Folsom backyard straw bale adu

RESULT: This backyard ADU is 800 square foot with 2 bed, 2 bath, kitchenette, and an attached 300sqft garage. To be potentially used as a rental property, giving the ADU its own garage, fences, and driveway is a priority for maximum value.

DESIGN DETAILS: 17” 3-string bales on end create thick walls with 2-hour fire rating and R-40+ insulation. An extended gable at the West end of the ADU creates a shaded back patio area that connects to the bedroom with windowed double doors. Large windows face the street and driveway on the East walls. A 3’ tall brick wainscoat and corner trim gives the building more depth, while matching the neighborhood aesthetic. The backyard has a naturally steep grade, so we designed the building to rest on a raised foundation and crawl space.

LOCATION: Folsom City, CA

ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION COST: $230k

SQUARE FEET: 800