Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Granny Flat in 2024 with Acrow

Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Granny Flat in 2024 with Acrow

Join the growing wave of individuals considering the construction of a granny flat as a modern solution amidst the soaring cost of living. Recognising the booming popularity of these versatile living spaces, Acrow is here to guide you through a cost-effective and streamlined process that is tailored to your construction needs. Entering 2024, what better way to kickstart the year than by ticking off one of your new year’s resolutions and embarking on the construction of your very own granny flat! Acknowledging that this decision carries significant responsibility, we, at Acrow, aim to make the entire process seamless, offering support at every step of the way. In this article, we’ll navigate through our personalised 4-step process, making the construction of your granny flat an efficient and personalised experience.

1.Consultation

At Acrow, our construction process begins with a pivotal focus on consultation. Before any tools are lifted, engaging with our clients stands as the cornerstone of crafting their dream granny flat space. Our commitment transcends mere construction; we strive to collaborate with you, tailoring a personalised space that aligns with your unique personal and/or family requirements. The consultation phase is of utmost importance to us, as we are able to ensure a mutual understanding and alignment on your goals before embarking on the construction stage.

Uncertain about the design or specifics for your upcoming granny flat? No worries! Drawing from extensive experience in diverse granny flat projects, we offer valuable advice and creative ideas to tailor the space to your needs and desires. Ready to get started? Reach out to us via a phone call – we’re always available for your service. Whether discussing details over a call or meeting in person for a coffee to explore potential ideas, we’re always here to address your needs comprehensively. Following the initial consultation, we go the extra mile with a complimentary inspection of your land, reinforcing our commitment to a thorough and personalised construction experience.

2.Approvals

After initial contact with our clients and understanding their requirements, the next stage in the 4-step process is to navigate through the approvals phase. While this step may seem daunting, fear not! At Acrow, we handle it for you. We take charge of preparing all necessary paperwork and ensure compliance with all requirements and controls, guaranteeing a stress-free experience for all of our clients. With years of expertise in obtaining private certifier and local council approvals, we navigate through regulations and paperwork on your behalf.

Upon submission, the expected approval timeline for Complying Development is approximately 2 to 3 weeks, though it may vary based on the private certifier providing certification and your project’s scale. The timeline for a Development Application through your local council can vary based on a project’s individual circumstances. Our focus is on simplifying the approval process for you, placing the complexities of approval requirements all in the hands of Acrow.

During this period, we will also begin the exciting process of selecting your colour palette for your new granny flat. You’ll be invited to experience our Acrow showroom, where our experienced Colour Consultant will work closely with you to put your creative vision into life. We prioritise transparent communication at every step, ensuring you are informed about the progress and stage of your project at all times.

3.Construction

With approval in hand, we transition to the celebratory construction stage! Excitement brews as we coordinate a timeline tailored to your preferences, typically spanning from 10-12 weeks depending on the scale of your granny flat. Your designated project manager, a key point of contact, will organise a commencement date post-approval. From that point, the ball is in our court, dedicated to not just meeting, but exceeding your expectations throughout the construction phase. We’re confident that our construction expertise will leave you among the ranks of our delighted customers, all attesting to the excellent execution of our building phase.

4.Relationship management

As construction concludes, it’s well and truly time to celebrate with a champagne pop! However, at Acrow, the end of the project doesn’t mark our disappearance from your radar. Far from it – our commitment extends from project completion into the foreseeable future. We remain your go-to for all of your investment property enquiries and solutions. The significance of this phase lies not just in the physical completion of your granny flat, but instead in the establishment of an ever-lasting professional relationship. From this point forward, Acrow is merely a phone call away, ready to address any concerns or enquiries related to your current or future granny flat projects.

Confident in our 4-step process, we assure you of the best results for your project. Just like our numerous satisfied clients, embarking on a construction journey with Acrow ensures a tailored experience that exceeds and meets the unique needs of your granny flat requirements. Ready to commence the 4-step process for yourself? Get in touch with Acrow Granny Flats today.

The Rise of Granny Flats: Australia’s Hidden Housing Gem

The Rise of Granny Flats: Australia’s Hidden Housing Gem

The interest in granny flats has grown significantly over the last few years. Post-Covid, we started to look at where and how we live a little more closely. From working from home opportunities, to wanting greater financial stability and the realisation we were taking access to loved ones for granted, the concept of income generation, and/or keeping family physically close gained importance. Recent property reports have also revealed that over half of all properties in the Sydney regions have the space and capacity to facilitate a granny flat. The rising interest is showing granny flats to be an incredible solution to a lot of the lifestyle goals we are aiming for. 

