An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) or a granny flat is a popular concept nowadays. As an additional living space on your property, it can be constructed as a detached or attached unit or as a conversion of a garage or basement. 

Depending on what is feasible on your property and which type you choose, your costs will fluctuate accordingly. With your local accessory dwelling unit builders in San Diego guiding you every step of the way, rest assured you’ll have the best solution for you and your family.

How do you style a granny flat?

These secondary structures can be apartments and studios or even two-story tiny houses. Though ADU’s common use is for renting purposes, you may want the added property for your family’s own use. Make it into a couples retreat from the main house, a great lounge space for gatherings, a luxury guest house for your friends out of town, or as the name suggests, a place where the (grand)parents can live as they age.

No matter the ADU’s goal, you could benefit from following some expert styling suggestions. Here are five tips for your granny flat’s interior design. 

  1. Fusing outdoor & indoor spaces

As a structure typically located in your backyard or at the back of your house, ADU’s should be seamlessly fused with your outdoor space. Make the most out of the natural light that your ADU gets by fitting it with sliding or bi-fold glass doors. They will add a modern and illuminating feeling to the ADU, making it look and feel more spacious. Add an extended porch outside for an outdoor patio feel. Add some chairs and a table, and you have yourself a perfect place to enjoy a relaxing cup of coffee.

  1. ADU storage space

Since a granny flat is generally small in size, storage can present an issue. Make use of the space under the bed by adding drawers or built in shelving systems. Another way to capitalize on storage space is by incorporating medicine cabinets and vanities with under sink storage for toiletries, towels, and small personal appliances.

  1. Choosing the right colors 

Maximize the openness of your granny flat with large windows and plenty of natural light. Choose a lighter, neutral color palette so your rooms feel open and airy. Strategic use of mirrors will help reflect light and make the space seem bigger in size.

  1. Picking furniture

Whether your personal taste leans more towards the minimalist Scandinavian style, the cozy, shabby chic, cottage style, or retro styles of the 50s and 60s with their bright colors and fun designs, you can have a blast mixing and matching the interior of the granny flat. Don’t forget about the outdoor area: use the porch as an extension of the living room by adding some rattan patio furniture.

  1. Making the most of your kitchen

As the central part of any home, the kitchen is a place for family gatherings and cooking sessions. Depending on your space, adding a small kitchen island, peninsula, or eat-in bar top with some stools will save you plenty of space as it can be used as an impromptu dining area. Put your focus on the appliances and pick an updated kitchen design that will complement the overall space. 

Where can I find trustworthy accessory dwelling unit builders in San Diego?

For 30 years, Lars Architecture has been helping residents in San Diego make their property addition ideas come to life. Our seasoned team of highly skilled specialists always brings their A-game to the table, giving you the absolute best for your room additions, kitchen expansions, ADU construction, and more. Whether you’re in Torrey Pines or down south by the San Diego Bay, our team is on hand to deliver you expert construction and custom design that will spruce up your property. Give us a call today to set up a consultation!