An 800 sq. ft. dark and cluttered daylight basement in a 1932 brick Tudor home was transformed by Molly McCabe of Bainbridge Island, Wash.-based McCabe By Design LLC into a bright, cheerful, highly functional and fully wheelchair accessible accessory dwelling unit (ADU), embracing the concept of living large in a small space.
Converting a Raw Basement Into a Code-Compliant ADU
The project started with grinding and sealing the original concrete floor to make it level for easy installation of finish materials, and providing as much ceiling height as possible to meet the code height requirement of 7 feet. Additionally, the original waste drain needed to move, requiring a portion of the concrete floor to be jackhammered up to provide a positive connection for the specified shower drain and other plumbing fixtures.
Next came installing a 2″ x 6″ interior perimeter framing wall for R-21 insulation, removing the forced-air furnace and air handler in favor of ductless mini splits (there are two installed in the ADU with three more on the upper floors of the home) and the code-required egress windows and window wells – which have the added benefit of providing natural light to the subterranean space. The brick fireplace structure could not be removed and was clad in framing and drywall.
The staircase connecting the basement to the main floor of the home was rebuilt to meet code requirements for tread/riser depth and height. If desired, a locking door can be installed at the bottom of the staircase, but for the near term the space is intended for a family member with impaired vision.
Adding ADA Design Elements to the ADU
Once the structural and code-compliant aspects of the project were met, the design came to fruition as a wheelchair-accessible abode. The compact space feels generously proportioned with a fully functioning kitchen and plenty of storage/counter space that can accommodate two people (or a wheelchair user) and a wet-room-style bathroom that is safe, accommodating and has sufficient room for a caregiver, if needed.
The combined entry, dining room and living room facilitates socializing and entertaining with comfort and ease. The ‘private’ office/dressing room (including a thoughtfully organized closet) and bedroom provides a beautifully structured separation between the ADU’s public and private spaces. The linen closet has interior lighting and can be accessed from both the living room and the bathroom. The coat closet has been divided to provide specific storage needs beyond coats such as a vacuum and brooms.
The materials throughout the ADU were selected for their high durability and low maintenance characteristics, especially the linoleum and porcelain tile flooring, quartz countertops and maple cabinetry. The colorful finishes and thoughtful lighting create a bright, beautiful and inviting interior in a geographical area known for gray skies. High-contrast materials were used to facilitate wayfinding and ease of identification.
The homeowners are currently using the space while a master suite addition is built onto their home. Once the addition is complete, they will be eagerly awaiting the arrival of a family member to occupy the ADU.
Sources
Design: Molly McCabe, AKBD, CGP, CAPS, CLIPP, McCabe By Design LLC Photography: Emily Barrows Photography KITCHEN Cabinets: Dura Supreme Cabinet Hardware: Top Knobs Cooktop, Dishwasher, Oven: Bosch Faucet: Moen Flooring: Marmoleum by Forbo Refrigerator: Fisher & Paykel Sink: Ruvati Tile: Arizona Tile BATH Cabinets: Dura Supreme Cabinet Hardware: Top Knobs Faucets, Shower Fittings, Towel Ring: Grohe Flooring: Crossville Lighting: Paris Mirror Shower Seat: Freedom Showers Balance Bars: Moen Sink: Nameeks Tile: Marca Corona, Ann Sacks Toilet: Kohler Washer/Dryer: GE Profile LIVING/DINING AREA Flooring: Marmoleum by Forbo
