5 Top Features in San Bernardino county

As accessory dwelling units (ADUs) continue to grow in popularity across Southern California, San Bernardino County homeowners are embracing ADU designs that prioritize comfort, efficiency, and long-term livability. With larger lot sizes, warmer summers, and a strong need for flexible housing solutions, ADUs in San Bernardino County are often designed to function as full secondary homes rather than short-term spaces.

Below are the five most in-demand ADU features San Bernardino County homeowners are including in their designs.

1.Functional Outdoor Living Areas

Outdoor living plays an important role in San Bernardino County ADU design, where homeowners often have more space to work with and a climate that encourages outdoor use for much of the year. Patios, small yards, and shaded seating areas provide ADU occupants with valuable outdoor space for relaxing, dining, or spending time outdoors. These areas also help create separation between the primary residence and the ADU, improving privacy and overall livability. Thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces can make an ADU feel more open, balanced, and comfortable, even during warmer months.

2. Open and Flexible Great Rooms

Open-concept great rooms are a popular choice in San Bernardino County ADUs, offering flexibility and efficiency within a manageable footprint. By combining the living, dining, and kitchen areas into one cohesive space, homeowners can create layouts that feel larger and more adaptable. This approach works well for a range of uses—from extended family living to long-term rentals—and allows the space to evolve over time. Flexible great rooms help maximize functionality without increasing square footage, keeping construction costs under control while improving everyday comfort.

3. Full Kitchens and Laundry Facilities

In San Bernardino County, ADUs are commonly used as long-term residences for family members or tenants, making full kitchens and in-unit laundry essential features. These amenities allow the ADU to operate as a completely independent living space, eliminating reliance on the main home for daily needs. A full kitchen supports comfortable, everyday living, while dedicated laundry adds convenience and privacy. Together, these features increase usability, rental appeal, and long-term value—especially in areas where ADUs are intended to serve as permanent housing solutions.

4. Energy-Efficient and Climate-Responsive Features

San Bernardino County experiences hotter summers and greater temperature swings, making energy efficiency a top priority for ADU homeowners. Features such as high-efficiency HVAC systems, smart thermostats, LED lighting, tankless water heaters, and Energy Star appliances help manage cooling demands and reduce long-term utility costs. Many ADUs are also designed to be solar-ready or fully compliant with California’s energy requirements. These upgrades improve comfort during extreme heat and make ADUs more affordable to operate year-round.

5. Practical Storage Solutions

Because many San Bernardino County ADUs are designed for long-term occupancy, smart storage solutions are an important part of the overall design. Built-in closets, cabinetry, pantry space, and integrated shelving help maintain organization without sacrificing valuable living space. Thoughtful storage design supports comfortable daily living and contributes to a cleaner, more functional interior. For homeowners, well-planned storage also enhances the perceived quality and usability of the ADU over time.

Final Thoughts

San Bernardino County ADUs offer a flexible approach to adding livable space. Well-planned designs focused on comfort and efficiency support long-term use and value. View our portfolio for San Bernardino County ADU examples.