13-1318 GARDEN SHED – Colonial Cottage Home Plan – 1-Bed, 1-Bath, 420 SF

Classic Colonial Cottage ADU Plan with Timeless Proportions

A beautifully balanced small home design inspired by Colonial and Cape Cod architecture, ideal for guest houses, backyard ADUs, or private retreats.

This Colonial Cottage ADU plan delivers timeless American charm in a compact footprint. Designed with symmetry, simplicity, and enduring curb appeal, this small home blends Traditional Colonial and Cape Cod Cottage influences into a highly versatile structure suitable for a wide range of properties. Whether used as a guest suite, casita, studio residence, or rental ADU, this plan offers efficient living wrapped in a classic exterior.

The exterior features horizontal lap siding painted in a crisp white tone, paired with a standing-seam metal gable roof that enhances durability while reinforcing the clean, historic aesthetic. A centered front door, evenly spaced windows, and restrained detailing give the structure its unmistakable Colonial character.

Exterior Design & Architectural Style

• Primary Style: Colonial / Traditional
• Secondary Style: Cape Cod, American Cottage
• Exterior Finish: Horizontal lap siding (fiber cement or wood)
• Roof: Metal gable roof for longevity and low maintenance
• Foundation: Raised or slab options available

Rooted in early American residential architecture, Colonial Cottage homes emphasize balance, order, and function. This plan embraces those principles while scaling them down into a modern, build-friendly ADU format. The result is a structure that feels established, familiar, and elegant—never trendy or dated.

Interior Layout & Living Experience

Inside, the layout is intentionally efficient, maximizing every square foot of the 420 heated square feet. The open main living area allows for flexible furniture placement while maintaining excellent natural light from the front-facing windows.

• Open living and kitchenette area
• Private bedroom with closet space
• Full bathroom with standard fixtures
• Clear circulation and simple construction geometry

The simplicity of the plan makes it ideal for homeowners who want an easy-to-build structure without sacrificing comfort or aesthetics. Vaulted or flat ceiling options can be customized depending on local codes and personal preference.

Ideal Uses for This Colonial Cottage ADU

• Backyard ADU or guest house
• Casita or pool house with living quarters
• Rental unit for long-term or short-term use
• Private home office or studio residence
• Downsized living or aging-in-place solution

Because of its restrained size and classic styling, this plan integrates beautifully into both urban and rural settings. It complements traditional main homes without competing visually, making it an excellent addition to established properties.

Construction Advantages

• Simple rectangular footprint reduces build cost
• Efficient roofline minimizes framing complexity
• Standard materials widely available nationwide
• Ideal for builders, investors, or homeowners

The use of horizontal siding and a straightforward gable roof keeps construction practical and economical, while still delivering a polished, high-end appearance. The metal roof provides excellent longevity and resistance to weather, especially in coastal or rural environments.

Why Colonial Cottage Design Endures

Colonial architecture remains one of the most trusted and widely loved residential styles in America. Its emphasis on symmetry, proportion, and restraint ensures that homes never feel outdated. When adapted into a cottage or ADU format, the style becomes even more versatile—perfect for modern living needs.

According to residential design analysis published by ArchDaily, traditional architectural forms continue to outperform trend-driven designs in long-term value and neighborhood compatibility, making styles like Colonial Cottage an excellent investment.

What’s Included with This Plan

• Full CAD Files: Editable construction drawings
• Printable PDF Plans: Ready for permits and contractors
• Unlimited Build License: Build as many times as you like
• Engineering Included: Code-compliant structural design
• Foundation Options: Slab, crawlspace, or raised pier

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this plan suitable for ADU zoning?
Yes. Its compact size and efficient layout make it ideal for most ADU regulations, though local codes should always be verified.

Can the exterior materials be customized?
Absolutely. While designed with horizontal siding and a metal roof, alternative materials can be substituted.

Is this plan good for rental use?
Yes. The timeless appearance and efficient layout make it highly appealing for long-term or short-term rental markets.

Are modifications available?
Yes. Room layouts, roof pitch, ceiling heights, and finishes can all be adjusted.

Build a Timeless Small Home with Confidence

This Colonial Cottage ADU plan proves that small homes can still offer architectural integrity, beauty, and lasting value. If you’re looking for a compact design that feels permanent, elegant, and versatile, this plan is an exceptional choice.

Classic. Efficient. Enduring. Start building a small home that will look just as good decades from now as it does on day one.