Joshua Leibner and Katherine Henninger, who value frugality, faced an unexpected challenge when they set out to build an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) near their home in Northeast Los Angeles. Initially expecting the project to cost $300,000, the final expense doubled to around $600,000. Despite this financial surprise, the finished ADU offers a mix of artistry and practicality.
Living in their Midcentury Modern home on a ridgeline between Eagle Rock and Highland Park, the couple desired flexibility. The ADU would serve them, their family, or a tenant. With little space to expand, they replaced their two-car garage with a studio designed by architects Brennan Buck and David Freeland.
The architects built a vertical structure with tall trapezoidal sections, terraced decks, and large windows for cross-ventilation. This 400-square-foot studio includes niches for a kitchenette, sleeping loft, living room, and bathroom. High ceilings and strategic windows enhance the sense of space, offering views and refreshing breezes during warm days.
The couple’s art collection personalizes the ADU, featuring works by “Missionary” Mary L. Proctor, Robert Rauschenberg, and Frank Romero. A pendant light made from zip ties, purchased years ago in Cambodia, adds a unique touch to the space.
The ADU and main house feature privacy through strategic orientation and a deck connecting the two. Leibner explains that the fireplace in the main house blocks the view of the ADU, ensuring privacy both ways.
Despite pandemic-related challenges that increased costs, Leibner and Henninger hired contractor David Bond. They also took on parts of the project themselves to manage expenses, including demolition and reuse of materials. Henninger recalls posting materials online for others to use, minimizing waste and fostering community engagement.
Currently on the East Coast for family health reasons, the couple rents out their home and ADU. They hope to return soon to enjoy their thoughtfully crafted space.
“This is our home,” Henninger says. They invested heavily in the project and cherish the artistic and functional results. Adding the ADU has also provided an income source to offset construction costs, adds Leibner.