A Thoughtfully Designed ADU in Falmouth

This custom accessory dwelling unit was built for a homeowner in Falmouth, Maine who wanted more than just extra square footage—they wanted a space that felt intentional, durable, and comfortable year-round.

Designed and built to meet current MUBEC energy code requirements, this ADU reflects my approach to modern small-scale buildings: high performance, long-term durability, and a clean, timeless aesthetic.

The structure is framed with cold-formed steel, chosen for its strength, precision, and resistance to moisture and pests—ideal for Maine’s climate. To maximize energy efficiency and comfort, the building features continuous exterior insulation, reducing thermal bridging and helping the interior stay comfortable in every season.

Natural light and indoor comfort were a priority, which is why the unit is outfitted with high-quality German triple-pane doors and windows. These not only elevate the look of the space, but also provide exceptional insulation, sound reduction, and everyday comfort.

Inside, the building includes a composting toilet with a dedicated hand-wash sink, making it a practical and flexible solution for properties where traditional plumbing may not be desired or required.

The result is a versatile, high-end space that works beautifully as:

• A quiet home office

• A calming yoga or creative studio

• A comfortable guest bedroom

• Or a private personal retreat just steps from the main home

This project is a great example of what’s possible when thoughtful design meets quality construction. If you’re looking to add a similar building to your property—whether as an ADU, studio, or multi-purpose backyard space—I’d love to talk through your ideas and help bring them to life.

A 14×28 ADU Built Like a Real Home — With a Covered Porch

This 14×28 ADU with a 5-foot covered porch was designed for clients who want the comfort, durability, and longevity of a full-scale house—just in a smaller footprint.

Unlike prefabricated sheds or temporary structures, this building is a true stick-built construction, built the same way a conventional home is built—from framing to finishes. It meets the current MUBEC energy code, making it suitable for long-term living, rentals, and year-round use in Maine’s climate.

The building features energy-efficient double-pane windows that provide natural light while maintaining thermal performance, along with an insulated fiberglass exterior door for durability, weather resistance, and everyday comfort.

The covered porch adds more than just curb appeal—it extends the living space outdoors, creating a welcoming entry and a place to relax, work, or entertain. It’s a small detail that makes the building feel like a home, not just a structure.

Thanks to its thoughtful design and code-compliant construction, this building supports a wide range of uses:

• Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)

• Tiny home on a foundation

• Cabin or seasonal getaway

• Backyard studio or office

• Short-term rental (Airbnb)

• Long-term rental property

This project represents the sweet spot between size, flexibility, and long-term value—a compact home that doesn’t compromise on quality or compliance.

If you’re looking for a properly built ADU or small home that can adapt to your needs today and hold its value for decades, I can help you design and build something similar—tailored to your site, your goals, and your budget.

A Compact Luxury Shed Designed for Flexibility & Durability

This 120 sq ft luxury shed was designed for homeowners who want a high-quality, multi-purpose space without the complexity of a full ADU build. Compact in size but rich in detail, this structure balances durability, mobility, and refined design.

The building is framed with cold-formed steel, offering excellent structural integrity, resistance to moisture and pests, and long-term durability. The walls are fully insulated with cavity insulation throughout, making the interior comfortable for everyday use across multiple seasons.

Equipped with double-pane doors and windows, the shed brings in natural light while maintaining a clean, modern appearance. While this structure meets the International Residential Building Code (IRC), it is intentionally designed as a non-energy-code-compliant building under current MUBEC requirements, making it an ideal solution for uses where full energy compliance is not required.

One of the standout features of this shed is its innovative foundation system. The building can be:

• Easily moved with a forklift, or

• Slid onto a trailer, similar to a traditional shed

This flexibility makes it perfect for evolving needs or future relocation—something most permanent structures simply can’t offer.

The entrance is thoughtfully detailed with a granite floor, adding a subtle architectural accent and a sense of permanence and craftsmanship. Inside, the space is finished with SPC flooring, chosen for its durability, water resistance, and clean, modern look.

The building is pre-wired for power and connects just like an RV, allowing for a straightforward electrical hookup without extensive site work.

This luxury shed is ideal for:

• A focused home office

• A workshop or maker space

• An extra bedroom or guest space

• A cozy cabin-style retreat

This project shows how even a small footprint can deliver big value when designed and built with care. If you’re looking for a movable, well-built, and beautifully finished backyard structure tailored to your needs, I’d be happy to help you create one like this.