Cali ADU Design+Build

Top Things to Consider When Designing an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) or granny house

Exploring Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) offers the option to homeowners to expand their living space without the need to sell and move to a different property to accommodate their living needs. In this article, we focus on the seamless integration of ADUs with the existing buildings on the properties. Specifically, we'll explore both detached and attached ADUs, highlighting their ability to blend privacy, flexibility, and architectural harmony while maximizing your property's potential and value. Designing an ADU follows the same principles as any other building dedicated to residential use. The core design principle is form follows function. To have an ADU where you could perform the activities you have planned, you’d need to go through a few steps:

1. Define your goal for building an ADU

Typically, there are 3 reasons someone would want to have an ADU: 1) personal use to host family and friends; 2) generate passive income; 3) sell the property to a higher value

In case your goal is to host your family and friends, you should count how many people are going to stay in this ADU at one time and for how long. This number will give you a sense of the minimum size of an ADU you need to accommodate your guests. The ADU size should also take into consideration that you’d have to provide a space to cook, bath, sleep, and a living space.

For those who are looking to generate passive income through renting, the best is to compare different sizes of units with the rental prices in the area. Depending on the area you live in, you’d probably be limited to units no more than 3Bd + 1Ba. The best is to check zoning for your property to know exactly the maximum unit size you could have. Then compare the cost to build such ADU, your financing options, with how fast you can get your money back and make a profit. The easiest way to have all these calculations together is to get your Development Opportunity analysis for your property.

In case you want to sell the entire property or only the ADU, divide the budget you have in mind with the construction cost per sq ft in your area. You’ll get the size of the ADU you can afford or make sense financially.

2. Adjust the size of your ideal ADU with how much you’re allowed to have

Now that you have an idea of the ideal size of your ADU, the next step is to check with the local planning department to find out the limitations they impose on your property. In California, the maximum size of an ADU is 1,200 sq ft and the height is 24 feet. However, each City might have additional limitations in terms of size, height, location on the property, number of ADUs as well as the terms of renting or selling the unit(s).

The main living space and the bedroom must each be at least 7’ wide. There is no minimum room size for kitchens, but you must provide at least 36” of clear floor space in front of cabinets and appliances.

Every dwelling unit must have at least one room that provides at least 120 square feet of net habitable floor area. Other habitable rooms - bedrooms and living rooms, but not kitchens, bathrooms, or storage rooms – must have at least 70 square feet of net floor area.

3. Where can an ADU be located on a property?

A well-integrated Accessory Dwelling Unit within the existing property is key not only to achieving a harmonious living experience on the property but to make sure you don’t decrease the market value of the existing build.

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Is now a good time to get a Zoning Analysis for your property?

Expanding Living Space with Detached ADUs

Detached Accessory Dwelling Units (DADUs) are an innovative solution for homeowners seeking to add living space to their property without altering their main residence. These independent structures offer a mix of privacy and flexibility, making them an attractive option for expanding living areas through either conversion of existing structures or building a new construction.

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Considering an Attached ADU?

Adding an attached Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) to your home is a smart way to expand your living space. While converting a garage into an ADU is a popular choice, it often means sacrificing valuable parking and storage.

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Conversion of Existing Structures

Many homeowners opt to convert existing buildings, such as garages or sheds, into ADUs. This approach is cost-effective and efficient, leveraging underused spaces on the property to create new, functional living areas without having to go through extensive site work.

ADU as a New Construction

For those desiring a more customized space, building a new ADU allows for personalized design and material choices. This method provides the freedom to create a space that perfectly matches the homeowner's needs and preferences while ensuring architectural harmony with the main house.

Prefabricated ADU. Prefabricated ADUs offer a quick and convenient alternative, with pre-built designs that can easily be installed on the property. These units minimize construction time and disruption, providing a practical solution for fast and efficient property expansion. These are great in
Considerations for Integration. Successfully integrating an ADU requires attention to zoning laws and property layout. Homeowners must navigate local regulations regarding size, placement, and design to ensure their new addition complies with all legal requirements and maximizes the property's potential.

As a homeowner, it's important to know the maximum building size on your property.

3. Efficient space planning

Maximizing the sense of space in an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is essential for creating a comfortable and appealing environment. With thoughtful design choices, even the smallest ADU can feel open and welcoming. Here's how you can achieve that:

Maximizing Window Efficiency. Ensure windows are not obscured by heavy curtains or blinds, as clear windows promote an influx of natural light, enhancing the overall openness and appeal of the ADU.

Blurring Indoor-Outdoor Boundaries. Sliding glass doors can effectively extend your living space to the outdoors, allowing for an abundance of light and making the ADU feel more connected to the outside world. This is especially beneficial in locations with favorable climates, where indoor-outdoor living is desirable.

Smart Storage Solutions. To avoid clutter, which can make even spacious rooms feel cramped, opt for built-in storage. Cleverly designed shelves and cabinets save on floor space while keeping the ADU tidy and organized.

Creating Outdoor Living Areas. An outdoor space, such as a deck, not only provides an extra area for relaxation and entertainment but also visually extends the living space of your ADU, contributing to a greater sense of openness.

4. What are the interior design considerations to have a good living experience?

Letting in the Light. Incorporate large windows to flood the interior with natural sunlight, instantly making the space feel larger and more inviting. Natural light not only enhances the sense of space but is also highly sought after for its ability to create a bright and airy atmosphere.

Choosing the Right Colors. Light-colored walls and furniture can significantly open up a room. Shades of off-white or light gray are excellent choices for both furniture and walls, as they reflect light better, making the room appear bigger and more welcoming.

Utilize Furniture Featuring Exposed Legs. Choose furniture with exposed legs to enhance the sense of spaciousness in your ADU. By choosing pieces that sit closer to the ground and showcase their legs, you create an open and airy atmosphere. The visible space underneath the furniture not only makes the area feel larger but also promotes a sense of cleanliness and organization. Additionally, opting for lower furniture can visually elongate the space, making your ADU appear taller and more expansive.