6 Accessory Dwelling Unit Design Ideas

Accessory Dwelling Unit Design: Bringing Glamour to a Small Space

Tampa recently relaxed its accessory dwelling unit (ADU) guidelines—making it easier than ever to turn a little extra space into a cozy house or in-law suite. So, if you're ready to add a bit of liveable glamour to your backyard cottage or garage apartment, the Lisa Gilmore Design team has some fun, functional tips to help you maximize your accessory dwelling unit design.

Accessory Dwelling Unit Design for Tampa Homeowners

A stylish accessory dwelling unit design can be a game-changer. It’s all about making a small space feel luxurious, comfortable, and ready for anything—from out-of-town guests to full-time tenants. Here’s how to make your ADU feel like a little slice of home:

BUILT-IN WINDOW SEAT WITH STORAGE - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

1. Maximize Every Inch

Space is precious in an ADU, so let’s make it count! Think vertically: floating shelves, built-in storage, and tall closets are your best friends here. Multi-purpose furniture, like storage beds or foldable tables, can also be lifesavers. Lofted spaces are fantastic for adding a cozy sleeping nook—especially if you have tall ceilings. Planning out a flow that makes sense for daily living will help even the tiniest accessory dwelling unit feel spacious and welcoming.

2. Light and Bright Finishes for Openness

Small spaces benefit from light-colored finishes that bounce natural light around the room, making it feel airy and expansive. Think whites, soft greys, and creams for the main palette, with a splash of color on a kitchen backsplash or accent wall. Mirrors are a small-space magic trick: they reflect light, creating an illusion of space. If your space has limited windows, mirrors are an absolute must for your accessory dwelling unit design plans.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

OPEN CONCEPT LIVING - LISA GILMORE DESIGN

3. Open-Concept Living for an Inviting Accessory Dwelling Unit Design

Open-concept living is perfect for making the space feel bigger. Merging the kitchen, dining, and living areas creates a connected, cozy feel. For visual separation, use area rugs, mix up the lighting, or add interesting room divider screens. Think pendant lights in the kitchen, and softer ambient lighting in the living area to help “zone” the space without losing the open look.

4. Durable, Low-Maintenance Materials

Since ADUs often serve as guest rooms or rentals, choose materials that are as tough as they are beautiful. Vinyl plank flooring offers style and easy maintenance, while quartz countertops resist scratches and stains. With durable finishes, your ADU will look as good as new, even after plenty of use.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

5. Outdoor Space for Extra Room

Nothing makes an ADU feel bigger than a little outdoor space! A small patio, balcony, or deck can extend the living area and offer a fresh-air retreat. If you don’t have room for a deck, even a simple setup with chairs and potted plants can add charm and give guests their own outdoor escape.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

6. Personalize Like a Mini-Home

Your accessory dwelling unit design doesn’t need to be just a small version of your home—it’s a chance to add cozy, unique touches. Whether it’s mid-century modern or farmhouse chic, you can design it with its own personality. Small design elements like unique lighting, vibrant pillows, or stylish wall art make a big impact without overwhelming the space.

photo: Lisa Gilmore Design

FAQs: Everything You Want to Know About Accessory Dwelling Unit Design

1. What is the best flooring for an ADU?

For durability and easy maintenance, vinyl plank and laminate flooring are solid choices. Both resist water and are easy to clean, while engineered hardwood can add a warmer, elevated look. In warmer climates, like Tampa, tile is also a great, cool option for high-traffic accessory dwelling unit design.

2. What is the difference between an ADU and ALQ?

An ADU, or Accessory Dwelling Unit, is a separate living area on your property (often a backyard cottage). ALQ, or Additional Living Quarters, are typically part of the main home and used for guests or extended family.

3. What are the new requirements for an ADU in Tampa?

New updates now allow Tampa homeowners to live in either the primary home or the ADU. There’s also room for two unrelated occupants, and eligibility has expanded to new areas like Sulphur Springs, Temple Crest, Wellswood, and parts of Riverside Heights. 

For more small spaces with big design impact, take a look at this Sherlock Holmes-inspired back house and a sunny home designed for a military family!

Need your own glamorous accessory dwelling unit design? Our team is here to help! Fill out our design inquiry form to get started. You can also follow along on Instagram or sign up for our newsletter for more design inspiration.

Lisa Gilmore Design is a Tampa Bay, Florida full-service interior design firm that delivers luxury design services to busy professionals. We manage all the details of renovations and new home builds from concept to final reveal, serving clients in St. Petersburg, Clearwater, South Tampa, Hyde Park, and beyond.