Attach a Modern Accessory Dwelling Unit to a Modern Home

More companies allow employees to work from home as time passes, especially workers who only need to handle office tasks or work through a computer. Remote working can improve productivity and creativity, but remote workers often need a modern accessory dwelling unit (ADU) to get more office space at home.  

ADUs are not new to people since people have been using them for home gyms, gaming stations, and studios for years. You can now use modern ADUs to get an optimized office space you wouldn’t have, either in your bedroom or at an office.  

Regardless of that, you need to make sure your ADU has all the space you need for what you want the place for. Do you want to get a modern prefab ADU for your home? You’ve landed on the right page.  

Dive into this page to learn everything you need to know about ADUs and the things you should keep in mind when getting one.  

What Is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?

ADUs are external buildings you can attach to your property or install in your backyard. Sheds are excellent examples of that, regardless of how small they are. Average ADUs go from 600 square feet to 1,200 square feet, and it’s odd to find options smaller or bigger than that. 

Some states have regulations on how big a modern or contemporary ADU can be, so you are not legally allowed to get a product that doesn’t fit those criteria. However, you are good to go as long as you get a prefab ADU since they are built to meet the legal parameters of most states. You can learn about specific considerations for granny pods in NJ to ensure compliance.

If you get an accessory dwelling unit kit, you can also get some additional benefits apart from the space the building offers you by itself. You can, for example, buy a prefab ADU that comes with a standing desk or an ergonomic chair to save money on office tools.

For example, understanding the Salinas ADU requirements can help you comply with local regulations.

What Are the Benefits of a Prefab ADU?

Buying a modern prefab ADU brings many benefits to the table, so we recommend you buy one if you want to start your journey as a remote worker. The main advantage of buying an ADU is the additional space you get for things at home.  

Setting up an office in your house means losing a whole room you used to use for something else. Now that you need to fit a desk, chair, and other office supplies in that room, what are you going to do with the things that were already in that place? ADUs are the answer to that question.

Apart from that, a decent modern ADU design will give you all the privacy you need to stay away from distractions while working. There are other advantages you get when buying a backyard shed house, even if you don’t use it to set up a home office. 

If you don’t need that much space to live, you can move to an ADU in your backyard and rent your house to someone to get an additional source of income. Doing that can give you tons of money in the long run if you need to save some funds to move to another place in the mid or long term. 

Speaking about money, attaching a modern prefab ADU to your house or installing an outside ADU will increase your house value, which will let you sell your property for a more expensive price in the future. This is particularly true in regions where housing demand is high, such as areas with backyard office sheds in Austin.

Needless to say, this gives you an additional room for your guests or family if they need to stay at your place for some time. The same happens if you are the parent of college graduates and want them to start living outside your house. A portable granny pod can be a great option for this purpose.

Why Should You Consider Getting an ADU?

There are many reasons someone could consider getting an ADU, and as we mentioned before, the first of them is looking forward to working from home since it gives you all the space you need for your office equipment. However, most people look for prefab modern ADUs that come with some office supplies. 

You can also get an ADU if you want to get a new place to live or want to rent your house to earn passive income. The same happens if you have someone in your family you want close to you but not living in the same place as you.  

People can also buy a modern accessory dwelling unit if they want a gaming station, a studio, or a workshop.

Factors to Consider When Looking for an ADU Design

The first thing you should take into account before looking for the right modern ADU design for your house is the type of ADU you want. Do you need an attached option or a detached one? 

Once you know that, measure the space you need for what you want the ADU for and get a product that fits that size. Once you know those things, you can start checking ADU designs and additional features such as soundproof walls or benefits such as office supplies. For instance, a homeschool shed can be a versatile addition to your backyard.

Answer these questions to know what to look for in prefab ADU homes: 

• What do I need the ADU for? How much space do I need?
• How much privacy do I need?
• Do I want an attached or detached ADU?
• What are the state regulations for ADUs?
• Do I need additional features? 
• Do I need the ADU to offer water or electricity services?
• How many electrical outlets do I need to work?

What Are the 10 Best Modern Accessory Dwelling Units?

While some people prefer looking for different ADUs online or building them themselves, you may want to buy something fast if you need to start remote working now or something similar.   

