The right interior design choices can mean the difference between a bright and spacious DADU that feels like home and one that feels cramped and cluttered.

It’s no surprise that Detached Accessory Dwelling Units, or DADUs, have become increasingly popular. Not only can they increase property value, but they can also offer you lots of flexibility, whether you need extra space for the in-laws, have kids looking for a little more independence, or plan on earning some rental income.

However, with less square footage, interior design becomes even more critical. The right interior design choices can create a livable space where people feel comfortable and relaxed, while the wrong ones can result in a place that feels disorganized, cramped, and even claustrophobic. That’s why we’re sharing 10 top DADU interior design tips to help you maximize your DADU’s limited space.

10 DADU Interior Design Tips

1. Optimize Your Storage

DADUs don’t have much square footage, so you need to make the most of every inch by incorporating innovative storage solutions. With well-thought-out storage, you can keep your DADU clear of clutter and make it feel larger and more inviting.

Under-bed drawers, under-stair storage, and furniture with built-in storage compartments will allow you to store more belongings without taking up additional floor space. And don’t forget to think vertically. Using tall shelves, cabinets, and hooks will allow you to fully utilize the height of your DADU and maximize your storage.

You can even use wall-mounted shelves for additional storage. Beyond simply providing extra space for your belongings, these floating shelves can create a more open, airy, and modern feel.

2. Use a Light Color Palette

Dark colors absorb light and make rooms feel smaller, which is the last thing you want in a DADU. That’s why opting for a lighter color palette for your walls and furniture is better. Whites, creams, soft grays, and even light pastels will reflect more light and create a sense of spaciousness.

Don’t rush into your decision and pick the first shade of white that you see, though. Take your time to explore different colors. If you can, sample paint in your space, as the lighting will change throughout the day and can significantly impact how a color looks. Once you’ve made your choice, you can use it as a guide while picking out your furniture, appliances, decorations, and more.

3. Maximize Natural Light

Natural light isn’t just good for our vitamin D levels. It can also improve our circadian rhythms, increase focus and productivity, and even make us happier. On top of that, natural light creates the illusion of more space by brightening up a room and reducing shadows, making it all the more important in a DADU.

To increase natural light, add larger windows and use sheer curtains or blinds to let in more sunlight. Glass doors or skylights can offer additional sources of daylight, while light-colored walls or reflective surfaces can also help cast light throughout the space.

4. Have an Open-Concept Design

Due to their limited footprints, DADUs can often feel tiny, but having an open-concept design can help your living area feel more spacious. Removing unnecessary walls or partitions lets both people and natural light move more freely.

To take the open design a step further, avoid large or bulky furniture that might block sightlines, break the visual flow, or clutter your space. Instead, use low-profile furniture with legs to help maintain an open atmosphere and create a more cohesive space.

5. Have High Ceilings

High ceilings will give you more vertical room, making the place feel less confined and more inviting. High ceilings also allow for taller windows, resulting in more natural light and a more open atmosphere. Plus, they’ll give you more design flexibility. With high ceilings, you can add vertical storage or loft your bed to make your DADU more functional.

6. Pick Your Furniture Carefully

It’s all too easy to assume whatever you have in your main home will also work perfectly in your DADU, but that would be a big mistake! Smaller spaces need furniture that fits the room’s scale. Otherwise, it may feel crowded and uncomfortable.

When possible, choose furniture that can serve multiple purposes. With multi-functional furniture, such as sleeper sofas, Murphy beds, storage coffee tables, benches with built-in storage, or fold-down tables, you can save valuable space and make your DADU more versatile and functional.

7. Choose Smaller Appliances

In a similar vein, you’ll want to choose appropriately sized appliances. That means no 8-burner ranges or oversized refrigerators. Instead, consider apartment-sized stoves, refrigerators, and dishwashers. These appliances are designed to suit smaller spaces like a DADU and will give you some much-needed space to move around.

8. Decorate Thoughtfully

Consider adding art to your space, but don’t just pick any artwork. Select pieces that match your personality and go well with your DADU’s overall color scheme and style. If you want to make your living space more lively, consider something with brighter colors, bold patterns, playful shapes, or interesting textures. On the other hand, choose something with more neutral colors and a simpler design for a calmer and more minimalist vibe.

You can also add a few plants. Not only can their organic structure help balance out any sharp lines or angles in your DADU, but they can also add a splash of color, which is particularly valuable if your space has a neutral or light color palette. Beyond aesthetics, plants can improve air quality and boost mental well-being. Hanging or wall-mounted planters will allow you to add greenery without taking up valuable floor space. Just don’t overdo it.

9. Include Functional and Stylish Accessories

Likewise, you’ll want to stock your DADU with functional and stylish accessories. Things like decorative baskets, trays, bowls, and hooks can help organize your everyday essentials. You can add some personal touches, such as photos or souvenirs, but avoid cluttering the space.

You’ll also need practical items such as soap dispensers, toilet paper holders, shower curtains, lamps, door knobs, and overhead lighting. While these details may seem small, they can mean the difference between a DADU that feels cohesive and polished and one that seems thrown together at the last minute.

10. Think About Your Outdoor Spaces

Finally, don’t forget about your outdoor spaces. Adding a deck, patio, screened porch, or even a gravel seating area can extend your living space and give you more room for relaxing, eating, and entertaining guests. Adding weather-resistant furniture, lights, and plants can make the space feel cozy and like a natural extension of your DADU instead of just an afterthought.

It’s also worth considering adding outdoor storage solutions. A storage bench, built-in deck seating with hidden compartments, and cabinets will allow you to tuck away everything from gardening tools to seasonal decorations so you can keep your DADU tidy and more livable.

Make Every Detail Count

Your interior design choices can make or break your Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit. With such limited space, every decision has a major impact on your DADU’s comfortability, functionality, and overall atmosphere. So, pay close attention to your color palette, outdoor spaces, storage, natural light, furniture, appliances, and art selections to create a comfortable, functional, and inviting space.

We’re here to help you create the home of your dreams with our home remodeling in Franklin, TN. If you’re looking for additional inspiration, please follow us on our Instagram and Facebook. Our work will make you say WOW! To schedule a free consultation, contact us today.

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