Accessory Dwelling Units provide an affordable alternative to traditional homes. The units serve several purposes, one of which is housing. You’re not alone if you’ve never heard of ADU or don’t know what it is. ADUs are relatively new to California but could be the next big housing trend.
What are ADUs?
An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is an independent dwelling unit located on the same lot as a stand-alone (i.e., detached) single-family home. With more new legislations supporting the developments of ADUs, more property types and zones are becoming eligible. Find out for free if your property is ADU-eligible. An ADU can come be in different sizes larger than 150 square feet and what can you do with it is practically limitless!
ADUs are commonly used for hobbies, guest accommodation, and rental for additional passive income. Many property owner are also building an ADU to increase their home’s value for future property sale. An ADU can be a detached accessory dwelling unit if you have plenty yard space or a garage conversion ADU if you own a garage space.
Uses of ADU
Accessory dwelling Unit has many uses these days, much more than in the 1960s when ADUs were very popular. Before you build them, make sure that none of them require a permit to use the ADU.
Granny Flat – Granny Flat is one of the most common uses in the ADU. In fact, it is considered original use because the grandmother’s room was used for the couple’s parents to live in when they couldn’t be alone or wanted to be close to the family.
In some cultures, it is customary for in-laws to live in what is called a “”pony house,”” a building where parents and grandparents live. This occurs in many cultures.
Hobby room – There is no better place for a hobby room than the ADU. Having a separate hobby area makes me feel free and at home. Not to mention, you can stay organized with a place to store everything.
It doesn’t matter what your hobby is. It can be sewing, crafts, carving, or something else entirely. The goal is to create a space where your creativity can flow freely and smoothly. No distractions!
Home gym- Every home needs a home gym. Because there is nothing, you can do more for yourself than to stay fit and healthy. You can build a home gym out of a small ADU and get everything you need for your training.
You don’t have to have a public gym that has everything anyone could want. All you really need is a small room where you can store regularly used equipment.
Guesthouse- This is another very common use of the ADU. The attached units are available for guest rooms. It provides a private place for guests when they are around, and you can even have your own kitchen if you prefer.
You can also use the guesthouse as a pool house if you have a pool. It functions as a pool house when there are no guests and as a guest house when there are guests. As such, it is used all the time.
Man cave or hut- If you need a place to escape, consider converting the ADU into a man cave or a women’s cabin. This is perfect for families who need a place to escape. And it doesn’t have to be just for one person.
Many families prefer to use the detached accessory dwelling unit as a napping house or something else for those who want to get away at that time. If your schedule is different than others, it will help you find some peace and quiet.
Playroom- Accessory dwelling Unit is ideal for gaming rooms. It works very well in a video arcade or virtual reality room. With more space, you can create an amazing virtual reality space that gives you the freedom to truly immerse yourself.
But even better than the VR room is a family room with gaming consoles, board games, and more for the whole family to enjoy. For best results, host a family home evening at least once a week.
Theater- If you need a safe place for your kids to run away and have fun, by turning the ADU into one, you can have a playroom that looks just the way you like it, indoors or outdoors in any season, and helps you play.
If it’s too hot, an air conditioner can be installed to keep you cool no matter how hot it is outside. Get a small fridge if you also want to provide snacks and cold water. Make yourself as comfortable as possible.
These are just tip of the iceberg of the the multiple uses of an accessory dwelling unit. If you think you can benefit with one, contact us for a free assessment to see if your property is ADU-eligible. If you’re on early stages of research, subscribe to our newsletter for more California ADU resources delivered to your mailbox.
