From a 128sf studio to a 960sf full residence, Elbow Room builds pre-designed small homes with fixed pricing and no surprises — choose your model, your size, your finishes.
Every Elbow Room model, every size, and every configuration has a price on our website. No estimates, no surprises, no pressure to get on a call before you can see the numbers.
We build on land you already own, which means no lot to buy, no moving costs, and no landlord in your future. Our Residences include full kitchens, bathrooms, HVAC, and all-electric construction — these are real homes, not sheds. With financing options and transparent pricing, the path from browsing to move-in is straightforward. Whether your small home becomes a long-term rental, a guest house, or your own downsized residence is up to you.
Four distinctive models, each available in multiple sizes and configurations. Market restrictions noted where applicable.
Clean contemporary lines with an efficient footprint, the Lynda is our most versatile model — the only one offered in every category and every size from a 128sf backyard studio all the way up to a 960sf two-bedroom full residence. If you're not sure which direction to go, start here.
The Jane maximizes vertical space with a mezzanine loft level, making every square foot count. Ideal for smaller footprints that still need full independent living space — bedroom separation above, open living below. The Jane is currently available in the Austin market only.
Contemporary design with rooftop outdoor living, the Austen turns every square foot of its footprint into double-duty space — living quarters below, private deck above. A compact small home with genuine character, great for a studio or suite with views.
Traditional Texas Hill Country aesthetic with optional stone accents, the Charles brings grounded, warm vernacular to your backyard. A compact small home with the curb appeal of a standalone cottage. The Charles is currently available in the San Antonio market only.
Every Elbow Room small home comes in one of three categories. The right one depends on whether your small home needs plumbing, a kitchen, or both.
A conditioned, finished room with no plumbing. The simplest and most affordable category, perfect when you need dedicated space without needing to live in it overnight.
Adds plumbing for a half bath, full bath, wetbar, or kitchenette. A proper small home for overnight stays and extended visits — short of a full independent kitchen.
A full independent home with a full kitchen and bathroom. This is a real small home that meets the standards for long-term living and long-term rental.
Every model, every size, every configuration has a price on our website. No estimates, no surprises. See our full price sheet or configure your own to get your number instantly.
We build on land you already own. No lot to buy, no moving costs, no landlord — just a new small home in the yard you've already got.
Our Residences include full kitchens, bathrooms, HVAC, and all-electric construction. Real homes with real specifications — James Hardie siding, low-E windows, BEHR paint, and more.
Classic, Transitional, Modern, Polished, and Academia — five distinct styles so your small home looks the way you want it. Each kit defines your colors, flooring, fixtures, and hardware.
"Elbow Room made the entire process stress-free. From design to move-in, they handled everything professionally. Our guest house is stunning."
Our lineup starts at a 128sf Lynda Studio and tops out at a 960sf Lynda or Jane Residence with two bedrooms. Most models come in multiple sizes in between, so you can size your small home to your property, your budget, and your intended use.
A Studio is a conditioned room with no plumbing — ideal for a backyard office, creative studio, or guest room. A Suite adds plumbing (half bath, full bath, wetbar, or kitchenette) for overnight stays and extended guests. A Residence is a full independent home with a full kitchen and bathroom, built for long-term living or rental.
Yes. A Residence-configured small home meets the standards for long-term rental housing and is fully permitted as a habitable dwelling. Lynda and Jane both offer Residence configurations up to 960sf. See our Rental Income page for more on what to expect from a backyard rental in Central Texas.
Lynda and Austen are available across Central Texas. Jane is available in the Austin market only. Charles is available in the San Antonio market only. Your local service area determines your full list of options — check our FAQ or contact us to confirm availability for your address.
Get a price on your model, size, and finishes in minutes — or schedule a consultation to talk through your property.