The Wall Street Journal

Tiny homes, rental suites are the hot new US homeowners’ accessory

Tiny homes, rental suites are the hot new US homeowners’ accessory
There's an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) above the garage in this home in the Williams Ranch community in Southern California. (Render: Williams Ranch)
The Wall Street Journal
By Nicole FriedmanThe latest amenity for homeowners is another, smaller home.Known as accessory dwelling units (ADUs), they can be free-standing miniature homes as small as a studio apartment and tucked away in a backyard. They can be above a garage or in a basement and extend to more than 200 sq metres.ADUs are growing in popularity as states encourage their construction through zoning changes and homeowners seek ways to lower their housing costs by renting out the units. The typical cost to construct one is around US$100,000 (NZ$165,000)...

More The Life

Inside Le Club Wine Room’s Luxe First Birthday Bash
The Life Review

Inside Le Club Wine Room’s Luxe First Birthday Bash

A celebration that delivered on its promise of late-night indulgence.

Dalaine Krige 30 Nov 2025
Review: H.R. The Musical #2
The Life

Review: H.R. The Musical #2

A chaotic, uneven but undeniably entertaining night out.

Dalaine Krige 30 Nov 2025
My Net Worth: Mark Finch, founder of I Measure U
The Life

My Net Worth: Mark Finch, founder of I Measure U

"My best piece of business advice is to trust yourself and take opportunities."

Knitwear entrepreneur chasing La Dolce Vita
The Life

Knitwear entrepreneur chasing La Dolce Vita

A Gisborne-born designer builds an ethical brand and a new life in Italy.

Cécile Meier 30 Nov 2025