The Town of Collingwood is pleased to share these pre-approved detached ARU designs to offer a faster, easier, and more predictable design and permitting process. This gallery showcases designs that have been pre-approved by the Town of Collingwood’s Building Services Department. Expand on each design to learn more and connect with its designer to use the plan.
Design pre-approvals are intended to simplify the decision process for the property owner and expedite building permit approval timelines. Pre-approved designs do not imply compliance with the Town’s Zoning By-Law because full compliance is property-specific. Please read the important note and process section carefully (found below the gallery).
The Bachelor/Bachelorette | 450 Square Feet | 1 Bed | Ouellet & Associates Design
At 450 square feet of interior space, the Bachelor / Bachelorette is an efficient footprint that places the bedroom at the rear of the home, offering a buffer between the bedroom and existing dwellings. Slab on grade provides an accessible, barrier-free entrance and alternate window locations (where site conditions allow) give options for added privacy, while optional exterior finishes can help personalize the design.
Front View Rendering
Side View Rendering
Floor Plan
$850 to license and includes the HVAC design
Pricing includes the floating slab design
Site plan and zoning review are site specific (budget $350)
Pricing to be determined by the contractor and is dependent on many variables including servicing, labour and materials. For an ARU of this size you can expect to pay anywhere between $150,000 - $200,000+.
Privacy: The floor plan layout places bedrooms at the rear of the building, and living area at the front, offering a buffer between bedrooms and existing dwellings. Alternate window locations provide added privacy (where site conditions allow).
Context: Optional exterior finishes allow owners the opportunity to personalize the design, while making it easier to match existing dwellings or Local Heritage Styles at the same time.
Green Building and Design: This unit is equipped with an Electric Air Sourced Heat Pump and backup Electric Baseboard heaters, eliminating the need for a natural gas or propane furnace. Insulation values comply with Package C4 of O.B.C. SB-12 Table 3.1.1.2.C promoting a more environmentally efficient design.
Accessibility: Slab on grade provides an opportunity for a barrier free entrance. Extra wide hallway and oversized bathroom, as well as extra room around bedroom/bathroom doors affords owners the option of wider doors and wheelchair accessibility.
At 805 square feet of interior space, the Comfy Quarters is a family-friendly, two-bedroom home with enough room for a family of four. Bedrooms are placed at the rear of the building, offering a buffer between bedrooms and existing dwellings. Slab on grade provides an accessible, barrier-free entrance and alternate window locations (where site conditions allow) give options for added privacy, while optional exterior finishes can help personalize the design.
$800 to license and includes the HVAC design
Pricing does not include the engineered slab (budget $1600)
Site plan and zoning review are site specific (budget $350)
Pricing to be determined by the contractor and is dependent on many variables including servicing, labour and materials. For an ARU of this size you can expect to pay $200,000+.
Privacy: The floor plan layout places bedrooms at the rear of the building, and living area at the front, offering a buffer between bedrooms and existing dwellings. Alternate window locations provide added privacy (where site conditions allow)
Context: Optional exterior finishes allow owners the opportunity to personalize the design, while making it easier to match existing dwellings or Local Heritage Styles at the same time.
Green Building and Design: This unit is equipped with an Electric Air Sourced Heat Pump and backup Electric Baseboard heaters, eliminating the need for a natural gas or propane furnace. Insulation values comply with Package C4 of O.B.C. SB-12 Table 3.1.1.2.C promoting a more environmentally efficient design.
Accessibility: Slab on grade provides an opportunity for a barrier free entrance. Extra wide hallway and oversized bathroom, as well as extra room around bedroom/bathroom doors affords owners the option of wider doors and wheelchair accessibility.
Costs that are not included in the Honomobo Model Pricing include:
Site Specific Design & Engineering Estimated 2 - 7% of Base MSRP cost for the site specific HVAC Design, Site Plan and Zoning Review and Foundation Design.
Upgrades, Logistics & Assembly Model upgrade options, shipping, crane work and the onsite assembly onto your prepared foundation. Based on a variety of completed projects, Honomobo has found that the cost of delivery, craning and assembly of the Honomobo home onto your foundation is in the range of 35-45% of the base MSRP and is dependent on the distance from their facility in Alberta and specific to your site and foundation type.
On-Site Work The costs associated with site preparation, utilities and foundation do vary considerably depending on specific project factors, such as foundation types, lot layout, utilities availability, etc. Honomobo's process is designed to help you determine these costs by creating some site specific drawing packages. Their Collingwood-based partner MC Mclean Contracting can then use these drawing packages to determine costs specific to your project. This can be managed as a turnkey process through Honomobo's partnership with MC Mclean Contracting. Based on recent Honomobo builds, the cost for site prep, foundation, services, landscaping, decks, etc. can be from $150,000+ depending on your property and building goals.
Privacy: The plans can be mirrored, rotated and sited for privacy and access while maintaining an indoor-outdoor connection.
Context: Honomobo steel modular homes have already been constructed in Collingwood. Honomobo’s HO2 is scale-sensitive, respectful to the existing neighbourhood context and provides housing choice and diversity because of its functional, efficient footprint, multiple floor plan options and uniqueness.
