What Is an In-Law Suite? Remodeling and Design Tips
Our families come in all different sorts of shapes and sizes—and we seek to live in spaces that enhance the quality of the time we spend with our loved ones. Many modern homeowners are seeking more flexible living arrangements that can evolve with the needs of their loved ones—large suites with guest bathrooms, guest houses, multi-residents homes with apartments or Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU), duplex homes, mother-in-law suites, and many more styles.
As family living arrangements change and the people in your life begin to age, creating a unique space in the home takes more than just setting up door, a bed, a couch, and a television. That’s where Unusual Designs can assist. Today, we are delighted to discuss tips for designing an accessory dwelling unit.
What Is a Mother-in-Law Suite?
A mother-in-law suite, often called a “granny suite,” is a space created directly within the home, such as a spare bedroom or finished basement, or areas detached from the house, like an extra guesthouse or tiny home. Many mother-in-law suites offer expera space like kitchenettes and living spaces that flex between your residence and theirs, giving your loved one a place to connect with the rest of the family. For a person who has raised a family and now finds themselves alone, a human or animal presence is essential for their overall well-being. Mother-in-law suites can allow you to experience co-generational living with flexible spaces that allow all parties to enjoy privacy and time alone when they need it.
What Is An Accessory Dwelling Unit?
An accessory dwelling unit is the official term for additional dwelling spaces attached or detached from the home. These spaces may have their own address and are totally separate apartments that may or may not connect to the rest of the home. Typically, face limitations of size compared to the main residence and may face other legal requirements in your county or city.
Tips for Designing an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) In Your Space
Here are some tips to consider when designing this space.
Safety is Essential
Safety is first and foremost; keeping space safe and according to code is the top priority. When thinking about how to plan a space for many chaning uses, such as the use of a loved one with health issues, that may dictate how you will potentially use the space in the future. Building in ramps, installing wide doorways, and adding grab bars that blend in with the space can be great add-ons for those aging in place.
- Durable performance carpet is an excellent choice when it comes to flooring as it prevents and breaks falls far better than hardwood or tile. Its more compact pile also makes it easier to clean!
Personalize The Space
If you share interior space with a loved one, ideally that space should reflect both your and their personalities. Private spaces with more personal surroundings are also at the top of the list in a remodel. Unusual Designs is home to a complete line of accessories, carpet, furniture, and flooring that will create a home away from home for your guests or loved ones.
- For an in-law suite, fill the space with your loved one’s favorite personal belongings. Family photos go a long way in creating a sense of connection.
Design for the Future
If we’ve said it before, we’ll say it again: think about how you (or a future buyer) will use this space over time. Durable floors and high-quality finishes will ensure that the space will hold up longer. Don’t forget to give it some of your personality with design, too. This space should receive the same detail and care as your home with an eye toward how the space may be used in the future.
- Wallpaper can also enhance the mood of any ADU. Unusual Designs offers thousands of patterns, each with unique aesthetic attributes.
Visit Us for Interior Design Solutions
Unusual Designs Inc. is your one-stop shop for all interior design needs, including window coverings from Hunter Douglas, furniture, accessories, fabric, and wallpaper from stellar brands. Our team of experts is well-versed in all our products and services and is eager to assist you in creating the perfect in-law suite or apartment space.
Contact us today to get your project started. We proudly serve Newport News, Hampton, Chesapeake, Yorktown, Williamsburg, Suffolk, and Gloucester, Virginia.
