An accessory dwelling unit is an independent living space located on the same property as a main residence, often in the backyard. This is considered the solution in many areas to the problem of scarce housing options.
Some Property owners rent their ADU out to gain extra income. Other property owners may have friends, relatives, or even aging parents move into the unit.
If you are going to construct an ADU on your property, then you are going to want to be sure but it was well designed. Here you will find what you need to know in order to ensure that your unit looks its best while also accommodating all needs for you and its occupant.
Smart Layouts and Floor Plans for ADUs
Your first and arguably most crucial step for designing your ADU is to select the right floor plan. Floor plans need to meet the specific needs of its occupant. Do you intend to rent your property out, allow a relative to use it, or as an additional personal space?
If you are renting it out or allowing a relative to use it then you should place an emphasis on privacy for the sake of the occupant. For family use, accessibility and comfort are the name of the game.
If it is a personal space, then you need to outline the ways in which you intend to utilize that space. You need to also take into consideration whether or not the property needs to be wheelchair accessible, solar-powered, or any other specialty needs.
Innovative Interior Design Choices
Designing an ADU’s interior requires selecting color schemes and decor that is suited to the space and the objectives behind it. You want to select colors that are inviting, particularly in the living room. If you are looking to make the space look larger then you can utilize lighter colors.
However, you can use bolder colors, which can add depth and character. Utilizing built-in storage, multi-functional furniture, and well thought out layout planning can make a space easier to navigate and more comfortable. This is especially important in areas such as the kitchen or bathroom, where space needs the most optimization.
Sustainable Living with Eco-Friendly Materials
It is becoming increasingly popular to utilize sustainable materials in property construction. It not only has benefits for those who seek to support environmental stewardship, but also gives long-term benefits such as lower costs on energy as well as improved air quality indoors.
Some examples of sustainable materials are recycled steel, bamboo flooring, and low-VOC paint. These materials can help you reduce your ecological footprint and even contribute to a healthier living environment, which would be especially helpful if you are using the property to house aging parents or loved ones.
The Art of Multi-functional Furniture
ADUs are known for being smaller spaces, which means that the furniture used in one must be able to serve more than one purpose. A great example of multi-functional furniture is a sofa bed.
A drop-leaf table can serve as both a workspace as well as a dining table. Ottomans with storage and wall beds are great pieces that can save floor space. You can also utilize a wall bed in your bedroom. You will not have to sacrifice style or comfort with such pieces.
Creative Storage Solutions for Compact Living
Because ADU’s have less space than a full-featured house, smart storage solutions are a must-have. Building shelving and cabinetry directly into the walls of the unit is an easy way to maximize space.
Furniture with built-in storage space is also a major asset that can be utilized. Decorative storage baskets are also a unique way to save storage space while simplifying the aesthetics of ADUs. It is even possible to utilize personalization to a certain degree with custom-built storage.
Enhancing ADUs with Natural Light and Ventilation
If you want your ADU to be an inviting space, then it does not get much more inviting than utilizing natural light. Utilizing large windows, skylights, or glass doors can enhance the natural light in the unit’s space. This also improves the aesthetic appeal and can make the space feel much larger while adding an air of hospitality.
Ask for ventilation, you can consider utilizing cross ventilation strategies such as positioning windows on opposite sides to allow free air flow. Installing high quality ventilation systems can also help to keep optimal air quality, which is critical in small living spaces.
Not only do these practices contribute to a healthy living environment, they can also reduce reliance on electricity and air conditioning, making the unit more energy efficient.
Complementing Your Main House with ADU Exterior Design
Because your unit will be so close to your main dwelling, you will want to create a cohesive look for the two dwellings. To do this, match architectural details such as color, and trim.
You can also utilize similar landscaping such as plants, pathways, fencing, and other similar features to the main dwelling. These efforts will ensure that the unit and your main dwelling are tied together aesthetically.
Tailoring Your ADU with Customization Options
If it is within your budget and you truly wish for your ADU to be unique, then you can utilize customized options. Features such as bespoke cabinetry, furniture, shelving, or even flooring can help make the space of the unit totally unique.
This can help to enhance the market value of the unit, ensuring that it is not only a nice place to live but attractive to potential buyers or renters. It is best to try and incorporate such options at the conceptual level of the house plan.
Incorporating Smart Home Technology
If you want to greatly enhance the efficiency, convenience, and functionality of your unit then smart home technology is something you should look into.
Lighting controls, smart thermostats, and security cameras can be controlled via applications that are available on your smartphone or tablet. These features can offer you additional comfort and much needed piece of mind.
Ensuring Privacy and Soundproofing
If you intend to rent out your ADU then maintaining privacy is critical in order to ensure respectful interaction with the unit’s occupant. You should consider design features such as strategically placed windows that are out of your direct sight lines when you are in the main dwelling or, you could opt for constructing a fence.
It is also a good idea to invest in soundproofing solutions such as double pain windows, solid doors, and thick wall insulation that can reduce the transfer of noise. These measures ensure that the unit is a peaceful and private home.
Conclusion
Accessory dwelling units have immense potential as living spaces. They provide flexible housing solutions to renters on a budget, homeowners, and families.
If you want to maximize the function and comfort then thoughtful design is where that begins. As you plan your project consider each design choice carefully and how it can best be used to provide comfort, calm, and safety.
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/
