The Offset ADU Provides Space for Family, Friends and Kids
The Offset ADU, designed by Byben, is a garage conversion located in Los Angeles. Completed in 2024, the ADU features curved interior and exterior elements, creating a soft and inviting atmosphere. Byben expanded the original garage, offsetting the second level to accommodate zoning envelope requirements and power lines, allowing for features like a roof deck and bike storage.
![Wooden siding, curved entryway, and outdoor seating area in modern residential design.](http://i.homeadore.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/001-the-offset-adu-provides-space-for-family-friends-and-kids-460x345.jpg)
Garage conversion becomes ADU
Byben expanded the original garage, offsetting the second level to accommodate zoning envelope requirements and power lines. The new layout allowed for features like a roof deck and bike storage.
![Bright, open-concept living space with modern, midcentury-inspired furnishings.](http://i.homeadore.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/002-the-offset-adu-provides-space-for-family-friends-and-kids-460x345.jpg)
“The second level is offset to accommodate the present zoning envelope and the power lines in the rear of the property.”
The offset design also enabled the integration of a roof deck on the second level and additional space for existing trees and bike storage. A covered front entrance was also included in the ADU.
![Modern kitchen and dining area with arched window, wooden cabinets, and blue accents.](http://i.homeadore.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/003-the-offset-adu-provides-space-for-family-friends-and-kids-460x345.jpg)
Curved details aid zoning requirements
The ADU features curved interior and exterior elements, creating a soft and inviting atmosphere. This approach was intentional, given the proximity of the ADU to the main house.
![A colorful, striking staircase design with wooden beams and a curved window frame.](http://i.homeadore.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/005-the-offset-adu-provides-space-for-family-friends-and-kids-460x613.jpg)
The curved U window in the upstairs office/bedroom extends above the ceiling line, with a mirror placed on the ceiling above, producing an “infinite height feeling” and enhancing the connection to the view.
![Minimalist office with large window, wooden desk, and comfortable leather chairs.](http://i.homeadore.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/008-the-offset-adu-provides-space-for-family-friends-and-kids-460x306.jpg)
![Sleek modern office space with arched window, leather chair, and wood desk.](http://i.homeadore.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/009-the-offset-adu-provides-space-for-family-friends-and-kids-460x613.jpg)
Yard transformed by project
“The original driveway area that cuts down the side of the property can now become part of the yard due to ADU regulations, so then the backyard is just that, a yard with no need for a car to drive through it,” said Byben.
![Sleek vanity unit with wooden drawers, green tile walls, and a large mirror.](http://i.homeadore.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/011-the-offset-adu-provides-space-for-family-friends-and-kids-460x613.jpg)
![Modern patio with concrete walls, wooden deck, and minimal black furniture.](http://i.homeadore.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/013-the-offset-adu-provides-space-for-family-friends-and-kids-460x613.jpg)
![A wooden, arched structure with large windows and a porch, set against a backdrop of trees.](http://i.homeadore.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/015-the-offset-adu-provides-space-for-family-friends-and-kids-460x613.jpg)
![Modern wooden facade with arched windows, lit entryway, and gravel walkway leading to the structure.](http://i.homeadore.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/016-the-offset-adu-provides-space-for-family-friends-and-kids-460x345.jpg)
![Contemporary wood-paneled home with large windows, outdoor deck, and inviting interior.](http://i.homeadore.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/017-the-offset-adu-provides-space-for-family-friends-and-kids-460x613.jpg)
Photography by Taiyo Watanabe
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