When designing an ADU, maximizing the space is key to making it functional and comfortable. ADUs are often smaller than the main home, so being smart with how you use every square foot can make a big difference. By incorporating built-in storage, multi-functional furniture, and open layouts, you can create a space that feels larger than it actually is. A well-planned ADU can also serve multiple purposes over time, whether it’s a guest suite today or a home office down the road. Making the most of your space ensures your ADU stays flexible and livable for years without feeling cramped or cluttered.
But where do you start? Here are a few ADU interior design tips to get your project on the right track.
When designing an ADU, making sure the layout is functional is key. With less space to work with, you need to get creative and make every square foot count to ensure the space feels comfortable and efficient.
If you’re unsure where to begin, seeking professional guidance from an interior designer can help you get the most out of your ADU’s layout. They can provide expert advice on how to make the space feel more expansive and efficient.
Before diving into the layout, consider how you plan to use the ADU. Is it for guests, as a rental, or maybe even a home office? Knowing this helps guide your decisions. For example, an open floor plan might make the space feel larger if it’s a rental, while separate areas could work better if family members will be living there long-term.
A good layout makes moving through the space easy and intuitive. Place key areas like the kitchen and living room in spots that are easy to access, and try to avoid furniture that blocks walkways or creates tight spaces. The goal is to have a natural flow where everything feels open and easy to navigate.
Multi-functional furniture is a great way to make the most of your ADU’s limited space. Choosing pieces for multiple purposes helps keep your home feeling spacious, organized, and versatile. Whether you’re designing your ADU for yourself, guests, or tenants, integrating smart, adaptable furniture solutions can make your space more functional and livable.
Convertible furniture is an easy and effective way to get the most use out of every room. For example, a sofa bed can function as a comfortable sitting area during the day and effortlessly transform into a sleeping area at night. Murphy beds are another popular option, especially for ADUs, because they fold away into the wall, freeing up valuable floor space.
You can also explore tables that extend or fold down when needed, providing extra seating or workspace without dominating the room when not in use. Coffee tables that lift into desks or dining tables, or ottomans that double as storage, are other clever options. These pieces offer flexibility, allowing you to change the use of your space without having to move things around constantly.
If you’re unsure how to choose the right pieces for your ADU, professional guidance from an interior designer can help you select the best options to balance comfort and practicality.
In a small ADU, storage is often a challenge. Built-in storage can make a big difference. Instead of using bulky, freestanding furniture, consider built-in solutions that use every nook and cranny. Wall-mounted shelves, custom cabinets, and window seats with hidden storage can help you keep your essentials tucked away neatly without taking up additional floor space.
Vertical storage is especially useful in ADUs. Tall shelving units or overhead cabinets provide ample room for your belongings without making the space feel cramped. You can also design custom storage solutions, like built-in benches with under-seat compartments or bed frames with drawers, to ensure that every inch of your ADU is being used efficiently.
One of the best ADU interior design tips to maximize your unit’s potential is to go vertical. Instead of focusing only on floor space, consider how to make the most of your walls and ceiling height. Using vertical space effectively helps keep your ADU feeling open and uncluttered while providing extra storage and functionality.
Maximizing blank wall space with floor-to-ceiling cabinets is a smart way to increase storage while enhancing the visual height of a room. Tall shelving or cabinetry provides ample space for kitchen essentials, books, or decorative items while keeping surfaces clutter-free. In kitchens, extending cabinets to the ceiling maximizes every inch of available space, reducing dust collection on top and creating a seamless, built-in look. In bathrooms, slim vertical storage units or shelving over the toilet offer practical organization without sacrificing style. Whether in a kitchen, bathroom, or living area, utilizing vertical storage solutions ensures a functional and cohesive design.
If your ADU has higher ceilings, consider adding a loft space for sleeping or storage. A lofted bed frees up the area below for a living space, desk, or additional storage, making your ADU feel like it has separate zones without adding walls. If a full loft isn’t possible, raised or platform beds with storage underneath can give you similar benefits, creating extra storage without taking up additional floor space.
Remember to use often-overlooked spaces like corners and narrow areas. Corner shelving units or corner desks can transform unused spaces into functional areas. Narrow shelving units, like those designed to fit between appliances or alongside the fridge, can add storage where you didn’t think possible.
Ready to transform your ADU into a beautifully designed, functional space? Let Studio Steinbomer guide you from planning to implementation, ensuring every square foot is maximized to its fullest potential.
When designing your ADU, one of the easiest and most effective ways to make it feel bigger and more open is by using light and color strategically. Even if you’re working with a small footprint, the right choices can transform the space, making it feel airy and inviting.
Lighter shades are your best friend when making a small space feel more spacious. Soft neutrals like whites, creams, and light grays reflect light, helping the room feel brighter and more open. You don’t have to stick to all-white walls—consider light blues or pale greens to add some personality while keeping the space light and fresh. Painting the walls and ceilings in light colors creates the illusion of more space, as darker shades can sometimes make rooms feel more closed in.
Natural light does wonders for making any room feel larger, and that’s especially true in an ADU. If possible, incorporate large windows or glass doors to let in plenty of sunlight. Skylights are another great option if wall space is limited. The more natural light you can bring in, the more open your ADU will feel. If privacy is a concern, consider sheer curtains or shades that allow light to filter through without sacrificing privacy.
While light colors are great for creating an open feel, a few well-placed accent colors can add depth and interest to your ADU. Consider using darker shades or bold colors sparingly—perhaps on an accent wall, furniture, or decor items like pillows and artwork. This can draw attention to specific areas and create a sense of flow without cramming the space. Just be mindful not to overdo it—keeping it simple and balanced is key.
Incorporating outdoor living spaces into your ADU is a great way to extend the living area and make your space feel larger. A simple way to achieve this is by using full-lite glass doors that open up to a patio, deck, or garden area. These doors not only flood your ADU with natural light, but they also create a seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor spaces.
Blurring the lines between inside and out expands your living space without increasing the ADU’s footprint. Outdoor areas, whether it’s a small seating area or a full deck, offer additional room for relaxation, dining, or entertaining, making your ADU feel more open and versatile. These spaces can be enjoyed year-round, especially in regions with milder climates like Texas.
Studio Steinbomer understands that designing an ADU requires a thoughtful approach that balances functionality, aesthetics, and smart use of space. With over 30 years of experience in architecture and interior design, our team is skilled at guiding you through the entire process—from initial planning and final implementation to furniture procurement.
Whether you’re looking to create a rental unit, a guest suite, or a flexible home office, we specialize in designing ADUs that fit seamlessly into your existing property while meeting your unique needs. We’ll help you navigate the complexities of zoning laws, maximize every square foot of space, and create a living environment that’s beautiful and practical.
Reach out today to learn how Studio Steinbomer can help turn your ADU vision into a reality!
Why You Need A Commercial Architect