Modern ADU in Del Ray, Alexandria, Virginia
Project Overview
This ADU (accessory dwelling unit) project gained momentum through a citywide initiative in Alexandria to better structure zoning regulations to accommodate their construction. Oftentimes principal dwellings are restricted to occupancy calculations and additions are hard to isolate without disrupting the house, so building an ADU in a rear yard can be a viable option. It also provides a retreat for the homeowners – even more so for their children – and offers an AirBNB or inlaw opportunity, too. All of these factors pushed our clients into considering constructing an ADU and the addition was designed with these constraints precisely in mind.
Design + Layout
The space is equipped with a full bath and W/D unit, a sleeping quarter with bunk beds that can easily be used as an office. Downstairs features a fully equipped kitchen, and a cozy den that opens up to the outdoor space for hosting. We planned independent electrical and HVAC systems apart from the main house and a private keypad entry for those AirBNB guests that want to come and go without disturbing the homeowner. The kitchen specifically was designed around the idea of opening up into the shared courtyard space that is framed between the ADU and the back of the principal house. The sink and main appliances all face large windows out towards the street, and the larger working countertop space has countertop-resting windows that pull open 10ft accommodating a bar overhang to the outdoors.
Style + Finishes
Though the rooms of the ADU are smaller than those we often work with, we pulled out all the stops for the kitchen and living spaces. In the kitchen, a cabinet-mounted speed convection oven and 2-burner induction range top ensures its utility as a place to cook and eat, while a full-size farmhouse sink makes cleaning up afterwards easy. With a cool, bright oak floor and drab olive cabinets, we arrived at a very natural-feeling finish, only helped by the inside-outside features of the folding windows and outdoor bar, and tons of natural light throughout.
Click here to learn more about the products and finishes used in this project.