Feel free to buy any of the ADUs listed below! They are the best ones on the market.  

1. Autonomous WorkPod

The Autonomous WorkPod is an excellent modern prefab ADU if you want additional space for a remote office. Autonomous offers shipping to all states in the US except Hawaii and Alaska.  

However, what makes the Autonomous WorkPod that good? Firstly, this ADU is weatherproof, humidity-resistant, and durable, so you won’t have to replace it after working on it for a few months. Autonomous understands you want to focus on your work, and it comes with soundproof walls to keep you away from distractions.  

One of the best things about this pod is that, since Autonomous offers all kinds of ergonomic products, it comes with an Autonomous Chair Ultra and Autonomous Desk Connect. You don’t have to worry about getting lightbulbs for the pod since it includes a warm lighting feature and a fair trade of electrical outlets.  

Assembling this accessory dwelling unit only takes a few days. 

WorkPod

Next-level WFH.

97 reviews

Learn more

Specifications

Overall size	8.5’W x 12’L x 11’H
Floorspace	102 square feet
Ceiling height	6.8’ to 9.3’
Weight capacity	2.9 tons
Door & Window dimensions, material (include glass)	Main door: 7.5’W x 6.8'H 3 windows: 1.1’W x 7.9’H Window material: Wooden frame, 5/16” tempered glass, composite wood cover Door material: Anodized aluminum frame, 5/16” tempered glass
Siding, roof, floor & balcony material	Siding: Plywood 1/2”, wooden frame, honeycomb paper, plywood 3/8”, bitume, housewrap, vinyl siding Roof: Roof shingles Floor: Plywood Balcony: Composite wood
Electrical devices	1 RCB (Residual current breaker) 3 Wall outlet (Universal wall sockets) 1 Ceiling light switch 1 Ceiling light 1 Ventilator switch 1 Ventilator 66ft power cable with 2 connectors
Power input	Maximum voltage: 110V AC (US standard) Maximum current: 25A Maximum power dissipation: 2750W
Interior furniture	Unfurnished option: 1 Bookshelf, 1 Electrical Cabinet Furnished option: 1 SmartDesk Connect, 1 Autonomous Chair Ultra, 1 Monitor Arm, 1 Cable Tray, 1 Filing Cabinet, 1 Anti-Fatigue Mat, 1 Bookshelf, 1 Electrical Cabinet
Compatible with	Portable air conditioner: A/C units with dimensions smaller than 22” L x 20” W x 88” H and a 5.9” vent hole diameter will fit well. Heater: A small personal heater is more than sufficient.

Ideal for

• Handy homeowners
• Professionals who need a quiet, dedicated space to work from home
• Freelancers who require a focused environment away from household distractions 

Reasons to buy

• Permit-free
• Zero foundation preparation
• Built with weatherproof and soundproof materials
• Pre-wired with ambient lighting and outlets
• Ready in 3 days 

Reasons to avoid

• Requires sufficient outdoor space which may not be available to everyone
• May require additional setup for internet and other connectivity 

• 

  "I did a lot of research before contacting the sales team. The representative was incredibly helpful, which led me to decide to make the purchase. The process from order to delivery was extremely fast. The assembly was also easy, with the WorkPod being completed in just 3 days by their contractors. I love the result and can't wait to move my office in there!" - Rachael T.
• 

  "I'm impressed by the WorkPod's design and functionality." - William H.
• 

  "The WorkPod's privacy features make it easy to take important calls or have virtual meetings without interruptions."

  - Ben D.

2. Autonomous WorkPod Versatile

Are you looking for a more visually appealing and elegant option that offers you what the WorkPod gives you? Get the Autonomous WorkPod Versatile!  

This modern ADU is made to be more comfortable than others rather than work exclusively as an office, so it comes with a closet, a desk, a bookshelf, a TV stand, a convertible sofa bed, and a foldable coffee table. You could even live here if you wanted to! 

The Autonomous WorkPod Versatile is a multi-purpose ADU since its developers made it fit to be an office pod, studio, Airbnb, or anything you want it to be! One of the things that makes this prefab studio pod stand out from others is that it includes all the sockets you would need for your studio appliances.  