Versatility

Not just a clever name, ‘granny’ flats were titled after their initial intent: to house ageing parents or grandparents in close proximity to our own dwellings, allowing support, independence and financial freedom from living in facilities. However, granny flats have now developed a reputation for being far more versatile than that. While, yes, multi-generational living is still a big reason we hear from granny flat seekers, there are many other reasons now being communicated. Typically they include:

  • Passive rental income
  • Keeping growing kids close to the primary house, and offering affordable accommodation with independent living benefits
  • Working from home solutions
  • Guest space

These applications are offering major lifestyle solutions, cost-effectively and time considerate. 

Affordability

Affordability has become a more and more significant factor when considering all purchases, but certainly for granny flats. This is less due to the investment of the dwelling, but more calculations and appeal on the financial benefits they can create, while still offering low output. Granny flats are far more affordable than existing properties for investment purposes, and maximise the value of your existing property, while still offering great rental yield. This affordability factor has made granny flats an appealing option for both homeowners and savvy investors.

Flexibility

Due to their versatility, Granny Flats are a really flexible option. While you have a range of options on how to use a granny flat upon investing in one, it also doesn’t need to stay stagnant. Your needs, goals and lifestyle will change over time, and this one investment could help support you through these different times. While it might start as a safe and affordable housing solution for your grown children, it can then turn into a rental opportunity and a reliable home for your ageing parents. The possibilities are endlessly endless. 

Expertise

The increasing desire for granny flats has meant the construction industry is revving up its offering to facilitate them. Some are reliable and trustworthy options, but it also means you have to do your research and ensure you’re getting a dedicated quality builder, and not someone quickly tacking it on as a service for the monetary boost. Amidst numerous options, Acrow Granny Flats stands out with our decades of dedicated experience, commitment to quality granny flat builds and emphasis on collaboration with our clients. It is imperative you choose the right professionals and closely collaborate with your builders.

Beyond being a solution for multigenerational living, granny flats have evolved into versatile, cost-effective, and sustainable housing options. 

Are you ready for your granny flat build journey to begin? 

Bringing the Outdoors In: Incorporating Natural Elements into Your Granny Flat Design for Spring

Bringing the Outdoors In: Incorporating Natural Elements into Your Granny Flat Design for Spring

By design and with functional purpose, Granny Flats have a smaller square meterage which makes interior design a different experience to decorating a larger dwelling. We recently wrote about how to best design the interior of your Granny Flat, and we wanted to share a health and wellbeing component of design that will make the most out of your space. That is, bringing in natural and plant elements to lift your space for Spring, as well as offer impressive health benefits and higher air quality. Incorporating natural elements into your granny flat design can create a refreshing and rejuvenating space that captures the essence of spring and brings the outdoors inside. Here are some ideas to help you achieve this. 

Design Wish List And Your Budget 1

Large windows and doors 

The most literal way to bring the outdoors, in, is to have sunlight stream through larger windows and doors. Acrow Granny Flat designs are made to be fresh, open and functional, including offering windows that offer ample natural light. This creates a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of spring from the comfort of your granny flat. The trick is to position your Granny Flat to make the most of the sunlight hours, in the best possible way. Typically, orient the longest part of the granny flat, and the biggest door or window opening, in a north/south direction. This allows the northern, eastern, and western sides to receive the morning and afternoon sunlight.

Natural light brings more than just brightness – it’s a smart way to save money and energy. By using windows and daylighting techniques, you can reduce your reliance on electric lights and lower your bills. Natural light is also known to lift your spirits and enhance productivity. Recent research highlights its positive effects on well-being, especially in working from home spaces. It’s a great way to stay focused and boost your overall work attitude.

Granny Flats Personal Vs Investment 1

Indoor Plants

Place different-sized and kinds of indoor plants all around your area. Think about using potted plants, hanging planters, or even a vertical garden. Plants don’t just make things feel natural, they also make the air better and create a peaceful feeling.

Having plants in your home brings several health and wellbeing advantages. They improve indoor air quality by absorbing pollutants and releasing fresh oxygen, which can lead to easier breathing and a more comfortable environment. Plants also have a calming effect, reducing stress and promoting a sense of relaxation. Caring for plants can be therapeutic, offering a fulfilling and engaging activity. Overall, having plants around can enhance your mood, create a more pleasant atmosphere, and contribute to a healthier and happier living space.

12 Shannon Web 4

Nature-inspired artwork

Natural elements can also bring joy, using artwork that displays scenes of nature like beautiful landscapes, pretty flowers, or animals in the wild. Even textural, neutral-toned artworks can evoke a sense of ‘nature’. These artworks can become the main things that draw your attention and can make your space feel like it’s connected to the outdoors.

These types of artwork or photography can instantly transport you to peaceful outdoor places and help you feel more connected to nature even when you’re indoors. Similarly, artwork featuring colourful flowers or charming wildlife can inject a touch of vibrant life into your surroundings, making your granny flat feel fresh and inviting.

