Backyard Box Launches new Backyard Cottage Product line

Responding to Seattle’s new ordinance legalizing Backyard Cottages, Backyard Box has designed a line of Backyard cottages for Seattle area residents. Seattle homeowners can now build a separate dwelling unit in a side or rear yard to use as a guest house, rental property, home office, or extended family and multi-generational living.

And did I mention that these are built to the highest energy efficiency standards – they use about 85% less energy to heat and cool versus “standard” code construction.

Press release:

Custom-architected Backyard Cottages are Pre-Designed for Selection Ease and Cost Savings; Feature Sustainable Techniques and Three Finish Packages

01.2010 – Seattle - On the heels of new legislation that allows the construction of backyard cottages on eligible lots throughout the city of Seattle, Backyard Box (www.backyardbox.NET) today launched pre-designed dwelling units that customers can select based upon size, need and usage. Backyard Box cottages feature a contemporary design by award-winning architect Jim Burton of Blip Design, and come in three sizes, three finish packages, and a Smart Box option, which includes solar photovoltaic panels, solar hot water and an energy monitoring dashboard.

From the founder of Seattle’s eco-urban developer, Cascade Built (www.cascadebuit.com), Backyard Box has the easiest and most comprehensive solution on the market for detached accessory dwelling units designed with prevalent uses in mind – a place for baby boomers to retire, for children in college or between home and living on their own, for visiting family members or guests, an office or retreat, or a rental income property.

Another unique feature of Backyard Box cottages is the completed design work, making it simpler, more efficient and cost-effective for customers because they don’t need to go through the design and contractor selection process. Instead, they can choose from thoughtfully laid-out plans that match potential uses, including two plans that emphasize accessibility.

All current Backyard Boxes are also built to Passive House standards with a 10x reduction in heating energy costs and an immeasurable increase in thermal comfort. The smallest home, Match Box, is a one-floor studio in 400 square feet. The Sand Box is a 600 square foot 1 bedroom/1 bathroom home, also on one floor. The Big Box is an 800 square foot living space on two floors with a master suite. Every Backyard Box will be built with rainscreen siding, an efficient lighting package, SIP framing, and non-toxic finishes.

“We’re amidst a cultural shift where families are returning to living more closely, people are working from home more often, and simply selling your house to upgrade is no longer fast and easy,” said Ritchie. “Having the opportunity to add living space is the perfect solution for many providing a multitude of uses while increasing the value and usage of home lots.”

Backyard Box homes start $79,500 and are currently available for purchase. Design options and details can be found at www.backyardbox.NET. Foundation and appliance costs are not included as the cost can vary vastly based on a customer’s lot and personal preferences. Customers can also create a Custom Box if they prefer, using a Backyard Box recommended architect.