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This article will offer you inspiring ideas on how to maximize your property’s potential by adding a second story accessory dwelling unit (ADU).
Modern Studio ADU | Sleek Minimalist Design
![modern studio adu sleek minimalist design](https://buildgreennh.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/modern-studio-adu-sleek-minimalist-design.jpg)
An elevated sanctuary that marries clean lines with functional simplicity, this concept transforms compact living into a statement of modern elegance.
Two-Story 1BR/1.5BA | Loft Style With Office Nook
![two story 1br1.5ba loft style with office nook](https://buildgreennh.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/two-story-1br1.5ba-loft-style-with-office-nook.jpg)
Maximize a compact urban footprint with this vertical sanctuary that artfully blends a private bedroom suite atop a functional lower-level living space, complete with a cozy corner for remote work or creative pursuits.
Eco-Friendly 2BR/1BA | Passive Solar Design
![eco friendly 2br1ba passive solar design](https://buildgreennh.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/eco-friendly-2br1ba-passive-solar-design.jpg)
Harnessing the sun’s energy, this design maximizes warmth in winter and coolness in summer, reducing reliance on artificial heating and cooling for a sustainably comfortable home.
Victorian Inspired 2BR/1.5BA | Vintage Charm
![victorian inspired 2br1.5ba vintage charm](https://buildgreennh.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/victorian-inspired-2br1.5ba-vintage-charm.jpg)
Imbued with ornate woodwork and period-appropriate fixtures, this design infuses historical elegance into modern living spaces.
Two-Story 2BR/2BA | Roof Terrace Access
![two story 2br2ba roof terrace access](https://buildgreennh.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/two-story-2br2ba-roof-terrace-access.jpg)
Imagine waking up to the city’s skyline from your private roof terrace, a serene getaway atop your comfortable two-bedroom, two-bath living space.
Scandinavian Minimalist 2BR/2BA | Ambient Natural Light
![scandinavian minimalist 2br2ba ambient natural light](https://buildgreennh.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/scandinavian-minimalist-2br2ba-ambient-natural-light.jpg)
Maximize tranquility and space with wide, open-floor plans complemented by large windows that bathe each room in natural daylight.
Artist Loft 1BR/1BA | Open Space With Skylights
![artist loft 1br1ba open space with skylights](https://buildgreennh.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/artist-loft-1br1ba-open-space-with-skylights.jpg)
Flooded with natural light from skylights, this airy loft offers a spacious sanctuary for creativity and relaxation.
Two-Story 3BR/2BA | Multi-Generational Living
![two story 3br2ba multi generational living](https://buildgreennh.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/two-story-3br2ba-multi-generational-living.jpg)
This design harmonizes privacy and community, offering separate living areas on each floor, ideal for families across varied age groups living together.
Urban Farmhouse ADU | 2BR/2BA With Vertical Garden
![urban farmhouse adu 2br2ba with vertical garden](https://buildgreennh.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/urban-farmhouse-adu-2br2ba-with-vertical-garden.jpg)
The Urban Farmhouse design combines rustic charm with sustainable living, featuring a lush vertical garden that brings a touch of greenery and improves air quality.
Beach Cottage ADU | 1BR/1BA With Sun Deck
![beach cottage adu 1br1ba with sun deck](https://buildgreennh.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/beach-cottage-adu-1br1ba-with-sun-deck.jpg)
Maximize coastal living by adding a sun-kissed deck to your second-story abode, perfect for soaking up the seaside ambiance.
Two-Story Studio/1BA | Compact Urban Living
![two story studio1ba compact urban living](https://buildgreennh.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/two-story-studio1ba-compact-urban-living.jpg)
Maximizing a petite footprint, this two-story studio pairs a cozy bedroom loft above with a functional living area below, perfect for bustling city life.
2BR/1BA | Dual Balcony With Panoramic Views
![2br1ba dual balcony with panoramic views](https://buildgreennh.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/2br1ba-dual-balcony-with-panoramic-views.jpg)
Maximize outdoor living with a dual-balcony design that offers expansive views and a breath of fresh air from multiple vantage points in your second-story ADU.
Smart-Home Enabled 2BR/2BA | High-Tech Amenities
![smart home enabled 2br2ba high tech amenities](https://buildgreennh.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/smart-home-enabled-2br2ba-high-tech-amenities.jpg)
Equipped with the latest smart technology, this design connects all household functions to a central system controlled through voice or smartphone, offering convenience and energy efficiency at your fingertips.
Traditional Two-Story ADU | 2BR/1.5BA With Porch
![traditional two story adu 2br1.5ba with porch](https://buildgreennh.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/traditional-two-story-adu-2br1.5ba-with-porch.jpg)
This design harmoniously blends the charm of classic architecture with the functionality of modern living, offering a quaint porch for lazy evenings and neighborly chats.
Two-Story 1BR/1BA | Zen Retreat With Meditation Space
![two story 1br1ba zen retreat with meditation space](https://buildgreennh.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/two-story-1br1ba-zen-retreat-with-meditation-space.jpg)
Maximize tranquility; this space fuses a restful bedroom with a dedicated area for quiet reflection, emphasizing serenity above the hustle and bustle.
Ideas Elsewhere
- https://snapadu.com/adu-floor-plans-two-story/
- https://www.greatbuildz.com/blog/building-adu-above-garage/
- https://www.neilkelly.com/customizable-adu-designs/
- https://renovated.com/tips-for-constructing-a-second-story-adu/
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