Backyard Cottages – A Growing Trend
Backyard cottages continue to gain in popularity and we’ve seen many municipalities changing their ordinances to allow for these freestanding structures. Model Remodel just completed a Built Green 3 Star certified backyard cottage project in Seattle’s vibrant Ballard neighborhood.
A backyard cottage offers a variety of uses:
o Separate living unit for supplemental rental income
o Residence for an aging relative or alternative to assisted living
o Artist’s studio or other workspace
o Transitional living space for a high school senior or college student
o Guest suite for out-of-town visitors
Sheri Newbold, architect, live-work-play, a sustainable architecture and interiors firm, designed the Ballard family’s cottage re-using the home’s existing garage into an energy-efficient, 720-square foot structure.
Supporting the independent lifestyle of the homeowner’s aging parent, a variety of universal design elements were incorporated in the plans for this one-bedroom suite. The design blends contemporary styling and traditional details to complement the 1920s craftsman-style main residence at the front of the property.
Features:
o Open plans improve overall flow and enhance access
o Large windows and tall ceilings contribute to optimize daylighting
o Access at grade for easy indoor / outdoor transitions and living
o Indoor air quality from improved airflow, no VOC finishes and hard surfaces such as concrete (vs. carpeting)
o An energy recovery ventilator (ERV) provides a controlled way of ventilating a home while minimizing energy loss.
o Built in strategic storage helps maintain organization, keeps the space feeling open and airy, and minimizes tripping hazards
o Energy efficient appliances
o Large counter space for cooking healthy meals at home
o Wider doorways to accommodate wheelchair or walker access and overall flow between spaces
o Zero clearance shower with grab bars for safety
o Cheerful colors to counter balance Seattle’s gray weather
o Durable materials, easy to maintain
Are you interested in converting a garage into livable space or adding an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) to your backyard? Contact us anytime, we would be delighted to help!
