More and more people are looking to take advantage of their garden space by creating secondary dwellings. A granny annexe can be a really good use of the land and has the potential to add a huge amount of value. Then, if you are planning residential architecture, we can help.

What is it?

The annexe is a second home on the same plot of land. They can be attached to the main house, but more commonly are separate in the garden or another spot. A crucial thing to keep in mind here is the annexes are fully self contained. That means they have their own kitchen and bathroom as well as living space. This is what differentiates them from other options such as a garden studio. It is also important to keep in mind that the annexes aren't just for grannies. They get their name because they are popular as separate homes for elderly relatives. However, they can also be for teens, young adults, couples, and more. You could even choose to let the annexe out.

Designs

Like with all other residential architecture, you need to think carefully about the design. There are plenty of options, from permanent brick and mortar extensions or cottages to modular buildings. Even then you can be creative with your choices, from modern to classic. Just remember to keep the setting in mind and make sure it doesn't detract from the main home. There are also a number of crucial things to look at here, such as:

Privacy

The goal is to keep the properties separate so residents can maintain their privacy. To achieve this you need to think about entrances, the positioning of windows, and overlooking.

Access

Leading on from this, you need to think about accessibility. If the new annexe is in the garden, will you need to create a brand new entrance? Or will they be able to use the existing one for the main house? You must think about this to ensure nobody will intrude on the dwelling space of the main home.

Parking

Will you need to provide space for cars to park for the new annexe? Or will they have to park on the road? Will a current driveway be sufficient or will it need adapting to account for more vehicles?

Landscaping

Finally, you need to think about how to change the landscape. You will be losing some of the land, so you must make the most of what is left. Plus, you need to ensure there will be private space for the main home and annexe. You can even look at ways to use the landscaping to improve privacy. Things like different levels and hedges can be wonderful.