HomeCat lets homeowners design code-compliant backyard offices with AI chat

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Developers Ilya and Nikita have launched HomeCat, a web tool that helps users plan and design backyard office spaces. The tool originally focused on shed design before the team pivoted toward dedicated backyard offices after identifying strong user demand. Users enter their address and desired dimensions, and HomeCat generates several design concepts while automatically checking for building code compliance. The tool handles most regulatory requirements but acknowledges it does not yet fully account for zoning rules or HOA restrictions. As a launch promotion tied to Labor Day, the team is offering free professional designs to members of the Hacker News community.

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