18-1141 GARAGE PLAN -Carriage House Home Plan – 1-Bed, 1-Bath, 534 SF

Carriage House Garage Apartment Plan with Classic Suburban Styling

A flexible and efficient ADU design offering 534 heated sq. ft., timeless exterior detailing, and complete CAD + PDF construction documents for customization.

This Carriage House Garage Apartment plan blends practical garage functionality with an efficient and comfortable upper-level living space. Designed to deliver maximum utility on a compact footprint, this home is ideal for homeowners seeking an attractive ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit), guest suite, private workspace, or supplemental rental property. Its exterior features a clean combination of horizontal siding and a brick water-table base, providing durability, low maintenance, and timeless curb appeal.

The architecture draws primarily from the Carriage House / Garage Apartment style, with secondary influence from Traditional Suburban residential design. This combination produces a balanced, familiar silhouette that fits comfortably into urban, suburban, and rural settings. Whether placed behind a primary residence or on a small standalone lot, the structure maintains a sense of refinement and proportion.

Architectural Style & Exterior Design

The steep roof pitch, symmetrical front façade, and simplified trimwork come together to create a cohesive and welcoming aesthetic. The home’s massing—two gables flanking a central drive-up entry—distinguishes it from typical garage structures, immediately signaling that it includes an upper living space.

• Horizontal lap siding provides classic residential texture and longevity.
• Brick foundation base adds structural integrity, moisture resistance, and visual grounding.
• Wide-paneled garage doors with upper transom windows allow daylight into the garage area.
• Clean rooflines reduce maintenance while enhancing architectural simplicity.

This pairing of materials is well suited to most neighborhoods and offers excellent durability across climates. For further precedent on mixed-material suburban exteriors, browse examples on Houzz.

Interior Layout & Functional Planning

Totaling 534 heated sq. ft., the upper-level living area provides a flexible open concept that can be adapted for a variety of uses. With carefully considered wall placements and mechanical zones, this compact plan maximizes natural light and circulation.

Upper-Level Living Space

The second story is designed as a comfortable studio-style living zone. It can function as an independent residential suite or as a specialized space for work, recreation, or guests. Options for a kitchenette, upgraded bathroom layout, or compact sleeping nook make it easy to personalize.

• Open living/studio area offers flexibility for furniture arrangements and layout personalization.
• Space-efficient kitchenette zone can be integrated along a single wall.
• Bathroom-ready layout allows for easy plumbing installation.
• Ample windows ensure pleasant daylighting.
• High ceilings make the space feel significantly larger than its square footage.

Garage Level & Workspace Potential

The ground floor features a two-car garage totaling 624 sq. ft., providing generous space not only for vehicles but also for storage, a workshop, or equipment. The overhead clearance supports tall shelving, attic truss storage options, or mechanical installations. This level is especially useful for homeowners needing secure storage or a professional-grade work area.

• 2-car garage with wide bays and upgraded door windows.
• Ideal for workshop or hobby use with excellent floor space.
• Optional built-ins provide long-term organization solutions.
• Slab or crawlspace foundation options available depending on site requirements.

Site Flexibility & Outdoor Considerations

The compact footprint of this Carriage House plan allows it to be placed on narrow, shallow, or rear-lot configurations. The simple driveway approach minimizes grading costs, while the structure’s rectangular design reduces construction complexity. Because of its height and balanced massing, it can complement a wide range of primary home styles without competing visually.

• Ideal for narrow lots or urban infill parcels.
• Efficient roof shapes reduce long-term maintenance costs.
• Minimal site disturbance keeps overall construction costs low.

Who This Plan Is Perfect For

This garage apartment design is suited to diverse living situations and practical needs. Its small size keeps energy use and construction cost manageable, while the flexible layout accommodates a broad range of functions.

• Rental property owners looking for a dependable, long-term income unit.
• Homeowners needing a guest suite or private quarters for extended family.
• Working professionals seeking a detached home office or creative studio.
• Individuals or couples interested in an affordable starter home.
• Property investors adding value through ADU development.

Included Plan Package

Every purchase includes a comprehensive set of design documents to accelerate the building process and simplify communication with your builder, engineer, or planning authority.

• Full CAD files for editing and customization.
• PDF construction drawings for easy printing and builder use.
• Unlimited Build License for flexible long-term construction use.
• Engineering included for structural compliance.
• Optional modifications tailored to your needs.
• Plan previews available prior to purchase.

Customization Potential

This Carriage House design invites personalization without requiring major structural changes. Homeowners can expand functionality via interior wall adjustments, expanded bathrooms, upgraded storage, or specialized living arrangements. The simple roof structure and efficient wall layout make modifications economical.

Common enhancements include:

• Adding a full bath or upgraded shower layout
• Integrating a kitchenette or studio-style cooking area
• Creating an enclosed sleeping alcove
• Installing skylights for added daylight
• Adding dormers to increase usable headroom

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this plan include both the garage and upper living area?
Yes. All plan packages include CAD and PDF files showing both levels in full detail.

Is plumbing easy to add?
Yes. The structure is designed so that plumbing lines can be run efficiently without major framing modifications.

Can this serve as a primary residence?
Absolutely. Many homeowners live full-time in ADUs, especially when seeking simplicity and low operating costs.

Is this an economical plan to build?
Yes. The rectangular footprint, straightforward rooflines, and balanced exterior make it one of the most cost-efficient ADU structures to construct.

Can I preview the full plans?
Yes. Full previews are available so you can review the drawings before purchasing.

Start Your Project with Confidence

This Carriage House Garage Apartment plan offers a balanced blend of practicality, style, and affordability. Whether you’re building a rental unit, a personal studio, or a guest residence, the thoughtful layout and detailed construction documents make it easy to bring your vision to life. If you’re ready to begin your project or have questions about customization, reach out to our support team anytime.

Your future ADU begins with a well-crafted plan—and the flexibility to make it uniquely yours.