The Perfect ADU Kitchen

Key Takeaways

Not all secondary structures have to include a kitchen in order to receive a building permit. However, if you’d like that space to be considered an accessory dwelling unit and not a pool house or additional living space, it must contain a kitchen. California requires that ADU kitchens:

• Are at least 50 square feet
• Include a stove, sink, and refrigerator
• Have adequate storage and prep space for meals

The exception to this rule is juniors ADUS or JADUs, which have different regulations.

All this might sound like a tall order when you’re dealing with a space that’s only 400-650 square feet, as many ADUs in Southern California are. However, design experts will tell you that a well-designed ADU kitchen can have all the style and functionality of a full-sized kitchen in a much larger home. It’s all about making smart design choices. These include:

• An L-shaped or U-shaped kitchen layout to maximize cabinet space
• Pull-out countertops and other multi-functional furniture
• Bright, light wall and cabinet colors

To qualify as a legal ADU, your kitchen must include core appliances and thoughtful storage—smart design transforms even minimal spaces into livable luxury.

Does an ADU Have to Have a Kitchen?

Yes, the state of California requires that in order to be considered an ADU, a secondary living space must:

• Be under 1200 square feet, though some cities cap the maximum ADU size at closer to 1000 square feet
• Have a separate entrance
• Have its own bathroom space that contains a shower and/or tub
• Have a kitchen

While they can still be as functional and beautiful as a larger kitchen in a single-family home, ADU kitchens do differ from standard home kitchens in several key ways, particularly when it comes to size, appliances used, and design focus.

This is why it’s important to work with an experienced ADU builder as opposed to a general contractor. They’ll be familiar with the different codes and considerations for these smaller kitchens so they can design the most functional and stylish kitchen possible.

Now, this isn’t to say that an ADU kitchen can’t include full-sized appliances, a dedicated kitchen island space, or even a pantry. These features are possible, particularly when you opt for a custom ADU as opposed to a prefab or manufactured ADU.

ADU Kitchen Requirements

California not only states that ADUs must contain a kitchen; they also have specific guidelines when it comes to the size of the kitchen and what appliances are and aren’t included. If your ADU doesn’t meet these requirements, it won’t pass building department inspection—or even be approved for a permit in the first place!

Size Requirements

There is no maximum size for ADU kitchens, though space is naturally limited by overall square footage. The minimum size for an ADU kitchen is 50 square feet.

Essential Appliances and Fixtures

When it comes to appliances, an ADU kitchen must contain:

• A cooking appliance, like a stove or stove hook-up (microwaves and/or ovens can’t be substituted for a stove)
• A sink with running water and a drain
• A refrigerator

You’re allowed to use compact appliances, though. For example, instead of a four-burner stove, in limited kitchen spaces (like in a studio apartment), you could opt for a two-burner model. Many times, these space-saving appliances also have energy-efficient models that can save you or potential renters money on electricity.

Counter Space and Storage

The state of California does require adequate counter space and cabinetry or shelving, even in the smallest ADU kitchens, to allow for food preparation and storage.

Plumbing and Electrical Standards

An ADU kitchen must be well-lit, especially in areas where prep work is to be done, and electrical outlets must be provided to support small appliances, like coffee makers and blenders. It must also follow overall ADU electrical requirements.

When it comes to plumbing, the kitchen sink must be connected to both hot and cold water supplies and must drain properly.

While these requirements aren’t as straightforward as, say, overall size requirements, an experienced builder will know how to navigate them to ensure your space passes inspection.

What is an Efficiency Kitchen for ADU?

If you’re building a junior ADU (aka a secondary living space that fits within the current footprint of your home and is under 500 square feet), you’re allowed to use an efficiency kitchen as opposed to a standard kitchen.

While they still contain a sink, efficiency kitchens can utilize plug-in appliances like hot plates and convection ovens/toaster ovens in place of stoves and ovens. These kinds of spaces typically work well for guest houses or in-law suites, but may not be as comfortable or functional for renters.

