We approached the ADU as a carefully composed, courtyard-oriented residence rather than a secondary structure. By organizing the plan around a small, inward-facing outdoor space, the design creates a sense of openness and visual depth while controlling views. This strategy allows interior rooms to borrow light and air from multiple directions, making the home feel larger and more connected than its square footage suggests. The architectural language is contemporary and restrained, utilizing durable materials and clean detailing. Horizontal wood siding, concrete elements, and selective screens provide texture and shadow, softening the building’s presence within the garden setting. Deep roof overhangs and strategically placed openings modulate daylight and provide passive comfort, supporting year-round usability. Interior spaces are compact but deliberate, featuring clear circulation and strong indoor/outdoor relationships. Large, glazed openings frame the courtyard to blur the boundary between inside and out, allowing the landscape to function as an extension of the living space. Every square foot is optimized, supporting efficient living without sacrificing comfort or architectural clarity. RESULT The San Jose Courtyard ADU demonstrates how thoughtful design can contribute meaningfully to urban housing needs at a small scale. By prioritizing spatial quality, privacy, and outdoor connections, the project transforms a backyard infill opportunity into a fully realized home. The result is a modest but well-crafted dwelling that supports density and walkability while offering a dignified, livable solution to the city’s evolving housing challenges.