3-Car Garage Turned Farmhouse ADU in Pasadena

The Challenge: Reclaim an Oversized Garage and Create Independent Living Space for a Family Member

The client had an old, oversized 3-car detached garage sitting unused in the backyard—mostly filled with things they no longer needed. Instead of letting it continue to sit idle, they saw an opportunity: create a permanent home for their adult son with special needs, giving him independence while keeping him close.

They didn’t want anything flashy or overly modern. Their vision was simple: a warm, functional space with a classic farmhouse feel that would feel familiar, safe, and comfortable.

The Design: A One-Bedroom ADU with a Farmhouse Vibe

The extra space inside the 3-car garage gave us enough room to design a true one-bedroom ADU, not just a studio. We used a traditional layout that prioritized ease of movement, comfort, and privacy.

• Vertical siding and exposed roof rafter tails for that timeless farmhouse look
• A separate bedroom, full kitchen, and private living space
• Simple, durable finishes that feel homey without being high-maintenance
• Wide pathways and an open layout to keep the space accessible long-term

We kept the building footprint and roofline intact to streamline the permit process, while upgrading everything inside and out to meet current ADU code.

The Result: A Private, Comfortable Home—Just Steps Away from Family

The completed ADU now serves as a fully independent home for the clients’ son—giving him the freedom to live on his own, while staying just a short walk from the main house.

It feels like a cottage, not a converted garage. The exterior blends into the yard with classic charm, and the inside offers all the essentials: a real bedroom, full-size appliances, lots of light, and space to live and grow comfortably.

This project shows how a little-used structure can be turned into something that truly improves a family's quality of life.