Accessory dwelling units, or ADUs for short, can have you living large in no time even though they’re short on square footage. For many, that’s the big appeal of the ADU: small homes that don’t require a lot of money to build or maintain, yet offer the same charm and functionality as a larger home with all the bells and whistles.

When you want to extend your property’s square footage yet you want to add a living space that has privacy for the resident apart from the main home, you may want to consider building an ADU. Partner with your trusted San Francisco builder who not only knows the ins and outs of ADU construction, but the rules and regulations that are in place for the East Bay area.

What’s an ADU?

First off, what exactly is an accessory dwelling unit? Also known as granny flats or secondary suites, ADUs are small, independent residential dwelling units built on the same lot as a detached single-family home. There are a few different types to be aware of:

  • New stand-alone accessory structures or converted parts of existing stand-alone accessory structures (detached ADUs)
  • Converted areas of existing homes (internal ADUs)
  • Additions to new or existing homes (attached ADUs)

There are several advantages that come with ADUs, not the least of which is that they make for more affordable housing from the perspective of both homeowners and tenants. They can offer a wider range of housing options, keep aging and disabled seniors close to their families, provide a space for adult children or those in college, and provide a lucrative rental opportunity to supplement income.

Making the Most of Your ADU Space

From utilizing vertical space to installing fold-down tables, there are many ways in which you can maximize your available space, even when limited in square footage. It’s time to get creative with these ideas!

Think Vertical

You may not think so at first glance, but there is a lot of unutilized potential when it comes to your walls. You can incorporate a tall bookshelf that reaches the ceiling, or you can install individual floating shelves leading up to the top. In the highest reaches of those shelves, you can place seasonal décor or anything else that you don’t need on a daily basis.

In a small space such as an ADU, the key is to create vertical lines to draw the eye upward and make the room feel taller.

Use Ottomans For Practical Storage

Because they close and act as regular pieces of furniture, ottomans are great for inconspicuous storage. Not only do you get additional storage for blankets and sheets, you can put your feet up after a long day and relax. No one has to know what’s in there!

Try Fold-Down Tables

When your dining table isn’t being used, which is most of the day, it just takes up space. You may want to consider a fold-down table that you can attach to the wall. It operates with hinges for easy up and down so you can open it when you want to eat and close it when you’re done.

Install Plenty of Cabinets

Plentiful storage is critical if you have any hopes of keeping the space neat and tidy. Add cabinets everywhere in your ADU. They come in a variety of types and sizes, so they should be able to fit nicely anywhere you need them. Put some in the bathroom for toiletries and towels, in the kitchen above the stove for pantry items, and in the living room for games.

Consider Pocket Doors

Doors take up much more space than you may realize. Forget traditional doors and go with pocket doors that slide right into the wall so you don’t have to swing them open. This gives a more airy feeling to your home while increasing its usable square footage.

Opt For Tankless Water Heaters

Conventional water heaters are large and cumbersome, taking up a lot of space – space you just don’t have. Fortunately, you can opt for a tankless water heater that can be placed on a wall and provide hot water for the whole home.

Use Hooks

Hooks are versatile and easy to install, offering a spot to hang anything from clothing and toiletries to jewelry and hats. You can even hang planters, use them for cord control for your devices, and hang a shower caddy in the bathroom.

Use Dual-Purpose Futons or Daybeds

Traditional beds are probably the biggest sapper of space in ADUs. You only sleep in your bed for eight hours a day, so why should it be out for 24? Invest in a futon or day bed, which acts as a two-in-one piece of furniture. It can fold out into a bed at night, and then fold back up to form a couch for watching TV or entertaining during the day.

Schedule an ADU Consultation With Asher Brothers Construction

Asher Brothers Construction is well-versed in the regulations for ADUs in the Bay Area. We can design and build an ADU that complements your lifestyle and property to result in additional living space or rental income. Schedule your consultation today or give us a call at (925) 406-4776