Critical Elements Of A Good ADU House Plan

17 April 2023
 Categories: Construction & Contractors, Blog

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Accessory dwelling units, or ADUs, have become increasingly popular over the years. These tiny living spaces are ideal for accommodating elderly parents, grown children, or additional rental income. 

ADUs provide homeowners with a flexible, affordable, and sustainable housing solution. However, designing a good ADU floor plan can be challenging, especially if you do it yourself.

This post highlights a few key elements you should consider when designing your own ADU.

Square footage and layout

The first thing to consider is your ADU's square footage and layout. The ADU size and design may vary depending on local zoning laws.

Generally, ADUs range from 600 to 1,200 square feet, with a smaller footprint being preferable. While designing the layout, ensure the ADU has enough space for everything your tenant or family member needs — a basic kitchen, bathroom, living space, and sleeping quarters.

Efficiency in space will be highly valued in your ADU as it will provide both the tenant and the landlord with a comfortable setup. This can be achieved by opting for multiple-use furniture, such as a foldable bed or a sofa bed.

Energy-Efficient Features

Incorporating energy-efficient features into your ADU not only reduces your carbon footprint but also reduces energy consumption, thus decreasing utility bills.

Smart windows, energy-efficient lighting, and a heating and cooling system for the ADU separate from the main house are just some of the energy-efficient features you could include in your ADU plan. You need to make room in the budget for these features, as they will offer long-term savings.

In addition, incorporating natural materials, such as bamboo and cork, into your ADU's construction can help to create a healthier living environment. These materials have the added benefit of being more durable and low maintenance.

Privacy Considerations

Privacy is essential in an ADU. As much as it is a safe place for tenants, privacy will give them peace of mind and a sense of security.

Consider incorporating walls or sliding doors to section off the sleeping and living areas. These can be opened up to create a larger space, depending on the needs of your tenants. Adding soundproofing materials to the walls and floors can also help reduce noise levels.

Also, consider the location of the ADU on your property to minimize interference from noise or traffic. You can place the ADU at the back of your property, away from the main house and street. This will reduce disruptions and ensure the privacy of your tenants is maintained. 

Reach out to a company that provides ADU house plans to learn more.