Berkeley, California
2021 Regional CotY Award Winner, Residential Detached Structure
Our client’s backyard was dominated by an old garage and garden shed. Renovating the entire structure into an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) allowed her to downsize in her retirement and rent out the main home. A primary challenge was designing workable living spaces within the shape of the existing structure. By taking advantage of the existing building’s location close to the rear and side property lines, we could maximize the backyard space with a 439-square-foot one-bedroom ADU. On paper, 439 square-feet sounds small, but when stretched out with the kitchen separating the private bedroom from the living room, the building feels far more spacious. The client was thrilled with the results.