A cheery space

I’ve heard it said that housing a senior in an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is like sticking granny in a shed in the back yard. What a grim prospect for a senior, to be crammed in a claustrophobic space with a only a bed, a tiny bathroom, a TV and a couple of appliances.

But, of course, that is not at all what is on offer. Small spaces can be designed to be homey, welcoming and safe for the elderly. A case in point is the tiny house on wheels explored by the Tiny House website and shown here https://tinyhousetalk.com/aging-in-place-22-ft-verve-by-tru-form-tiny-in-a-tiny-house-village/. Though wheels aren’t necessary for the small home, the décor and appliances shown here are replicable and relevant to the ADU as well.

First and foremost to notice is the bedroom located on the first (and only) floor, typically unusual for ADUs tending to favor second-story lofts with access by ladder. The first-floor bedroom is clearly a must for a gait-challenged senior. Placed at the end of the space, it is readily visible and accessible from the kitchen and living areas.

Notice too the small but practical furniture, the generous windows and the cheery shelf space taking advantage of them. The cooking, refrigerator and laundry facilities are complete and size-appropriate.

Given careful forethought and a sense of attractive interior design, that “granny pod” can be made as livable as anyone would expect it to be.