What’s Included in a SmartSpaces ADU? Your Complete Build Breakdown

Adding an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) is one of the smartest ways to get more out of your property. ADUs serve many purposes, from creating extra space for family, generating rental income, or building a private home office that doesn’t compete with your main living areas.

But if you’re like most homeowners, the big question isn’t just “Can I build an ADU?” It’s:

“What exactly is included in the ADU build?”

That’s where perspective matters. Because one builder’s “standard” package might include everything you need to move in, while another might leave out essentials like appliances, landscaping, or even key utility connections.

In this latest guide from the SmartSpaces ADUs team, we’ll walk through what’s typically included in our ADUs, how inclusions vary by pricing tier, and what Atlanta-area homeowners should know before moving forward.

Use these links below to navigate to the sections you want to read:

• What’s Included in A SmartSpaces ADU Package?
• What Are the Standard Features Included in an ADU Build?
• What Interior Finishes Are Included in a SmartSpaces ADU?
• Are Appliances Included in an ADU?
• What Smart Home Features Can Be Included in an ADU?
• What’s the Difference Between ADU Pricing Tiers?
• How Much Does a Turnkey ADU Cost in Atlanta?
• What Are the ADU Rules and Requirements in Atlanta?

What’s Included in a SmartSpaces ADU Package?

A SmartSpaces ADU package is designed to simplify the process by combining design and construction into one streamlined experience. Instead of managing multiple vendors, homeowners can move from concept to completion with one coordinated team.

While your exact inclusions will depend on your property, plan selection, and finish level, most SmartSpaces ADU packages typically include:

• Design and planning support for layout, flow, and exterior style

• Permitting guidance and coordination based on your local jurisdiction

• Foundation and structural framing

• Roofing and exterior cladding

• Windows and exterior doors

• Insulation and drywall installation

• Flooring, paint, trim, and interior finishes

• Kitchen and bathroom build-out

• Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems

• Final inspections, walkthroughs, and project closeout

What Are the Standard Features Included in an ADU Build?

Homeowners often hear terms like "standard features" or "base package" and assume all builders mean the same thing. In reality, “standard” can vary significantly depending on the company and its pricing structure.

In a well-built ADU, standard features usually cover the essentials that make the unit livable, code-compliant, and functional.

Common standard construction and infrastructure features include:

• Site preparation and foundation work

• Framing and structural components

• Roofing system and weatherproofing

• Exterior siding or cladding

• Electrical wiring, outlets, and service connections

• Plumbing supply lines, drain lines, and venting

• HVAC system installation (often a ductless mini-split in ADUs)

• Insulation that meets local code requirements

• Drywall, basic interior paint, and trim

• Bathroom ventilation and kitchen venting

• Life-safety items like smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

If you’re comparing builders, ask how they define standard. It’s also smart to confirm what’s excluded, because exclusions are often where the real cost gaps appear.

What Interior Finishes Are Included in a SmartSpaces ADU?

Finishes are where the ADU stops feeling like a construction project and starts feeling like a true extension of your home. They also play a major role in long-term durability and resale value.

SmartSpaces ADUs typically include a thoughtfully selected set of interior finish options that balance style and practicality. Exact selections depend on your package or tier, but the most common interior finish categories include:

Flooring

• Durable hard-surface flooring throughout the main living areas

• Tile or water-resistant flooring options for bathrooms

Walls and ceilings

• Drywall with a smooth or lightly textured finish

• Interior paint in a curated palette, with upgrades available

Trim and doors

• Interior doors with standard hardware options

• Baseboards and door casing trim

Kitchen finishes

• Cabinetry options based on tier and layout

• Countertop selections that align with your package level

• Sink and faucet fixtures

• Backsplash options, when included or selected as an upgrade

Bathroom finishes

• Vanity and mirror selections

• Shower or tub system based on plan and tier

• Tile or surround options, depending onthe  package

• Bathroom fixtures and accessories

The easiest way to avoid decision fatigue is to review finish packages early. Many homeowners feel more confident once they can see how options change from tier to tier, especially when photos are included.

To see photos of our past work, check out our Portfolio. 

Are Appliances Included in an ADU?

Appliances are among the most common “surprise” line items for homeowners planning an ADU—especially for those aiming for a turnkey rental or a move-in-ready family suite.

Some ADU packages include appliances in the base price, while others provide rough-ins for appliances and leave purchasing to the homeowner. Neither approach is wrong, but you’ll want to confirm this early.

Appliances that may be included in an ADU kitchen package include:

• Refrigerator

• Range or cooktop and oven

• Microwave or vent hood

• Dishwasher

Laundry is often handled separately. Depending on the plan and package, you may have:

• Washer and dryer included

• Washer and dryer hookups only

• Laundry as an optional upgrade

If you want a smooth project experience, ask these questions before you sign:

• Are appliances included, or provided as an allowance?

