A Home of Its Own

An inviting, light-filled ADU designed for flexibility, connection and everyday living.

Designed to feel like a complete home rather than an accessory dwelling, this new-build ADU combines expansive indoor-outdoor living with warm materials, thoughtful function and pieces that tell a personal story.

From the outset, the homeowners asked that the new home take full advantage of its open-space views. That priority informed the architecture and interiors: high ceilings and clerestory windows bring in abundant light, the expansive folding glass wall opens the kitchen, dining and living areas to the landscape, and a French door gives the primary bedroom its own direct connection to the view and changing evening sky.

High ceilings, clerestory windows and a large folding glass wall give the compact home an unexpected sense of volume. When the glass wall is open, the kitchen, dining and living areas flow directly onto the patio, allowing the interior to live far beyond its footprint.

The interior design centered on the open kitchen and living space, along with two bathrooms—one planned with accessibility and future needs in mind. Natural wood cabinetry, woven shades, stone, black metal and relaxed upholstery soften the clean architecture, while carefully considered storage and space planning make the home comfortable for both everyday living and guests.

The antique Chinese panels became one of the most personal elements in the project. The original architectural plan called for a slatted wall that would partially screen a bathroom door. During the design process, we explored replacing it with something Asian and more meaningful to the clients, but the right piece never appeared.

Several months after construction was completed, a friend of the husband happened to have these antique panels, and the clients acquired them. They now bring history, color and depth to the contemporary interior while connecting the ADU to the Asian art and furnishings found in the primary residence.

That unexpected addition captures something essential about the home: it is clean and contemporary, but not generic. New architecture is layered with natural materials, collected objects and pieces with a past, creating a home that feels warm, individual and as though it has evolved over time.