Granny flats are self-contained living units on a property that are a part of or separate from the main house. Granny flat is just another name for an ADU (Additional Dwelling Unit). People, not just grandparents, can live in a granny unit independently and self-sufficiently. Sometimes called “in-law units,” granny flats have everything a person requires for a short or long-term living arrangement.
Though granny flats allow people to live independently, meaning they have all the essentials, they are smaller than a house. Nevertheless, granny units have their own kitchens, bathrooms, sleeping arrangements, and living rooms.
There are four essentials to a granny flat.
1) Kitchen
To qualify as a granny flat, the living space must have a kitchen. A granny flat construction will, at a minimum, have a sink, an oven, a refrigerator, shelves and/cupboards, and a counter for preparing food. Often, a granny flat will have a dining bar and enough stools for its inhabitants. Other features a granny flat kitchen may include is a microwave and a dishwasher.
A complete, albeit spartan, kitchen is a requisite for a granny flat.
2) Sleeping quarters
A granny flat must have sleeping quarters. The arrangement can be that of a wall-less studio or a small bedroom, but a granny flat must have a bed and furniture for storing clothes. Without sleeping quarters, an outbuilding does not qualify as a granny flat.
3) Living room
A place for granny to sit back on a couch, sofa, or loveseat and read, watch television, or visit on the phone is a requisite element of a granny flat. While not all granny flats have dining rooms, all granny flats have a place designated for loitering.
4) Bathroom
The bathroom in a granny flat requires more than a toilet. A granny flat must have, at a minimum, a toilet and a shower. Typically though, a granny flat will have a sink, mirror, and shelves or cupboards in the bathroom. Again, self-sufficiency defines a granny flat.
Granny flats can actually be quite extravagant. However, the most basic granny flats must at least have all of the above. With these essential elements, a person can live in a granny flat long-term.
Levi Construction is an ADU/ Granny Flat construction company that provides high-quality services. Contact us today for a free quote and to get skilled craftsmen for your granny flat building project.
