San Diego is rapidly embracing accessory dwelling units (ADUs) as a solution for more living space, multigenerational housing, and rental income. As we move into 2025, a new wave of design trends is emerging—prioritizing smart layouts, modern architecture, and functional comfort.
At Fabrick, we see these trends firsthand through our recent ADU builds across the city. Here are the top ADU trends shaping San Diego in 2025, along with examples from our work.
Homeowners are increasingly choosing ADUs in the 400–750 sq. ft. range, where every inch counts. Smart layouts make smaller footprints feel bigger and more efficient.
For example, in this Attached ADU project, we used an open studio flow and a linear kitchen design to create an airy feel without increasing square footage.
Smooth stucco paired with wood or composite accents continues to dominate San Diego ADU design. These materials offer a clean, warm, contemporary look.
Our ADU project in Encinitas showcases this perfectly—blending wood cladding and smooth stucco for a modern aesthetic that complements the main home.
Why this trend matters: Modern design appeals to a broad audience — renters, multigenerational families, and long-term occupants alike. Plus, it aligns with sustainable and efficient building practices.
This Childhood Home ADU Addition in Logan Heights (700 sq ft) also showcases minimal black-and-white color schemes, stainless steel appliances, and wood-look flooring for a warm yet contemporary feel.
San Diego’s climate makes indoor-outdoor living a must, and ADU designs are leaning into that with large glazing, sliding doors, and open patios:
This Spanish Style ADU, a large sliding glass door connects living space to a patio, creating a “flow-through” design that blurs inside and outside.
Whether used as a private guest suite or a tranquil retreat, this Spanish-style ADU showcases how intentional design and connection to the outdoors can transform a backyard into a modern sanctuary.
More homeowners are building ADUs not just for rental income, but for family — especially for aging parents or multigenerational setups:
Why this trend matters: As housing costs rise, many families prefer ADUs as a way to stay connected, share costs, and support aging relatives. These multifunctional ADUs give flexibility and long-term value.
ADUs are getting smarter and more efficient — from layout to materials:
Why this trend matters: Efficient material use reduces waste, helps control cost, and supports sustainable design. For homeowners, it means a high-quality ADU without overbuilding.
ADUs continue to be a top investment strategy in San Diego. Durable finishes, simple layouts, and privacy-minded floor plans make rental-ready ADUs very popular.
Located in the heart of San Diego, this 400 SQFT, two car garage conversio nwas designed specifically for rental use—featuring practical materials and a layout ideal for long-term tenants.
Warm whites, natural woods, and matte black fixtures are expected to continue trending through 2025—creating spaces that feel modern yet inviting.
Located in the scenic Ocean Beach neighborhood, this 1200 sq. ft., two-story ADU uses Scandinavian-inspired cabinetry and calming neutral tones to create a soft, minimalist interior.
Built-in benches, tall cabinets, and hidden storage solutions help maximize space in compact ADUs.
At 651 sq. ft., this detached ADU was thoughtfully crafted to serve as a warm and welcoming home for a daughter and granddaughter. With 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, the layout makes the most of every square inch—offering privacy, style, and functional living for a small family or multigenerational setup.
Patios, decks, or small courtyards add livable square footage and elevate the outdoor experience.
In this contemporary home expansion adds meaningful space and modern style. A newly constructed garage adds storage, parking, and direct access to the home.
Natural light is one of the biggest requests for 2025, especially in smaller ADUs.
For the North County Beach Cottage, we incorporated oversized sliding doors and strategically placed windows to create an airy, open feel.
2025 ADU trends in San Diego are all about maximizing space, staying modern, and designing for flexibility. At Fabrick, we keep these trends at the heart of every project—balancing aesthetics, budget, and function for every homeowner we work with.
If you’re thinking about building an ADU, we’d love to help you bring your project to life.
Design-build ADU delivery with clear budgeting, proactive communication, and on-time schedules. We handle permits, utilities, inspections, and craftsmanship from start to finish.
Step-by-step checklist to plan a legal, comfortable garage conversion: structure, insulation, egress, fire rating, utilities, and inspections.