Outdoor Renovations

Tips for building a granny flat

Get the lowdown 
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Traditionally built for ageing parents, the granny flat is now in hot demand for teenagers and young couples, thanks to rising property prices.

While you could buy a kit, or design and selfbuild, what about hiring a company to do it for you? 

1. Make it seamless

Make a seamless connection between the main house and the flat by specifying similar building materials. Here, the fabric of choice is timber.

Tips for building a granny flat
(Credit: Sue Stubbs)

2. Add a path

Install a path to link the two dwellings, but separate the garden areas with a gate.

3. Divide the living room

Divide the living room from the kitchen with an L-shaped wall that cleverly houses the fridge and a bank of cabinets. White framed windows and doors on all sides of the floor plan, up high and down low, ensure the flat is flooded with natural light. Just add streamlined roller blinds for when you require privacy. 

4. Go for a neutral kitchen

There’s plenty of space to cook up a feast in a kitchen this size. Note how a well-curated collection of white finishes on the walls, cabinetry, benchtops, splashback and floor make this zone appear ultra spacious.

Tips for building a granny flat
(Credit: Anastasia Kariofyllidis)

5. Make it feel like home

Add kitchen knick-knacks to make the granny flat feel like home.

6. Bathroom

For a mod look in the bathroom, go for tiles in pared-back tones and a glossy white vanity. Add colour with your towels.

Tips for building a granny flat
(Credit: Anastasia Kariofyllidis)

7. Add a round table

A round table is a fab way to use limited space, and still allows you to comfortably host a couple of guests. As far as styling goes, hang your favourite artwork nearby to create a window into another world.

Tips for building a granny flat
(Credit: Jessica Reftel Evans)

This article originally appeared on Better Homes and Gardens.

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