Founded in 2014 by Alexis Rivas and Jemuel Joseph, Cover was born out of a frustration with the current residential building climate. Based on a belief that great design should be available to everyone, Cover strives to design for manufacturability, looking to Apple and Tesla for inspiration—as opposed to the traditional architectural model.

By aiming to take the hassle out of building a customized backyard space, Cover has streamlined the building process. Through the use of their own proprietary software, the company has developed a precise building system that delivers both personalized design and functionality. Algorithms are used to generate floor plans based on the client's specifications and site data, and each step of the building process has been optimized, from design to manufacturing and installation.

Lead Designer Thomas Heyer explains, “Prefabricated architecture brings with it a lot of questions from a manufacturing and assembly point of view. How does a wall meet a ceiling? How does our integrated storage connect to the walls? How do two ceiling panels meet? We do not try to hide any seams—instead, we use them as a design element. We have designed a recessed track that joins two ceiling panels. In this track, we have integrated lighting, smart sensors, and speakers. Not only does this detail look great, but it also serves multiple functions. That is how we approach all our details.”

A complete design and quote takes only three business days. Cover arranges the permits for building a detached “accessory structure," which is processed much faster than if you were seeking permits for a traditional renovation, addition, or new build. Once approval has been received from the local zoning department, Cover can manufacture and install a structure within 12 weeks, and because the structures are prefabricated and built in a factory, assembly only takes two days.

“Our main philosophy is that great design should be available to everyone,” says Heyer. Cover is taking pre-orders worldwide and currently delivering in Los Angeles.

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The L.A. Prefab Company That’s Aiming to Make Good Design Available to Everyone