With about 400 square feet of floor space, the ADU features a solar photovoltaic system, a ramp for ADA accessibility, and furnishings, all donated by event sponsors. The design was inspired by an ADU designed by Architects Hawaiʻi.

Jean Lilley, executive director of Hawaiʻi Habitat for Humanity says, “We partnered with Hawaiʻi Appleseed for this special event to offer a unique experience for the public. The event will not only generate awareness for our organizations, but also demonstrate how ADUs are one of the many solutions that tackles Hawaiʻi’s housing shortage.”

As of March 2017, over 1,200 homeowners have submitted preliminary ADU forms and the city has granted almost 150 ADU permits. The growing interest in ADUs verifies the need for them in the current housing setting, officials say.

“This is an opportunity to create affordable housing without the use of scarce government subsidies,” says Gavin Thornton, co-executive director of Hawaiʻi Appleseed. “Private citizens can help alleviate the housing shortage by renting out ADUs long-term. A hundred fifty ADU permits means a hundred fifty households have a place to live. We are hoping that next year we will see even more.”