The Franklin Wood House is a contemporary, freestanding accessory dwelling unit (ADU) that replaces a former residential garage belonging to a 1921 single-family home. Situated within a Los Angeles neighborhood filled with unique, historic 1920s architecture, the new structure was designed to establish its own distinct architectural character while respecting the scale of its historic surroundings.
Spatial Experience & Design Layout
The ground floor is anchored by a spacious, open-concept kitchen and living area configured to flow seamlessly into the shared backyard, complemented by a discreet powder room at the entry. The second-floor hosts two bedrooms, each featuring private en-suite bathrooms. Architecturally, the primary bedroom is oriented to provide framed, unobstructed views toward the iconic Griffith Observatory and the surrounding Griffith Park hills.
Façade & Privacy Strategy
In response to the busy street front, the primary façade serves a dual purpose. It functions as a privacy shield for the residents while strategically filtering abundant natural light into both the upper bedroom and the ground-floor kitchen, turning a site constraint into a design feature.
Sustainability & Materials
Sustainability drives the home's material palette and infrastructure. Built with a sustainable wood frame, the exterior is clad entirely in Accoya—a high-performance, acetylated softwood. Left untreated by design, the timber façade will slowly weather over time into a beautiful silver-grey patina. Aligning with modern eco-conscious standards, the Franklin Wood House operates entirely on electric energy, completely eliminating the use of fossil fuels.