Diana and her husband had a dilapidated cinder block garage in their Oakland, California backyard, but instead of seeing it as an eyesore, they saw it as an opportunity! They turned the space into a lovely guest house called the Rockridge Casita for both family & friends and to rent out on Airbnb. In just four years the tiny house has paid for itself, meaning anything else they get from now on is profit that goes to support the couple and their two kids.
Inside there’s a lovely studio-style space with a queen bed and kitchenette, as well as an ensuite bathroom complete with a large walk-in shower and flush toilet.
When their kids are older, they plan to use the guest house as a homework/hangout space for them, but who knows what the future will bring. Huge thanks to Allison at Tiny Home Tours for the great video tour of this spot you can watch below.
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Oakland DIY Guest House from Cinderblock Garage

Images via Airbnb/Diana
Here’s what the space looked like before!

Images via @rockridgecasita
The stunning cottage opens up to the patio.

Images via Airbnb/Diana
There’s a little desk area next to the Queen-sized bed.

Images via Airbnb/Diana
The kitchenette with a perfect spot to make coffee.

Images via Airbnb/Diana
Luxury bathroom includes a shower with a skylight.

Images via Airbnb/Diana
Would you stay in a lovely spot like this?

Images via Airbnb/Diana
VIDEO: Garage Converted into Gorgeous 280 Sq Ft DIY Tiny House
Highlights:
- 280 Square feet
- Converted cinderblock garage (that was falling apart)
- Used as guest house and Airbnb rental
- Four years later it’s already paid for itself
- Queen bed
- Kitchenette
- Lovely outdoor patio/eating area
- Walk-in tiled shower
- Flush toilet
- Oakland, California
Learn More:
Related Stories:
- 512 Sq. Ft. Cottage Dwell Guest House in the City by Kanga Room Systems
- Tegan’s Scottish Cottage Renovation in the Rural Countryside
- The Snoozy-Owl Pod: Perfect Cottage Getaway
Our big thanks to Allison for sharing! 🙏
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Natalie C. McKee
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I don’t usually like air b&b rooms or tiny houses but this one feels a little different. It feels inviting and even a bit interesting. I think I would not mind staying here.
Me neither!
This is beautiful.
Its a lovely little place. Love the kitchen! I don’t cook much so it really, really works for me. Shower and bedroom are great, the two important things for me.
I’m saving this one to my file on tiny houses. It would be great when I’m a few years older and don’t need all the space I have. Great for a senior also!