Customized Craftsman ADU for Multi-Generational Family

When Bob & Leslie’s daughter gave up her apartment and moved back in with her parents, the California-based couple realized they needed extra space. They did the math and found that for the monthly cost of an apartment nearby, they could finance a 1 bedroom ADU in their back yard, while adding long-term equity to their property. Bob & Leslie both had a passion for architecture and wanted to design the Accessory Dwelling Unit for the possibility of eventually moving in themselves once they retire.

The lot had a flat, quarter acre to work with, and Bob and Leslie wanted to keep the backyard feeling as expansive as possible. As a result, the Cottage design team placed the L-shaped ADU at the corner of the lot, which also strategically blocked a view of a neighbor's home to create more privacy in their backyard. A beautiful heritage oak tree in the center of the yard was a challenge to work around, but became a focal component of the outdoor space.

During the design phase with the Cottage team, Bob & Leslie shared that they wanted the ADU to feel open and smartly designed for flexible use. At a spacious 748 square feet, the unit has a full-sized kitchen, open floor plan living & dining area, oversized bathroom, washer/dryer area, and a master bedroom.

Batten board siding, white columns and white casement around the windows were used to echo the look of the main home.

Double doors open up from the living area to a concrete patio perfectly sized for a small table and patio chairs. Bob & Leslie's daughter is a painter, and having the ability to open up the windows and doors to paint in natural light was a must!

Vaulted ceilings and exposed wooden beams frame the great room area, while custom millwork for a desk nook and bookshelf add character and convenient storage. A custom, Frank Lloyd-Wright-inspired stained glass window provides the finishing touch.

At Cottage, we believe in providing homeowners the best ADU experience possible from start to finish. From the initial feasibility and planning conversations to design to permitting to construction, we're here to guide your project from start to finish.

Interested in building a similar attached or detached ADU, or converting an existing garage space? Contact us today by clicking the link below for a free, no-obligation consultation & estimate for your ADU vision with one of our ADU experts!