An innovative contribution to the housing market, accessory dwelling units, or ADUs, can expand housing options for many, including older and younger adults as well as those who need an affordable option or who seek a smaller, more manageable residence. Sometimes known as “granny flats,” these homes can be added to primary residences and can allow residents to age in place, offering a mix of affordability and privacy. One of their main benefits lies in their ability to gently increase density within a residential lot, which supports multi-generational living. ADUs are gaining national attention as state and federal lawmakers evaluate several strategies to address the housing crisis.
To learn more about ADUs, see our article Smaller Housing Adds Affordable, Livable Options near Transit, which also discusses microunits.