Sloping roof
The project’s aim is to create a small guesthouse and rental unit, replacing an old, abandoned garage, situated on a steep forest hill.
Design Morphology
The new Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is constructed by retaining the original footprint of the garage, while the overall design is inspired by the existing topography. More specifically, the roof mirrors the slope of the site and is comprised of a large clerestory window above the cabinetry wall that provides ambient natural light to the interior space. A smaller window, shaped by the roof’s playfully designed form, provides impressive views of the forest.
Fire Prevention Strategy
Cement boards are used to provide a fire-resistance cladding and reduce any additional maintenance requirements. A deck is added to the front of the ADU to create a large, inviting exterior space, thus allowing visitors to enjoy the mild California climate.
Layout Organization
The 38m2 guesthouse is carefully organized through flexible programming: a movable kitchen island maximizes working surfaces in both the interior and exterior, while a large murphy bed transforms the space into a bedroom. The loft is accessed through a wooden ladder that tucks into the wall. The bathroom is split into two smaller rooms: a wc and a separate shower cladded in forest-green tiles and isolated through a door that doubles as a full-size mirror.