ADU 2.0
Location: Siteless system for adaptable placement
Site applications: Rear yards and infill lots
Type: Independent research
Status: Ongoing
Role: Sole designer
Outputs: Research, concepts, feasibility studies, manufacturing readiness studies, drawings, details, renderings, digital models, cost studies, transportation studies, and scale model connection tests
Image credits: JJ Tan
Professional involvement: None at present. Appropriately licensed or registered professionals would be required for implementation on a specific site.
ADU 2.0 is an ongoing independent research project that explores how modular components and panelized construction can support a flexible accessory dwelling or secondary residential space. Conceived as a siteless system, it is intended to adapt to rear yards, infill lots, and other locations with suitable access and site conditions.
The primary structure uses cross laminated timber panels with an exposed interior wood finish. An interchangeable exterior cladding system allows the building to respond to the character of an existing home through materials such as standing seam metal, shiplap siding, insulated metal panels, or wood slats. Pin foundations or helical piers are being studied as options for reducing site work and accelerating installation, subject to local ground conditions and engineering requirements.
A regular panel spacing coordinates the structure, roof, and exterior cladding. Panels can be added or removed to change the building’s size according to site conditions and user needs. Inside, configurable furniture and equipment packages allow the space to function as a home office, gym, additional bedroom, compact living suite, pool house, or entertainment space. Bathroom facilities are integrated into the base configuration, while kitchen and living components can be introduced where required.
Manufacturing and assembly requirements guide the proportions and connection logic of the system. Panel dimensions respond to factory handling, equipment requirements, transportation limits, trailer and container capacity, site access, and installation cost. Components are designed to fit within conventional transportation constraints and to be assembled efficiently where access is available beside the primary residence.
The main development challenge is coordinating products from manufacturers that use different dimensions, connection standards, and production requirements. The project approaches these elements as a unified kit of compatible parts, using Design for Manufacturing and Assembly to connect structure, enclosure, foundations, finishes, transportation, and installation.
Digital models, manufacturing and cost studies, transportation studies, sourcing research, and scale model connection tests are being used to evaluate the system. ADU 2.0 brings together modular design, panelized construction, material development, component detailing, visualization, and manufacturing coordination to investigate how a flexible accessory structure could be produced and deployed with less disruption than conventional construction.