Project Spotlight

Smart Spaces has a simple mission, to help Georgia families live smarter, closer, and more comfortably. Whether that means creating a space for loved ones to aging in place, or building an independent guest suite or rental unit, our custom ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) bring connection and functionality together in a beautiful, thoughtful way.

One of our recent favorites, a beautiful iteration of the Wilton floor plan, perfectly captures this vision. Located in Decatur, this 435-square-foot one-bedroom ADU blends striking mid-century modern design with a familiar, personal story. Built for a young family who wanted their aging parents nearby, This ADU is both a stylish addition to their property and a meaningful investment in multi-generational living.

Design Goals & Inspiration

When we first met with our clients, they shared a clear vision: they wanted an accessory dwelling unit that felt like a natural extension of their mid-century modern home, not an afterthought or separate universe. This granny cottage needed to look and feel cohesive with the main residence while offering its own charm, warmth, and independence for their parents.

This design is rooted in balance, blending statement swings with subtle detail. Large black-framed windows invite natural light into every corner, while the open L-shaped layout creates an easy flow between the living area, kitchen, and bedroom. This shape also allows for a small private courtyard space between the two wings of the home, adding both visual interest and comfortable outdoor accessibility for the parents. 

Exterior Features

As with all of our builds, we paid close attention to scale and proportion, ensuring this one-bedroom ADU blended seamlessly into the surrounding community. The exterior showcases a timeless palette of white brick siding contrasted by black trim, windows, and shingles, a modern take on classic Southern design. The clean lines and simple materials mirror the architecture of the main home, creating harmony between the two structures.

The L-shaped layout provides functional benefits too. This configuration allows for natural light to flood the interior from multiple angles while giving the homeowners’ parents added privacy and a clear connection to the backyard. It’s a design that feels intentional, elegant, and right at home in the Decatur neighborhood.

Interior Design & Materials

Inside, every finish was selected with warmth, comfort, and accessibility in mind. The homeowners’ parents took the lead in choosing interior colors and materials, creating a home that felt uniquely theirs from day one.

The space features warm honey oak vinyl flooring, adding a natural, inviting tone throughout the open-concept layout. In the kitchen, smoky blue Shaker cabinets with soft-close hardware pair beautifully with Carrara Marmi-style countertops, featuring elegant veining in shades of white and gray. Stainless steel appliances and sleek, modern fixtures complete the kitchen’s refined yet approachable look.

The bathroom continues this cohesive design story with Dove Gray ceramic subway tiles and white hexagon matte tiles at the base of the walk-in shower,  a combination that balances sophistication and safety. 

Client Collaboration

What makes this version of the Wilton especially meaningful is the collaboration behind it. While our clients selected a model from our existing one-bedroom ADU floor plans, the process felt entirely custom. They had a clear vision for how their parents would use the space and wanted to ensure every design decision reflected their needs and preferences.

We guided the family through our Smart Spaces customization process, offering options for materials, layouts, and accessibility features. This project highlights how flexible our designs can be, starting from a proven floor plan but adapting it to create something deeply personal.

Overcoming Challenges

As with most custom home projects, we conquered a few challenges along the way. The biggest being the permitting process. Working within municipal regulations in Decatur required extra time and coordination, but our team stayed proactive. We maintained constant communication with the city’s permit office to keep the project moving forward and ensure compliance at every stage.

Once permits were approved, we were ready to move quickly. Our construction schedule was carefully planned, and all trade teams were lined up in advance, allowing us to beat the expected project timeline. Despite external delays, The Wilton was completed in just six months from start to finish, with the construction phase lasting under three.

Budget & Financing

From the start, our clients wanted a smart and sustainable financial approach for their in-law cottage build. Their goal was to use a Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) to finance the project, allowing them to invest in their property without overextending their budget. We introduced them to one of our trusted financing partners, who helped them quickly secure the right option and establish a clear budget. 

Head here for more detailed local ADU pricing information.

Outcome & Impact

For the Smart Spaces team, this Decatur version of our Wilton floor plan is a proud example of how we bring families together through craftsmanship, creativity, and care, one custom ADU at a time. The parents now have a comfortable, independent home that’s only steps away from their children and grandchildren, creating daily moments of connection without compromising privacy.

Your Decatur ADU Starts Here

If you’re exploring ways to add flexible living space, create a home for family members, or invest in your property, we’d love to talk about your needs and vision. Connect with us here to start the conversation.