Efficiency kitchens in JADUs must include:

• A sink connected to hot and cold water with proper drainage
• Some sort of cooking appliance (generally a stovetop, hot plate, or microwave)
• A food prep surface, like a small countertop
• Adequate storage for food, plates, and utensils

To read more about the requirements for ADUs vs JADUs, you can check out our separate blog post here.

Permitting starts with the essentials: a working stove, sink, and fridge. Plan early to ensure compliance with California’s 50 sq ft minimum.

Top ADU Kitchen Design Ideas and Layout Options

Following local building codes is just one part of designing the perfect kitchen for your ADU. You also must consider the overall design. The best designs consider layout and how that impacts flow and function, as well as how aesthetic choices increase the illusion of space.

Minimalist Kitchen Layouts for Small Spaces

Popular layouts for ADU kitchens include single-wall, L-shape, and U-shape designs. Which layout you choose often depends on the ADU size and your overall construction budget.

Single-wall kitchens:

• Are the most cost-efficient to build
• Keep floor space open to maintain both an airy kitchen space and comfortable living space
• Are great for the smallest ADUs with the most limited space or in narrow spaces

L-shaped kitchens:

• Provide ample countertop space
• Provide natural island seating
• Are ideal for mid-sized ADUs between 400 and 800 square feet

U-shaped kitchens:

• Maximize cabinet storage and counter space
• Feel more like a full-sized kitchen
• Are most often used in the largest ADU floor plans

An L-shape layout makes the most of corner space, offering both countertop flow and storage. It’s a perfect fit for mid-sized ADUs.

Multi-Functional Features for Efficiency

As with any compact space, ADU kitchens can benefit from multi-functional features that increase the efficiency of the space without adding to the overall square footage.

Examples of smart storage solutions include:

• Pull-out countertops for extra prep space
• Integrated appliances, like a built-in microwave, that free up counter space
• Lazy Susans in cabinets to increase cabinet storage
• Fold-up tables and/or bench seating with extra storage underneath to keep lesser-used, additional appliances
• Built-in shelves, racks for pots, and magnetic knife strips that transform unused vertical space into vertical storage

Optimize small kitchens with hidden or dual-purpose elements—like built-in storage under benches or pull-out surfaces for instant prep zones.

Stylish Aesthetic Options for Compact Kitchens

The great news about compact kitchens, like those in an ADU, is that high-end materials, like quartz countertops, solid oak cabinets, or under-cabinet lighting, are more cost-efficient to install than in larger kitchens yet can make a huge impact on the aesthetic appeal.

Whatever finishes you choose (countertops, backsplash, wall color), opt for light and bright. Dark colors can make a tight space feel even smaller.

Also, consider how much natural light your space gets. While well-placed artificial lighting fixtures go a long way, nothing beats a large window or skylight.

Smaller kitchens benefit from big design moves—go bold with cabinet colors and balance them with bright, reflective finishes to open up the space.

Farmhouse and Scandinavian Inspirations

There are endless style possibilities when it comes to ADU kitchens, everything from Spanish-style ADUs to California coastal. Which style you choose will come down to budget and personal preference.

Two of the most popular choices, though, are farmhouse and Scandinavian.

A farmhouse kitchen:

• Includes shaker-style cabinets, apron sinks, and mixed textures
• Is more traditional, meaning it may appeal more to aging parents in a granny flat

A Scandinavian kitchen:

• Focuses on clean lines, minimalist cabinet faces, organic materials, and light colors
• Feels like a modern kitchen, meaning it may appeal more to young renters

Farmhouse and Scandinavian styles thrive in ADUs—clean lines, organic textures, and warm neutrals make small kitchens feel expansive and cozy.

Enhancing Your ADU Kitchen with Better Place Design & Build

At Better Place Design & Build, we pride ourselves on building the most stylish, functional spaces possible—especially in the ADU kitchen.

When we sit down for a free consultation, we’ll listen carefully to how you plan to use the space and the features you’re hoping to include. We marry these desires with our extensive knowledge of local building codes to ensure you get a space that meets not only your requirements but the city’s for a seamless build process.

Partnering with an experienced ADU builder means getting a kitchen that blends form, function, and compliance—without the stress.