Architectural Backyard Offices & Studios
Custom backyard spaces—ranging from non-habitable studios starting around $20,000 to fully engineered, permitted offices in the $50k–$70k+ range—designed and built for Santa Barbara & Ventura County homes.
We guide you through feasibility, design, engineering, and permitting so you choose the right path from day one.
Studio Options & Typical Investment Ranges
We offer a range of backyard studios depending on intended use, permitting requirements, and long-term goals.
Simple Studio (Non-Habitable)
$20,000–$30,000
Backyard office, gym, or creative space
Non-habitable use (no kitchen or bath)
May not require permits depending on site conditions
Fast build timeline
Professionally built (not a kit or prefab)
Permitting requirements vary by jurisdiction. All projects begin with a feasibility review to confirm zoning, setbacks, and code requirements.
Engineered Studio
$35,000–$50,000
Structural engineering included
Designed for long-term use
Permit requirements evaluated during feasibility
Well-suited for hillside, coastal, or HOA properties
Fully Permitted Space
$50,000–$70,000+
Engineered, permitted, and inspected
Designed for code compliance and resale value
HOA-aware and jurisdiction-specific planning
Turnkey design-build delivery
Designed for Santa Barbara & Ventura County Properties
Building backyard spaces in Santa Barbara and Ventura County requires a different approach than most of California.
We account for:
Coastal and hillside conditions
Zoning, setbacks, and local ordinances
HOA and neighborhood constraints
Engineering and permitting pathways
Long-term resale and appraisal considerations
Our process is designed to help you understand what’s possible on your specific property before design or construction begins.
Our Design-Build Process
We provide a clear, structured process so you understand scope, cost, and permitting before construction begins.
Feasibility Consultation – Review of your property, goals, budget range, and zoning considerations
Design & Engineering – A tailored design aligned with intended use and permitting requirements
Permitting (When Required) – Coordination with local jurisdictions, engineers, and reviewers
Construction – Professional execution with clear communication throughout the build
Why Homeowners Choose Modern Spaces & Sheds
We specialize in custom backyard studios that balance design, build quality, and code awareness—without forcing every project into the same solution.
Design-led, not kit-based
Clear pricing expectations upfront
Honest guidance on permitted vs. non-permitted options
Experience with California codes and coastal conditions
Focus on quality, longevity, and aesthetics
We don’t push every project toward permits—and we don’t avoid them when they matter.
Request a Feasibility Consult
Tell us about your property and goals, and we’ll help you understand what’s feasible on your lot, whether permits are likely required, and which studio option fits your needs and budget.
This initial consult is designed to give you clarity before design or construction begins.