1BR/1BA 37×13 Narrow

Narrow ADU Floor Plans: Space-Efficient Design for Skinny Lots

For homeowners with limited backyard space, our narrow ADU floor plans offer a functional, space-saving solution. At just over 13 feet in width and under 500 square feet, this one-bedroom ADU provides everything you need for modern living, making it an excellent choice for properties with space constraints.

Thoughtfully Designed for Narrow Spaces

This narrow ADU floor plan is perfect for properties where space is at a premium. Measuring just over 13 feet wide, this plan optimizes every square inch while still offering a comfortable living space.

Key Features of the Layout:

• Spacious Bedroom: Despite its compact footprint, the bedroom comfortably fits a queen-size bed and features a walk-in closet for ample storage.
• Open Living/Kitchen Great Room: The open-concept living and kitchen area is perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The kitchen includes full-size appliances and floor-to-ceiling cabinetry, ensuring plenty of storage and functionality.
• Full Bath & In-Unit Laundry: The bathroom is accessible from both the bedroom and the common living space, while an in-unit laundry adds convenience without taking up extra room.
• Under 500 Sq Ft: Reap cost-saving benefits in certain cities for staying under 500 sq ft, such as soils report and wastewater management exemptions. Read more in our ADU size guide.

Benefits of a Narrow Design:

• Efficient Use of Space: By keeping the design narrow, this ADU makes efficient use of limited square footage without sacrificing key amenities like a full kitchen, bathroom, and laundry.
• Great for Small Backyards: If your property has a narrow footprint, this ADU can easily fit, offering a flexible living option without needing a large plot of land. With standard 4′ setbacks from property lines and a 6′ setback from the existing home as is the regulation in most cities in San Diego County, such as Encinitas and Vista, you just need 24′ feet of backyard space for this ADU. This project in Carlsbad built to generate rental income is a great example of using this narrow floor plan in a smaller backyard.

Best Use Cases for a Narrow ADU

Our narrow ADU floor plan are highly versatile, making them suitable for a range of uses. Whether you’re looking to add a rental unit to your property or create a cozy space for a family member, this compact yet functional design is an excellent solution.

Top Use Cases:

• Rental Unit: A narrow ADU is perfect for a long-term tenant or as an Airbnb rental, providing an independent living space without requiring a large plot. Since this a smaller floor plan, this unit would be well suited for an individual or a couple.
• Guest House: Ideal for accommodating visiting family or friends, this plan offers privacy and all the essentials needed for a short or long-term stay.
• House Family: Whether you’re building for an aging parent or an adult child, this narrow ADU offers the privacy of a separate home while being close to the main house.

Affordability and Efficiency in a Narrow ADU

In addition to its space-saving design, this narrow ADU floor plan offers an affordable solution for homeowners looking to add value to their property. The smaller footprint keeps construction costs lower compared to larger ADUs, while still providing a highly functional living space. For a straightforward property, it is possible to keep this projects in the low $300,000’s as an all-in cost. With a smaller footprint, ongoing maintenance and utility costs are reduced as well, making it a more budget-friendly option for long-term use. While square footage is a large factor in determining total ADU cost, there are many other elements to consider such as site conditions which you can read about in our ADU cost guide.