When my brother moved back to town, we were thrilled. The only problem? Our two-bedroom bungalow already felt tight with two adults, a child, a dog, and an ever-expanding collection of houseplants. We loved our neighborhood and didn’t want to move, but something had to give.
So, we did what any modern, slightly space-starved family would do: we built an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU).
In the warm, stylish spirit of Genevieve Gorder, here’s the story of how our backyard went from underused to unbelievably useful—and how an addition can be more than just square footage. It can be freedom, flexibility, and a whole lot of fun.
The Spark: We Needed Room to Breathe
We started by asking, “What do we really need?”
A place for my brother to stay comfortably (and with privacy)
A space that could double as a guest house or even a home office
Something that looked intentional—not like a shed we panic-built
We didn’t want more space just for the sake of it. We wanted smart space.
Designing with Heart (and Head)
We worked with a design team that understood our aesthetic: minimal, earthy, a bit modern but still warm. Think cedar siding, matte black fixtures, and a foldaway Murphy bed that looked more like a sculptural cabinet than a sleeping solution.
The interior? A neutral palette with layered textures, cozy nooks, and tons of natural light.
Genevieve Gorder Wisdom: Good design should feel like a hug—not a showroom.
The Unexpected Bonus: Versatility
When my brother found his own apartment (no hard feelings), the ADU became my work-from-home sanctuary. Then a short-term rental. Then a space for my in-laws to visit comfortably.
We realized we didn’t just add a building—we added options. And peace of mind.
Thinking Bigger: A Full Addition
Once the ADU was finished, we decided to keep the momentum going. We bumped out the back of our house by 300 square feet to create a sunken family room.
It now holds a built-in window bench, bookshelves, and a fireplace that anchors everything—making our home feel less like a jigsaw puzzle and more like a complete picture.
Lesson Learned: Whether it’s an ADU or a primary addition, more space doesn’t have to mean more stuff. It can mean more clarity.
Final Thoughts
If you’re dreaming about adding space but unsure where to start, begin by asking: “What do we need more of?” It might be privacy. Flexibility. Room to create or host or just breathe a little deeper.
Whether it’s an ADU, a guest suite, or a bright new family room, make sure it’s more than just square footage. Make it a space that tells your story.
Call to Action
Curious about what an ADU or addition could do for your lifestyle? Our team is here to help you dream it, design it, and make it part of your home’s next chapter.
