ADU Floor Plans
Looking for smart, stylish, and flexible ADU design ideas? At ADU Scale, we help Californians transform garages, backyards, and underused spaces into beautiful, high-functioning living areas that fit their goals and boost property value.
Schedule a Free Consultation
Attached ADU Ideas
An attached ADU is built as an extension of the primary home. It can share a wall, basement, or even garage space. This approach is ideal for lots with limited space or when you want seamless indoor access.
Garage Conversion Studio
Compact, open-plan layout with essentials
Over-Garage Apartment
Private entrance with upstairs living space
Rear Bump-Out Addition
Extended living area with full kitchen
Basement ADU Retreat
Cozy, self-contained unit below grade
How it Works
Garage ADU Plans and Steps to Build It
We guide you through the process from concept to your custom-designed ADU construction with clarity and care.
01
Evaluate Your Property
We assess zoning, structure, and site potential.
02
Design Your Ideal Layout
Creating a custom ADU floor plan that fits your goals.
03
Handle Permitting for You
We manage the paperwork and city approvals.
04
Coordinate Construction Start
Our crew prepares the site and begins building.
05
Build with Quality and Care
From framing to finishes, we handle every detail.
06
Pass Final Inspections
We ensure everything meets local code and standards.
Cost Estimate
The cost to build an ADU in Los Angeles or San Diego typically ranges from $100,000 to $250,000. Attached ADU ideas, such as converting a garage or basement, can be more budget-friendly compared to detached new builds.
Get My Cost EstimateChallenges in Floor Plan Design
Maximizing Small Spaces
Compact living solutions require creative layouts to fit essentials without feeling cramped or cluttered.
Adapting ADU with Garage Plans
Existing garage dimensions can limit layout options and require smart design to add plumbing and insulation.
Balancing Privacy and Openness
Modern ADU floor plans must provide privacy while keeping a bright, open feel in a small footprint.
Accommodating Multiple Uses
Flexible floor plan options are essential for ADUs that serve as rentals, offices, or multi-generational housing.
ADU Floor Plan Examples
Get Started with ADUSCALE Today
Ready to make the most of your property? Whether you're thinking about a small home ADU, a tiny home, or a fully detached ADU, we’re here to help.
More information
Whether you're a homeowner wanting more space, an investor increasing property value, or a builder planning your next project, designing the right ADU starts with understanding what’s possible. At ADU Scale, we help Californians turn their backyards, garages, and underused spaces into high-functioning living environments.
See more
From attached ADU ideas to standalone backyard cottages, our experience shows that every great ADU design balances lifestyle needs, zoning rules, and long-term goals. Below, we explore several thoughtful ADU configurations and use cases to inspire your project.
Detached ADU Design Ideas
A detached ADU is a freestanding structure that exists somewhere else on the property. Often referred to as a "backyard cottage," this choice offers total privacy and may be built as a full house in smaller proportions.
Consider these detached ADU ideas for function and style:
Consider these detached ADU ideas for function and style:
Guest House or Short-Term Rental
- Perfect for hosting friends, relatives, or vacation renters.
- Separate utilities and smart home features add convenience.
- Can generate $2,000-$3,000/month in passive income in high-demand areas.
Garage Conversion ADU
- Ideal for properties with underused or older garages.
- Lower construction cost compared to ground-up builds.
- Blends well with modern and mid-century architecture styles.
Live-Work Studio
- Artists, freelancers, and small business owners benefit from a custom-built studio.
- Zoning-permitting, it can combine living and working areas.
- Adds value for buyers seeking lifestyle-friendly homes.
Tips for Choosing the Right ADU Design
Before deciding on a layout or floor plan, ask yourself what your primary goal is: more space, income, or long-term family support? The best ADU design ideas consider not only current needs but future flexibility.
Here are some decision-making factors to consider:
- Lot size and layout: A narrow lot might require an attached ADU, while larger lots allow detached versions.
- Local zoning laws: California allows both attached and detached ADUs statewide, but each city has its nuances. ADU Scale can help navigate these.
- Budget and ROI expectations: Construction costs vary from $100,000 to $350,000+, but average monthly rental income can offset this quickly.
- Privacy needs: For multi-generational living, separation of entrances and noise-reducing materials are essential.
Why Work With ADU Scale
At ADU Scale, we specialize in guiding homeowners from start to finish throughout the ADU process - from permitting and design all the way to construction. We don’t merely sell house plans. We offer personalized design consultations that factor in your lifestyle, property layout, and city regulations.
Our team stays up to date with California’s evolving ADU laws, helping you maximize space and ROI. Whether you’re exploring attached flexible floor plan options or building a fully detached unit in the backyard, we bring creativity and clarity to the process.
Looking for more space-saving home designs or ready to move forward? Book a free consultation. Let’s make your space work smarter - starting today.