If you are looking for a way to generate additional income, create more space for guests, or house supplies for a hobby, you may want to add an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) to your property.

An ADU is a diverse and affordable way to increase the amount of indoor space available for use on your property. These units come in a wide range of styles and sizes to help meet a homeowner's needs.

Here are three important factors that you will want to consider as you customize the floor plan of your own ADU in the future.

1. Storage Options

Since an ADU is typically smaller than a primary residence, storage can be limited. You should always consider your storage needs when designing the floor plan of an ADU.

It can be beneficial to build additional storage options into the overall design of your ADU. For example, you can convert stair risers into drawers and incorporate built-in shelving between wall studs in your floor plan.

These unique storage options will ensure that whoever is using the ADU has ample space to store the items they need access to on a daily basis.

2. Privacy

If more than one person will be occupying your ADU at any given time, you may want to take privacy into consideration as you design your floor plan. The smaller footprint of an ADU can make it challenging to create private spaces for multiple occupants.

You will need to get creative with your use of upper and lower living spaces. Incorporate multi-use areas on both upper and lower levels of your floor plan. This allows occupants to enjoy some separation from one another without sacrificing the function of the living space.

3. Accessibility

You should give careful thought to the accessibility of your ADU when designing the floor plan for this space. You will need to determine if you want your ADU to be accessible without having to go through your home.

Your floor plan should include an exterior door that faces a driveway or garage space to make entry and exit easier. A balcony or fire escape on the upper level of the structure can provide outdoor entertaining space and give occupants a second way to access the ADU.

When you build your floor plan around the accessibility of a space, you end up with an ADU that will meet your needs well into the future.

Contact a contractor to learn more about ADU floor plans.