About SmartSpaces ADUs
We Create Personalized ADUs That Solve
Real-Life Housing Needs in East Atlanta
SmartSpaces ADUs builds backyard homes with purpose. From one-bedroom cottages in Decatur to custom garage conversions in Brookhaven, we specialize in helping families create more livable, flexible space, without the hassle of moving. Whether you’re building a mother-in-law suite, a private home office, or a guest house for long-term rental income, we guide you through every step with clarity, care, and trusted local expertise. Our team serves DeKalb and Gwinnett counties with a focus on quality finishes, aging-in-place design, and zoning-smart solutions for East Atlanta neighborhoods.
Trusted Local Expertise
We understand Atlanta zoning, setbacks, and permitting inside and out—so you can build with confidence and avoid costly surprises.
Purpose-Driven Design
Our ADUs are more than just buildings. They’re safe, beautiful spaces designed to keep aging parents nearby, welcome adult children home, or create new streams of income.
High-Quality Finishes
From quartz countertops to mini-split HVAC systems, every SmartSpaces ADUs is crafted with the same care we’d use on our own home.
About SmartSpaces ADUs
Rich Starkey, Owner
Rich founded SmartSpaces ADUs to help families find smarter ways to live together. His focus is on building functional, high-quality backyard homes that support aging in place, multigenerational living, and flexible workspaces. With a deep respect for his clients’ investment and a passion for solving real housing needs, he brings a thoughtful, trustworthy approach to every project, always centered on value, comfort, and peace of mind.
Meet Our Architectural Team
Our architecture team has over 20 years experience as accomplished designers of residential architecture. One of the hallmarks of our design team is its meticulous attention to detail. The team of skilled designers combine their expertise with the latest design trends and technologies to create sophisticated and elegant interiors and exteriors. From architectural layout and spatial planning to keeping budgetary needs in mind, every element is carefully considered and thoughtfully executed without compromising on luxury or quality.
How SmartSpaces ADUs Works
Where We Work
We proudly serve homeowners across East Atlanta, with a focus on neighborhoods where quality craftsmanship and smart space planning make the biggest impact. Whether you're building for aging parents, creating a rental, or converting a garage, we understand the local zoning and lot conditions that make ADUs feasible and worthwhile. Our team prioritizes clear communication, smart design, and high-quality finishes in every project.
Our Service Area
- Decatur
- Brookhaven
- Chamblee
- Dunwoody
- Avondale Estates
- Stone Mountain
- Suwanee
- Ansley Park
- Embry Hills
- Buckhead

Plan your ADU project with confidence
Our free Cost Guide gives you the clear numbers you need to set a realistic budget and move forward with peace of mind.
What You’ll Get:
- Accurate price ranges for studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom ADUs
- Options for customization and finishes
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Insights on how design choices and goals affect your total cost
Build Your ADU with a Trusted Local Expert
We make it easy to explore your ADU options with a quick, no-obligation conversation. You’ll get expert insight into design, costs, and next steps, so you know exactly what to expect. Let’s start planning the smartest space for your home.