The Challenge: Design an ADU That Would Maximize Rental Income

This client came to me with a clear objective: build an ADU that would generate the highest possible cash flow on one of his properties in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Los Angeles. He wasn’t interested in overbuilding, but he also didn’t want to leave any value on the table.

A proven floor plan that would rent easily
A fast turnaround with minimal design delays
A layout optimized for long-term tenants, with the right balance of bedrooms, bathrooms, and privacy

The Design: A 3-Bedroom ADU Based on Our Culver Plan

We started with one of our pre-designed layouts—The Culver, a smart, compact 3-bedroom / 2.5-bathroom plan that’s ideal for high-demand rental markets.

Repositioned windows to improve privacy from adjacent structures
Tailored site placement to maximize yard access and tenant usability
Optimized finishes and fixtures to be durable, attractive, and low-maintenance
Removed the downstairs 1/2 bath to save money

Because the plan was already developed and pre-engineered, we were able to move quickly through design, permitting, and construction—saving time and keeping costs tight.

The Result: A High-Performing Rental ADU with Ongoing Premium Rent

3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms
A private entrance, in-unit laundry, and modern kitchen
Functional layout with strong curb appeal and efficient use of space

Since completion, the unit has rented at a premium, delivering strong cash flow and long-term value for the owner. It’s a great example of how smart design and a strategic approach can turn underutilized space into a serious income generator.

Hyde Park rental ADU — secondary bathroom

15 minutes · No obligation

Want something like this for your backyard?

Most clients find their fit in our Signature Home plan lineup. A few each year commission a fully custom design like the one above. Either way, start with a 15-minute Backyard Review — we'll place a Signature Home on your actual property to scale, walk you through the interior in 3D, and quote your plans before you commit to anything.

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Our Signature Home plans — fixed-price design + permit, from $7,490 · est. cost to build $180K–$420K · or fully custom from $9,990

This was a custom build.
Today, there's a better way.

We distilled everything we learned from 126 projects into our architect-designed Signature Home plans — single-story and two-story — fixed-price design + permit from $7,490; est. cost to build $180K–$420K. No surprises, no change orders on the plans, no uncertainty.