Autonomous doesn’t want you to replace your ADU after using it for some months, so it’s built to last years. It’s not difficult to notice that due to the product’s waterproof feature, weather resistance, and sturdy soundproofing walls. This ADU is made of eco-friendly materials.  

Getting a soundproof office pod is excellent if you live with many people or in an area with high levels of sound pollution since that could make working way more difficult for you. This is the last product from Autonomous. 

WorkPod Versatile

For live, work and play.

38 reviews

Learn more

Specifications

Overall size	8’4”W x 12’6”L x 9’10”H
Floorspace	105 square feet
Ceiling height	7’3”
Weight capacity	2.9 tons
Pedestal	18”W x 43”L x 7”H
Door & Window dimensions, material (include glass)	Main door: 39”W x 89”H Large window: 59”W x 81”H Small window: 39”W x 39”H Window & door material: Powder coated aluminum, 5/16” tempered glass
Siding, roof, floor & balcony material	Siding: Plywood 1/2”, steel frame, honeycomb paper, plywood 3/8”, bitume, housewrap, vinyl siding Roof: Roof shingles Floor: Plywood Pedestal: Steel frame & wood plastic composite
Electrical devices	1 RCB (Residual current breaker) 5 Wall outlet (Universal wall sockets) 1 Ceiling light switch 4 Ceiling light 1 Ventilator switch 1 Ventilator 2 Ethernet wall port 66ft power cable with 2 connectors
Power input	Maximum voltage: 110V AC (US standard) Maximum current: 25A Maximum power dissipation: 2750W
Furniture (optional)	Cabinet, Desk, Small & Big Bookshelf, TV Shelf, Foldable Sofa Table & Electrical Cabinet* (*Electrical Cabinet always included)

• 

  "The StudioPod has been a remarkable addition to my backyard. Its design and functionality create an inspiring workspace that's truly a game-changer."

  - Keith H.
• 

  "What I really love about the StudioPod is it's multi-purpose. You can use it for work, it has a good desk, plenty of storage space. You can use it for playing video games, watching games, being noisy without disturbing family life. You can also extend it and use for having people sleeping over!" - Jaime H.
• 

  "Excellent customer service for StudioPod. Quick responses."

  - Matthew C.
• 

  "The StudioPod's ergonomic chair provides excellent support for long hours of work."

  - Marcus D.

3. Autonomous WorkPod mini

Autonomous WorkPod Mini, the ultimate solution for your accessory dwelling unit kit needs. This modern accessory dwelling unit is designed to maximize your productivity while providing a stylish and functional space.

With its compact design, the WorkPod Mini fits seamlessly into any backyard or outdoor space, offering a private retreat for work or relaxation. Equipped with state-of-the-art features, this accessory dwelling unit kit includes everything you need to create a comfortable and efficient workspace.

From high-quality insulation to energy-efficient windows, every detail is carefully crafted to ensure a premium experience. The sleek, modern design of the WorkPod Mini complements any setting, making it an ideal addition to your home or office. Whether you need a quiet place to work, a creative studio, or a guest room, this modern accessory dwelling unit offers endless possibilities.

Experience the perfect blend of functionality and style with the Autonomous WorkPod Mini and transform your outdoor space into a versatile and inspiring environment.

WorkPod mini

For small yards and budgets.

4 reviews

Learn more

Specifications

Dimension	Overall size: 8’7"W x 9’L x 9’3"H Floorspace: 80 square feet Ceiling height: 7’3" Weight capacity: 2.3 tons (including Pod body) Pedestal: 24"W x 103"L x 9"H
Door & Window dimensions, material (include glass)	Main door: 37"W x 89"H (open side) & 33"W x 89"H (fixed side) Window: 43"W x 20"H Window & door material: Powder coated aluminum, 5/16" tempered glass
Siding, roof, floor & balcony material	Siding: Plywood 1/2" , steel frame, honeycomb paper, plywood 3/8", bitume, housewrap, vinyl siding Roof: Metal roofing Floor: Plywood Balcony & Pedestal: Steel frame & wood plastic composite
Electrical devices	1 RCB (Residual current breaker) 2 Wall outlet (Universal wall sockets) 1 Ceiling light switch 1 Ceiling light 1 Wall light 1 Ethernet wall port 66ft power cable with 2 connectors
Power input	Maximum voltage: 110V AC (US standard) Maximum current: 25A Maximum power dissipation: 2750W

• 

  "Would prefer it. Love the way it fits right into my backyard space. Actually the material & design looks better than my expectation. Would prefer it to my network."

