Modern Detached Backyard ADU

Project Size | 1,120 sq ft

ADU Type | Detached New Construction

Principal Dwelling Type | 3-unit Multifamily

We designed a detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in the backyard of the lot with existing three-family home. The new ADU is a modern two-story structure with a total area of 1,120 square feet, carefully planned to provide a comfortable and stylish living space. The first floor is designed with an open plan layout, combining the kitchen, dining, and living areas into a spacious and inviting environment. A powder room for guests is conveniently located on this level, and the design includes a striking open stair that adds a sense of architectural openness and flow. On the second floor, the design features two spacious bedrooms, each with built-in closets, offering ample storage space. A full bathroom with modern fixtures and a dedicated laundry closet equipped with a stacked washer and dryer complete the upper level, making the unit fully functional and self-sufficient. One of the two bedrooms is designed with a steeply sloped ceiling that adds character and warmth to the room, while satisfying local setback and building height requirements. A skylight embedded in the sloped roof allows natural light to pour in, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. Beneath the skylight, a built-in bench provides a cozy nook for relaxation or reading, offering a comfortable place to enjoy the view above.

The ADU is designed to look like a structure made from shipping containers but built with traditional wood framing and flat roof. This design concept creates a bold visual impact, with the second floor partially cantilevering over the lower level, offering a dynamic, elevated structure. The exterior materials blend corrugated metal and flat panels, contributing to the striking look of the building. A set of inclined posts and braces provide structural stability to the building, while also serving as an eye-catching design feature that enhances the modern, minimalist aesthetic of the ADU. This project effectively combines innovative design elements with functional living spaces, creating a distinctive and modern ADU that complements its surrounding environment while offering a high level of comfort and style.