Modern Detached ADU | Hillsborough, CA

520-square-foot, 1 bed/1bath ADU with airy, 16-foot vaulted ceilings, indoor/outdoor connectivity, full kitchen, in-unit laundry, and detailing to match seamlessly with the main home. Identified the architectural features that defined her home – the color, the treatment of the building facade, the aluminum awnings, and similar – and infuse these features directly into the design of the ADU, so that the property as a whole maintained a cohesive and sophisticated look. The site had a significant grade, and so, as a very early item in the process, the team addressed foundation design with a team of civil engineers and general contractors in the Cottage network to ensure the unit could be built as envisioned and at a reasonable price. Skylights guarantee great sunlight throughout the day – also without compromising privacy. To ensure the ADU “worked” within the context of the main home and the neighbor’s home next door, the orientation of the ADU and placement of the windows were executed carefully to provide the utmost privacy, connection to the lower terrace of the yard, and prime views. Perhaps most importantly, the unit was oriented to sit lower than the main home and in a way that would not disturb the existing upper deck or block any views from the main home or neighbors. Designed with grouped plumbing lines for efficient construction, and floorplan versatility for short-term rental, permanent residence, or home-office use.

We sited the ADU on an underutilized lower-level garden in the backyard of the property, which enabled us to create a semi-private outdoor space for the ADU while maintaining views for our clients and their neighbors.

Before and after photos of the ADU project above. Full project gallery below.