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.
Backyard Cottage Uses
- Separate living unit for supplemental rental income
- Residence for an aging relative or alternative to assisted living
- Artist’s studio or other workspace
- Transitional living space for a high school senior or college student
- 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.
Ballard Backyard Cottage Features
- Open plans improve overall flow and enhance access
- Large windows and tall ceilings contribute to optimize daylighting
- Access at grade for easy indoor / outdoor transitions and living
- Indoor air quality from improved airflow, no VOC finishes and hard surfaces such as concrete (vs. carpeting)
- An energy recovery ventilator (ERV) provides a controlled way of ventilating a home while minimizing energy loss.
- Built in strategic storage helps maintain organization, keeps the space feeling open and airy, and minimizes tripping hazards
- Energy efficient appliances
- Large counter space for cooking healthy meals at home
- Wider doorways to accommodate wheelchair or walker access and overall flow between spaces
- Zero clearance shower with grab bars for safety
- Cheerful colors to counter balance Seattle’s gray weather
- Durable materials, easy to maintain
See more photos of this backyard cottage here: Bright Backyard Cottage
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!