  - Alejandro B.
• 

  "A perfect fit for our tight backyard space. We love how this allowed us to get extra space without the headache of going through permits or renovation costs. The Pod Lite is small enough to not be considered an ADU that requires permitting and clearance from the city, which is amazing. Such an innovative solution, especially as more people are working from home now. It’s going to be our new office space!" - Katie S.
• 

  "Very worth it. The WorkPod Lite surpassed my expectations with its faithful resemblance to the website's depiction. Its design is not only visually consistent but also surprisingly spacious. The material is also very sturdy and weather resistance."

  - Hee-Sang L.
• 

  "The WorkPod Lite is a fantastic buy! Despite a slightly delayed delivery, it effortlessly nestled into my compact backyard. Quick assembly had it up and running within days. Highly recommended!"

  - Meredith H.

4. Thinktanks Compact Office Pod

Although it’s not an Autonomous product, you can also get the Thinktanks One Person pod from the Autonomous website, and it’s way more inexpensive than the previous modern ADUs on this list. However, that means it won’t include all the gadgets you saw in them.  

If you don’t like DIY activities, this ADU is perfect for you since it comes fully assembled. Unlike others on this list, this pod was created to work as an office ADU for one person. Hence, you may not be able to use it for other things or more people.  

Besides that, buying the Thinktanks One Person Pod gives you all the outlets and USB chargers you’ll need for your office supplies. Do you get distracted from work often? This pod works with acoustic panels that keep you away from any noise from the outdoors.  

Since the Thinktanks pod is meant to work as a mini-office, you can’t sleep in it as you would do with a studio shed.   

Thinktanks Compact Office Pod

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5. Allwood Estelle Cabin Kit

If you are looking for a contemporary ADU that gives you a warm vibe and offers you a lot of space, you can go for the Allwood Estelle Cabin Kit. This product is perfect for people who want to stay in touch with nature.

6. Hello Wood Workstation Cabin

While the Allwood Estelle Cabin Kit gives you a closer approach to nature without focusing on having a modern design, the Hello Wood Workstation Cabin uses an innovative modern ADU design that gives you the private meeting room you’ve always wanted.  

This cabin comes with built-in electrical outlets, but you can pay for it to have additional services such as an air conditioner, a sound system, or a TV screen. 

7. EcoSpace WorkPod

We recommend you buy the EcoSpace WorkPod if you want a warm-looking pod that makes you feel at home. You can install this ADU in five days, and it comes with underfloor heating and lighting.  

Apart from all that, this is one of the most affordable products on the list.

8. ZenBooth Solo

As its name suggests, the ZenBooth Solo works as an individual ADU for office workers. However, you can also use it as an office phone booth, a private space for employees, or any type of quiet room you want it to be.  

9. Hopkins Towing Solutions Shed Kit

Although most products on this list come preassembled, the Hopkins Towing Solutions Shed Kit needs the buyer to build it from scratch. You will love this product if you love DIY activities.  

Apart from that, you can customize this backyard shed house to adapt to what you want.

10. The OfficePOD

Getting to the last product on this list, we have the OfficePOD. The main advantage this accessory dwelling unit offers is that it comes fully furnished and equipped and doesn’t need any foundations to be installed.

Final Thoughts

All the products listed on this page are modern ADUs of excellent quality, and they include all the benefits you would need in any modern ADU design.  

However, remember you need your accessory dwelling unit to adapt to your needs, so make sure to know what you want the ADU for before getting it. 

If you are interested in exploring different types of outdoor structures, consider building a DIY backyard gazebo for relaxation or looking into prefab log cabins in Maine for a rustic touch. If you are concerned about natural disasters, you might want to explore hurricane-proof homes in Florida to ensure your ADU is built to withstand extreme weather conditions.

For those considering a renovation, small spaces can be transformed effectively with small house renovation ideas. Explore all these options to create a perfect ADU that fits your specific needs and preferences.