Backyard houses, also known as accessory dwelling units or ADU, are small houses that are on the same property as a larger house. The recent trend toward downsizing and living small has popularized the phrases tiny homes and cottage homes, and they're independent, self-contained units. Whether you're an existing homeowner or first time homebuyer, it is important to note the differences between a tiny home, a backyard cottage, and an accessory dwelling unit.
Regardless of what you decide to call that small house in your backyard, it's crucial to consider the legal aspects associated with building one. Many jurisdictions have specific zoning laws and regulations governing the construction of ADUs, backyard cottages, or even sheds turned living spaces. Explore ADUs, tiny homes, backyard homes, and guest homes.
Compare these small living options to find the perfect fit for your needs and lifestyle. A backyard tiny home, also known as a tiny house or a micro home, is a small, self. What is a Small House in the Backyard Called? Several terms reference small homes in backyards.
Legally speaking, the houses are called accessory dwelling units. However, people may refer to them as granny cottages, backyard cottages, and even micro. When considering adding a small structure to a backyard, the simple question of "what to call it" quickly becomes complicated.
The name assigned to the structure is not merely a matter of preference; it is intrinsically linked to its intended use, physical size, and whether it is designed for human habitation. An extra house in a backyard is typically called an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), granny flat, mother-in-law suite, laneway house, coach house, or cottage. An accessory dwelling unit is typically a smaller, auxiliary dwelling that serves as an accessory to the primary living space on the same property.
Any house with a floor area of 2,000 square feet or less can be called a small house, but there are still so many different types and styles under this category. In this article, I will list down the different terms used for small houses, plus a short description for each style so you can easily distinguish one from the other. A backyard cottage is a type of detached accessory dwelling unit, also called an ADU.
They are their own residential structures on the same lot as single-family homes, but stand apart.