Build an In-Law Suite in Your Backyard
For Multigenerational Living and Long-term Family Wealth Give your family financial advantage that lasts a lifetime.
In-Law Suite House Plan · Example: 2 Bed / 1 Bath
In-law suite plans come in many layouts. What floor plan will make the most of your backyard?
Hint: the ones that fit your backyard like a lost piece of a puzzle.
The best house plan meets all family needs and reflects the shape of your main house and property line. Your new in-law suite should look like it has always been there. It should also maximize the space – take as much of your backyard as you are willing to dedicate to the new living area.
Modern. Durable. Low Emissions. Healthy. Comfortable. Money-saving. Carefree maintenance.
Sensible Features
Living Area
- Open space living/dining/kitchen with natural lighting
- Dual-pane glass windows for lower utility bills
- Smart HVAC unit for comfort
Kitchen
- Modern frameless cabinet doors
- Pre-fab quartz countertops
- All electric appliances
Bathroom
- High efficiency fan for moisture control
- Smooth wall finish for fast cleaning time
- Window for natural light
Exterior
- Solar panels for lower energy costs
- Composite low maintenance decking
- Lifetime warranty shingles
Get Started
We make it easy to get started
Select
Choose from one of the 500+ pre-designed ADU plans
Place
Type in your address to view unit on the map of your property
Consider
Review preliminary estimate of your selected ADU
Case Study
An In-Law Suite: universal Design and Fire Resistance
Requirements
A family is moving an aging parent closer to home, and try to accommodate a guest suite for a wheelchair bound relative.
- Wheelchair access
- Vaulted ceilings in the living room
- Deck facing the creek with a see through fireplace
- Matching the look and style of main house
Restrictions
The location of this ADU was restricted from all 4 sides sides:
- Property line
- Main house
- Creek
- Public Utility Easement
In addition to all that, it was in WUI zone and had to be built fire resistant. In this project, we had only one win: there were two hydrants on both sides of the property within the required 400 ft distance.
Currently close to final inspection
Result
A bigger bathroom accommodates the necessary area for a wheelchair turnaround, has both a shower and a tub, plus houses the laundry.
The living room has vaulted ceilings (though the general contractor in charge may blacklist us for this design feature). The fireplace is surrounded by two windows, with the nearby exit to the deck facing the creek.
The initial design had walk in closets in both bedrooms. However the homeowners decided to have a bigger one in the primary bedroom and have the smacker size guest room.
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Space Matters
Not too close, not too far away. Not too big, but not too small either.
To separate the main house from the in-law unit, there are various options you can consider. The choice will depend on factors such as the layout of the property, the desired level of privacy, and the available budget.
- Separate Entrance
- Outdoor Space Division
- Soundproofing
- Privacy Curtains
Typical changes for aging in place
Major Modifications
- Add first floor bathroom, bedroom, laundry — 25%
- Widen doorways and hallways — 49%
- Add ramp or lift for easier entry — 45%
- Adjust cabinet and countertop heights — 41%
- Upgrade shower to no-curb (roll-in) — 39%
Typical changes for aging in place
Minor Modifications
Details matter for your piece of mind. These details actually establish the level of independence of an older adult. And how long they can stay this way.
- Add grab bars — 42%
- Update light switches — 38%
- Upgrade faucets — 42%
- Update toilets and add shower seats — 40%
- Add hand held shower — 43%
Another detail that matters? Personal possessions. We have been known to change the layout of the rooms to accommodate for certain size of favorite furniture pieces – to make sure they fit in the new space.
Building an In-Law Suite Sounds Like a Challenge?
How we can help
Create Property Site Plan
Let us answer three questions together: 1. How big of a suite can you build? 2. How much of a backyard can you dedicate to new living space that will house your in-law? 3. How much can you afford to spend on construction.
Select the Best In-Law House Plan
We do not like to invent wheels or bicycles. Let us get started with the plan that fits most of your requirements and then tweak it to make it shine in your backyard. Let us know what health issues need to be addressed now and what we should think about for the future.
