Custom home design isn’t just for your main home. A couple was in the midst of renovations in their own home when they found the existing ADU (accessory dwelling unit) on their property wasn’t making the cut. The options were to either raise the whole thing up or tear down and start over. 

Functionally, the original space was lacking. If you can imagine, the entry came right into a tiny kitchen. There was a small, but functional living/dining room next to the kitchen. A bathroom behind the kitchen and then the back portion of the unit was a large bedroom, which was the only access to the rear yard. It worked and was rentable, but was definitely lacking in many areas and didn’t have as much charm and wow factor as many want out of their airbnb.

So, lots of iterations and zoom calls later, we got it figured out! Their needs list had quite a bit going on:

  • New footprint couldn’t be much larger than previous
  • Make it a 2 bedroom (originally was 1)
  • Have the entry more private from main house
  • Entry not opening up into the kitchen
  • Work space
  • Main bedroom with access to private rear yard
  • Encourage renters to use the private rear yard
  • Private from house
  • And keep the original California warmth and charm

But by the end the unit was laid out completely different than originally, and functionally so much better! The kitchen is my favorite spot. I mean look at this render!

It’s bright and airy and SO many windows and even a skylight, especially in the kitchen. The wall with the fridge has cabinet storage and the clients wanted more open shelves so guests could find items easier, which allowed for all the windows. And even better- the kitchen now has direct access to the private rear area that didn’t exist before. It literally invites you to go outside from pretty much anywhere in the living spaces, which it didn’t before at all. 

Overall, this project was a great test for creative spaces and really using every square inch. And a great reminder that homes can be functional at any size when they are designed with intention.