Accessory dwelling units, often called ADUs, guest cottages, or detached in-law suites are quickly becoming one of the most sought-after additions to luxury homes. They offer a refined way to welcome parents, adult children, long-term guests, or household staff while preserving the privacy, comfort, and independence everyone appreciates.

North Carolina is helping accelerate that momentum. Recent statewide legislation requires local governments to allow at least one code-compliant ADU on qualifying single-family residential lots, subject to reasonable local development standards. The change reflects a growing recognition that thoughtfully designed detached living spaces can serve modern families beautifully.

The Summit’s Architectural Review Board looks favorably upon well-designed ADUs once applicable architectural guidelines and reasonable local standards are satisfied. An ADU can be designed to complement the main residence in its architecture, materials, landscaping, and overall character; creating a cohesive luxury estate rather than simply an additional structure.

Imagine a beautifully appointed guest cottage tucked beyond the main residence: a private bedroom suite, living area, kitchenette, and covered porch designed with the same architectural care as the primary home. It is an elegant solution for multigenerational living, extended family visits, returning adult children, or parents who want independent living quarters close to the people they love.

From pickleball courts and swimming pools to detached ADUs, The Summit stands apart as one of the rare ultra-luxury communities capable of offering these highly desirable on-lot amenities outside the main residence. The generous size and thoughtful impervious-surface planning of a good majority of our homesites provide exceptional flexibility for creating a true private resort or multigenerational family compound.

As ADUs gain wider acceptance across North Carolina, The Summit is ready for the next generation of luxury living: more flexible, more private, and designed around family.

All improvements require applicable Architectural Review Board approval and remain subject to homesite-specific zoning, building, utility or septic, setback, impervious-surface, and other governmental requirements.