Have you ever considered the untapped potential of your garage? Imagine transforming that overlooked space above your garage into a versatile living area. In fact, by building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) over your garage you can also create opportunities for rental income in the long run.
Here are the 10 most efficient floor plans for over-garage ADUs. As a result, you can maximize every inch of your space and create new possibilities for hosting in-laws when they come to visit.
1. 2-Bedroom In-Laws Apartment
Surprisingly, there is a lot of space above the 3-car garage. You can easily build 2 bedrooms, a spacious shared bathroom, and have room for an open-concept great area with an eat-in kitchen.
With almost 1,500 sqft of space, your in-laws would love to come and visit. Additionally, this creates a large enough apartment to bring sizable rental income, if you need to.
2. Contemporary RV Garage With Apartment Above
If your in-laws love to travel in their RV and come to visit you, this plan is for you. Imagine a sleek, second-floor modern space with a 10’x10′ bedroom and vaulted ceilings.
The kitchen boasts ample space, overlooking a beautiful deck. Also, this detached RV garage has room for 2 cars and a space where you can park an RV.
Furthermore, you can modify this floor plan by switching the living area and bedroom locations. As a result, it will eliminate the need for an entry hall and give you more space. This floor plan offers an incredible opportunity for a modern ADU.
3. Farmstyle In-Laws Apartment ADU
CHECK OUT THIS FLOOR PLAN HERE
Reminiscent of a historic carriage house, this in-laws’ apartment ADU over garage offers several possibilities for modifications. On the right, you can either have a carport or a covered patio.
Upstairs, a spacious 873 sq. ft. apartment offers lots of flexible use. Also, there is no lack of space with 2 bedrooms, a full bath, and a convenient L-shaped kitchen.
4. Craftsman ADU-Friendly Garage Apartment
GET THE FLOOR PLAN FOR 503 SQFT ADU HERE
This cozy garage apartment checks off all the boxes for an in-laws suite, a backyard ADU, or a home office. A compact 503 sq. ft. space above the 2-car garage has everything you need to legally qualify as an ADU to bring you extra income or serve as a comfy guest house.
5. 1-Bed Apartment Above 3-Car Garage
FIND THE 665 SQFT ADU PLAN HERE
Undeniably, the architecture of this building emphasizes attention to detail. With board and batten siding and a decorative timber truss, it has lots of charm and rustic appeal. Inside, you will find an oversized social room which is perfect for a family gathering and a game night. Also, your in-laws will appreciate the convenience of a private bedroom, a full bath, and a walk-in closet.
6. In-Laws Apartment ADU Over Garage
CHECK OUT 889 SQFT ADU PLAN HERE
This spacious ADU solution offers parking for 3 cars and an 889 sq. ft. 2-bedroom, 2-bath apartment above with a functional kitchen. Furthermore, the garage has storage under the stairs and space for a workbench. As a result, you can easily convert it into a woodworking or mechanical shop. A dream space for someone working from home!
7. 650 Sq. Ft. ADU Over Garage
FIND 650 SQFT OVER GARAGE ADU PLAN HERE
Looking to convert a space over your garage into a cozy in-laws’ apartment or a small rental? This straightforward solution gives you 650 sq. ft. of space. As a result, you have an open-concept living area, a spacious bedroom, and a giant walk-in closet with laundry.
8. 484 Sq. Ft. ADU with Open Floor Plan
GET 484 SQFT ADU FLOOR PLAN HERE
This over-garage apartment offers a simple square footprint and an attractive Craftsman exterior. With just a partial wall separating the living area from the sleeping quarters, the 484 sq. ft. space has the potential for flexible use. It makes a cozy in-laws’ suite, a private work-from-home office, or a small rental.
9. European-Style Carriage Plan with Studio
FIND EUROPEAN-STYLE ADU STUDIO PLAN HERE
Not only this architectural solution is full of charm but also offers a spacious 650 sq. ft. studio above the garage. The design is perfect for in-laws, a home office, or a rental ADU. The main level has parking for 2 cars. Furthermore, the full kitchen is open to the living area which will need a fold-out couch to accommodate sleeping.
10. 3-car Garage with 800 Sq. Ft. Apartment Above
Above all, this charming ADU solution gives you 1,019 sq. ft. to park your fleet of cars on the ground level and an 814 square-foot apartment above. The living space has plenty of natural light thanks to dormers. Also, a spacious private bedroom with a walk-in closet will ensure that your guests have a good night’s rest.
Legal Aspects of ADUs
As you browse these trending floor plans, you are probably wondering what makes a structure a legal ADU. Obviously, there are many rules and regulations governing accessory dwelling units.
Also, the laws in all states are constantly evolving, so it is wise to consult your state’s housing authority before starting a project. Another challenge is the issue of zoning and building codes. However, many cities are relaxing these regulations to encourage ADU construction.
In general, every ADU should have:
- a separate entrance
- a kitchen
- a bathroom
- a sleeping area
- environmental controls (heating and A/C).
Advantages of In-Laws Apartment ADUs
Not only do ADUs give you the flexibility to share living spaces with family members and others, but they also allow seniors to age in place, even if they require additional care. This means extended families can stay together while still maintaining a sense of privacy.
ADUs are also beneficial in multi-generational living arrangements. They can provide affordable housing options for family members, students, the elderly, in-home health care providers, individuals with disabilities, and more, all within existing neighborhoods.
Grant Programs for Building ADUs
On the positive side, some states, such as California, offer grants to help homeowners with ADU construction costs. Furthermore, recent updates to the program have expanded the eligibility, making it easier for more people to qualify for a $40K grant.
If you are planning on building an in-laws’ apartment, then check out the steps outlined for the California ADU Financing Program.
In summary, the California ADU Grant provides up to $40,000 towards pre-development and non-reoccurring closing costs associated with the construction of the ADU. Pre-development costs include site prep, architectural designs, permits, soil tests, impact fees, property surveys, and energy reports.
Exploring Potential Rental Income
One key aspect to consider when exploring the potential of garage apartments as ADUs is the opportunity for generating rental income. By renting out your garage apartment, you can supplement your income and potentially offset the costs of converting or building the space.
Researching rental rates in your area and understanding the demand for ADUs can help you determine a competitive price point for your unit. With attention to detail in creating a comfortable living environment, you can attract tenants and maximize your rental income.
Designing for Flexibility
When it comes to designing your garage apartment for versatility as an ADU, consider how you can maximize the space to serve multiple purposes. Think about incorporating flexible furniture pieces that can easily transform a living room into a guest bedroom or a home office. Modular storage solutions can also help optimize the layout of the space, allowing for seamless transitions between different uses.
Another aspect to consider in designing for versatility is the use of multifunctional areas. For example, a dining table that doubles as a workspace during the day or a Murphy bed that can be tucked away when not in use can make your garage apartment adaptable to various needs.
By thinking creatively about your design choices, you can create a space that is not only functional but also versatile enough to accommodate different lifestyles and preferences.
Check out more ADU Solutions
- Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs): Meaning, Pros, Cons, and Floor Plans
- How to Build a Small Guest House in Your Backyard
- Tiny Cottage House Plans: Guide to Build Yours
In Conclusion
In conclusion, garage apartments have the power to revolutionize living spaces, whether through maximizing efficiency, creating comfort, generating income, navigating regulations, or embracing versatility. By exploring the potential of these ADUs, homeowners can unlock a world of possibilities.
So, do your homework and research today so you can transform your garage into a valuable asset later. Remember, a garage apartment is not just a space – it’s a gateway to many opportunities. Take action and maximize the full potential of your garage apartment to benefit your family’s lifestyle and financial future.
