The University of Utah ADU - Kunga Studio Utah

A Small Home with a Big Mission

Designing with Purpose and Compassion

Built by graduate students from the University of Utah’s School of Architecture, the Kunga Studio stands as a testament to empathy and innovation in design. Created to serve a multi-generational household and accommodate accessibility needs, this compact yet highly efficient home embodies sustainable design principles while meeting the specific lifestyle of its occupant.

Designed and built by the University of Utah graduate students alongside Professor Jörg Rügemer at Atelier Architects. Photography by Paul Richer of Richer Images.

Designing with Purpose and Compassion

Built by graduate students from the University of Utah’s School of Architecture, the Kunga Studio stands as a testament to empathy and innovation in design. Created to serve a multi-generational household and accommodate accessibility needs, this compact yet highly efficient home embodies sustainable design principles while meeting the specific lifestyle of its occupant.
Designed and built by the University of Utah graduate students alongside Professor Jörg Rügemer at Atelier Architects. Photography by Paul Richer of Richer Images.

Crafted for Comfort and Accessibility

This project features Aspen casement windows, direct glaze units, and inswing panel doors that maximize light and usability in every room. The exterior clad color, Battleship Gray 321, offers a timeless modern contrast to the surrounding environment, while the pine interiors and white-and-chrome hardware create a warm, approachable atmosphere. Select windows also feature satin-etched decorative glass for added privacy and design detail.

Windows that Inspire Clarity

Aspen casement and direct glaze windows allow light to flood every corner of the space, creating an atmosphere that feels both open and restorative. Their clean design complements the structure’s modern, purposeful form.

Connecting Spaces

The inswing panel doors were designed with accessibility and comfort in mind. Their smooth operation and thoughtful placement support a seamless transition between interior and exterior living spaces.

Design that Embodies Purpose

Every opening, material, and finish in this home reflects a commitment to thoughtful, human-centered design — one that balances beauty, accessibility, and sustainability for the people who call it home.

Windows that Inspire Clarity

Aspen casement and direct glaze windows allow light to flood every corner of the space, creating an atmosphere that feels both open and restorative. Their clean design complements the structure’s modern, purposeful form.

Doors that Encourage Connection

The inswing panel doors were designed with accessibility and comfort in mind. Their smooth operation and thoughtful placement support a seamless transition between interior and exterior living spaces.

Design that Embodies Purpose

Every opening, material, and finish in this home reflects a commitment to thoughtful, human-centered design — one that balances beauty, accessibility, and sustainability for the people who call it home.

Built for Accessibility and Sustainability

  • Exterior Clad Color: Battleship Gray 321, offering modern resilience with a subtle, timeless tone.

  • Interior Wood: Pine, bringing natural warmth and texture to the streamlined interiors.

  • Hardware: White and chrome finishes, chosen for both visual clarity and ease of use.

    Glass: Satin etch decorative glass, ensuring privacy while maintaining a soft glow.

Built for Accessibility and Sustainability

  • Exterior Clad Color: Battleship Gray 321, offering modern resilience with a subtle, timeless tone.
  • Interior Wood: Pine, bringing natural warmth and texture to the streamlined interiors.
  • Hardware: White and chrome finishes, chosen for both visual clarity and ease of use.
  • Glass: Satin etch decorative glass, ensuring privacy while maintaining a soft glow.

A Small Space with a Big Heart

More than just an accessory dwelling, the Kunga Studio reflects thoughtful design driven by community, compassion, and craftsmanship — proof that architecture can make a difference, one home at a time.
Architecture, Builder and Design: University of Utah grad students alongside professor Jorg Rugemer at Atelier Architects | Photographer: Paul Richer with Richer Images
Architectural Windows & Doors Australia