Green Building and Design: The HO2 has a high-performance building envelope that exceeds Ontario energy requirements. The unit is fully electric with an air source heat pump, heat recovery ventilator, electric appliances and can be upgraded to net zero energy with photovoltaic panels. Upgrade options include an air-source heat pump hot water tank.
The “Ruby” is a contemporary, new urbanism design. NUVO’s custom designs create the large home feel in a tiny home envelope. Engineered wall, floor and roof systems offer a solid feel, similar to a standard home, and custom, high-end cabinetry sets NUVO apart from park model builders. All units are fully assembled at our factory in Hamilton, ensuring high quality and consistency. Your unit can be delivered within a month, depending on order volume and customization.
Approximately $179,000 to $210,000 + delivery (approximately $1,500 to deliver to Collingwood).
Site costs such as servicing, foundations, etc. are site specific but expected to range between $10,000 - $40,000 depending on distance for services.
Permit costs and any associated project management costs are variable and are the homeowner’s responsibility. Sitework will be coordinated with the owner, with Truman Engineering Services Inc. offering management services to develop servicing and foundations, and to coordinate installation.
Privacy: Thoughtfully located windows, depending on the location selected. Privacy screening can be requested for deck and rooftop deck options. Louvre blinds are integrated with main entrance door and on windows.
Context: Use of modern materials on home cladding gives a sophisticated appearance. Full height, 10 foot ceilings make it feel larger than a “tiny” home. Large open dining space, with optional murphy bed for guests in 1-bedroom unit. Fully furnished, with built-in appliances including an induction range.
Green Building and Design: Use of SIP panels for insulation and vapour performance. Uses recycled wood (OSB) as wood panels. Energy efficient; efficient heating and cooling. HERS rating < 25. Use of HRV for ventilation exchange. Efficient windows, doors, and appliances. Water saving features such as aerators and stackable washer dryer. Large windows to permit passive solar heating.
Accessibility One level design. Ramp access available. Large 8ft entrance door and patio doors. Meets Ontario Building Code requirements for interior space size and fixtures. Washroom design as required for universal access.
Oasis | 768 Square Feet | 2 Bed | Jasper Design Group Inc.
Jasper Group Inc. designed this garden suite as a condensed living option without compromising on luxury. Incorporating lofting ceilings with transom windows in the entry and a covered porch to extend the living space outdoors, you will forget that this home is only 768 square feet.
$1,000 for full permit set
Approx. $500.00 for site plan and zoning review (site specific)
Approx. $700.00 for HVAC design (site specific)
Approx. $400.00 per square foot - $300,000 + for constructio
Privacy: At Jasper Group Inc., we prioritize making spaces feel as large as possible without compromising on privacy. For this design we incorporated transom windows that are high above eye level to allow for daylight without needing window coverings for privacy.
Context: A simplified and modernized low slope roof design reduces construction costs and is efficient to build. This design includes many customizable options to tailor the building to suit each client's needs. There are several windows to allow natural light in, making the space seem larger and leading to benefits in inhabitant's general mood.
Green Building and Design: The design incorporates several windows that maximize natural light streaming into the building, reducing electricity usage during the day. Increased overhangs also reduce the amount of sunlight entering the building in the summer months, while allowing more sunlight in the winter months (site dependent).
Accessibility: This single storey, open concept layout is ideal for accessibility. This design features multiple options that can be customized to suit various clients' lifestyles. Contact Jasper Group Inc. for mroe information on customization options.
P70 Model | 749 Square Feet | 2 Bed | Habitat28 & Attimo Homes
The P70 model is designed to maximize comfort, functionality and efficiency, with a spacious living room and kitchen, a large master bedroom with an ensuite bathroom, and a second bedroom and bathroom that adds to its versatility. This series is perfect for a family, offering a balance of open space and privacy, while ensuring a strong connection to the outdoors.
Model Pricing: $340/square foot = $255,000
Additional Costs:
Licensing fee, including the HVAC Design: $850
Stamped foundation drawings: $1,600
Site plan and zoning review: Approx. $350
Site costs such as services and foundations: range between $10,000 - $40,000 Delivery, covering pickup from the site to trucking within Collingwood Town limits: $3,000
Privacy: This ARU is designed to enhance privacy through the strategic placement of windows. By avoiding any openings on the back facade, we help maintain visual privacy from neighbouring homes. Additionally, all our units come with pre-installed adjustable blinds, which not only protect against harsh sunlight but also act as a visual privacy barrier. Our wall, floor, and roof systems use spray foam insulation, which is excellent at absorbing sound. The windows and doors are all double-glazed and filled with argon gas, further improving sound insulation. Utmost care is taken to seal all openings to prevent any leaks.
Context: The unit facade can be customized to match the architectural context of the site. The materials, finishes and textures can be adapted to blend with the existing dwelling units thus integrating with the surrounding neighbourhood.
Green Building and Design: The building envelope design utilizes strategies such as an optimal glazing ratio, higher RValue insulation, prevention of thermal briding, etc. to reduce energy consumption. Our units feature a 96% efficiency-rated energy recovery system that handles heating and cooling needs year-round. We are committed to sustainability by using eco-friendly and sustainable building materials throughout the construction process, further reducing out environmental impact. Additionally, since our units are built on a factory assembly line, there is a very little material waste compared to conventional construction practices.
