500 sqft ADU floor plans

At 590 sq ft, this layout cleverly fits two bedrooms and one bathroom into a compact space. It’s perfect for small families or roommates looking for smart layout planning. A combined living and kitchen space adds convenience, while the bedrooms offer just enough privacy—ideal for urban zones like West Hollywood or Santa Clara, where space is at a premium.

This 570 sq ft, 1-bed, 1-bath ADU embraces an open-concept layout, creating defined yet flexible zones for sleeping, relaxing, and dining. Ideal for minimalist living, guest accommodations, or creative studios, it blends adaptable design with modern style.

The 550 sq ft Cedar plan is a smart mid-size option with a spacious feel. It includes an open kitchen and living room, a roomy bedroom with closet space, and a full bathroom featuring optional upgrades like a tiled glass shower. This setup is perfect for long-term rentals, multigenerational use, or as an affordable standalone garage apartment plan.

With 520 sq ft, this design offers just a little more elbow room while maintaining a small footprint. A private bedroom and full bath are complemented by a slightly larger living area or kitchen space—ideal for couples or individuals who need a home office nook. It’s a flexible layout with room for personalization and QUALITY APPLIANCES that support modern living.

This 500 sq ft ADU blends comfort and efficiency, making it a great choice for a backyard rental unit, guest suite, or peaceful retreat. Featuring a full bath, open-concept living room, and flexible space planning, it’s both stylish and functional. Choose from four signature floor plans—Palm, Olive, Katsura, and Aspen—each offering unique customization paths like expanded storage or a refined lighting package. Whether you want a compact kitchen island or space for a reading nook, there's a layout that fits.

A 500 sqft ADU floor plan is a compact, well-organized layout that typically includes one bedroom, one bathroom, and an open-concept living, dining, and kitchen area. These Standard and Semi-Custom options are designed to maximize space through smart storage, energy-efficient appliances, and large windows that create a bright, airy feel. Layouts often feature modern finishes and can include design upgrades like Perimeter Grid Windows, Stone Veneer, or vertical cedar siding for added curb appeal. Built on-site (stick-built) by a skilled construction team, these plans are ideal for rentals, guest houses, or multigenerational living—and offer strong value with flexible Starting Price points and financing options like a 30 year fixed-rate loan.

Popular 500 sqft floor plan styles include Modern Minimalist and Scandinavian, known for their clean lines, space-saving layouts, and bright, open interiors. Cottage, Farmhouse, and Rustic Cabin styles add warmth through cozy finishes like Gable Shakes and fiber cement horizontal lap siding, while Industrial Loft and Contemporary Urban options offer sleek, modern aesthetics. Other favorites include Beach Bungalow and Eco-Friendly layouts, which highlight Indoor/outdoor living room concepts and sustainability. As shown in the California ADU Owner Survey, these styles offer a great starting point when you’re ready to Start Designing, combining comfort, efficiency, and timeless appeal.

To get the most out of a 500 sqft floor plan, start with an open-concept layout and multifunctional furniture like Murphy beds or fold-out tables. Maximize vertical space with wall-mounted storage and tall shelving, and use built-ins or under-bed storage to minimize clutter. Bright colors, mirrors, and large windows help amplify natural light and make the space feel larger. Compact appliances and smart zoning techniques add efficiency, while features like a heat pump air conditioner can improve comfort without taking up valuable square footage. Thoughtful planning and clear construction documents ensure every inch is used wisely and in compliance with relevant codes, including fha policies where applicable.

A well-designed 500 sqft ADU should include a full bedroom with storage, a compact bathroom (typically with a shower stall), and a space-efficient galley or L-shaped kitchen with essential appliances. An open-concept living area, multifunctional furniture, and vertical storage maximize usability. Optional features like a washer/dryer combo, outdoor patio, and smart zoning with partitions add comfort and flexibility. Prioritizing natural light, minimal hallways, and efficient circulation ensures the space feels open and functional.

Zoning regulations in San Diego County play a major role in shaping the design of a 500 sqft ADU by determining allowed unit types, placement, and required features. For example, JADUs are limited to 500 sqft and must be integrated into the main home, while detached or attached ADUs offer more flexibility within the same size. Regulations like 4-foot setbacks, 16-foot height limits, and parking exemptions near transit zones are key design considerations. To ensure compliance, a full permit is required, and local policy updates—often informed by studies such as those from UC Berkeley—help guide best practices in ADU development.

Building a 500 sq ft ADU in California typically costs between $100,000 and $200,000, or $200–$400 per square foot, depending on location, design, and construction type. Detached new builds cost more than conversions, and urban areas like San Diego or the Bay Area often see higher rates. Additional costs include permits, utilities, and interior finishes, which can add $20,000–$40,000 or more. Budgeting around $150,000–$200,000 is a practical starting point for most homeowners.

A 500 sq ft space typically fits 3 to 4 functional rooms or zones, such as one bedroom, one bathroom, and a combined living/kitchen/dining area. Open layouts and multi-functional furniture help define spaces without adding walls. With smart design, the area can feel spacious while serving essential daily needs. Fully enclosed rooms beyond this may reduce comfort and usability.

Yes, 500 sq ft can be enough for two people, especially a couple comfortable with minimalist living. It typically includes one bedroom, a bathroom, and an open living/kitchen area, requiring efficient use of space, multifunctional furniture, and smart storage. While it's on the smaller end, thoughtful design can make it livable, though most couples prefer 700–800+ sq ft for added comfort.

A 500 sq ft space is about the size of a small one-bedroom apartment or large studio—roughly 20 by 25 feet. It typically fits a bedroom, full bathroom, and an open-concept living area with kitchen and dining. Smart layouts use minimal walls, built-in storage, and large windows to maximize light and space. With efficient design, it feels compact but functional for everyday living.

For a 500 sq ft space, a 9,000 to 12,000 BTU mini split is typically recommended. A 9,000 BTU unit suits well-insulated rooms in moderate climates, while 12,000 BTUs is better for sun-exposed or warmer areas. Factors like insulation, windows, and ceiling height affect sizing, so a Manual J calculation can ensure the best fit.

Building a 500 sq ft ADU in California typically takes 9 to 12+ months from start to finish. The construction phase lasts about 4 to 6 months, while design and permitting—often the longest steps—can take 3 to 9 months combined. Final inspections add roughly a week. Timelines vary based on location, project complexity, and permitting efficiency.