little House on the Alley: Seeking an Ethic of Development for DADUs in Seattle

Abstract

This thesis explores ways in which Detached Accessory Dwelling Units (DADUs) can help transform residential alleyways into vibrant sub-places by following an ethic of development that promotes socially engaging, economically viable, and environmentally responsible design. This will be done by exploring construction and detailing potential of off the shelf materials, revitalizing public right-of-ways as social spaces, and through careful analysis of climate and context. The design project is a conceptual case study and argument for the creation of codes, guidelines, and incentives to include residential alleyways in the greater conversation of development and density in Seattle.