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Backyard ADU Ideas

Post author By YH
Post date December 23, 2024

Backyard ADU Ideas

December 23, 2024

An accessory dwelling unit is a secondary housing structure, typically 1200 square feet, that is located on a single residential lot and shares that lot with a main dwelling. These units typically serve as additional living spaces for family, tenants, or for personal use.

backyard ADU ideas Los Angeles — Image source

A popular place to put in an ADU is the backyard. Backyard units can vary from being converted garages all the way to custom built tiny homes. They are popular because they offer versatile room solutions and because they can add value to your property. Here is what you need to know about having an accessory dwelling unit in your backyard.

Zoning and Legal Requirements

Before you can begin to plan building a backyard unit, you must first understand your local zoning laws. These laws can dictate the size, location, and in some cases even the appearance of the unit to ensure that they meet the community standards.

In order to begin construction you must obtain a permit, undergo inspections, and adhere to building safety codes. It is best to engage with your local planning offices early in the process to ensure that the process goes smoothly and that the dwelling is functional, legal, and safe.

Benefits of Building a Backyard ADU

Having a backyard ADU comes with numerous benefits for homeowners and their families. First of all, it is an additional living space that grown children or aging parents can take advantage of, ensuring an enhanced family dynamic thanks to close proximity while maintaining privacy.

If the owner of the property so desires, they can even rent out the dwelling for additional income. For this reason, such units are considered attractive investments, particularly if the backyard is a largely unused space.

Design and Layout Concepts

Building an ADU in your backyard means that you will be confined to a set amount of space. This means that you want to utilize a layout that emphasizes vertical space utilization.

This can mean using a loft for a sleeping area, high shelf storage, and other means of maximizing floor space. You can also utilize fold out furniture, or built in units in order to enhance the functionality of The limited space.

If you are using a custom layout plan then you should focus on creating multifunctional areas that can serve different purposes. Utilizing large windows can also help to create the illusion of a larger space.

Tiny House ADUs

Image source: https://www.northbaybusinessjournal.com/article/article/behind-californias-new-tiny-home-laws-financing-to-boost-affordable-con/

It needs to be said that an ADU is not exactly a tiny house, as they are normally larger. However, tiny houses and the way in which they are designed can offer insights for your backyard ADU.

Adapting concerts such as convertible furniture, clever room configuration, and compact appliances will enable you to use every bit of space in your unit. Utilizing these strategies will make the unit not only practical but comfortable.

Budgeting and Financing Options

Creating a budget for your backyard unit build requires a detailed understanding of the potential costs. This means creating a comprehensive budget that includes materials, permits, labor, and other unexpected expenses that may arise. As for financing options, there are different options that are available to homeowners.

A homeowner May rely on their personal savings, home equity loans, or utilize special ADU financing programs offered by some banks and credit unions. There are also certain states, such as California, that may offer grants or low interest loans to Property owners looking to build units on their property as a means of reducing problems caused by competitive housing markets.

Prefabricated vs. Custom-Built ADUs

When you are ready to build your unit, there are two paths you can follow. You could choose to go with a completely custom-built unit which you have complete control over. However, this route is more expensive and a significant amount of time will be taken to construct the unit in your backyard.

You can also opt for a prefabricated unit. This option is less expensive, more convenient, and will be built off site. This means that the only time construction will take place on your property will be for the final assembly of the unit. However, prefabricated units typically are not known for their customization options.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Features

If the environment is something you care about, then you can use the construction of your unit as an opportunity to utilize sustainable materials and eco-friendly features.

For example, you can install solar panels for the unit’s electricity which will also save you money in the long run and can earn you a tax credit. Some other things you can implement are energy efficient appliances and utilize sustainable materials such as bamboo flooring, recycled insulation, or wool insulation.

