Project Summary
Location: Silver Spring, Maryland
Sometimes the best solution is right in your own backyard. That was the case for this family in Silver Spring, Maryland. Two busy professors wanted to bring the husband’s mother closer to home, but local housing prices made that tough. So, they reached out to Winthorpe Design & Build, a trusted ADU builder in Maryland, to create a cozy, independent home for her, just steps away.
The family needed someone who could handle everything from start to finish. With Winthorpe, they got design, permitting, and construction all under one roof. This resulted in a beautiful, light-filled ADU that feels open, warm, and perfectly tailored to the family’s needs.
The Challenge
The backyard wasn’t big, and it came with a few tricky requirements. The ADU needed full utility connections for water, sewer, and electricity, plus a sprinkler system. On top of that, the main home needed an electrical upgrade to support the new structure. And, of course, there was a firm budget to stick to.
The homeowners also had a clear vision. They wanted the ADU to feel spacious, well-lit, and connected to nature. That meant lots of glass, high ceilings, and clean design lines. The challenge was to fit all that into a small footprint without breaking the bank.
The Process
From the beginning, the Winthorpe team made it easy. They handled the entire project in-house, which meant fewer headaches and faster progress. They started with the design and worked closely with the homeowners to make sure the ADU looked great and met every need. Then they got the permits, planned the site work, and coordinated with the electric company early to keep things on schedule.
The design focused on light, flow, and simplicity. The team aligned windows and doors perfectly to create symmetry inside and out. A large set of windows across the front brought in tons of daylight and helped the small space feel wide open. A cathedral ceiling added extra height and volume, making the rooms feel much bigger than they are.
Every choice had purpose. The mother wanted a home that didn’t feel small or closed off—she wanted to feel part of the outdoors. The final design gave her exactly that: a space that’s bright, airy, and connected to the yard.
The Transformation
Keeping within the family’s investment level was key, so Winthorpe used smart, cost-saving ideas. Instead of a traditional HVAC system, they installed two mini-split units, one for the bedroom and one for the living space. These units allowed independent temperature control and reduced installation costs. They also added a tankless water heater to save space and energy.
To make the home extra comfortable, Winthorpe spray-foamed the entire structure—walls, ceiling, and floor—creating an airtight, energy-efficient envelope. That choice made up for removing a planned stone apron around the base, keeping costs balanced without sacrificing warmth or comfort.
The team also paid attention to small details that made a big difference, like sloped ceilings throughout, thoughtful window placement, and subtle trim work that tied the design together.
The Details
The ADU’s exterior feels both modern and timeless. Dark window frames pop against crisp white trim, and soft soffit lighting adds a warm glow at night. The deck out front is the perfect spot for the homeowner’s mother to sit outside and enjoy the day.
Inside, the design is simple but full of charm. The kitchen includes a refrigerator, microwave, and storage—everything needed for independence, even if most meals are shared with the family next door. The open layout connects the kitchen, living, and sleeping areas seamlessly, creating a natural sense of flow. Sliding glass doors in the bedroom let in even more light and lead right out to the deck.
The New Space
The finished ADU feels bigger than it looks on paper. It’s cozy, bright, and filled with natural light. The homeowners’ mother now has a private, comfortable space of her own, while still being close to family. During the day, sunlight streams through the big windows. At night, the soffit lights make the exterior glow softly, making the ADU a small home that truly shines.
For the homeowners, this project was more than just construction; it was peace of mind. They didn’t have to juggle multiple contractors or stress over permits. Winthorpe took care of everything, staying on schedule and on budget.
This story is a perfect example of what makes Winthorpe a leading ADU builder in Maryland: thoughtful design, seamless management, and spaces built with care. What started as a backyard project became something much more—a home filled with comfort, light, and love.
