A recent Rhode Island law allows residents to build or renovate existing structures for family members in need .
“ We eventually learned , we ’ ve got to let that go ,” he says , “ and the messier the better .”
Votolato also tapped existing barn beams for reuse , including as a mantelpiece on the massive stone fireplace , which was designed to anchor the space , Votolato says .
“ The bar is really the focus of the barn ,” he says , and all season long . In the warmer months , an eight-foot-wide window opens onto a covered patio and outdoor kitchen , complete with a custom set of swings . Party guests — including the whole Sweenor team at Christmastime — can tap eight beers from the
Kegerator or choose from
INSIDE THE RENO
BEFORE
YEAR BUILT : 1894
PROJECT TIMELINE :
About a year
TEAM : Sweenor Builders
PRIOR USE : Eight-stall horse barn cocktails on the house iPad .
The homeowners were so pleased with the party barn , they asked Sweenor Builders to tackle interior renovations on their main house . As that project progresses , Martone says , the barn ’ s finished loft will serve as a comfortable , quiet auxiliary space for the homeowners ’ daughter .
“ And , now , the neighbors want a party barn ,” laughs Votolato . sweenorbuilders . com
From barns out back to in-law units , more residents are establishing accessory dwelling units ( ADU ) in their own yards .
In 2017 , Rhode Island established a law requiring all localities to permit one ADU per owner of a single-family dwelling , making it easier for senior relatives ( age sixty-two or older ) and those with disabilities to live with families while preserving their independence . Statewide , the inhabitant of the ADU must have a familial relationship with the current property owner , and the ADU can be attached or independent of the original property ’ s building .
According to HousingWorks RI , ADUs can be cost effective for seniors and caregivers compared to assisted living and allow for close proximity to family . On the flip side , ADUs can take away space that could be used in other ways and may not be readily affordable to all households , even though they are available by right .
When the tenant of the ADU no longer resides on the property , the ADU is no longer permitted and the zoning board must be notified immediately , per statewide rules . But check your town or city ADU laws , which may be more lenient . – K . T .
RHODE ISLAND MONTHLY l MARCH 2022 43