56th
Oakland, California

A multi-functional space for a young family, this backyard home replaced an old shed that sat in the corner of the property. Designed to be use now as a home office, yoga and a guest house for out-of-town relatives, the ADU is also a potential aging-in-place home for the grandparents in the future.
An L-shaped floor plan means the home fits comfortably in the corner of the property. With doors on both ends and its own entry gate from the driveway, access to the ADU is dynamic and flexible. The homeowners also updated the landscaping to connect the unit to the existing house and garden, which is also home to a thriving honeybee hive.
Details
- 392 Exterior Square Feet
- Studio with Murphy Bed & Laundry
- Compact Built-In Kitchen
- L-shaped floor plan

Large, operable windows from both the kitchen and living area bring daylight and airflow indoors. The compact kitchen features white maple cabinets, a two-burner induction cooktop, and an under-counter fridge that blends in with the cabinetry.




A custom built-in desk and floating shelves provide a spacious office space. The foldable Murphy bed turns the sleeping area into a multi-functional living space. French doors open onto a generous deck, connecting the interior to the backyard garden.


With multiple views into the backyard, the interior feels more spacious and dynamic. The L-shaped floor plan creates a delineation of the space that also makes it feel larger.

