When it comes to building an ADU, the right floor plan can make all the difference. Whether you’re adding a rental unit, creating a guest house, or building a space for family, having a thoughtfully designed layout is key to maximizing both space and function.
Properties are like snowflakes. Every single one is different to some degree, so these five free ADU floor plans will act as a jumping off point to morph and shape into an ADU layout that works in style, function, and versatility for you.
How to Analyze These Free ADU Floor Plans
These ADU floor plans are stripped down versions of permit sets from real ADU projects. Real official permit sets are filled with a lot of complicated jargon, drawings, and technical details that can be overwhelming for the average homeowner. Our simplified versions give you a clear overview of the layout, space allocation, and key features without the complexity.
When viewing these floor plans, envision yourself entering through the front entrance of the ADU and walking through the unit. Pay attention to how the space flows and whether it meets your needs for functionality and comfort. This simplified approach will help you get a clear sense of the layout and how it might work for you.
You can also take it one step further. Take an aerial shot of your property from Google Maps. Then take any of these floor plans that you like and play around with placement on your property. This can either be done by printing them out or using an editing program on your computer.
Ready to dive into some free ADU floor plans? Let’s jump in!
350 sq ft Stand-Alone Studio ADU
First up, we have a floor plan that makes the most of a small area. This 350 sq ft Stand-Alone Studio ADU is the epitome of space efficiency, making it an ideal solution for homeowners looking for a compact yet functional living space. Despite its small footprint, this design maximizes every inch to create a comfortable, self-contained unit.
The open-plan living area serves a dual purpose as both a living room and sleeping area, maintaining flexibility while saving space. The living room was designed with a murphy bed or pull-out couch in mind for easy transitioning from daytime hang-out sessions to bedtime. The strategic use of french doors not only adds natural light but also creates an airy feel, making the space appear larger than it is.
The L-shaped kitchen, though compact, is fully equipped with all the necessary appliances and plenty of counter space.
The cherry on top of this studio ADU sundae? A stackable washer and dryer conveniently placed next to the closet. A lot of homeowners think they have to forego large appliances just because they have a small footprint to work with, but this goes to show that with clever design, you can make almost anything fit.
Perfect for a single occupant, a guest house, or for short-term rentals this floor plan balances minimalism and practicality, ensuring that every square foot serves a purpose.
410 sq ft Garage Conversion ADU
Moving up in space, we have our Garage Conversion ADU. This floor plan offers a smart layout, making it a perfect option for small, functional living spaces.
One of the key features is the integration of an outside patio accessible through French doors in the living room, adding outdoor living space that enhances the overall livability of the ADU. The open-concept living room and kitchen create a sense of flow, maximizing space for entertaining or daily living. The homeowners opted for a kitchen island to provide ample counter space and a dining area, making meal prep and dining convenient. Plus, it adds the separation between the kitchen and living room area.
This design makes the most of a garage conversion, offering a compact, comfortable living experience while also allowing for a connection to outdoor areas. Perfect for small households or as a long-term rental unit, this ADU balances practicality with a sense of openness.
If you’re looking to rent out your ADU and or build for a growing family, you’ll want to pay attention to the next couple of floor plans. We’re moving onto two-bedrooms.
620 sq ft Attached Garage ADU
Two bedrooms in just 620 sq ft? It’s possible!
The proof is in the pudding. This ADU features a U-shaped kitchen, french doors, stackable washer and dryer, and adequate storage for both bedrooms.
Perfect for small families or renters, this design maximizes comfort and functionality in a compact footprint.
Notice this layout also has two entrances? The french doors offer the potential to add an outdoor space, which would expand the useable living space without driving up costs too much. Alternatives could be accordion doors if you’re looking to get fancy, or just a simple sliding glass door. Either way, adding a door here that encourages indoor/outdoor use will really expand the usability of your unit.
750 sq ft Garage Conversion ADU
This design is similar to the last, but with some rooms shifting around.
Upon entry into the ADU, you immediately walk passed the kitchen area and a convenient coat closet on your left. The kitchen features a kitchen island that functions as a prep station and a perfect stage to host guests. Behind that is the spacious living room.
Continuing down the hallway, you’ll find the bathroom and two bedrooms, both of similar size and with ample storage.
Hot Tip: 750 sq ft is the max size you can build your ADU before you are required to pay Development and Impact Fees in California.
While this layout is great and serves all the needs of a small family, square units can be tricky to work into some properties. The next floor plan may offer some flexibility.
820 sq ft Stand-Alone L-Shaped ADU
Our final free ADU floor plan.
An L-shaped unit often creates a natural courtyard or patio area, perfect for outdoor seating or hosting guests, effectively extending the living space into the outdoors.
Let’s move onto the interior. The kitchen, living room, and dining room are all held in an open layout, making the space feel especially spacious. The bathroom is cleverly placed in between the two bedrooms, creating an extra sound barrier between the two rooms. Smart!
Bring These Free ADU Floor Plans to Life
Exploring these five free ADU floor plans offers a valuable starting point for envisioning your ideal accessory dwelling unit. By examining the simplified layouts and key features, you can get a clearer sense of how each plan might fit your needs and preferences.
This is only the beginning! Now that you have some ADU ideas flowing, it’s time to put those ideas to paper. Schedule a call with a Maxable ADU expert and we’ll point you in the right direction, whether that’s reviewing your property or connecting you to a vetted ADU designer in our network.
Who knows? Maybe your completed ADU will inspire the next homeowner!
