This month, Hawaiʻi Appleseed collaborated with Hawaiʻi Habitat for Humanity to host the 10th-annual Build-a-Thon. For the first time, the event included a model accessory dwelling unit (ADU). ADUs are small dwellings that can be built on single-family properties and rented for six months or longer. Event sponsors donated labor and materials to create the ADU, which was put on the lawn of the Hawaiʻi State Capitol.

Appleseed and Habitat for Humanity staff held tours and answered questions from approximately 2,500 visitors, including homeowners hoping to add more space for family members, renters interested in living in family-oriented neighborhoods, and state legislators looking for creative ways to create more housing options. We hope that the ADU demonstration inspired more homeowners to take advantage of this opportunity that creates additional income while adding rental housing to the market.