Companion Buildings

Some of the most meaningful architecture occupies the smallest footprint.

An ADU that welcomes family across generations. A garden studio that makes room for creativity. A pool house that becomes the heart of summer gatherings. These companion buildings may be modest in scale, but they have the power to transform the way a property is lived in, creating new opportunities for connection, flexibility, and everyday enjoyment.

At These Architects, we believe every building deserves thoughtful design, regardless of its size. Whether it supports work, recreation, family, or quiet retreat, each project is approached with the same care, creativity, and attention to detail as a custom home. We carefully consider how it sits within the landscape, relates to the existing architecture, and responds to the way you live today while remaining adaptable for tomorrow.

The result is architecture that feels intentional and enduring—buildings that belong naturally to their surroundings, enrich the character of the property, and become lasting extensions of everyday life.

Small Spaces. Big Stories.

What We Design

Every property is unique, but our companion buildings commonly include:

  • Additional Dwelling Units (ADUs)

  • Garden suites

  • Coach Houses

  • Poolhouses

  • Home offices and backyard studies

  • Guest Houses

  • Multi-purpose Backyard buildings

  • Accessory Buildings

  • Permit documents

Each is carefully designed to respond to its setting while complementing the architecture of the existing home, and the people who will use it.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • An Additional Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a self-contained residential space located on the same property as a primary home. Depending on municipal regulations, it may be attached, detached, or created within an existing structure.

  • Many municipalities now permit garden suites and coach houses, though requirements vary depending on zoning, servicing, setbacks, lot size, and other planning considerations. We help guide clients through this process from feasibility to approvals.

  • While some small buildings can be designed without an architect, thoughtful architectural design can significantly improve functionality, natural light, integration with the property, and long-term value. Even modest projects benefit from careful planning.

  • Well-designed companion buildings often enhance both the usability and desirability of a property. Features such as ADUs and garden suites may also create opportunities for multi-generational living or rental income, depending on local regulations.

Featured Small Building Projects

Some of the most memorable architecture occupies the smallest footprint. These projects reveal how thoughtful design can quietly reshape the experience of home.

Garden-Top Pool House

Tucked into the back corner of a midtown backyard, the Garden Top Pool House sits alongside a narrow lap pool. A generous cantilevered roof extends outward to create a sheltered outdoor space below, while above, a lush rooftop garden softens the structure and provides habitat for birds, bees, and other pollinators.

Modern house with a rooftop garden, trees, a swimming pool with a beach ball, and a dog lying on the grass.

Swallow Meadows

Reimagined with red metal siding and expressive timber supports, this farm building balances utility with architectural restraint, providing essential storage and service spaces that support the daily rhythms of rural life.

A farm-style building with a red metal roof, a small porch, a white car parked underneath, in a grassy field with a large open sky and clouds overhead at sunset.

Swallow House

Clad in red metal siding and elevated on red-stained timber posts, the swallow house shares the architectural language of the redesigned farm building beyond. Though separated by distance, the two structures remain visually connected across the landscape—one serving the rhythms of the farm, the other offering shelter to the swallows that return each season.

A red bird feeder with a roof, rising above green trees and colorful wildflowers, under a bright blue sky with clouds, and birds flying around.

The Little Green Studio

What was once a garage at the edge of the property has been thoughtfully reimagined as a modern art studio and gym. Clad in green wood siding and topped with a cantilevered, folded metal roof, the building takes on a quiet, contemporary presence within the cityscape.

A modern house with a black metal roof and light green exterior, surrounded by a lawn and garden. Tall trees and a utility pole are visible in the background under a clear sky.

SML House

SML House is a compact, adaptable and affordable dwelling designed to suit clients varied living needs and fits seamlessly in backyards of all sizes- small, medium and large.

Backyard with small wooden modern shed, deck with patio chairs and large trees under a blue sky.

Your Space. Your Story.
Every story begins with a conversation.

Every project starts with listening—to your aspirations, your site, and the way you hope to live or work. If you're considering a project, we'd be delighted to begin the conversation.