Hillside Remodel · Residence + ADU

9473 W. Rembert Lane

On a steep site with little conventional yard, the roof of a lower private ADU becomes an outdoor courtyard for the remodeled main house.

Remodeled main house opening toward the planted roof deck above the lower ADU

A backyard made in section

The main house is approached from the high side of the property; the ADU occupies the lower street level and has its own private domain. That change in elevation allows the ADU roof to meet the principal living spaces as a broad outdoor deck.

Where the existing house had little usable rear or side yard for retreat and family gatherings, the new deck creates a courtyard-like setting for daily life. The living room opens toward this planted surface, bringing the landscape and gathering space into the center of the remodel. The owner plans to use the independent ADU as a private office.

Two arrivals

The main house and private ADU meet the sloping street at different levels.

One outdoor room

The ADU roof gives the main residence the gathering space the site lacked.

Living continuity

The primary living space extends toward planting, light and the roof courtyard.

Street · Section · Courtyard

Lower street approach with independent ADU and office above garage — Lower arrival · The private ADU meets the street below the main house.

Hillside view showing the ADU below its planted roof deck and the main house above — Section · The roof of one space becomes the outdoor room of the other.

Main house facing a broad roof deck with planters and seating above the ADU — Courtyard · A planted deck makes room for gathering on the hillside.

Elevated view across the ADU roof courtyard toward the main house — Continuity · The deck draws outdoor life toward the primary living spaces.

9473 W. Rembert Lane

The hillside's change in level becomes the means to give the house a backyard.