Project Overview
The owners requested a spacious two-bedroom, two-bathroom detached ADU in Campbell with an efficient linear floor plan and a distinctive contemporary exterior. Arbel Design prepared four initial design options. Two were developed further, and the owners selected the final design shown on this page.
Project Information
The Christopher ADU is located on a 9,975-square-foot property within Campbell’s R1-6 zoning district. The lot measures approximately 75 feet wide by 133 feet deep.
The one-story, 1,170-square-foot ADU includes two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen, dining area, living room, front landscaped area, and recessed rear outdoor court. The building is designed as Type V-B construction with an approved height of 16 feet.
The City of Campbell approved both the original ADU and the subsequent 50-square-foot addition without correction comments.
Site and Design Challenges
An existing two-car garage and storage shed at the rear of the property were removed to create space for the new ADU.
The main design challenges included bringing natural light deep into the floor plan, maintaining privacy between the ADU and the primary residence, and providing access for landscaping, exterior maintenance, mechanical equipment, and the rear water-heater area.
Although four-foot side and rear setbacks were permitted, the design provides approximately 6 feet 8 inches at the side and 5 feet 6 inches at the rear. The additional clearance improves circulation, maintenance access, and the usability of the surrounding outdoor areas.
Design Solution
The bedrooms are positioned at opposite ends of the building to provide privacy, while the kitchen, dining area, and living room form a central great room.
Large glass doors and windows along the front elevation bring daylight into the interior and open toward the approximately 50-foot landscaped area between the ADU and the primary residence.
A recessed rear court connects directly to the dining area, creating a private outdoor space for seating and dining. The central great room features a vaulted ceiling, while the bedrooms have ceilings approximately 10 feet high.
Two-directional shed roofs and recessed and projecting wall planes reflect the organization of the floor plan. Wood siding, white stucco, and metal roofing complement the building forms. Together, these elements give the ADU a distinctive contemporary character.
Services Provided
Arbel Design provided site review, space planning, design alternatives, Campbell ADU design, floor plans, exterior elevations, building sections, site planning, 3D visualization, structural and Title 24 coordination, construction documents, ADU permit plans, and City approval coordination.
Planning a Detached ADU in Campbell?
Contact Arbel Design to discuss your property, design goals, and permit requirements.
