ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT INTERIOR DESIGN

YEAR: 2020
LOCATION: PALO ALTO, CALIFORNIA
SIZE: 440 SQ FT
ROLE: INTERIOR ARCHITECT
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CHALLENGE
A returning client wanted to turn their standalone garage into an accessory dwelling unit. They came ready with plans drawn up by their architect and needed the interior to be designed. The space includes a living area, kitchen, washroom and bedroom. The client’s ask: use built-in furniture elements as much as possible to keep furniture elements at a minimum.

Having designed the clients kitchen, existing design language were used to inform the ADU’s interior design.

THE SOLUTION
The interior of the ADU is tied together with a warm and rich materiality executed in a clean and streamlined manner. The white oak is a primary element, on the floors and cabinetry. White is a secondary element on walls, countertops, and tile. And black is an accent in the lighting, hardware and plumbing fixtures throughout.

THE FURNITURE
Pieces were selected to enable the homeowners to keep things clean, should they choose to rent out the space, with furniture that is easy to maintain. The leather seating allows for surfaces to be wiped down. A shallow bench with a small footprint is brought in to provide additional seating when needed. A built-in television console floats on the wall to give the impression of a larger space. Module carpet tiles allow for an area rug to work with the footprint as desired. Overall, the warmth of the white oak and leather gives the space a beautiful color palette while maintaining a light and airy feel to the small space.

With 2020 forcing many to work from home, a built-in desk area was at the top of the client’s list. A corner in the bedroom is highlighted with a painted panel wall, connecting to the paneling on the kitchen island. Simple and functional cabinetry creates a clean delineation giving this home office a high style and streamlined finished look.