Near Net Zero ADU
Near Net Zero ADU Design – Built in the Santa Cruz Mountains
Welcome to a glimpse into our innovative ADU design journey nestled in the scenic Santa Cruz Mountains! Presenting our Near Net Zero Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), a thoughtfully crafted 1,200 sq ft haven where modern efficiency meets timeless elegance.
This exquisite ADU features two luxurious primary suites, each offering its own bedroom, bath, and walk-in closet, situated at opposite ends of the building for ultimate privacy. The heart of this home is a spacious great room that skillfully balances intimate personal spaces with an expansive, inviting communal area, complete with a generous kitchen and versatile island workspace. Cleverly designed to house the laundry within the great room closet, this space epitomizes functional beauty.
Custom ADU Design Touches
Beneath vaulted ceilings adorned with cedar wood paneling and cross tie beams, you’ll find floors made from reclaimed oak, adding a touch of rustic charm. Custom-made Douglas Fir door casings and baseboards perfectly complement the painted three-panel interior doors, while the practical yet stylish IKEA kitchen enhances the home’s contemporary feel.
The architecture shines through the modified U-shape or wing design, allowing both bedroom suites to gently angle off the great room. The southern-facing windows and Trex deck seamlessly integrate indoor and outdoor living, providing stunning vistas and an abundance of natural light.
Energy Efficiency
Powered by solar photovoltaic panels, this near net zero ADU design boasts remarkable energy efficiency, meeting California’s exacting super-insulation standards. The unique mountain geology presented intriguing challenges, leading us to reposition and meticulously excavate the site, creating a stable foundation for this hillside wonder.
In lieu of an old, leaky redwood water tank, we installed a modern 10,000-gallon storage system with a computerized constant pressure pump for the entire property, along with a new septic system. The driveway’s design and CalTrans-mandated requirements involved a harmonious blend of traffic, geotechnical, and civil engineering, resulting in custom-made directional and street marker signs.
Collaborating with our clients over a span of three years to plan, permit, and build this remarkable ADU design was a deeply rewarding experience—a testament to the fusion of patience, passion, and precision in creating a sustainable masterpiece.
Read about “Understanding Accessory Dwelling Units and Their Importance”
