This backyard cottage in Seattle is a conversion of a detached garage into an accessory dwelling unit, or ADU. The goal was to add an adaptive living space that could serve a variety of programs. The client was particularly interested in the adaptability that camping trailers and boats provide for small spaces. We investigated how to make each space serve multiple functions, and devised a solution primarily through a movable wall. The movable wall transitions across the space in two general configurations, providing three functions for the living area. The first position, against the fixed wall, hides the movable wall within the fixed built-ins.

This location clears the floor area and allows for optimum viewing of the mounted television. In the second position, the wall allows access to the office work area hidden nicely into a nook against the fixed wall. The side of the movable wall facing the office area has shelves and cabinets for office storage, while the other side has a fold-down table providing additional work surface for the kitchen. Outside the adaptable living area, the ADU features a loft for sleeping, a small workshop that opens to the driveway, and a bathroom to make the ADU complete.