Kelley ADU

This backyard cottage, nestled into the steep hillside of a classic College Hill family’s property, transformed an underutilized space into a vibrant extension of their home. Designed with both function and style in mind, the cottage not only reclaims the sloped and overgrown backyard but also expands the family’s living space in exciting new ways.

Tucked among existing mature trees, the cottage serves as a versatile retreat, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living through its large 4-panel sliding glass door, and the continuity of the covered patio and new, open landscaping. Whether it’s an indoor/outdoor hangout spot for the kids, a cozy corner for parents to relax, a quiet home office, or a lively setting for hosting guests, the space adapts to every need. It also doubles as a welcoming guest suite, perfect for family and friends.

Honoring the mid-century modern details of the primary home, the design integrates with its surroundings, creating cohesiveness between the buildings, and expanding the outdoor living spaces. Playfully referred to during the design process as the “pool house without a pool,” this project is a testament to how thoughtful design can unlock the full potential of a property, turning challenges into opportunities for connection, creativity, and community.

While serving the function of an ADU, or backyard cottage, this project was permitted as a duplex under the Middle Housing code which will allow the owners to maintain flexibility as affordable housing needs evolve. This permitting pathway also allowed housing infill on a site that was otherwise too steep to meet height requirements under traditional ADU code.

Additional work was done outside of the primary suite, converting a small and underutilized patio into a place of self-care and relaxation. Referred to as the ‘Spa Patio,’ upgrades to the space included a cedar ofuro soaking tub, an infrared sauna, and landscape screening to maintain privacy.

Interior decoration by Jen West Designs.