Assessing Your Space and Needs

1. What’s the Purpose of the Cottage? The size of your cottage will largely depend on how you plan to use it. If you’re building a guest house or an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), you’ll need enough space for a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen. For example, cottages designed for guest accommodations are often between 400 and 800 square feet. Smaller cottages, around 200-300 square feet, might be perfect for hobbies like painting or as a home office.
2. Property Size and Zoning Laws Before getting too deep into planning, check your local zoning regulations. Many cities and towns have limits on the size and height of backyard structures. It’s also important to ensure your cottage fits proportionally within your property. For smaller yards, a compact 200-400 square foot cottage can be ideal, providing just enough space without overwhelming your landscape. In larger spaces, you might comfortably fit a 600-800 square foot structure.
3. Additional Features to Consider Think about whether you’ll need plumbing, electricity, or insulation. These elements will impact the size of the cottage. If your plan includes a kitchen or bathroom, you’ll need to allocate enough room for these areas while staying within your property limits.

Common Sizes for Cottages

• Small Cottages (200-400 sq ft): Perfect for a quiet retreat, home office, or studio. Small cottages are easier to build, cost-effective, and less likely to require extensive permits.
• Medium Cottages (400-600 sq ft): Ideal for guest houses, offering more comfort and livability. A cottage of this size can accommodate a small bedroom, bathroom, and kitchenette, making it a great choice for visitors or even as a rental unit.
• Large Cottages (600-800 sq ft): These are great for those looking to build a more permanent living space, complete with multiple rooms, full kitchen, and larger living areas. They work well as long-term guest housing or even for multi-generational living.

Boosting Property Value

Another important consideration is how the cottage can affect your property’s value. According to experts, a well-designed backyard cottage or ADU can significantly increase the appeal and market value of your home. It’s seen as a luxury feature that provides extra space, whether for rental income or extended family​.

Next Steps

Building the right-sized cottage for your yard is a mix of practicality and personal preferences. It’s crucial to evaluate your needs, available space, and the potential long-term benefits. Whether you’re aiming for a cozy retreat or a functional guest house, picking the right size will make your investment worthwhile.