There is so much information out there regarding tiny homes and ADU’s that it can sometimes feel overwhelming. Bode Plans Inc. has tried to make it easy for you to understand the difference. in addition, we have designed our plans to be more of a hybrid between the two taking the best from each of them to create extraordinary plans. So what is an ADU and what is a tiny home and how do they differ?

First and foremost an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) and a tiny house are both types of small living spaces, but they have distinct characteristics and differences.

ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT (ADU):

An accessory dwelling unit, also known as a granny flat, casita, in-law suite, or secondary suite, is a self-contained living unit that is secondary to the primary residence on a property. It is typically located on the same lot as a single-family home, either attached to the main house, built as a separate structure in the backyard or converted from an existing space like a basement or garage. ADUs have their own entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and living areas, providing independent living quarters for residents. They are designed to accommodate one or more individuals or a small family and often offer basic amenities for daily living.

ADUs can come in various sizes and configurations, ranging from studio apartments to multi-bedroom units. They are typically subject to local zoning regulations, which dictate their size, placement, and usage. ADUs offer several advantages, such as providing additional living space for extended family members, generating rental income, or offering affordable housing options in high-demand areas.

• A self-contained living unit secondary to the main residence on a property.

• Located on the same lot as a single-family home.

• Can be attached, built separately in the backyard, or converted from existing spaces like basements or garages.

• Has its own entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and living areas.

• Designed to accommodate one or more individuals or a small family.

• Subject to local zoning regulations and building codes.

• Offers additional living space for extended family or rental income.

• Provides affordable housing options in high-demand areas.

• Comes in various sizes and configurations, from studios to multi-bedroom units.

TINY HOUSE:

On the other hand, a tiny house is a complete, stand-alone dwelling that is typically much smaller than a traditional home. Unlike ADUs, tiny houses are designed to be mobile and are often built on wheels, allowing for flexibility and ease of relocation. They are usually built with compact and efficient layouts, maximizing the available space for essential functions like sleeping, cooking, and living. Tiny houses can be self-sufficient and equipped with amenities such as kitchenettes, bathrooms, and living areas.

• A complete, stand-alone dwelling.

• Typically smaller than a traditional home.

• Can be mobile and built on wheels for easy relocation.

• Designed with compact and efficient layouts.

• Often equipped with basic amenities like kitchenettes, bathrooms, and living areas.

• Regulations surrounding tiny houses vary depending on jurisdiction and classification.

• Can be considered permanent structures or recreational vehicles.

• Independent homes that emphasize mobility and minimalism.

• May not require a primary residence on the same property.

SO HOW DOES A BODE PLAN DIFFER FROM EITHER AN ADU OR A TINY HOUSE?

With BODE PLANS, we have artfully united the very essence of both worlds, transcending the limitations of conventional living. Our Hybrid Living concepts (ranging from 576 sq.ft. to 1,119 sq ft) effortlessly harmonize the functionalities of an ADU and the charm of a Tiny Home, unfettered by the confines of mobility (no wheels). Meticulously crafted, our designs embody versatile masterpieces, capable of gracing any lot as an elegant secondary suite or a captivating standalone dwelling, contingent upon the embrace of zoning regulations. Simply put we have designed small homes with better spaces.

Our designs can act as an ADU however they are also designed to be standalone homes. First and foremost when our team of designers began the journey of designing smaller-footprint homes one thing was clear: we wanted the feeling of comfort one gains when living in a larger home to always remain regardless of footprint size. For Bode, it was important to make better spaces than what is currently available in rolling tiny homes. So we did what any other crazy designer would do. We took our large-scale homes and essentially put them in the dryer set on high. While the footprint may have shrunk what did not shrink was the amenities or the quality of living one would feel in one of our designs. Large open vaulted ceilings, and open concept rooms all lend themselves to a better-designed space. In addition to that teaming up with state-of-the-art material companies allowed our designs when built to have the ability to be maintenance-free as well as energy efficient with an overall carbon footprint reduction.