A granny flat can add value and functionality to any property. But careful design is needed to create a charming and welcoming space you will be pleased with for the long term. There are many points to consider – and it can be difficult to know where to begin when it comes to how to design a granny flat. We don’t want you to miss out the potential advantages that comes from having extra space, so we put together these useful tips for your consideration when designing your new granny flat.
BetaBoard are building material and plaster supplies experts, serving many great communities in southeast Queensland. Come visit us at one of our excellent stores, or contact us online today with any questions or to organise a quote.
Our Tips for How to Design a Granny Flat
Decide its Purpose
The name ‘granny flat’ implies a space where an aging parent or mother in-law can live close to the family while providing just the right amount of separation for comfort. This may have been the original purpose, but the various uses of an extra space must have become instantly apparent after the first one was built. They can be used as a guest house, a home office, a rental room, and the list goes on and on. Decide the purpose of your new granny flat and that will aid with future design decisions.
Consider Local Building Regulations
You are going to need a thorough understanding of what you can and cannot do with your new granny flat. Queensland has some strict building regulations, and these can vary depending on where in Queensland you are located. There may be parking requirements, size limitations or even height restrictions that you need to be aware of. This is where working with a professional designer and builder will help – they will already be knowledgeable about the regulations for how to design a granny flat the proper way.
Choose a Style
This is the fun part. Granny flats are usually compact and cosy, but thoughtful design can go a long way in making them feel spacious and open. The style you choose should complement your home, so the new addition looks like it belongs and has always been there. This can be accomplished through the choice of materials used, décor, colours and even furniture placement.
Maximise Natural Light
Most everyone likes natural light, and those that don’t can simply close the curtains. For the rest of us, having an abundance of sunlight in a room can make it feel larger and more comfortable. Prioritise large windows, glass doors and maybe even a skylight to allow lots of light in. The orientation of the building should also be considered so the windows are faced in a way to take advantage of the maximum amount of sunlight throughout the day.
Design for Comfort & Privacy
No matter the intended use of your new granny flat, it will benefit from being made for comfort and privacy. Soundproofing between the main house and the granny flat is how to design a granny flat that will feel exclusive. Quality curtains or blinds will work well with the fore mentioned large windows to ensure a feeling of seclusion. The users of the granny flat will appreciate the level of thoughtfulness that goes into private and comfortable design.
Get Professional Assistance
Designing a granny flat is a significant undertaking – more so than it seems it should be. A successful design and build require careful planning and execution. Some homeowners may see this as a DIY project to be completed over several weekends, but there are many benefits to getting professional assistance and working with an experienced contractor is a wise investment. They will have the ability to transform your vision into an attractive and highly functional space that you will be proud of.
BetaBoard Has the Materials You Need
Once you have your granny flat planned out, you will need quality building materials to make it happen. BetaBoard is the southeast Queensland’s leading supplier of plasterboard tools and building supplies. Come visit us at one of our fully stocked stores to speak with our knowledgeable staff. You can also contact us online with any questions.
