When these La Jolla homeowners first contacted us, they had a problem common among California families: their elderly mother needed to move closer, but no one wanted to give up their independence. “We want her nearby, but she needs her own space,” they told us. An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) was the perfect solution.

The challenge? Their backyard wasn’t very large, and La Jolla’s building codes are notoriously strict. We spent weeks managing permits and setback requirements, but it was worth it. The result is a compact, bright studio that, despite its size, feels spacious.

The exterior maintains a simple, modern style: clean lines, a pitched roof with a steep slope, and warm taupe siding that complements the main house without being an exact replica. The black-framed windows aren’t just elegant; they were strategically placed to maximize natural light while preserving privacy from neighboring properties. The landscaping with drought-resistant plants and contemporary concrete pavers? It was a collaboration between us and the homeowners’ landscaper, and the result harmonizes everything perfectly.

Inside, we designed a surprisingly functional linear kitchen despite its small size. In an ADU, every inch counts, so we opted for European-style flat-panel cabinets that offer great storage capacity, stainless steel appliances adapted to the space, and that glass door opening to the private patio—because even a small house deserves to feel connected to the outdoors.

The bedroom is our favorite room. The tall windows flood the space with light while preserving privacy, and the vaulted ceiling makes it seem twice as large. The black window frames create a striking architectural contrast with the soft cream walls.

Six months after moving in, the daughter sent us a photo: her mother having morning coffee on that little patio, smiling. That’s why we do this work. It’s not just about building structures, but about creating spaces where families can stay connected while respecting each person’s need for independence.