Project overview
This Lakewood home office addition project adds an approximately 134 SF home office to an existing single-family residence in Lakewood. The goal was a dedicated, quiet workspace without turning the effort into a full remodel. The scope was intentionally controlled: no exterior expansion that impacts zoning, no rear wall demolition, no slab demolition, and no major structural changes beyond localized framing and door work. The result is a permit-ready design that improves daily function while keeping construction straightforward.
What we changed
The new office connects to the kitchen through a new interior pocket door, creating a clean transition between the main living area and a focused work zone. At the garage interface, we added a fire-rated door and detailed the required separation between the garage/office area and the attic. During plan check, the City requested clarification that the separation wall extends continuously to the underside of the new upper roof sheathing, which we incorporated into the section details to align with CRC fire separation requirements.
Mechanical and energy compliance
The home’s HVAC system remains existing and unchanged for this scope. There are no HVAC replacements, relocations, ductwork changes, or airflow modifications. Title 24 compliance was completed using the performance method. Because the energy documentation references existing equipment, the drawings and response language clarify that existing systems shown in the energy model are not automatically “in scope” unless the permit work alters them. If required for plan check clarity, the energy documentation can be revised to clearly label equipment as existing/not in scope.
Electrical and usability
Because an office is a habitable workspace, receptacle placement was reviewed under NEC spacing rules. Receptacles were added proactively to support compliance and everyday use (desk equipment, chargers) without relying on extension cords.
Coordination with existing conditions
As part of the City’s requests, we clarified the location of the HVAC equipment consistent with the energy documentation. We also prepared exterior visuals to help communicate how existing patio and step conditions relate to the work. In small projects, these transitions matter: clean edges and logical circulation reduce construction confusion and improve the finished feel.
Passive, Adaptive, Sustainable approach
Passive: minimal disruption to the existing building and careful detailing at key separations to support a clean, code-compliant approach.
Adaptive: a flexible office that supports changing household needs without requiring a major footprint increase.
Sustainable: limited demolition, reuse of existing systems, and a permit-ready package designed to reduce rework, delays, and construction waste.
To explore more of the design thinking, construction progress, and project execution behind our work, visit the PAS Architects Facebook page or view project videos on our YouTube channel. PAS Architects is a licensed architecture firm based in Cerritos, California, specializing in Passive, Adaptive, and Sustainable design. We serve clients across Southern California — including Los Angeles County, Orange County, and Riverside County — with a service-driven approach rooted in technical clarity and long-term impact