Incorporating such nature-inspired artworks not only adds visual interest to your space but also provides a sense of tranquillity. This way, your granny flat becomes a cosy retreat that blends the comforts of indoor living with the refreshing feeling of the outdoors.

45 Ferguson Web 2

Aromatherapy and Scents

Infuse your granny flat with the delightful scents that bring to mind the freshness of springtime. Think about using scents like flowers or citrus fruits. You can achieve this by lighting scented candles, using essential oil diffusers, or placing potpourri around your space.

These scents have the power to instantly lift your mood, creating a cosy and relaxing atmosphere. Essential oil diffusers disperse natural scents throughout the air, allowing you to customise the fragrances according to your preferences. And for a more subtle and long-lasting effect, potpourri not only decorates your space but also releases pleasant aromas gradually, giving your granny flat a continuous springtime feel.

To bring spring in, adding natural things to your granny flat’s design can give you the right balance of nature and function. Putting all of these elements together thoughtfully can give you a space that shows off the loveliness of spring while also making sure it’s comfy and practical.

 

Interior Design for Small Space Granny Flats

Interior Design for Small Space Granny Flats

When it comes to interior design, there are plenty of rules that we’re told to follow. Of course, when you’re designing your one place the priority should always be on what works for you, makes you feel good and what turns the house you have into the home you want. However, one part of interior design consideration that we do take a lot of notice of is what to do with smaller spaces. With a great benefit of Granny Flats being that you can provide spacious functionality on a smaller square footage, it’s good to know how to maximise that with good interior design choices and not accidentally close a small space in. Designing small spaces like granny flats requires creative solutions. Here are some interior design tips for small spaces.

Don’t skip the space planning

While it might feel more fun to just jump to the Taubmans colour samples or start picking new furniture, it really will serve you well to take a beat to plan first. This could be as basic as drawing on a printed floor plan, scaling furniture placement, or higher tech using 3D design programs. Analysing the layout of your granny flat can identify the functional zones like living, bedrooms, dining and kitchen. Use space-saving techniques like built-in storage, wall-mounted furniture, and folding or extendable pieces.

Go to the light, don’t be afraid of colour

To give the illusion of space and create an open and airy atmosphere, consider light colours on the walls, floors, and furniture. Opt for neutral tones or soft pastel shades that can visually expand the area. Make the most of natural light by keeping windows unobstructed and using sheer curtains or blinds that allow sunlight to filter through. If privacy is a priority, frosted glass or window films can be used to maintain privacy while still allowing the natural light to brighten the space.

Mirror, mirror

Mirrors are an excellent tool for enhancing the perceived size of a small space. By strategically placing a large mirror, you can create the illusion of open space. Mirrors reflect light, adding brightness and making the space feel warm and inviting.

When selecting a location for the mirror, consider placing it opposite a window or another light source. This placement allows the mirror to bounce light around the room, eliminating dark corners. You can try out different shapes and orientations, such as full-length mirrors, horizontal or vertical mirrors to give the illusion of space.

Make furniture work hard

Invest in furniture that serves multiple purposes. A sofa bed can provide seating during the day and transform into a bed for guests at night. Look for storage ottomans or coffee tables with hidden compartments for additional storage and folding or moveable dining tables. Basically any furniture piece that serves more than one purpose is one worth considering for a granny flat design.  

Storage, storage, storage!

Our granny flat designs prioritise storage solutions within our concept, and you are taken care of well in this space. However, adding additional storage will never be negative. Utilise every inch of available space for storage; vertical wall space, under-bed storage, hidden storage compartments, storage baskets, boxes, and organisers keep items sorted and reduce clutter. Install tall shelves or bookcases, utilise wall-mounted storage solutions, and consider hanging items like pots and pans to free up counter space.

Visual continuity

Design the space with a cohesive theme or colour palette to create visual continuity. This will help make the space feel larger and more cohesive. Avoid too many contrasting colours or patterns that can visually fragment the space. 

Minimalist approach 

Keep the overall design clean and clutter-free. Embrace a minimalist aesthetic by selecting a few key pieces of furniture and decor that serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. Avoid excessive decoration or too many accessories that can make the space feel crowded.

Revamp or create your dream living space with Acrow Granny Flats’ in house colour consultant. Contact us today.

10 GORGEOUS GRANNY FLAT DESIGNS FOR INSPIRATION

10 GORGEOUS GRANNY FLAT DESIGNS FOR INSPIRATION

If you’re interested in building a granny flat, either for it’s practical uses or as a investment opportunity, you might be struggling with visualising how one would look on your property or you might be simply looking for inspiration – so we’ve decided help you by rounding up a collection of the best looking granny flats we’ve come across online (including some of our own)!

Please note: not all listed granny flats are Acrow Granny Flats designs, but we can certainly build one that is very similar in appearance and even tailor it to meet your needs – just get in touch or view our granny flat designs.