Accessibility: Our units are designed to adapt to special accessibility needs. The layout allows for various ingress points and can accommodate wheelchair access if needed. We are strong advocates for universal design, and the spaces we create can be customized to suit various need. Elements such as the lighting system, switches, and height requirements, etc. can all be adjusted to make the space more user-friendly.
S28 EXT Model | 384 Square Feet | 1 Bed | Habitat28 & Attimo Homes
The S28 EXT model has been designed and thoughtfully optimized for well-being, creating a space that maximizes comfort, functionality, and efficiency while ensuring a sense of openess and connection to the outdoors. This can be a great place to live for a small family.
Approximately $155,000 + Delivery (approximately $3000, covering pickup from the site to delivery within Collingwood Town limits). *Craning costs are additional.
Privacy: The ARU is designed to enhance privacy through the strategic placement of windows. By avoiding any openings on the back facade, we can help maintain visual privacy from neighbouring homes. Additionally, all our units come with pre-installed adjustable blinds, which not only protect against harsh sunlight but also act as a visual privacy barrier. Our wall, floor, and roof systems use spray foam insulation, which is excellent at absorbing sound. The windos and doors are all double glazed and filled with argon gas, further improving sound insulation. Utmost care is taken to seal all openings to prevent any leaks.
Context: The unit facade can be customized to match the architectural context of the site. The materials, finishes and textures can be adapted to blend with the existing dwelling units thus integrating with the surrounding neighbourhood.
Green Building and Design: The building envelope design utilizes strategies such as an opitmal glazing ratio, higher R-value insulation, prevention of thermal bridging, etc. to reduce energy consumption. Our units feature a 96% efficiency-rated energy recovery system that handles heating and cooling needs year-round. We are committed to sustainability by using eco-friendly and sustainable building materials throughout the construction process, further reducing our environmental impact. Additionally, since our units are built on a factory assembly line, there is very little material waste compared to conventional construction practices.
Accessibility: Our units are designed to adopt to special accessibility needs. The layout allows for various ingress points and can accommodate wheelchair access if needed. We are strong advocates for universal design, and the spaces we create can be customized to suit various needs. Elements such as the lighting system, switches, and height requirements, etc. can be adjusted to make the space more user-friendly.
To order this unit or learn more about it, please connect with Attimo Homes Ltd. Email: info@attimohomes.com Phone: +1 647-938-9662
Important notes for property owners:
Design pre-approvals are intended to simplify the decision process for the property owner and expedite building permit approval timelines. Pre-approved designs do not imply compliance with the Town’s Zoning By-Law because full compliance is property-specific. Property owners will be required to go through the regular permitting process for the construction or placement of the ARU. For more information on Zoning By-Law Requirements visit our Rapid ARU Program webpage and scroll down to “ARU in a Detached Accessory Building – Zoning By-Law Requirements”.
The Town makes no guarantees, representations or warranty with respect to the ARU design or construction plans, including their quality, safety, or suitability for a homeowner’s property. Homeowners using pre-approved plans rely solely upon the designer, architect and/or contractor for any representations, warranties, and assurances with respect to the ARU design and construction plans.
While the Town will help make connections between property owners and the firm/designer, any agreements and/or financial transactions will take place directly between the property owner and the designer, architect and/or contractor.
1. Browse designs Explore our growing catalog of pre-approved detached ARU designs above. Review the images and details to find a design that is suitable for your needs and site.
2. Select a design Once you choose a plan, connect with the designer. The designer can guide you through the next steps, including what information you’ll need to start the permitting process.
3. Apply for a zoning certificate Use the online portal to apply for a Zoning Certificate. You’ll need to include a site plan that shows the pre-approved ADU on your site. This allows the Town to review zoning, drainage, and other site-specific factors. If your property is located within the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority (NVCA) or the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority (GSCA) regulatory areas, additional permitting from those organizations may be required.
4. Apply for a building permit Once you have your Zoning Certificate (and, if applicable, a Conservation Authority permit) you can apply for a Building Permit. By using a pre-approved plan, you may be able to get your permit within 5 business days. Expedited permitting can only occur with complete Building Permit applications.
The following items are requirements for all detached ARU building permits:
Zoning Certificate
Stamped and signed drawings
EEDS form
P. Eng. site specific slab on grade/frost wall foundation designs where required
Minimum 1.2m setback required to all property lines
Utility connection
Glazing allowance (depends on site placement and may be limited)
In addition, the following items are required if applicable to your site:
NVCA/GSCA Permit (if applicable)
Heritage Permit (if applicable)
Separate septic approval required (if applicable)
Separate permit required for deck/exterior stair (if applicable)
Are you an ARU designer, architect or manufacturer?
The Town of Collingwood is calling for submissions of detached accessory dwelling unit designs as part of our Rapid Additional Residential Unit (ARU) Initiative 2.0. Submitted plans will be reviewed and up to six designs selected for this program will be pre-approved and displayed in an online gallery.