Assign the Team
The success of a construction project hinges on how well the team communicates. You have a contractor you like? Your in-law works with an occupational therapist? Bring her on board. We are happy to support you with the design, engineering and construction – when needed.
Gather Necessary Documents
Let us start with the best information available. What do you already have? Title report. Floor plan or site plan of your main house. Survey. Soil report. All these documents are a great foundation for your future successful construction project. Pun intended.
Compile the Permit Plan Set
The number of pages in your plan set can differ from 8 to 140 (no kidding). It all depends on property specifics and city (or county) requirements. The better prepared your first submission is, the faster you get your permits.
Respond to Plan Checker Comments
Do you know that the most frequent reason it takes such a long time to pull permits is the number of weeks that passed between the day the city had given plan check comments and the day your team responded to them?
Less decision making. A guide to choose amenities.
Would not it be nice to get it done right the first time?
A lot of people go through grand remodels in their fifties only to find out a few years later that some decisions were made without considering their family members’ changing physical abilities.
Water resistant flooring and changing the tub to a walk in shower with a zero threshold would be a welcome change for an older adult.
This bathroom looks grand, but those steps to a tub look tricky.
Try to avoid anything slippery. No trip hazards needed.
This looks like a fresh remodel that missed out on the chance to get a no-curb shower.
In Detail
An occupational therapist would recommend incorporating several features in an in-law suite to promote safety, accessibility, and independence for older adults or individuals with potential mobility or functional limitations. Here are some key features an occupational therapist would suggest:
- Lever-Handle Faucets
- Easy-to-Reach Controls and Switches
- Ample Lighting
From 700 Sq Ft to 1,200 Sq Ft - see what fits in each floor plan size
Six Popular in-Law Suite Floor Plans
Designing In-Law Suites
In-law suites offer flexibility in design and function, providing a comfortable, independent living area for guests or family members. Key features include thoughtful architectural style, privacy, and space-efficient designs.
Essentials of In-Law Suite Floor Plans
As you know, we have a collection of house plans with various layouts. When designing in-law suite floor plans, our approach focuses on creating a space that combines functionality and comfort. Key elements include a bedroom, bathroom, and living space, ensuring a self-contained unit for independent living.
We pay attention to details like a separate entrance to enhance privacy and accessibility. Architectural style can vary from modern to traditional, but the focus remains on comfort and ease of use. A walk-in closet can also add convenience, offering ample storage for personal belongings.
In-Law Suite Kitchen
The kitchen area in an in-law suite is crucial for fostering independence. Compact kitchens can still offer efficiency and ease, ensuring users feel comfortable when preparing meals. Depending on personal preferences, the small kitchen can emphasize residents’ cooking skills with an oven or offer a small but fully-equipped kitchenette with essential appliances like a refrigerator, stove, and microwave. Creating a space with adequate counter space and storage is vital (and often mandated by local zoning regulations).
Privacy and Accessibility Considerations
Privacy is a top priority, especially when the suite is part of a larger home. With an attached unit, we vote for soundproofing and consider the best location within the house to maximize solitude.
Accessibility features are important, particularly for aging parents or individuals with mobility challenges. Features like wider doorways, a walk-in shower with a shower seat, and grab bars enhance safety and comfort, ensuring everyone can confidently navigate the space. Private entrances need adequate lighting with a visible address sign. Making a parcel delivery into a challenging task for a mail carrier is unnecessary.
Utilizing Space Efficiently
Efficient use of space is a cornerstone of successful in-law suite design. Our plans often include multi-functional furniture and open layouts to create a spacious feel without sacrificing utility.
A fold-out couch or convertible office area can accommodate both permanent residents and occasional guests, adding to the functionality of your home.
Functional layouts allow us to maximize comfort while maintaining a small footprint, proving that thoughtful planning can lead to roomy, accommodating interiors.
