Modern Multifamily ADUs

This project illustrates a new housing strategy for Santa Barbara using California state law. Multifamily properties are now allowed to construct two new detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The owner was motivated to more effectively use property which originally had two attached single-story units and an undersized (380sf) detached garage. Two existing multifamily units were retained, the garage was demolished, and two ADU units were built at the back of the lot for a total of four living units. Site planning prioritized designing good-sized ADU units, while also providing generous outdoor living space for each of the units. This strategy led to an angles solution for the ADUs so that outdoor spaces fill the corners to the perimeter property line with greater depth from the living area to provide more flexible use of the outdoor space to suit the occupants’ needs.