Lake Balboa Modern ADU
Lake Balboa, Los Angeles, California
Project Overview
What began as an under-utilized garage is now a fully self-contained 1-bed/1-bath ADU that adds instant rental income and multigenerational flexibility to the property. A smooth-stucco exterior, new black-framed windows, and a powder-coated horizontal-slat gate give the structure a clean, contemporary street presence while securing off-street parking.
Inside, every inch was planned for efficiency and durability: warm oak-tone luxury-vinyl plank floors flow through an open living-kitchen zone, anchored by white shaker cabinetry, matte-black quartz counters, and subway-tile backsplash. Recessed LED lighting and a high-efficiency mini-split system keep the space bright and comfortable year-round.
A stacked washer-dryer niche, generous pantry cabinetry, and built-in bedroom closet prove small footprints can still pack serious storage. In the bath, a frameless glass shower clad in floor-to-ceiling stone-look tile pairs with a floating wood-grain vanity and matte-black fixtures for a spa-level feel.
Project Features
- Curb Appeal & Privacy: Smooth-finish stucco, black fascia/trim, modern address lighting
- Powder-coated horizontal-slat steel driveway gate with smart lock
- Energy & Comfort Upgrades: Dual-pane low-E windows and full LED lighting package
- 18-SEER mini-split HVAC and tankless water heater
- Chef-Ready Kitchen: White shaker cabinets with soft-close hardware
- Matte-black quartz countertops with waterfall detailing at range niche
- Full stainless appliance suite (five-burner gas range, microwave hood, counter-depth fridge)
- Space-Smart Laundry: Recessed stacked washer-dryer with venting upgrade
- Spa Bath: Frameless glass shower with rainfall head and handheld wand
- Floor-to-ceiling stone-look porcelain tile & matte-black trim
- Floating wood-look vanity with solid-surface sink and LED mirror light bar
- Durable Interior Finishes: Scratch-resistant LVP flooring in warm oak tone
- 5-in. colonial baseboards & satin-nickel interior door hardware
- Systems & Safety: 200-amp electrical upgrade, whole-house copper re-pipe
- Smoke/CO detectors, low-flow plumbing fixtures
Project Gallery
"Alto Builders turned our old garage into a sleek ADU that feels like a high-end condo. It rented above market the very first weekend, and the efficient systems keep our utility costs remarkably low."
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