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.
Starting from $300,000
750 sq ft
2Bed / 1Bath
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.
A family is moving an aging parent closer to home, and try to accommodate a guest suite for a wheelchair bound relative.
The location of this ADU was restricted from all 4 sides sides:
1. Property line 2. Main house 3. Creek 4. 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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
This two bedroom two bathroom ADU design makes efficient use of space with more emphasis on private quarters than on common living area.
This two bedroom one bathroom ADU design has a comfortable living area, two bedrooms with closets, laundry space and the bathroom with the shower. This plan has an ADA compliant option.
This two bedroom two bathroom ADU has a primary en suite bathroom and an additional bathroom with access from the living area.
This detached two bedroom two bathroom ADU has a primary en suite bathroom and an additional bathroom with access from the living area.
This two bedroom two bathroom ADU has a primary en suite bathroom and an additional bathroom with access from the living area. The kitchen has an option to be a separate room.
This two bedroom two bathroom ADU has a primary en suite bathroom and an additional bathroom with access from the living area. Both bedroom have walk in closets, and there is an additional flex room that could be used as an office. Can easily be used as a main home for a small lot!
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.
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.
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.
This one bedroom one bathroom can be executed in an L shaped or in a more traditional I shape layout depending on the space in your backyard.
This two bedroom two bathroom ADU has a primary en suite bathroom and an additional bathroom with access from the living area.
This two bedroom two bathroom ADU has a primary en suite bathroom and an additional bathroom with access from the living area. The kitchen has an option to be a separate room.