Thinking of adding a guesthouse or rental unit to your property? Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are a great way to maximize your space and potentially add value to your home. Here are some inspiring ADU designs that showcase smart solutions for small living areas:

Light and Airy Craftsman Cottage

• Multipurpose Space: Breathe new life into your old garage by converting it into a versatile ADU. Reimagine space that becomes a loft-style bedroom for guests with an open living area with a full kitchen, perfect for extended family or extra living space.
• Safety First: While space-saving ladders or spirals are common in tiny homes, you can prioritize safety with a full staircase, ideal for those considering aging-in-place options. The space under the stairs even doubles as a cozy seating nook!
• Maximizing Natural Light: Glass doors and a wall of windows bathe the interior in natural light, making the space feel bright and airy.

Tips for Bringing Light and Openness to Your ADU

• Embrace Glass Doors: Swap out solid doors for glass to enhance light flow and create a more spacious feel. This is a simpler and more affordable alternative to adding a whole wall of windows.
• Strategic Window Placement: Don’t have a scenic view? No problem! Position windows high up on the walls (clerestory windows) to bring in light without sacrificing privacy.
• Multiple Light Sources: Layer your lighting with skylights, a glass door, and strategically placed windows to ensure a well-lit and inviting space.

Smart Storage Solutions

• Clear Furniture: Opt for clear acrylic chairs to maintain an open and airy feel.
• Open Floor Plan: Minimize interior walls (excluding the bathroom) to create a sense of spaciousness. This design uses a pull-out sofa bed for occasional guests, but the space primarily functions as a relaxing hangout area.
• Repurposed Storage: Every inch counts in a small space! This ADU cleverly utilizes the stairs as storage blocks and incorporates a custom wine rack made from reclaimed steel for additional storage.

Get Inspired!

These are just a few ideas to get you started. With some creativity and planning, you can design an ADU that’s both functional and stylish.

Information sourced from Houzz article by Laurn Dunec Hoang, Houzz Editor