FAQ
What’s a Shedio?
Studio + shed = Shedio, the term we use for both our brand and product name. Other common terms are ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) or backyard studio. Whatever it’s called, a Shedio is a detached living space used for a wide range of things like a studio, office, workout space, or even a separate living area for family members or renters.
How much will this cost?
The short answer is, it depends. The more satisfying answer is that our costs are competitive and usually lower than most of the pre-built or modular options you might see online. Basic starting costs for a fully-installed studio are:
Smaller studios, $28,000 (about 100 sq ft)
Midsized studios, $35,000 (about 150 sq ft)
Large studios, $46,000 (up to 200 sq ft)
Final costs depend on many variables, and part of our role is helping you navigate them.
Do I need a building permit?
Usually not. For example, the City of Dallas does not typically require a permit for a Shedio less than 200sqft. However, this depends on HVAC, electrical, and plumbing needs. We have extensive experience with municipalities and can help you define what may or not be required.
How long does it take?
With cooperative weather, most Shedios can be completed in 3 to 5 weeks from the time materials are ordered. Our goal is to minimize the on-site time as much as possible.
Are your Shedios well-built?
Definitely. We want you to love your Shedio for years, and so we build every part of every studio just like houses are built.
Can I use my Shedio year-round?
Yes. We insulate walls, floors, and ceilings; use energy-efficient double-paned glass in all doors and windows, and use energy-efficient mini-splits (explained here) that provide both heat and AC.
What about sustainability?
There’s no avoiding it, building a new structure uses resources. To mitigate the impact, we offset the carbon footprint of our business as well as each studio we build through the non-profit Cool Effect.
What else can I do to customize my Shedio?
We are experienced home builders, and chances are we have experience creating nearly anything you want. We’ve built Shedios with steam rooms and saunas. Add a deck or patio. Make it sunny and bright with lots of windows. Built-in shelves. An electric fireplace. We even built customized workout stations into one studio. Landscaping. Lighting. Soundproofing.
Will it have electrical power?
Yes. Each studio is built with a sub-panel and at least two separate electrical circuits: one circuit dedicated to HVAC, and another to power everything else like lights and computers. We usually recommend adding an exterior outlet.
What about wifi?
Wifi is provided via your existing home broadband. We can assist with running a hardwire connection.
Do you do the work yourselves?
Building a studio is like building a house it takes lots of specialized skills. Our company founders, John and Sean are your direct contacts, managing each project and helping to build every studio. We have over 40 years combined building experience, and you can see some of our work here: https://jcbrenovations.com. Beyond ourselves, we have teams of tradesmen and subcontractors, people we’ve worked with for many years.
Do you offer financing?
Unfortunately, we do not offer financing.