DESIGNING AN ADU ABOVE YOUR GARAGE
Have you found yourself at the crossroads of needing extra living space, hosting the in-laws, or perhaps considering a savvy side hustle with a rental unit? Welcome to the world of Attached Dwelling Units (ADUs), where the sky's the limit – literally. If your only available space is up, fear not! Adding an accessory dwelling unit above your garage is a genius move, but it comes with its unique set of challenges. Let's unravel the secrets to making this vertical expansion a resounding success.
1. Existing Structure: Laying the Foundation
Assuming your garage is a structural superhero, capable of shouldering the additional load, we can dive right into the design. In reality, scrutinizing both the upper and lower levels of the existing garage structure is a must. Brace yourself for the addition of steel beams, new floor joists, and fire-rated construction. Pro tip: Ensure those joists are deep enough for some cozy insulation, separating your new haven from the garage hustle below.
2. Entry Requirements: The Grand Entrance
Maintaining the design harmony of your existing abode is key. Consider a discrete entry or staircase, perhaps snaking along the side or sneaking in from the back. If your garage has some extra space, carve out a section from the interior, letting the side garage door play gatekeeper to the upper unit.
3. Existing Utilities: Close Quarters for Savings
In the game of plumbing proximity, the closer, the better. Align your new plumbing fixtures close to the existing plumbing infrastructure to avoid potential additional costs. It’s not always possible, but if you can make it happen, you’re off to a good start!
4. Space Requirements: The Blueprint Game
How many rooms are we talking? A snug one-bedroom nest or a sprawling two-bedroom haven? Does the unit scream "laundry in-house," or is it more of a casual kitchen island kind of vibe? Plot your space chessboard wisely. Mentally walk through your daily routines as you consider your design and make sure you’re using your space wisely!
5. Room Flow and Functions: Light, Views, Action!
Before you start rearranging the furniture in your mind, consider natural light and the best views in the house. If large windows are important at the front of the ADU, keep the kitchen and bathroom away from there. Think about groceries' epic journey from car to counter and ensure the kitchen isn't at the opposite end. Street noise bothering your beauty sleep? Keep bedrooms away from the hustle and bustle. Thinking about things like this can limit future regret.
6. Architectural Aesthetics: Blend In or Stand Out?
The age-old debate in the world of additions – fit in or stand out? Whether your ADU moonlights as a secret original or proudly flaunts its distinctiveness, neighborhood vibes matter. Check the local rulebook; some places frown upon certain colors, materials, or architectural flair. A smart architect is your superhero here, asking the right questions to dodge future headaches and budgetary meltdowns.
In the world of ADUs, the sky truly is the limit. So, embrace the challenge, hire the right folks, and let your garage soar to new heights – both literally and aesthetically.
Architecturally yours…
Dory.
P.S.: Here’s a recent design for an ADU above a garage I complete recently for a client. It’s on a corner lot and most of the principals you just read about are featured here.
