Regardless of one's age, the idea of buying an affordable house is a daunting task to say the least. Especially in urban areas where real estate prices have escalated in recent years, it seems an almost impossible chore to find suitable housing within one's budget.

But thanks to a team of students and faculty at UCLA College's cityLAB, an "accessory dwelling"  that could potentially be built in many families' backyards might soon become the affordable housing alternative many have been seeking.

After the mayor of Los Angeles declared intention for the city to build an additional 100,000 housing units by 2021, the team at cityLAB decided to address the city's affordable housing shortage and get to work.

The 350-square-foot home is intended as a cost-efficient and eco-friendly alternative to other types of housing.