1 Bedroom ADU Floor Plans: Maximizing Space and Comfort

Popular Styles for 1-Bedroom ADU Floor Plans

A 1 Bedroom ADU floor plan is an exceptional strategy to optimize available space in your backyard and transform it into a welcoming residential unit for frequent visitors and family members. Here are the most popular 1 bedroom ADU floor styles that elevate the style and convenience of the property with their unique features:

Single Story ADU

A single-story ADU is the most suitable style of 1 BR floor plan due to its simple and straightforward design. It contains a bedroom, kitchen, living room, and laundry area. This style can also be upgraded to facilitate two bedrooms if sufficient space is provided.

Two Story ADU

In contrast to a single-story, a two-story ADU offers additional living areas by making use of the vertical space. In this floor plan, a bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, and living room are situated on the first level, while the second floor contains an additional bedroom or living room. This is an ideal style to enlarge the space you have without taking up too much space.

Studio Style ADU

A studio-style ADU is built around the concept of open living spaces and combines a bedroom, kitchen, and living room in just a single room. This option is ideal for generating rental income from smaller lots and, with some additional space, can also accommodate two bedrooms for maximized space.

Loft Style ADU

Loft-style ADUs, just like 2-story ADUs, are built to take advantage of the vertical space. In this layout, the bedroom is a raised sleeping platform that can be reached by a ladder or staircase. The living room, kitchen, and dining area are located beneath the sleeping area, offering a distinctive living experience.

Apart from these styles, you could also try transforming a garage space into an ADU with the use of design elements and a custom plan. Remember, our team at RenoFi is committed to finding a plan that fulfills your desired needs and provides a functional living solution for every occupant.

What to Consider When Designing 1 Bedroom ADU Floor Plans

Deciding on the floor style is just the first of the many steps required to design the perfect 1 bedroom ADU floor plan. It is significant to consider various other factors that ensure the finished ADU satisfies all your needs and complies with the local regulations and homeowner’s requirements. These considerations include:

Dimensions of the Lot

The style, size, and location of the 1 bedroom ADU depends entirely on the dimensions of the lot. For narrow spaces, a two-story or loft-style ADU works best, whereas larger lots usually feature two bedrooms for enhanced space and flexibility.

Local Zoning Laws

The location of the main property plays a vital role in determining the design of the ADU floor plan. Every municipality has its own set of rules regarding the construction of ADUs, including details such as the minimum and maximum area, kitchen requirements, and height restrictions. For example, in California, ADUs can be constructed up to 1200 sq ft on real estate properties with a setback of 4’ on the sides and rear. Understanding these laws before designing the floor plan lowers the chances of having to pay hefty fines in the future.

Budget Restraints

Building a 1 bedroom ADU requires thorough planning and a good grasp of your finances. A budget must be set aside to cover the expenses involved in its design, construction, and landscaping process. Another crucial detail here is to select the materials for the ADU between traditional slab to pier options and allocate extra allowances to cover other unexpected costs.

Types of the Occupants

The type of people that will occupy the ADU play a pivotal role in deciding on the final floor plan. For instance, if the ADU is designed to serve as a rental unit, then it is suggested to build a separate entry and install windows and other features while keeping in mind privacy concerns. Alternatively, if the ADU is going to serve as housing for guests, older adults, or children, a more welcoming and inclusive design can be used. 

Another factor to consider is the special needs and requests of the occupants. For older people or those with mobility issues, the ADU should consist of wide doorways and easily accessible bathrooms. It is also recommended to include a deck or patio in the floor design if the occupants prefer to have an outdoor living area.

Essentials to Maximize Comfort in 1 Bedroom ADU Floor Plans

Every 1 bedroom ADU floor plan must be designed to make efficient use of the space at the same time as providing functionality and extreme comfort to the occupants. To achieve these goals, here are some important design tips and essentials that can level up the quality of any 1 bedroom ADU floor plan in no time:

Use Durable Materials

The best 1 bedroom ADU floor plan strikes the right balance between budget and high-quality materials. Try to use concrete flooring, quartz tabletop, and other functional materials that protect from daily wear and tear activities and are low-maintenance. If you are on a tight budget, consider the Scandinavian or traditional style, both of which offer a good mix of durable and affordable elements. 

Built-in Storage Solutions and Furniture

Storage containers, including cabinets, drawers, and shelves, are a great way to keep the ADU’s limited space organized. Basic kitchen appliances like a sink, hood, and stovetops can also make the living experience more convenient for rentals occupying the property permanently or for extended intervals. Another good idea is to swap out basic furniture with multipurpose solutions such as a sofa bed to make the most out of the ADU’s available space.

Incorporate Design Elements

A 1 bedroom ADU floor not being spacious enough is no excuse for it to be boring. With the use of the right design elements, the unit will not only feel larger but also cozy and homey to the residents. 

Start by deciding between a modern, minimalist, or conventional look based on the architectural style of the main house and your personal preference. Opt for soft, lighter colors on the walls and install windows or skylights to keep the space breezy and well-lit throughout the day.

Address Privacy Concerns

Whether the ADU is designed for rentals or family members, there still needs to be measures to guard against privacy breaches. Focus on a floor plan that offers a distinct entrance to the occupants from that of the main house. 

The use of reliable insulation and solid doors can also help make the dwelling soundproof. Privacy screens and landscaping are also ideal, aesthetic solutions to address security problems in case the ADU is situated too close to the main property.

Other Details

Some other key points that can boost the individual’s living time in the dwelling unit include the installation of a fire and CO2 alarm, ductless mini splits for ventilation, and an electric water heater. 

When planning the layout of the 1 bedroom ADU floor plan, remember to keep in mind the flow of the space. Try to fill dead spaces with mirrors or multi-functional rooms and keep the kitchen and bathroom next to each other to lower the plumbing costs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the typical size of a one bedroom ADU?

A general rule when it comes to attached ADUs is that their size cannot be more than 50% of that of the main property. For a one-bedroom ADU, the size ranges between 400 to 800 sq ft. However, this size is always customizable depending on the requirements of the owner and occupants.

How do ADUs help generate rental income?

ADUs not only help boost the aesthetic appeal of a property but also act as a source of income for the main property owner. These independent units can either be leased out to serve as long-term rental units or used for short-term rentals.

What are the design considerations for an ADU floor plan?

Paying extra attention to the design and comfort of an ADU is a great way to elevate the living experience and thereby maximize the monthly rent. Keep in mind factors such as privacy, local regulations, modern finishes, storage facilities, and outdoor spaces to ensure that all the demands of the occupants are met and charge accordingly for these top-tier amenities provided.

Conclusion

Suffice it to say that one-bedroom ADU floor plans are an excellent option to optimize spaces, generate rental income, and add luxurious appeal and value to any real estate property. By taking into account factors such as style, theme, budget, and layout, even the most compact spaces can be transformed into inviting and comforting 1 bedroom accessory dwelling units.

Unlike traditional loans, which are based on your current home value or require you to refinance your primary mortgage and give up your low rate, RenoFi loans are based on the after renovation value of your home. This allows you to borrow on average 11x more, get a low monthly payment and keep your low rate on your first mortgage.

Dive in with these pre-approved ADU plans that help you get started with designing the perfect 1-bedroom ADU floor plan.