Guide to Modern Granny Flat Designs

March 15, 2025

Gone are the days of plain, outdated granny flats. These days, they’re stylish, functional and space-efficient. With smart layouts and design choices, granny flats feel more like a cosy retreat than a basic, compact accessory dwelling unit.

Building granny flats in your backyard comes with many benefits and choosing the right style is definitely an exciting journey. In this blog, we will explore some of the best modern granny flat designs and features that make them a smart and beautiful addition to your property.

Modern Granny Flat Designs

Whether you love classic charm, sleek modernism or something in between, there’s a style to suit every taste. Get inspired by these popular modern granny flat ideas:

Cottage Style

A timeless choice with plenty of character, this style embraces timber finishes, vintage décor, and soft, welcoming colours. It’s perfect for those who love a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Contemporary

A contemporary granny flat is all about clean lines, open-plan layouts and a mix of materials like glass, steel, and polished concrete. Neutral tones and clever lighting make the space feel sleek and sophisticated while remaining practical.

Minimalist

Less is more with this clutter-free design, focusing on simple layouts, neutral tones, built-in storage and multi-purpose furniture. It’s a great option for those who prefer a streamlined and functional space.

Scandinavian

Bright, airy and functional, this design features white walls, wooden textures and cosy furnishings. The focus is on simplicity and warmth, with soft lighting, neutral tones and a mix of natural materials. This style is all about comfort and simplicity with a touch of elegance.

Industrial Look

For a bold, urban-inspired ambience, an industrial-style granny flat incorporates exposed brick, concrete and metal finishes. High ceilings, large windows, and dark accents bring a striking, edgy feel.

Granny Flat with Outdoor Deck

Why stay indoors when you can extend your living space outside? An outdoor deck extends the living space and provides extra room for relaxing, entertaining or simply enjoying the fresh air.

Country Cottage Style

Warm, rustic elements define this classic look. Timber beams, stone finishes and earthy tones create a cosy and charming atmosphere. Paired with vintage-inspired furnishings, this style makes the granny flat feel like a peaceful countryside retreat.

Coastal Style

Inspired by the beach, a coastal-style granny flat features light, breezy interiors with soft blue and white tones. Large windows let in plenty of natural light, while timber accents and relaxed furniture add to the airy, holiday-like feel.

Colourful Granny Flat

Who says small spaces have to be dull? Bright colours, fun patterns and artistic elements can add personality and make a granny flat feel lively and unique.

Style Considerations for a Granny Flat Modern Design

Focus on these key style considerations to get the most out of your space:

Optimise Natural Light

Natural light makes any space feel bigger and more welcoming. Large windows, skylights and glass doors allow sunlight to brighten the interior and create a fresh, open atmosphere.

Efficient Use of Space

A well-planned layout makes sure the granny flat is practical and comfortable. Smart storage solutions like built-in wardrobes, floating shelves and hidden compartments help maximise every corner without making the space feel cramped.

Choose a Cohesive Colour Palette

A consistent colour scheme ties the design together. Soft, neutral tones create a timeless, elegant look, while bold accent colours can add character and warmth.

Consider Privacy

Since granny flats are often built close to the main home, privacy is important. Thoughtful placement of windows, fencing and greenery can provide privacy while maintaining style.

Outdoor Living Space

A well-designed outdoor area, such as the patio, courtyard or garden, makes a granny flat more enjoyable. Outdoor seating, potted plants or a small pergola can transform the space into a relaxing spot.

Personal Style and Functional Requirements

The best design is one that suits its purpose. Whether the granny flat is for elderly parents, guests or tenants, the layout and features should be practical, comfortable and tailored to the specific needs of the occupants.

Some Features and Amenities of Modern Granny Flat Ideas

Every detail matters in building your granny flat to avoid pitfalls and create a home that feels complete and inviting. These are some of the features that make a granny flat modern design functional and stylish:

Kitchenette

A compact yet functional kitchen setup makes a granny flat feel like a traditional home. A sleek benchtop, smart cabinetry and essential appliances like a cooktop and microwave keep things practical yet stylish.

Bathroom

Modern bathrooms that include floating vanities, walk-in showers and smart storage solutions focus on a sleek and space-efficient design without compromising comfort.

Bedroom

For a well-designed bedroom, we recommend built-in wardrobes, under-bed storage and soft lighting to create a peaceful and spacious feel.

Living Area

An open-plan living area enables a connected and cohesive granny flat. Thoughtful furniture placement and soft textures make the space feel more homely and welcoming.

Heating and Cooling

Heating and cooling are one of the major considerations in building a granny flat. It should be energy-efficient and practical. Reverse-cycle air conditioning, ceiling fans and smart ventilation help maintain a comfortable temperature all year round.

Laundry Facilities

A space-saving laundry nook with a stacked washer and dryer or a concealed laundry cupboard adds convenience without taking up too much space.

Storage Solutions

Hidden storage, built-in shelving and multifunctional furniture make the most of compact spaces while maintaining a clutter-free look.

