In Manhattan Beach, land is the most expensive thing you own — which makes every square foot
count. Converting a garage or adding an ADU is one of the smartest ways to gain living space, rental
income, or a home office without buying more of the priciest real estate in the South Bay. Katz
Design & Builders is a licensed design-build firm (California CSLB #1089060) that designs and
builds garage conversions and ADUs on Manhattan Beach’s tight, high-value lots.

Why Manhattan Beach homeowners choose Katz Design & Builders

We maximize tight lots. On small, valuable Manhattan Beach parcels, smart design
is everything. We get the most usable, code-compliant space out of what you have.
We know the permitting. Beach-city setbacks, parking rules, and ADU regulations
trip up the wrong builder. We prepare plans and manage approvals through the city.
Licensed, insured, accountable. CSLB #1089060, fully insured, written scope,
fixed price, one project manager.
Design-build under one roof. Design, budget, and construction from one team —
fewer surprises, a price that holds.

Our Manhattan Beach garage conversion & ADU services

Garage conversions

Turn an underused garage into a legal living space — a suite, office, gym, or rental —
with proper insulation, egress, and finishes done to code.

Detached & attached ADUs

Purpose-built accessory dwelling units designed to Manhattan Beach’s zoning and setback rules, from
compact studios to full one-bedrooms.

Junior ADUs & additions

When a full ADU won’t fit, a junior ADU or a targeted addition can add the space and value you need.

Rental-ready builds

Kitchenettes, separate entries, and finishes designed for durability and return if you plan to rent.

What to expect: our process

Consultation & site visit — we assess your lot and goals and talk
budget honestly.
Design & fixed proposal — drawings, selections, and an itemized price
and schedule before demolition.
Permits & approvals — handled through the City of Manhattan Beach.
Build — one project manager, a clean site, updates to completion.

Manhattan Beach ADU & garage conversion — FAQ

Is a garage conversion worth it in Manhattan Beach?

Given land values here, adding legal living space you already own the footprint for is often one of
the best returns available — for rental income or for your own use. We’ll tell you honestly what
your lot supports.

Do I need permits for an ADU or garage conversion?

Yes. ADUs and conversions require permits and must meet zoning, setback, and building code. We
prepare the plans and manage the full permit process through the city.

How long does an ADU or conversion take?

A garage conversion typically runs a couple of months; a detached ADU longer, depending on scope and
permit timelines. You’ll get a realistic schedule up front.

Planning your project? See our garage conversion cost guide for Los Angeles & Orange County.

As your general contractor in Manhattan Beach, Katz Design & Builders manages your entire project — design, permits, and construction — under one roof.