Lorina
Berkeley, California

This ADU was built to be a true "forever home" for the homeowners’ father, a cancer survivor. The space was carefully planned so he could age comfortably in place. The layout gives everyone privacy, while also including room for a caretaker to stay overnight, thanks to a shared kitchen and a flexible living area.
The design even takes the family’s height differences into account: tall windows and special appliances fit the 6'–5" homeowner, while lower windows make sure his 5'–0" wife can still enjoy the garden view. In the bedroom, wide French doors let in plenty of natural light and make it easy to move furniture or medical equipment. The end result is a home that feels welcoming, adaptable, and ready for whatever the future brings.
Details
- 526 exterior square feet
- One-bedroom with laundry
- Compact Built-In Kitchen
- L-shape floor plan


The bathroom is designed to ensure full ADA accessibility and meet aging-in-place building code standards. By integrating a generous floor radius for maneuverability, widened door openings, strategic outlet placement, and reinforced grab bars in the shower, the design provides a safe, barrier-free environment that prioritizes independence and dignity for years to come.
