Behind the Design: A Woodland ADU with Indoor–Outdoor Living
A behind-the-scenes look at a modern ADU designed with natural materials, a stone fireplace wall, wooded views, and a wrap-around porch.
A modern ADU concept featuring natural materials, a stone fireplace wall, and a wrap-around porch overlooking a wooded backyard.
This modern accessory dwelling unit began as a study in how a small home can feel both grounded and expansive. Set on a site with beautiful wooded views, the design uses natural materials—stone, warm woods, and exposed structure—to create a sense of comfort and place. A wrap-around porch extends the living space into the landscape, while a stone accent wall anchors the interior with a wood-burning fireplace at its heart. Inside, a flexible bedroom/office niche allows the ADU to adapt to the needs of its future residents. This post shares a behind-the-scenes look at how the concept came together in the studio.
To strengthen the connection to the landscape, the ADU features large sliding doors that open wide to the porch, allowing the interior living spaces to expand outdoors. In warmer months, the porch becomes an extension of the main room—an outdoor living area framed by the shifting textures of the forest. The wooded backdrop acts as a kind of living wallpaper, changing color and character throughout the year. This seasonal movement was a driving force in shaping the architecture, ensuring that the ADU feels connected to its surroundings whether the trees are leafed out, glowing in autumn reds, or standing quiet in winter.
If you’re considering adding an ADU or exploring new ways to make the most of your property, I’d be happy to help you think through the possibilities. Every site and homeowner has a unique story, and good design can bring those stories to life. Feel free to reach out with questions or ideas—I’m always glad to talk about what thoughtful, small-scale architecture can offer.