Creating Space With A Backyard ADU in Willow Glen

NEED MORE SPACE?

How do you combine a man cave, kids’ play space, homework station, guest quarters, and ample storage into a small home? In this Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in Willow Glen, we added 600-square feet to an existing garage to give the client everything they wanted and more! The smart, space-conscious design included a full bath, kitchenette, and custom built-ins for plenty of storage.

ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT

In the City of San Jose, the minimum lot size to build an ADU is 5,445 square feet. The size of the dwelling is determined by the size of your lot and can range from 600 to 800 square feet. The structure must include a kitchen and bath to qualify as a dwelling unit.

THE CONCEPT

This family wanted to increase their living space to accommodate their existing needs, as well as future needs as they change and grow. We added 600-square-feet to the garage to include a man cave for dad, a homework station and play loft for the kids, as well as a full bathroom and extra storage space for when the in-laws visit.

FLEXIBLE PLAYROOM

To accommodate the family’s varying needs, every inch of the 600-square-foot addition was maximized. Creating a loft space for the kids’ play room took advantage of the high ceilings and provided a designated area for play, away from the main living space in the dwelling unit. As the children grow, the flexible loft space can easily be converted into sleeping or storage space.

MATERIAL SELECTIONS

The transitional-style space includes detailed casing and trim at the doors and windows, a combination of carpet and hardwood, and a neutral-toned color palette that creates a sense of quiet in this backyard getaway. Windows were strategically located to take advantage of the garden views, while clerestory windows and solar-operated skylights fill the fun space with abundance of natural light.