Features and Benefits
In-law suite house plans are designed with practicality and adaptability in mind. These plans provide innovative solutions for meeting the needs of multigenerational families, adding value to properties, and offering flexible living arrangements.
Accommodating Multigenerational Families
In-law suite house plans are ideal for accommodating aging relatives. These suites provide them with a comfortable and independent living space while keeping them close to the main family home. The multigenerational house plan often features amenities such as a private bedroom, bathroom, and sometimes a kitchenette.
Integrating these features ensures that our loved ones enjoy privacy and accessibility. A walkout basement or an attached suite can provide easy access and maintain the connection to the family’s main living space. This design fosters family bonding and allows assistance to be readily available if needed.
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Thoughtfully Designed
Use architectural elements or design strategies to create visual barriers between the main house and the in-law unit. This can be achieved through landscaping features such as fences or hedges. If there is a shared outdoor area, create distinct zones or separate seating areas for each living unit.
Carefully Planned
Consider implementing soundproofing to minimize noise transfer between the main house and the in-law unit. Add insulation and soundproofing materials to the walls and ceilings. If feasible, install separate utility meters (electricity, water) for the in-law unit for independent control and monitoring of utility costs.
Smartly Executed
Understanding local requirements for in-law suites ensures compliance with building codes and safety regulations. We taken care of building permits. Knowledge of zoning restrictions and local ordinances at an early planning stage makes for smooth sailing during design and construction.
Adding Value with Detached or Attached Units
Homes with in-law suites often see increased property value due to their versatility. An in-law suite can be a detached unit, such as a guest house or a detached garage conversion, providing a complete living solution independent of the main house. Alternatively, an attached unit offers the convenience of proximity and is a blessing for smaller-scale lots.
These options enhance the appeal of a property for future buyers seeking flexible living arrangements. We have seen that these additions support multigenerational living and provide rental opportunities, making them a wise long-term investment for homeowners looking to maximize their real estate assets.
In-Law Suite Kits
In-law suite kits offer a faster approach to designing a living space than conventional building methods. These prefabricated kits often include elements such as a full apartment-style setup with kitchen and bathroom facilities. They can be delivered on site with a crane as modular suites. Or assembled in the backyard – often a more cost-effective option.
With these kits, we can efficiently create a separate area twice as fast. Whether it’s for accommodating grandparents, hosting extended family, or developing a space for adult children, these kits ensure a blend of comfort and independence. This innovative solution recognizes the unique needs of family dynamics while maintaining harmony within the household.
Explore Our Permit Ready ADU Plans
Rescue your home from overcrowding with a detached in-law suite
In-law suite house plans are becoming an increasingly popular choice among homeowners as they provide practical solutions for multigenerational living. An in-law apartment is not a new concept. These attached suites used to integrate a separate bedroom and bathroom suite within the main home, often on the main level.
Today, an in-law suite can be a separate guest suite with all the essentials of an independent house. It can be a new addition to the house’s main structure or a new detached structure offering privacy and a comfortable living space for elderly parents and their guests. They will remind you of full apartments or master suites created in the backyard of a single-family home.
Choosing in-law suite house plans can enhance the functionality and versatility of our homes, accommodating different family dynamics and providing future flexibility.
Our fascination with home design leads us to explore creative ways to meet various needs, and in-law suites stand out as a perfect example of this innovation.
Whether we need a private sanctuary for aging parents or a welcoming space for elderly guests, these designs enhance our home’s value and appeal. In-law suite designs include a full kitchen, private bath, and bonus rooms, making the suite feel like a fully autonomous unit, perfect for a peaceful multigenerational household.
As we consider the benefits of multigenerational living, the appeal of in-law suites is evident. They support familial connections while respecting individual privacy and adapting to our ever-evolving lifestyle needs. This concept encourages us to think about how we can best utilize our living spaces and create a welcoming, adaptable home environment for everyone involved.