Smart Home Technology

Smart locks, app-controlled appliances and automated lighting features make modern granny flats easy to manage.

Energy-Efficient Appliances and Design

Thoughtful insulation, solar panels, LED lighting and eco-friendly materials keep the home comfortable while minimising power usage and environmental footprint.

Open Concept Layouts

Open-plan designs create a seamless flow between spaces which makes granny flats feel spacious and airy.

Multifunctional Furniture

Fold-out beds, expandable tables and modular seating keep the space flexible. These features ensure maximum usability without overcrowding the layout.

Want to Achieve That Modern Granny Flat Designs? Partner with Prestige Renovations!

The right granny flat modern design choices can make the overall space feel open and inviting, perfect for a guest retreat, rental opportunity or home for a loved one.

Planning to add granny flats or custom homes that combine quality craftsmanship with thoughtful design? Prestige Homes and Granny Flats is the trusted expert! From contemporary layouts to classic styles, we bring your vision to life with expert care and attention to detail.

Request a quote today to create the beautiful and practical space you’ve always wanted!

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What Is a Granny Flat? Full Guide for Australian Homeowners

October 27, 2025

Granny flats are no longer just for grandparents. Across Australia, they’re being built as rental units, guest accommodation, or smart add-ons for multigenerational families. Climbing property prices and limited housing supply have made granny flats an attractive option for homeowners seeking flexibility and extra income. Before you build, there are legal and planning steps to navigate. Each state has its own council rules, and the approval process can feel overwhelming. Prestige Homes & Granny Flats provides practical guidance on paperwork, design, and construction, keeping your project organised and on track from the start. Before you start asking what granny flats are and how to build one, remember there are legal and planning steps to navigate. Each state has its own council rules, and the approval process can feel overwhelming. Prestige Homes & Granny Flats provides practical guidance on paperwork, design, and construction, keeping your project organised and on track from the start. What are Granny Flats? So what is a granny flat? The answer is simple. It’s a small, self-contained home built on the same block as a main residence. Think of it as a compact version of a regular house, usually including a kitchen, bathroom, living area, and one or two bedrooms. Most states cap their size at around 60 m², though exact limits vary. In Queensland, they’re often called “secondary dwellings,” while in Victoria, you’ll hear “dependent person’s unit.” No matter the name, the idea is the same: extra living space with independence built in. What Are Granny Flats Called in Perth? Across Perth and the wider WA region, granny flats are formally classified as “ancillary dwellings” under local council planning regulations. They’re permitted on most residential-zoned blocks that meet the minimum land size, with a maximum floor area of up to 70 m². A major difference in WA is who can occupy them. Since 2015, Perth’s rules have allowed ancillary dwellings to be rented to non-family members, giving homeowners more flexibility for rental income or family use. Councils such as the City of Perth, City of Stirling, and City of Joondalup apply these state planning guidelines, though it’s always worth checking your local council’s requirements before starting. In Perth, granny flats can take several forms. They may be built as a detached unit, joined to the main house, or created by converting existing structures like garages. This flexibility makes them an appealing way to add space, boost property value, or create rental income without leaving your current suburb. What Is Granny Flat: Legal and Planning Rules You Need to Know To fully understand what granny flats are, you also need to follow council regulations that vary from state to state. Zoning and Land Use Your block must be in the correct residential zone to allow an ancillary dwelling. Perth councils set these rules, so it’s important to confirm land use requirements before drawing up plans. Size Limits & Design In most parts of Australia, granny flats are limited to 60 m². In Perth and wider WA, ancillary dwellings can be up to 70 m², provided they meet council design codes for height, setbacks, and appearance. Approval Processes Some states require both planning and building permits, while others fast-track approval if certain criteria are met. In WA, approvals generally move faster when plans follow the Residential Design Codes (R-Codes) . Rental & Occupancy Rules Unlike some states, Perth homeowners can lease ancillary dwellings to non-family members. Since the 2015 policy change, this flexibility has allowed granny flats to serve as either rental income properties or extra family space.

Step-by-Step Custom Home Build Checklist

October 24, 2025

Building your own custom home in Australia is exciting, but it can sometimes feel like you’ve got a lot on your plate. From design choices and council approvals to budgets and timelines, there are plenty of moving parts that can quickly become overwhelming. That’s why having a clear checklist is important. We’ll guide you through the key steps in building a custom home checklist. Whether it is your first build or an upgrade to suit your lifestyle, our team helps you stay organised and confident right through to the final handover. Building a Custom Home Checklist Think of a custom home checklist as your blueprint for staying organised. It turns the chaos of construction into a sequence of manageable steps. Without a checklist, you could face delays, unexpected costs and unnecessary stress. A detailed custom home build checklist ensures a smooth, cost-effective and worry-free build. It’s not just for first-time owners either. Even seasoned homeowners upgrading to a custom space benefit from a structured approach that keeps the build on track and aligned with their vision.