18 ADU Design Ideas to Increase Value

Across the United States, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are becoming popular property additions, especially in Florida, California, Texas and Georgia. In 2019, there were 1.4 million homes with ADUs. 

ADUs can be independent of a home or connected to a larger building. They usually have a separate entrance and include a bathroom, living room and kitchen. Many homeowners use ADUs as in-law suites, guest houses or rental properties. No matter how you use it, you probably want to know how to increase your ADU's value. These 18 design ideas can make your ADU appear luxurious and desirable, thus increasing its value.

An ADU offers many benefits to homeowners, including: 

• Aging in place: If you use the ADU to house your older family members or in-laws, you can keep them close and allow them to age in place. Additionally, since they can live in the ADU for free, they can save money on assisted living fees.
• Guest space: ADUs offer a private, comfortable place for guests.
• Increased property value: The list price of homes with ADUs is 35% higher than those without. A well-designed ADU can make your property more attractive to potential buyers.

When wondering how to increase the value of an ADU, you must consider decor, furnishings, finishings and landscaping.

Decor Ideas

One of the best ways to utilize ADU interior design to increase its value is through decor. Here are some of the popular decor ideas for ADUs.

1. Accents

Accents showcase your style and complete a room. If you find your room looking empty, try adding the following: 

• Decorative pillows
• Blankets
• Rugs
• Potted plants
• Lamps
• Wall art
• Decorative storage baskets
• Knickknacks

2. Vertical Garden

A vertical garden allows you to adorn your ADU with plants without occupying floor space. You can use custom wall shelving units to hold herbs, vegetables, fruits or decorative plants. Introducing greenery into your ADU increases your happiness and makes the space feel more lively and welcoming.

3. Wall Shelves

 

Wall shelves offer additional storage and use less space than freestanding shelves. You can use wall shelves to store anything you can think of — spices, books, pots and pans, pictures and other loose items.

4. Mirrors

Mirrors can create the illusion of more space by reflecting natural light. Natural light makes a room feel open and airy. You can place mirrors across from windows throughout your ADU.

5. Window Treatments

Window treatments can help optimize natural light during the day and block artificial light at night. You can invest in light-colored blackout curtains or pair blinds with curtains. 

6. Area Rugs

Generally, the kitchen, living room and bedroom are open-concept in an ADU. Since you don't have walls to break up the different sections, you can use area rugs.

7. Reflective Materials

Materials that reflect light, such as white tiles or white lacquered walls, create the illusion of more space. Lighter colors and shiny materials make a room appear more expansive.

Furnishing Ideas

Furniture makes your ADU more comfortable for its inhabitants. When you furnish your ADU, you want to make the most of limited space. This means choosing furniture that allows you to live efficiently. Here are some functional furniture items to include in your ADU.

8. Wall Beds

When your living room and bedroom are the same, you'll want to choose furniture that suits the needs of both rooms. For example, wall beds provide comfort and flexibility. You can choose a wall bed that converts into a sofa, table, desk or bunk bed. This allows you to maximize your space without sacrificing your comfort.

9. Transformative Tables

 

Another way to live efficiently is by choosing a dining table that is also a coffee table or desk. Many people only use their dining tables when hosting dinner parties or other gatherings. However, they might use their coffee table or desk daily. Choosing a table that converts into a coffee table or desk can help you make the most of your living space.

10. Seating

Multipurpose seating allows you to use your space wisely. You can choose sofas with tables or folding chairs that you only bring out when you have guests.

11. Storage

Regardless of the amount of space you have, it's always nice to have additional storage. Furniture that contains storage is the best of both worlds. You meet both needs at the same time and keep your space looking stylish and organized. 

Finishing Ideas

Finishings bring a place to life and make it complete. When adding the finishing touches to your ADU, you can increase its value with these ADU design ideas.

12. Light Fixtures

Lighting is crucial for any home. Decorative fixtures make a place seem stylish and well-lit. You can place lights around the mirror in the bathroom, a chandelier in the dining area and nice, simple fixtures everywhere else.

13. Flooring

The type of flooring you choose can increase comfort and aesthetic appeal. Looking for flooring that is easy to maintain, such as wooden and vinyl flooring, might be beneficial. 

14. Accent Wall

An accent wall draws the eyes, enhancing your wall's visual appeal and the interior design of your ADU. You can create an accent wall by adding wallpaper or painting a wall a different color or adding a pattern or artwork.

15. Luxurious Touches

You can make your ADU luxurious with the following: 

• Candles
• Heated floors in the bathroom
• Heated towels
• Plush towels
• A bar cart or wine cart in the kitchen
• Reed diffusers
• A yoga or meditation area
• Smart technology

Landscaping Ideas

The last step in designing your ADU is to consider landscaping. Lovely landscaping makes your property more attractive. Here are some landscaping ideas for your ADU.

16. Rock Garden

A small rock garden can make your ADU feel like a spa. It's relaxing and eye-catching. You can include a bamboo fountain to enhance the peaceful atmosphere.

17. Bird Attractants

When you listen to a bird chirp, it can soothe and relax you. You can encourage birds to rest around the yard with a bird fountain, house and feeder.

18. Garden

Creating a small flower bed in front of the ADU brightens the yard and gives off pleasant fragrances. You can also plant flowers in the backyard or make a vegetable, fruit or herb garden.

Find High-Quality Transformative Furniture Today

 

Now that you have ADU design ideas to increase value, you need high-quality transformative furniture to bring it all together. Resource Furniture has led the multifunctional furniture design industry for over 20 years. 

Our furniture solves common problems such as limited space and lack of storage, functionality or entertainment space. We offer wall beds crafted in Italy, as well as high-quality tables, seating and storage solutions. Schedule a visit to one of our nine showrooms today, so we can help you find the perfect furniture for your ADU.