• If appliances aren’t included, can you install owner-provided appliances?

• Will the team confirm appliance specs before rough-ins are completed?

That last question matters more than people realize. A mismatch between rough-ins and final appliance dimensions can lead to delays, extra cost, or avoidable change orders.

What Smart Home Features Can Be Included in an ADU?

Smart home features can make an ADU more comfortable, more efficient, and easier to manage, which is very important if you plan to rent the space or use it for extended family.

The goal is to choose smart upgrades that improve daily life without adding unnecessary complexity.

Popular smart home features for ADUs include:

Access and security

• Smart locks for keypad entry and remote access

• Video doorbells for monitoring deliveries and visitors

• Exterior lighting with motion sensors

Comfort and efficiency

• Smart thermostat integrations for heating and cooling

• Smart light switches and dimmers

• Ceiling fan controls and scheduling

Connectivity and convenience

• Wi-Fi planning for strong coverage in a detached structure

• Mesh system support or hardwired connectivity options

• Smart smoke and CO₂ monitoring upgrades

Rental-friendly options

• Temporary access codes for guests or tenants

• Remote temperature control between turnovers

• Notifications for doors left unlocked or open

What’s the Difference Between ADU Pricing Tiers?

Pricing tiers are designed to give homeowners flexibility, while keeping the design and build process straightforward.

Most of the time, pricing tiers don’t drastically change the core structure of the ADU. What changes is the finish level, included options, and how customizable the project becomes.

Here’s what typically changes from one tier to the next:

Entry-level tier

• Standard finish selections

• Limited customization options

• Simple lighting and fixture packages

• Streamlined selections to keep costs predictable

Mid-tier

• More finish options and upgraded materials

• Enhanced cabinetry and countertop choices

• Expanded lighting upgrades

• More personalization while staying efficient

Premium tier

• High-end finishes and fixtures

• Custom details or upgraded design features

• More exterior material options

• Expanded smart home upgrades

• Elevated overall look and long-term value

If one builder’s quote looks dramatically lower than others, there’s a good chance key items are excluded or listed as optional add-ons. Always compare tiers using an inclusions list, not just the numbers.

For more guidance on budgeting for an ADU, download our free Cost Guide. 

How Much Does a Turnkey ADU Cost in Atlanta?

Turnkey means different things to different homeowners. In most cases, a turnkey ADU refers to a finished, move-in-ready unit with core systems installed and interior spaces fully completed.

Atlanta ADU costs can vary significantly based on:

• Size and layout

• Site access and grading requirements

• Utility connection complexity

• Permit requirements and review timelines

• Finish tier and upgrade selections

• Detached vs. attached vs. conversion projects

A realistic turnkey budget typically includes:

• Design and permitting support

• Foundation, framing, and full construction

• Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems

• Finished kitchen and bathroom

• Flooring, paint, trim, and standard finishes

• Final inspections and project completion

Site work is one of the biggest cost variables for Atlanta homeowners. If your property requires major grading, long utility runs, or additional drainage planning, you’ll want that identified during early planning.

If you’re comparing options, request a range estimate based on real projects—not just a broad price-per-square-foot number. The best quotes are grounded in real scope, not general assumptions.

What Are the ADU Rules and Requirements in Atlanta?

Atlanta ADU rules and requirements can vary depending on where you live, the zoning of your property, and whether the unit is detached or attached.

In many cases, key requirements relate to:

• Lot size, setbacks, and placement rules

• Maximum ADU height and square footage

• Utility tie-in requirements and metering options

• Parking requirements (when applicable)

• Permitting documentation and inspection steps

Because regulations can evolve, the best approach is to confirm your specific address and zoning feasibility early in the process. This is where a design-build team can save you time by validating what’s possible before you spend money on plans that won’t be approved.

If you’re serious about building an ADU in Atlanta, start with these three key steps:

• Confirm your zoning and setback requirements

• Evaluate site constraints and access

• Get a clear inclusions list so you can compare pricing accurately

When you know what’s included and what’s required, planning becomes far less stressful, and your project gets off to a stronger start.

Get an ADU That's Just Right for You

An ADU is a meaningful investment in your home, and it can solve a lot of real-life needs: more space for family, a quiet place to work, a comfortable guest suite, or an income-producing rental.

But the experience comes down to one thing we mentioned earlier: perspective

When you understand what’s included in your ADU package upfront—finishes, appliances, smart features, and how pricing tiers compare—you’re in a much better position to plan well, stay on budget, and avoid the frustrating “wait…that wasn’t included?” moments that can derail a project.

If you’re in the early research stage, this is the perfect time to get specific. The more you know now, the smoother everything feels later, and the sooner you can enjoy your new ADU. 

Thinking About an ADU in Atlanta? SmartSpaces ADUs Can Help You Get the Details Right

Ready for next steps?

Go over your financing options and contact our team today to start building.