Tiny, inexpensive ADUs (which many people also refer to as granny flats or in-law suites) have gained a lot of popularity recently. Despite their small size, they’re very versatile, convenient, and significantly increase property value. You can use such a house to accommodate your elderly parents, adult kids, or guests, work online, or indulge in your hobby without anyone bothering you. If you organize its house plans properly and meet all the requirements, you can make it as comfortable as a bigger-sized house.

The main subject of this review is 749-square-foot accessory dwelling units, their main advantages and floor plan options. If you want to plan and get an ADU approved, read this page!

Benefits of 749 SQ. FT. ADUs

Some people think larger houses are preferable, but small architectural plans also have their own perks.

Let’s review the biggest advantages of 749-square-foot accessory dwelling unit plans:

• Cost-effectiveness. In a tiny home, all expenses are much lower, including taxes, bills, and mortgage payments;
• A small construction doesn’t need as much maintenance as bigger homes;
• It requires less furniture and materials. The most suitable furniture options for its floor plans are multifunctional — a storage sofa or a table bed. Another space-saving solution can be sliding windows.

Also, it will change your lifestyle to a more active, outdoorsy one. Even if it has large windows and is comfortable to live in, such a tiny house isn’t very suitable to spend whole days inside it.

Planning Options of 749 SQ. FT. ADUs

As with any other accessory dwelling unit, an ADU of 749 sq. ft. can belong to one of the different types.

Now, let’s review the main options for ADU plans:

1. An attached ADU is connected to the main house. Great for elderly parents with specific needs;
2. A detached ADU — a standalone dwelling unit. The most popular planning type. Good for housing guests and tenants;
3. A garage (attic, basement) conversion — a construction or a house part turned into an ADU. You’ll need to change its floor plan and install new walls, doors, and windows to make it. Note that you’ll also need to apply for a permit with such plans. A converted ADU needs to get approved by your city or county authorities, just as all other ADU options.

Who Needs 749 SQ. FT. ADUs

With proper space optimization, a 749 sq. ft. accessory dwelling unit can be comfortable for almost anyone. However, there are several groups of homeowners for whom such a house can be the perfect variant.

They are:

• Introverts who find comfort in living alone;
• Freelance workers who can turn such an ADU project into a personal mini-office;
• Couples, including elderly parents and in-laws. Many people build such houses for their aging relatives who have specific needs and require care;
• Kids who have grown up and begin to desire privacy.

As we’ve already mentioned in our review, an ADU of 749 sq. ft. also can be a great source of rental income. It doesn’t cost very much, but accommodating tenants can bring you lots of money every month. Another popular purpose of a small ADU is a guest house. If you have friends who often visit you, it may be very convenient. You can give them a comfortable place to stay without sacrificing your and their privacy.

As you may see, this construction can be suitable for lots of different people. If you want to submit this plan, contact the A+ contractor specialists. Our builders and designers are among the best in California. They’re very skillful and experienced in building ADUs of all types and sizes.

We can provide you with all possible support you’ll request, including free price calculations, plan and drawing corrections, consultation about fees and other moments, and help with permit issuance, which you’ll apply for. We’ll get your ADU project reviewed, submitted, and approved by your city or county authorities.

Frequently Asked Questions — FAQ

How many square feet is a 2-bedroom ADU?

A habitable accessory dwelling unit with two bedrooms should be at least 600 sq. ft. But really comfortable floor plan variants begin from 749 sq. ft. So yes, an ADU with this size can have two bedrooms and be comfy at the same time.

How much does a 600 sq. ft. ADU cost?

It depends on many factors, such as the type of ADU project. A garage or basement conversion will be cheaper than a detached ADU (completely separated from the main house). Design options, materials, floor plan, various fees, and the property owners’ specific needs also can affect the price. Typically, a detached ADU of this size costs $180,000.

What is the smallest ADU design?

To be livable at least to some degree, a dwelling unit should include all the amenities (kitchen, bedroom, bathroom) and meet safety regulations. The tiniest ADU that is possible to live in is approximately 150 sq. ft. However, other factors such as the building requirements and permit issuance of your location (city or county) also determine its minimal possible size.

Can you build 2 ADUs in California?

Yes! The building laws of this state allow the construction of two accessory dwelling units on the same property — in case one of those projects is a junior ADU (doesn’t exceed 500 sq. ft.) The other ADU can belong to any type — attached, detached, converted from a garage, attic, or basement. If your plans meet these requirements, permit issuance is possible. In other words, you can get your plan not only reviewed but also approved.