housing landscape. Learn about the benefits, regulations, and design considerations for

A graphic titled “Why Should You Convert Your ADU Into a Condo?” by Yifu Design Studio. The graphic depicts a smiling South Asian woman with short black hair and glasses holding a gold key in front of a smiling Asian man with short black hair. Both are casually dressed and standing in front of a white background. Text at the top of the graphic reads “YDS” and “YIFU DESIGN STUDIO”. Below the image is the text “AB 1033” and “ADU CONDO LAW”. The question “WHY SHOULD YOU CONVERT YOUR ADU INTO A CONDO?” is in the center of the graphic in large, bold font. Below the question is the word “FOR” in large font, followed by the word “SOLD” in smaller font and red text. by Yifu Design Studio

California AB 1033 ADU Condo Law: Why Should You Convert Your ADU into a Condo?

Explore the impact of California’s AB 1033, the ADU Condo Law. Learn about the process, benefits, and implications for homeownership

Rebuilding
Together

This is a blog post thumbnail for the blog: Consumer Protections and Resources for Wildfire Victims on Rebuilding Together website by YDS Architects

Detailed Consumer Protections and Resources for Wildfire Victims

10 February 2025

(February 7, 2025) Los Angeles Fires – Rebuilding Together: Key Updates & Resources for Recovery

7 February 2025

Altadena, Calif. (Feb. 2, 2025) - The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) arrives in Altadena, CA to begin Phase 2 of Personal Property Debris Removal (PPDR) at a school that was destroyed by the Eaton Fire.

Corps of Engineers Begins Phase 2 of Debris Removal in Los Angeles Wildfire Recovery

4 February 2025

YDS Video Channel

Exciting news! We’re gearing up to produce more video content aimed at guiding homeowners through the intricacies of ADU design and permits. Stay tuned for valuable insights and expert advice to assist you in navigating the ADU journey with confidence.

Let’s map out your project.

Tell us what you’re planning — an ADU, SB9 duplex, multifamily, or commercial build — and we’ll show you what’s possible based on your site, zoning, and goals. This free consultation includes:

A quick review of your property details
What you can build under LA or SoCal zoning rules
Straightforward next steps and timeline

We’ve designed and permitted dozens of successful projects across Southern California. Let’s talk.

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