Peterson Custom Construction | #1 Home Renovation in Coeur d'Alene

Multi-Generational Living in North Idaho

Whether you're welcoming aging parents, providing space for adult children, or creating income-generating rental space, a [guest suite or in-law apartment](/services/guest-suite) offers flexible solutions for modern families.

At Peterson Construction, we design and build private living spaces that maintain family closeness while respecting everyone's independence.

Types of Guest Suites

Attached In-Law Suite

Built as an addition to your existing home with:

Private entrance

Full kitchen or kitchenette

Bedroom and bathroom

Living area

Shared or separate utilities

**Pros**: Lower cost than detached, shared infrastructure

**Cons**: Less privacy, may require interior modifications

Detached ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit)

A separate structure on your property:

Complete independence

Can be designed to match main house

Potential rental income

Maintains property value

**Pros**: Maximum privacy, rental potential

**Cons**: Higher cost, more permitting requirements

Basement Conversion

Transform your [finished basement](/services/basement-finishing) into a private apartment:

Cost-effective use of existing space

Separate entrance via walkout or exterior stairs

Full kitchen and bathroom

**Pros**: Most affordable option, space already exists

**Cons**: May feel less independent, egress requirements

Garage Conversion

Convert an attached or detached garage:

Shell already exists

Often has separate entrance

Can include loft space

**Pros**: Lower cost per square foot

**Cons**: Lose garage space, may need significant upgrades

Kootenai County ADU Regulations

Before building, understand local requirements:

**Size limits**: ADUs typically limited to 800-1,200 sq ft

**Setbacks**: Must meet property line requirements

**Parking**: Additional parking may be required

**Owner occupancy**: Some areas require owner to live on property

**Rental restrictions**: Short-term rental rules vary by area

We help navigate these regulations during the design phase.

Design Considerations

Accessibility

If the suite is for aging parents, consider [aging-in-place features](/services/aging-in-place):

Zero-threshold entry

Walk-in shower

Wider doorways

Single-level living

Privacy

Separate entrance (ideally not through main house)

Sound insulation between units

Private outdoor space

Separate mailbox

Utilities

Separate meters for rental situations

Shared utilities for family use

Independent HVAC for comfort control

Kitchen Options

**Full kitchen**: Range, refrigerator, dishwasher, full sink

**Kitchenette**: Microwave, mini-fridge, small sink

**Wet bar**: Sink, mini-fridge, no cooking

Cost Expectations

| Type | Cost Range | Timeline |

|------|------------|----------|

| Basement Conversion | $50,000-100,000 | 2-3 months |

| Garage Conversion | $60,000-120,000 | 2-4 months |

| Attached Addition | $150,000-250,000 | 4-6 months |

| Detached ADU | $200,000-350,000 | 5-8 months |

Rental Income Potential

In the Coeur d'Alene area, a well-designed ADU can generate:

**Long-term rental**: $1,200-2,000/month

**Short-term rental**: $150-300/night (where permitted)

This income can offset construction costs over time.

Our Process

1. **Consultation**: Understand your needs and assess your property

2. **Design**: Create plans that meet regulations and your vision

3. **Permitting**: Handle all Kootenai County requirements

4. **Construction**: Quality build with minimal disruption

5. **Final Walkthrough**: Ensure everything meets your expectations

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*Ready to add flexible living space to your property? [Contact Peterson Construction](/contact) to discuss your guest suite project.*

Building a Guest Suite or In-Law Apartment in North Idaho