Tardif ADU

The Tardif ADU works with limited backyard space to offer an immersive, open dwelling unit despite its small footprint. With only 425 square feet, this one-bedroom ADU takes advantage of high vaulted ceilings and a storage loft to maximize space and allow each room to comfortably breathe. Skylights and North-facing windows bathe each room with a cascade of natural light, rendering the use of electricity and lighting unnecessary for most of the day. Care was taken to keep all views away from the main residence, maintaining a strong sense of privacy and separation between the dwelling units. A beautiful backyard of well-maintained foliage surrounds the fenestration, shielding the open kitchen and great room from neighboring properties while lending a natural jungle accent to the interior beach theme.

Attention was given to making the East façade of the ADU give something back to the main residence’s backyard, rather than to get in the way as a foreign wall. A plant wall extrusion was designed to allow the ADU’s exterior wall to enhance the existing back patio as a holistic part of the main residence, while still maintaining a barrier and privacy between the two dwellings.

Located just minutes away from downtown Encinitas, the train station, and a coastal trail, the ADU offers its residents convenient and safe walkability to shops and dining, beaches, parks, and beyond. With a small footprint and no impact on surrounding properties, the ADU provides one more step to housing that balances sustainability and modern living.

Year: 2022

Location: 92024

Design Style: Contemporary