1. COTTAGE STYLE

This cottage-style granny flat we found online makes excellent use of space and environment. Acrow has many similar designs and the majority of our plans come with outdoor deck as standard.

Cottage Style

2. CONTEMPORARY COLOUR PALETTE

This Acrow designed granny flat has an excellent outlook and uses a gorgeous modern colour palette. Staining the timber slatting really gives this design an edge.

Modern Colour Pallete

3. MINIMALIST WITH SMOOTH CLADDING

We’re taking the ‘granny’ out of granny flats! Smooth timber cladding looks modern and inviting. Chuck in landscaped gardens and an incorporated car port and you’ve got a winning combination that any potential renter would love!

Smooth Cladding

4. GRANNY FLAT WITH POOL

Wow – what a beautiful setting! This granny flat and pool combination will have you thinking you’re in Orange County, California!

Granny Flat W Pool (1)

5. OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING IS POSSIBLE

Add an entertaining or multi-use outdoor space to your granny flat by including an outdoor deck. The majority of Acrow’s plans include small decks, but we can build them as big or as small to suit your area.

Outdoor Deck

6. COUNTRY COTTAGE STYLE

This is like something out of grand designs! A beautiful home that looks amazing in an Australian bush setting.

Shed Style

7. RAISED BUSH RETREAT

This raised bush retreat is a great example of how to work with sloping blocks.

Raised Bush Retreat

8. MODERN GRANNY FLATS

The below photo is a great example of Acrow’s modern, minimalist and clean interiors. Stone bench top and quality Harvey Norman appliances included as standard in all our modern granny flat designs.

Modern Interior

9. COASTAL STYLE GRANNY FLAT

We love this Acrow designed granny flat. Perfect for Sydney locals looking for a tree-change, we built this relaxing holiday home in the beautiful beachside town of Umina Beach.

Two Bedroom Granny Flat In The Coastal Suburb Of Terrigal

10. COLOURFUL GRANNY FLATS

This bright blue granny flat is another one of Acrow’s creations. A covered deck with downlights was added to the design to enjoy the afternoon sun or entertain outdoors looking out at the water with a perfect view from the balcony.

Two Bedroom Granny Flat In Bonnells Bay

If you are looking for custom granny flat designs that create additional value for your home, Acrow Investments are your local experts in the Central CoastNewcastleLake Macquarie, and Hunter regions. Learn more about our granny flats or contact us to discuss your plans.

How much value does a granny flat add to your home?

How much value does a granny flat add to your home?

Choosing to invest in a granny flat for your property comes with a host of personal value; keeping relatives close by, having a space for guests or offering grown kids an interim living space that’s safe, there’s a lot to benefit from. However, granny flats also offer a lot of value to your existing home and property. The specific value added to your property will vary depending on a range of factors such as size, location, quality of construction, current real estate market and buyer preference. There are some general areas of increased value, though, that typically come with building a granny flat on your property. 

Increased living space will always increase value

A granny flat increases the livable square footage of your entire property offering, which increases its general value. You’re adding bedrooms, living spaces and bathrooms to your property’s specifications, which will invariably place you in a higher value bracket in the real estate market. Whether you’d want to actually sell, or if you’re looking for a high appraisal or valuation for borrowing purposes, adding functional, liveable space to your property commands a higher price compared to otherwise similar homes without granny flats. 

Rental income potential

Granny flats can provide an opportunity to generate rental income and can contribute to the overall value of your property.

Renting out a granny flat can provide a cost-effective alternative to purchasing or leasing a standalone property for renters (in a very difficult rental environment), benefiting both landlords and tenants. In fact, the NSW government is actively encouraging homeowners to construct and rent out granny flats as part of their efforts to promote affordable housing.

However, before embarking on this backyard venture, it’s crucial to research! There are regulations in NSW and financial considerations to fully understand before renting out your granny flat. 

Growth of multi-generational living

In some cases, families may value the option of multi-generational living arrangements. A granny flat can provide a separate living space for extended family members, such as aging parents or adult children, which can be appealing to buyers who value such accommodations. It can also be a non-negotiable, though difficult thing to find, for a lot of property-seekers. Adding a granny flat could land you right in the lap of people seeking to put functional ticked boxes as the highest priority, even above cost. 

Desirability

The demand for granny flats has been increasing in recent years due to changing housing needs and affordability challenges. Depending on the local market, the presence of a granny flat can make your property more desirable to buyers seeking flexible living arrangements or additional income potential.

Quality of granny flat

This might be the biggest factor of them all. Your granny flat is only going to be desirable to a buyer or renter if it’s in a condition that meets their standards in aesthetics, functionality, and even safety. If you have a quality guarantee with a known reputable granny flat builder like Acrow, the peace of mind of buyers will be there, and be a plus to the overall value of your property.