Fred Donham of PhotographerLink
Family Ties A
llyson and Rich Carlson are good at making and executing plans. When the empty nesters decided to downsize a couple years ago, they made a mutually beneficial plan with their daughter and son-in-law, then house hunting for their own family. “When we decided to move from our large traditional bungalow in East Sac, we worked with them to find a home that could accommodate a newly built ADU in the backyard,” Allyson says. In 2020, the young couple found a sprawling 1970s Arden ranch with a huge yard and pool. “It was perfect for what we wanted to do,” Allyson
CH By Cecily Hastings Photography by Aniko Kiezel OPEN HOUSE
ADU SOLVES THIS GENERATION GAP
says. Her accessory dwelling unit plan was set in motion. Coincidentally, the Carlsons were building a second home near Tahoe. The new Arden ADU would serve as their Sacramento base and keep them close to family and friends. “I am blessed to be able to care for my two young grandchildren three days a week now,” Allyson says. The couple moved in last October after seven months of construction. The new unit is located behind the original garage and carport. It features 850 square feet with a great room and kitchen, one bedroom and bath. They designed a large storage space with outdoor access next to the garage, which adds to their privacy. Allyson’s sense of style is evident in every design choice. The space is a study in contrasts with black and white, warmed by wood accents, including dramatic ceiling beams. “We raised the roof so we could get extra height from a cathedral ceiling. It helped make the space feel much larger,” Allyson says. With one bathroom, the design team devised a multi-function room. The opening to the bedroom contains closets, shower and storage. The vanity and toilet have an entrance from the living space. Pocket doors connect the rooms.
Allyson and Rich Carlson
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