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Designing an ADU for Multigenerational Living


What Is an Attached Dwelling Unit (ADU)?

As more families look for ways to live together while maintaining independence, Attached Dwelling Units (ADUs) are becoming an increasingly meaningful solution. At Keystone Custom Homes, we approach ADUs with intentional design, thoughtful collaboration, and a deep understanding of multigenerational living.

How does Keystone Custom Homes define an Attached Dwelling Unit (ADU)?

An ADU is a separate living space attached to a single-family home. It includes its own bedroom area and living space, and may also feature a light kitchen or kitchenette.

What makes it unique is that while it’s connected to the main home, it allows multiple generations or family members to live together in one cohesive environment—without sacrificing privacy or independence.

What are things to consider when designing an ADU?

When planning an ADU, independence should be a top priority. Even though the space is connected to the main home, it should still feel complete and self-sufficient.

Key elements to consider include:

  • A private, direct entrance
  • A dedicated bedroom
  • A flexible space like a study or office
  • A kitchenette or light kitchen
  • An open-concept living area

The goal is to recreate the comfort and functionality of a standalone living space while keeping everyone under one roof.

Are ADUs standardized, or are they customized?

Every ADU is fully customized. No two families are the same, and no two ADUs should be either. Our design process is centered around personalization. We walk homeowners through every detail, exploring how the space will function, feel, and flow with the rest of the home. It’s an exciting process because it’s entirely shaped around their lifestyle.

What does the design and planning process look like?

It’s highly collaborative and incredibly detailed. From the very beginning, we listen carefully to the homeowner’s goals and dreams. Then we ensure those elements carry all the way through:

  • Designers carefully shape the vision
  • Drafters double and triple-check the plans
  • Our PCR team reviews every detail
  • Internal communication ensures alignment across teams
  • There’s constant coordination behind the scenes to make sure the final product reflects exactly what the family envisioned.

What makes designing an ADU different from designing a standard home?

It’s about the depth of family connection. With an ADU, we’re often meeting not just the primary homeowners, but also the family members who will be moving in. That adds a deeper layer of responsibility and meaning to the project. Understanding how everyone will live together, how they’ll interact, where they’ll gather, and where they’ll retreat is what makes ADU design so special.

Because they offer the best of both worlds. Families can live under one roof while still maintaining their own space and lifestyle. Each person can express their interior design style and daily routines independently, while still staying deeply connected to those they love.

ADUs aren’t just an addition to a home—they’re an opportunity to strengthen family bonds while honoring individuality.

  • A truly integrated design
  • Functional spaces tailored to their needs
  • A home that serves multiple generations with intention
  • The ability to live together, comfortably and beautifully

Ultimately, we want homeowners to move in knowing their home was thoughtfully created for the life they plan to live together.

Why have ADUs become so meaningful for families?

Because they offer the best of both worlds, everyone can live under one roof while still maintaining their own space and lifestyle. Each person can express their interior design style and daily routines independently, while still staying deeply connected to those they love.

ADUs aren’t just an addition to a home; they’re an opportunity to strengthen family bonds while honoring individuality.

If you’re considering multigenerational living, an Attached Dwelling Unit may be the perfect solution. Request an appointment for more information on floorplans that accommodate multigenerational living!