Interior Decoration Tips for Small Spaces

Image source: https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/decorating-ideas/g32223836/small-living-room-ideas/

In order to decorate the interior of your unit you will need to make smart decisions that will maximize both space and functionality. Using multifunctional furniture, such as Ottomans with storage, extendable dining tables, or sofa beds will allow you to make the most of your limited space.

Utilizing light colors on walls and ceilings can also create a sense of openness. You can even use a common optical illusion by using strategic placement of mirrors to reflect the light. Also want to use built-in shelving and hidden storage solutions in order to keep your unit clutter free, organized, and open.

Privacy Considerations

Some may consider the possibility that an ADU located in the backyard would mean a decrease in privacy. However, there are ways that you can maintain privacy between yourself and the occupant of your ADU. First of all, you can invest in soundproofing the walls of the unit.

You can also design the windows of the unit on an offset, so that you can never look into the unit’s windows by looking out the windows of your main dwelling. Fencing options can also be utilized.

Technology Integration in ADUs

Smart home features are becoming increasingly popular in modern homes, and the trend extends to ADUs.

In fact, smaller housing units like ADUs in particular benefit from smart home technology such as smart thermostats, smart locks, RGB lights, and entertainment devices that can be controlled with applications for your cellphone or tablet. Integrating this technology at the conceptual level is a must.

Conclusion

An ADU in your backyard can be an incredible investment opportunity. A backyard unit can not only increase the value of your property, it can be a means of additional income should you choose to rent it out.

Making sure that you maximize the space you have and using up to date technology and materials will ensure that your backyard ADU is the best it can be.

Sources

Los Angeles County Planning. (n.d.). Floor plans and accessibility: Pre-approved ADU plans. Retrieved from https://planning.lacounty.gov/
City of Corona. (n.d.). Interior design tips for ADUs. Retrieved from https://www.coronaca.gov/
AARP. (n.d.). The ABCs of ADUs: Sustainability and materials. Retrieved from https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/housing/info-2019/accessory-dwelling-units-adus.html
AARP. (n.d.). The ABCs of ADUs: Natural light and smart design. Retrieved from https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/housing/info-2019/accessory-dwelling-units-adus.html
Los Angeles County Planning. (n.d.). Exterior design compatibility for ADUs. Retrieved from https://planning.lacounty.gov/

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Bathroom Remodeling

Small Bathroom Remodel Ideas

Post author By YH
Post date December 23, 2024

Small Bathroom Remodel Ideas

Having a small bathroom can be a frustrating experience. Storage space is often lacking, the bathtub/shower area is not always large enough to be comfortable, and using the toilet can become a borderline claustrophobic experience.

A small bathroom does not have to make for a terrible experience. With some smart remodeling your small bathroom can become a haven of relief and relaxation. Here’s the information you need to transform your small family bathroom into a photography worthy haven.

Embracing a Functional Layout

The first step of your project that needs to be made is a functional layout for your bathroom. This starts with planning out where each element will go. If you are going for a complete remodel then you can plan for different placing of your shower or storage.

If you are more restricted in how far you can take your remodel, there are still options that can help you make the best use of your current space. For example, multifunctional furniture such as a vanity with storage can help you make the most of the space you already have. Wall mounted fixtures can also keep your floor cleared.

An overlooked element that can make a bathroom look smaller is the shower curtain. Replacing the shower curtain with a clear shower door can extend the sight lines of the bathroom. While this does not actually expand the space in the bathroom, it does create the impression of more space.

Clever Storage Spaces

One of the quickest and most efficient ways to maximize the small space in your bathroom is to incorporate smart storage space. As previously mentioned, a space saving vanity with storage can be a great start in this endeavor. These vanities often come with cabinets which you can use to keep your essentials stowed away when they are not in use.

Another helpful option is wall-mounted storage space such as shelves and cabinets. Wall-mounted storage options utilize vertical space, which increases ease-of-access to your bathroom essentials.

Don’t discount your bathtub/shower area’s storage potential. Adding shelving to this area will allow more storage for shampoos, conditioners, and soaps. This keeps your bathtub/shower area less cluttered and more convenient.

