17-2059 ADU POOL HOUSE -Traditional Cottage Home Plan – 1-Bed, 1-Bath, 400 SF

Traditional Cottage ADU with Symmetrical Design and Brick Accents

A compact, beautifully balanced detached living space designed for modern functionality and timeless architectural appeal.

This refined Traditional Cottage ADU blends classic suburban proportions with the soft charm of Colonial Revival influences. Ideal as a guest suite, backyard rental, home office, or multigenerational living solution, this design offers remarkable efficiency within a compact footprint. Its symmetrical façade, centered French doors, round gable window, and clean horizontal siding make it an elegant addition to any residential property.

Architectural Character & Exterior Style

The aesthetic of this home emphasizes simplicity, balance, and long-term durability. Inspired by traditional American Cottage architecture, the exterior includes:

• Horizontal lap siding for a crisp, classic finish that suits both suburban and rural settings.
• Brick water-table base that adds warmth, texture, and a grounded foundation.
• French doors with divided lights to promote natural light and seamless indoor–outdoor movement.
• Symmetrical façade and centered gable reflecting timeless Colonial Revival principles.
• Dark shutters framing the front windows for enhanced contrast and traditional charm.
• Architectural shingles providing durability, weather protection, and visual refinement.

The combination of these materials and proportions creates a small home with impressive curb appeal. It feels at home in a variety of neighborhoods, from classic suburban communities to wooded lots and urban backyards.

Interior Flexibility for Modern Living

Though compact, this ADU is designed to function beautifully as a standalone living space or flexible extension of the main home. With approximately 400 square feet of heated space, the plan can accommodate a wide range of uses:

• Guest suite with bedroom, living area, kitchenette, and full bath.
• Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) for rental income or extended family living.
• Home office or studio with quiet separation from the primary residence.
• Exercise room or wellness retreat with space for yoga, equipment, or a spa setup.
• Hobby workshop with abundant natural light through the French doors and windows.

The centered entry allows for intuitive interior zoning, while the rectangular footprint minimizes wasted space. With simple interior wall adjustments, the layout can support single-room studio living or a fully partitioned bed-and-bath configuration.

Symmetry, Light, and Indoor–Outdoor Flow

One of the defining advantages of this small home design is the way it uses symmetry to create visual harmony. The evenly spaced windows, trim, and gable details create a façade that feels balanced and welcoming.

The French doors are not only a defining architectural feature but also a functional asset. They:

• Fill the interior with natural light
• Create a sense of spaciousness within the compact layout
• Allow easy access to patios, gardens, or pathways
• Provide a dramatic focal point when viewed from the yard

Above the entry, the round gable window reinforces the cottage character while adding charm and additional interior illumination.

Construction Materials & Durability

This ADU embraces tried-and-true construction practices suited for a variety of climates. Homeowners and builders appreciate the mix of durability, simplicity, and low maintenance provided by the materials:

• Horizontal siding: Resistant to warping, easy to paint, and compatible with both modern and traditional palettes.
• Brick base: Adds structural sturdiness while helping protect the façade from moisture and landscaping wear.
• Shingle roofing: A reliable and cost-effective option with excellent longevity.
• Energy-efficient windows and French doors: Enhancing comfort and reducing utility usage.

This combination helps create a structure that remains appealing and resilient for decades.

Perfect for a Variety of Property Types

This plan integrates naturally into nearly any environment:

• Suburban backyards looking for a guest suite or home office
• Urban lots in need of a compact ADU rental
• Rural properties where simplicity and charm are prized
• Lake and recreational lots seeking a small retreat structure

Because of its compact footprint and straightforward roofline, the ADU is both economical to build and easy to adapt across different terrains.

Customization Options

This Traditional Cottage plan is versatile and highly adaptable. Homeowners often modify it to suit their living needs or aesthetic preferences. Popular customizations include:

• Adding interior partitions to create a full bedroom and bath layout
• Extending the footprint for additional living space
• Upgrading to a vaulted ceiling for more vertical volume
• Adding built-in storage or cabinetry to maximize efficiency
• Integrating a small kitchenette for ADU rental purposes

Because the plan is included in both CAD and PDF formats, builders can easily adjust dimensions, cabinetry layouts, or window placements prior to construction.

Included Construction Benefits

• CAD + PDF Files: Full editable files for architectural modification and builder coordination.
• Unlimited Build License: Allows homeowners or developers to construct the design multiple times.
• Structural Engineering: Ensures safety, compliance, and long-term reliability.
• Lower Cost of Modifications: Efficient file formats reduce redesign expenses.

For additional architectural context and inspiration, you may explore similar small homes and ADUs on
ArchDaily.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this ADU suitable for year-round living?
Yes. With proper insulation, HVAC, and utilities, it functions as a fully conditioned, livable structure.

Can the layout be adjusted?
Absolutely. The compact rectangular footprint makes wall adjustments, expansions, and interior reconfigurations straightforward.

Does this design work for narrow lots?
Yes. Its modest width is ideal for tight backyards or urban infill lots.

What architectural style category does this plan belong to?
This plan blends Traditional Cottage styling with subtle Classic Suburban and Colonial Revival influences.

Does this come with engineering?
Yes — structural engineering is included with the plan package.

Begin Your Backyard Cottage Project Today

Whether you’re planning a rental ADU, a guest house, a serene home office, or a multigenerational living suite, this Traditional Cottage design provides timeless style and exceptional value. With its efficient layout, charming proportions, and included structural engineering, it offers a reliable foundation for a wide range of property goals.