Architect Susan Nwankpa Gillespie designed the exterior of the second floor of the ADU with kente cloth in mind. Part of the facade resembles the handwoven textile.

ADUs — tiny homes built in a backyard — can make homeownership affordable. One person said it will allow her to age in place.

“They wanted to do two stories. The downstairs needed ... up by the family’s activities, the second-story deck became an essential part of the ADU’s design. (The Dabels had hoped to add ...