Selecting the Right Fixtures

Sometimes you can expand on the space in an area without actually expanding on the space of an area. This can be achieved by recontextualizing that space in the viewer’s mind, and one of the most powerful tools for doing that is utilizing the right paint color. The right color scheme can make a space feel wide open in whole new ways.

Utilizing light colors, even white, can increase the visual space of a room. By using lighter colors on walls, floors, and even fixtures, it makes the amount of unused, uncluttered space more apparent.

Accent colors are another powerful tool to utilize. The right pop of color, whether on fixtures or on items such as towels or decor, can boost the visual interest of a room without overwhelming the viewer. You could even use a feature wall to display unique items and decor.

Reflective surfaces can also make a space feel bigger. Think of it as a kind of optical illusion in which glass, polished metals, and glossy tiles reflect light, giving the impression that a space is more wide open.

Selecting the Right Fixtures

Choosing the right fixtures is vital when remodeling your small bathroom. To avoid a crowded and cluttered look you need to choose fixtures that match the scale of the bathroom. Utilize multifunctional fixtures such as a vanity with built-in storage to eliminate the need for additional cabinet space.

Wall mounted faucets and toilets can also save you a great deal of space. It is unavoidable that your bathtub and sink will take up room, but make sure that the bathtub and sink you choose is suited to your needs.

Tile Selection Strategies

Even something as simple as choosing the tile for your small bathroom can have a tremendous effect on how your bathroom’s size is perceived.

Utilizing tiles that are larger and with fewer grout lines creates a seamless look. Coordinating texture and color creates a unified look that can make the space feel larger.

Space Saving Vanity Solutions

The vanity is one of the main focal points of any bathroom, but its space-saving capabilities are often underutilized. Wall mounted vanities are popular because they save floor space, creating an airy feel.

Free-standing vanities offer additional storage and a classic look. You can pair this storage space up with organizers for your daily utensils.

Innovative Shower/Tub Combinations

The shower/tub area takes up the most space in most bathrooms, so selecting the appropriate size of that area in your small bathroom remodel is critical.

Utilizing glass shower doors can make the space in your bathroom seem larger. If your space is really limited, then you may want to consider using a corner bath or shower to accommodate a smaller bathroom.

Reflect Your Style With Mirror Designs

One of the most popular ocular tricks that is used to make rooms seem bigger. Utilizing a large mirror will help increase the visual space of your small bathroom.

You can utilize frames to give them a more elegant look, depending on the style you go with. Mirrored fixtures can also help with the illusion. An added bonus is if you get mirrors that have integrated storage.

Flooring Options

The right flooring will not only make a small bathroom feel larger, it will tie the whole bathroom together. Larger tiles with minimal lines can create the illusion of more space.

This is also the chance to install safe, non-slip flooring such as vinyl or ceramic tiles. You can further create the illusion of space by color coordinating your flooring and walls.

Towel Storage and Racks

Your small bathroom needs to have room for towel storage. There are a few ways to make this more space efficient. First of all, instead of utilizing a cabinet or rack you could hang your towels on hooks, which take up less horizontal space.

If you want to up the luxury factor of your small bathroom, you could install a heated towel rack.

Budget Friendly Remodeling Tips

It is understandable that any remodeling project’s cost could get out of hand, even in a small bathroom. If you are working with a strict budget, then you can maximize your budget’s potential by focusing the most money on high-impact areas like fixtures and tiles.

Taking the DIY approach on tasks such as painting and shelf installation can also save you money. Repurpose any intact fittings by repainting them or refinishing them.

Conclusion

Remodeling a small bathroom is a process that requires careful planning in order to get the most out of your money and space. By mixing and matching different ideas you can end up with a small bathroom remodel that is still beautiful, functional, and even comfortable.

You will even add a little value to your home, both monetarily speaking and in terms of the joy your home brings you.