From Underused Oakland Garage to 364 sq. ft. Detached ADU

This Oakland homeowner living in the Glenview neighborhood had long looked at her old garage wishing she could do more with the space than just use it for storage. After finding Cottage while searching for ADU unit options in the Bay Area, she wanted to learn more about how we could help her build room for more while still maintaining her existing backyard as well.

Within the footprint of the original garage, Cottage designed a spacious unit that had a full bedroom separated by a sliding barn door large enough to easily fit in a queen sized bed and closet. The living and kitchen area was designed to maximize the openness and efficiency of the accessory dwelling unit space, while a full sized kitchen and peninsula created a perfect area to host guests. By adding all of these features while keeping to the footprint of the existing garage, we were able to grandfather the narrower existing building setbacks, leaving more backyard for the family to enjoy!

While the homeowner wanted to keep the second unit separate from the main home and yard to preserve privacy, we were able to still maximize natural light to give the efficient space an airy and expansive feeling. Larger front facing windows in the kitchen and by the entry door as well as a skylight over the kitchen island allow for ample morning and midday light to enter the cottage.

Given the desire for an open feeling for the second home, the homeowner opted to invest a little more to have vaulted ceilings and recessed lighting to match. These customized upgrades immediately added to the roominess of the unit, while adding long term value and raising future rental income potential with an attractive and cost-effective feature.

We have worked with homeowners such as this Oakland native to convert or rebuild their one or two-car garage spaces, transforming under used and under loved spaces into their dream ADU. In this Oakland homeowner's case, we were able to complete this conversion of this structurally sound garage into an ADU for a project cost that fit the homeowner's budget and needs. Garage conversions can vary in price depending on the age and condition of the structure - reach out to our team to discuss your specific garage or lot.

Contact us today using the link below for a Free, No-obligation Consultation & Estimate to discuss your ADU vision with one of our ADU experts!