Project Overview: Transforming an Unfinished Vision into a Permitted Reality

This case study demonstrates Unified Studio Architect’s expertise in smart residential addition architecture through a project in Austin, TX. The client approached us with an unfinished home expansion and outdated plans. Our task was to take over the project, rework it to meet modern living standards, and achieve approval from the Serene Hills Homeowners Association (HOA) and the Design Review Committee (DRC).

Our objective: deliver a full, buildable, and code-compliant permit set while enhancing livability, circulation, and flow.

Challenge: Outdated Design and Expansion Constraints

The original plan limited spatial flexibility and offered poor circulation. Several challenges needed addressing:

• Inefficient layout with segmentation

• Insufficient fire-rated separations

• Lack of alignment with updated design regulations

• Incomplete electrical coordination

We approached the problem with a holistic redesign strategy, balancing functionality with code precision.

Phase 1: Understanding the Existing Plan

We began by analyzing the original footprint and spatial connections:

• Identified bottlenecks in room flow

• Mapped existing structural load paths

• Noted constraints on vertical and horizontal expansion

From this foundation, we proposed a layout focused on flow, flexibility, and the client’s expansion goals.

Phase 2: Reimagining Flow and Zoning

Our proposed redesign prioritized seamless room transitions:

• Open Living, Dining & Kitchen Core: On the first floor to establish a social nucleus

• Bedroom and Family Room Stacking: Placed upstairs to isolate private functions

• Zoning Efficiency: Clear divisions between public and private zones, enabling comfort and privacy

This design enhanced the home’s livability without increasing complexity for builders.

Phase 3: Fire-Rated Wall and Code Separation Strategy

Two-story additions bring code complexities. We planned:

• Fire-Rated Walls: Per fire code, to separate critical spaces

• Imaginary Separation Lines: In line with Austin code to delineate units or sections

• Egress Planning: All rooms had compliant exits and safe passage during emergencies

By integrating fire safety from the beginning, we avoided rework at inspection.

Phase 4: Structural and Sectional Intelligence

Structural planning informed our roofline, ceiling heights, and spatial transitions:

• Attic and Crawlspace Optimization: Balanced insulation, air flow, and storage

• Height Management: Avoided exceeding HOA height limits while maintaining spatial comfort

• Roof Slope Transitions: Smooth, buildable, and aesthetically consistent

This level of sectional clarity enabled clear contractor coordination.

Phase 5: Electrical Layout Built for Modern Living

We upgraded the home’s electrical plans with:

• Panel Coordination: Integrated the existing main and new ADU panels

• Lighting Schemes: Efficient placement for visibility and mood

• Future-Proofing: Allowances for additional circuits, EV charging, or solar tie-ins

Smart electrical design means fewer revisions and smoother inspections.

Phase 6: Interdisciplinary Collaboration

No successful residential addition happens in isolation. We collaborated with:

• Structural Engineers: For lateral and vertical load safety

• Civil Engineers: For grading, drainage, and site utility planning

• Permit Officials: To preemptively address red flags

This approach ensured not just design excellence—but permit success.

Final Deliverables

Unified Studio Architect delivered:

• A full architectural set with revised floor plans, sections, and elevations

• Electrical, fire, and structural coordination documents

• HOA-compliant height diagrams and roof pitch calculations

• Cross-disciplinary construction details

• Permit-ready documents formatted to City of Austin standards

Results: An Approved, Smart Residential Addition

With updated drawings and integrated systems, the project achieved:

• HOA and DRC approval

• Code-compliant architectural documentation

• Build-ready clarity for all contractors

• A visually cohesive and functionally optimized home expansion

This project reflects our belief that smart residential addition architecture isn’t just about adding space—it’s about adding value, safety, and flow.

Expanding your home in Austin or elsewhere? Unified Studio Architect turns complex additions into smooth approvals and stunning results.