The client was looking for a flexible space for entertaining, visitors, family, or as a dwelling in the future while renting out the main house.

The garage behind the main house became the ideal starting point for an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU).

Once the space was completed, it became even more important as a place to quarantine, do home study, or use as a home office.

Modifications were also done to the small deck on the main house with steps that lead down to the rear yard. This was done in order to create better access from the main house to the ADU and the rear yard as well as to provide a small seating area off the kitchen of the main house.

The existing low gable roof was extended upward to provide a high ceiling and a more open space in the living area of the studio. Stained wood under the deep eaves as well as on the walls alongside the glass doors creates warmth and shelter at the connection of the studio to the patio and rear yard. The rest of the structure was covered in stucco to be cost effective, complement the main house and for fire resistance.  The three panel folding glass full panel doors to the rear yard and the single glass full panel door towards the main house provide for ample flow between all areas which allows for indoor-outdoor living.

The living area takes advantage of the light from the doors as well as the high windows.  These high windows allow for privacy in the living area for when the couch is converted  for sleeping. The small clothing closet is near the sleeping area.  The kitchen is complete with full size appliances and more than enough cabinets to have space to store dishes, pantry items, and some small appliances.  There is room for a small dining table between the entrance door and kitchen. The bath has a shower, a wall hung sink, toilet and a mechanical closet with space for bathroom supplies. 

The ADU is all electric with a heat pump hot water heater and a heat pump (mini-split) for both heating and cooling. 

All in all, this modern, new dwelling is aesthetically pleasing, creates a focus point for the rear yard and provides a functional space where there was once only a dilapidated garage.