Side Angle Side architects Annie-Laurel Gabriel and Arthur Furman designed a comfortable, modern accessory dwelling unit measuring 1,100 square feet, situated in Austin, Texas. The tiny home is on a half-acre lot that serves the homeowners while the adjacent main residence, a 100+ year old Victorian, is under a major renovation.

The result is a beautiful modest two-story residence with two bedrooms and two baths with multiple outdoor living spaces that complement the historic main residence. “Originally this ADU was planned as a simple guest house to the main residence. However, just before the renovation of the main house, the homeowners decided they would construct the ADU first and move into it, so we knew we had to make it feel substantial for the couple and their two young kids,” says Arthur Furman, founding partner, Side Angle Side.

DESIGN DETAILS: ARCHITECT Side Angle Side BUILDER Curate Custom Homes INTERIOR DESIGN HB Design

A monolithic gray stucco wall faces the main house that deemphasizes the building from the street and hides the driveway and carport. The striking structure is a juxtaposition in scale and massing to the original Victorian bungalow (the main house), while also serving as a privacy wall to the ADU.

A patio and hidden carport are placed between the stucco wall and a taut, two-story structure clad in vertical cedar planks that will patina with age. The building’s pitched roof accommodates an airy primary bedroom suite with vaulted ceilings, his-and-hers closets, an outdoor deck and fireplace, and a skylit bathroom with a walk-in shower.

The ground floor is the main living area, combining a kitchen and living area that opens to the outdoor patio, as well as another bedroom and full bath.

Homeowner and designer, Holly-Beth Potter (HB Design) selected all the interior finishes and fixtures. The designer chose custom white oak cabinets, a white quartz countertop, and textured stacked stone tile for a light and bright finish in the kitchen.

Storage is key – a full-height cabinet wall hides kitchenware, plates, and appliances while the open shelving gives a stylistic moment. The use of windows and skylights adds dimension and size to the space in addition to multiple outdoor living spaces, a key element to the home’s airiness. 

What We Love: Side Angle Side architects have done a fabulous job of designing a bright and expansive accessory dwelling unit, prioritizing natural light, spaciousness, and seamless indoor-outdoor living. This cool ADU serves as a tiny abode for family living, offering a cozy yet contemporary sanctuary. Their attention to detail further elevates this exceptional space, making a compact home functional while maintaining a stylish aesthetic that enhances everyday living.

Tell Us: What are your overall thoughts on the design of this ADU? Let us know in the Comments below!

Note: Be sure to check out a couple of other fantastic home tours that we have highlighted here on One Kindesign in the state of Texas: This exquisite Georgian Revival home in Texas gets a modern makeover and This Texas home has the perfect blend of modern and rustic living.

PHOTOGRAPHER Leonid Furmansky (interiors)/Likeness Studio (exteriors)

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