Matt Knigge

AVAVA Review

Matt Knigge
AVAVA Review

AVAVA is a prefab ADU designer and builder based in Berkeley, California. Their 5+ floor plans range from 270 square feet to 750 square feet, with limited customization available. Homes are built using AVAVA’s patented framing system of structurally insulated panels (SIPs) which are made of engineered wood and infill made. Home exteriors come with lots of cladding options like wood or stucco. This unique panelized system allows their ADUs to have a modern look, often featuring glass doors, wide windows, angled panelized roofs, panelized walls, and a choice of pine, cedar, or ipe siding. Inside, homes usually come with LED lighting, fixtures, plus oak or bamboo flooring however, furniture and appliances do not come standard and are not covered in the ADU’s cost.

AVAVA is a green company, using recyclable low-VOC materials and a patented build process that cuts down on waste. Their moment frame reduces standard foundation concrete usage by 60% and wood volume for a frame by 40%, plus their well-insulated home envelope reduces the energy spent heating and cooling the home. AVAVA’s all-electric systems can accommodate off-the-grid living, with solar paneling available to buyers who want to achieve net-zero energy usage.

AVAVA’s ADUs are set on a concrete pier and rod foundation that integrates with the frame, allowing for adjustments if settling occurs. Once the paperwork, permitting, and design are finished, all the components are constructed in AVAVA’s Bay Area factory. When manufacturing is complete, the finished components are flat packed, shipped, and can be assembled in less than 2 months. Usually, homes are ready to move into just 4-6 weeks after arriving on-site. It’s worth noting that AVAVA only handles the design and factory build. Buyers must work with a third-party contractor for installation, construction, utility hookups, and any other site work. However, AVAVA does offer quality control inspections for the third-party construction and delivery.

Strengths:

  • Offer prefabricated ADUs with a unique build and some floor plan customization

  • Flat-pack model allows for speedy build, delivery, and installation

  • Homes are green and energy efficient, achieving net-zero energy usage

Reasons they might not be for you:

  • You want to work with a company that will handle all phases of the project personally, including construction, installation, and other site work

  • You are looking for a bigger home (their largest ADU is only 750 square feet)

  • They are outside of your price range

Keep reading to view AVAVA reviews and ratings, AVAVA pricing and cost info as well as photos, and other key company facts.

Company AVAVA Dwellings
Year Founded 2010
Website http://www.avavadwellings.com/
# of Models 5+
Areas Served United States
Homes Built 75+
Headquarters Berkeley, California
Pricing $297 - $433+ per sqft
Reviews
Yelp No reviews
Houzz No reviews
Creates Custom Plans Semi-customizable