16-1709 GARAGE PLAN – Contemporary House Plan – 0-Bed, 1-Bath, 897 SF

Modern Garage Apartment Home Plan with Clean Contemporary Lines

A flexible and efficient 2-story ADU designed for today’s multi-purpose living needs—from storage and vehicle space to potential guest quarters, studio use, or personal retreat.

This contemporary modern garage apartment home plan blends streamlined architecture with practical functionality. The exterior is defined by horizontal lap siding, crisp trim lines, and a warm wood-tone garage door that introduces contrast and visual depth. The balanced composition delivers strong curb appeal while maintaining a clean, understated presence suitable for a wide range of properties.

Designed as a highly adaptable accessory dwelling unit, this plan offers 897 square feet of heated living space above a spacious garage. The structure works equally well as a garage apartment, carriage house, guest suite, studio, or flexible work-from-home environment, making it a smart addition for homeowners seeking long-term versatility.

Architectural Style & Design Intent

The primary architectural style of this plan is Contemporary, supported by refined Modern design principles. Flat planes, clean geometry, and minimal ornamentation define the exterior, while thoughtful proportions keep the structure visually grounded and approachable.

This garage apartment fits naturally into suburban neighborhoods, urban infill lots, lake properties, and modern rural settings. Its straightforward massing and compact footprint allow it to complement a wide range of primary residences without overpowering the site.

Exterior Materials & Visual Appeal

The exterior finish relies on horizontal lap siding, a hallmark of contemporary residential design. This material choice emphasizes linear movement across the façade, reinforcing the modern aesthetic while remaining timeless and build-friendly.

A standout feature is the wood-tone garage door, which adds warmth and contrast against the clean siding palette. Subtle black wall-mounted sconces frame the garage, enhancing both nighttime visibility and architectural presence.

The extended roof overhang on the upper level adds depth and shadow play while offering practical protection from the elements. This detail also helps visually balance the second story, giving the structure a confident yet restrained profile. Similar contemporary material strategies are frequently highlighted in professional design references such as ArchDaily.

Main Level: Garage Functionality

The main level is dedicated primarily to garage and utility use, making it ideal for homeowners who need substantial vehicle and storage capacity. Key features include:

• A generous two-car garage with ample clearance
• Space for tools, recreational equipment, or workshop functions
• A side entry door providing convenient access to the interior stairway
• Flexible layout suitable for hobbyists, collectors, or active lifestyles

This level can easily accommodate additional storage systems, workbenches, or custom cabinetry, depending on how the homeowner intends to use the space.

Upper Level: Open Loft Living

The upper level contains the heated living area and is intentionally designed without dedicated bedrooms, allowing the space to adapt to a variety of uses. This open loft configuration can function as:

• A guest retreat
• A home office or professional studio
• A fitness or wellness space
• An art or creative workshop
• A short-term or long-term rental unit

Natural light enters through well-placed windows beneath the roof overhang, creating a bright and comfortable environment. The open layout allows furniture placement and partitions to define zones without compromising flexibility.

Bathroom & Utility Layout

The plan includes a thoughtfully positioned full bathroom that supports the upper-level living area efficiently. Its location ensures convenience while maintaining privacy and flow throughout the space.

Additional utility and storage areas can be customized to suit specific needs, whether that includes laundry facilities, built-in storage, or mechanical systems.