One of the things we love most about our work as custom home designers is how truly unique each project can be — both in terms of the creative designs and the one-of-a-kind challenges. Helping clients bring their dreams to life through thoughtful design is our passion, and this downtown Colorado Springs ADU was a joy to work on.
This project took place on a site near downtown where our clients already owned a home. Their goal: To create a small but beautiful ADU where they could live. When they came to us, they had sketches, a vision, and some truly personalized requests to make this small space their dream home.
Client Vision and Project Goals
Our clients approached us with sketches, ideas, and a clear goal: to build a compact yet beautiful ADU where they could live comfortably. Their vision included unique features like a rooftop gazebo for entertaining and a floor plan optimized to fit a baby grand piano, despite its small size. It was important to reflect their personality and style while maximizing efficiency and functionality.
Designing for Efficiency and Sustainability
To meet their net-zero goals, we incorporated the Faswall® ICF-like (insulated concrete form) system. Faswall Blocks are made from recycled materials, providing breathable, fire-resistant, and highly efficient insulation. This system improved thermal performance and contributed to the ADU's energy efficiency.
Since Faswall Blocks are 12 inches thick (twice the size of typical 6-inch walls), we carefully adjusted the floor plan to ensure the already compact space remained functional and inviting.
Overcoming Lot Coverage Challenges
Lot coverage limitations posed a challenge early in the project. When the design exceeded the 30% lot coverage limit (landing at 30.6%), we applied for a Non-Use Variance to resolve it. Given the site's historic platting from the 1800s — a time when zoning laws were less defined — we successfully demonstrated that the design was appropriate for the property. The variance approval allowed us to proceed with the original vision intact.
A Unique, Functional Space
As with any project, unique challenges arose along the way, but each one was worth finding solutions for. The result is a truly custom petite pink palace that embodies the creativity and spirit of our clients. The five-corner rooftop gazebo now serves as a cherished tearoom for relaxing moments with family and friends. Every design choice was intentional, blending personal style with sustainable functionality.
The finished ADU - a petite pink palace.
The rooftop gazebo serves as fresh air tearoom.
Collaboration and Execution
We partnered with Doug Mayne from Balanced Builders, who did an exceptional job as always bringing our design to life. From the structural integrity of the Faswall Blocks to the details of the rooftop gazebo, every element was carefully crafted to match the client’s vision.
Why This Project Stands Out
This ADU isn’t just a home — it’s a testament to personalized design and sustainable solutions. It’s projects like these that remind us why we love our clients so much and why we love bringing their visions to life!
For homeowners seeking efficient, creative designs that align with net-zero goals, this project showcases what’s possible with smart planning and expert collaboration.
Looking to design a custom ADU or net-zero home in Colorado Springs?
Home Designer: LGA Studios
Builder: Doug Mayne - Balanced Builders, Inc.