Company presents code-compliant prefabricated roundhouses as alternative ADUs; staff to consider preapproval options

At an information item on Aug. 22, 2025, Sarah Da Silva, general manager of Living in Tent Roundhouse Company (Grass Valley), presented a prefabricated circular dwelling — described by the company as a “roundhouse” — as an alternative housing type that can meet California building and energy codes and be used as an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) or primary residence. Da Silva said the company’s standard product range includes 16-, 20-, 24- and 32-foot diameters, and that the 32-foot model begins at about 767 internal square feet; taller wall and loft options are available. She said the manufacturer’s assembly uses rigid foam insulation, double-pane windows and a conditioned roof assembly; the structural plan sets and a structural-engineer review have been prepared to withstand wind, seismic and a…