by Granny Flat Builder | Mar 9, 2025 | Canberra Granny Flats, Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats
Just a few minutes from Canberra’s border, in the quiet suburb of Crestwood, NSW, one family found the perfect solution to support their daughter’s return from overseas—and to invest in their property’s long-term potential. Thanks to more flexible New South Wales regulations, they were able to build a spacious 60m² granny flat that combined practicality with personal touches.
This case study offers inspiration for those considering a secondary dwelling in the ACT, as all our NSW designs can be adapted to meet ACT requirements. So even if you’re based in Canberra, granny flats like this one are absolutely achievable—just reach out to discuss how.
The Motivation: Helping Family While Planning Ahead
When their daughter returned from working overseas, the Crestwood homeowners wanted to help her save money on rent and build up a deposit for her first home. They also saw the opportunity to increase their property’s versatility in the long term—providing potential rental income, guest accommodation, or even a downsizing option for themselves one day.
Their block, located just over the ACT-NSW border, gave them access to New South Wales planning rules, which currently allow secondary dwellings up to 60m² without the need for subdivision. This opened up more room for thoughtful design and living comfort than ACT regulations typically allow. However, it’s important to note that many of our NSW designs can be adjusted to comply with ACT planning codes—so if you’re in Canberra, granny flats like this are still within reach with the right planning and advice.
The Design: Based on “The Prime” – with Personal Flair
The family chose to base their build on our popular “The Prime” design, a 2-bedroom layout that balances space efficiency with privacy and functionality. But what made this granny flat truly special were the customisations that reflected the homeowner’s personality and lifestyle.
One standout feature was a stained glass front door—a beautiful, personalised touch that instantly set the tone for a warm and welcoming space. Inside, layout changes were made to accommodate extra storage and an open-plan living area that felt spacious despite the compact footprint.
Large windows were added to maximise natural light, and accessibility was considered throughout, ensuring the space would remain flexible and age-friendly in years to come. Every detail was carefully considered, creating a home that felt far from standard.
Built for Today, Flexible for Tomorrow
The result was a comfortable, stylish home that gave their daughter her own private space while staying close to family. But beyond the immediate benefits, the granny flat also gave the homeowners peace of mind. In the future, they could rent the space for extra income, offer it to other family members, or even use it as a home office or studio.
This kind of forward-thinking approach is something we encourage for anyone exploring Canberra granny flats. Whether your motivation is family support, rental income, or downsizing, a custom secondary dwelling can offer enormous lifestyle and financial flexibility.
Crestwood, near Canberra Granny Flat Gallery
The Crestwood granny flat is a great example of how thoughtful design, family priorities, and long-term planning can come together beautifully. While it was built under NSW regulations, the possibilities it represents are just as relevant for Canberra residents.
Interested in building a Canberra granny flat that’s custom to your needs? Get in touch today to learn how our designs can be tailored to meet ACT requirements and bring your vision to life.
Considering a Granny Flat in Canberra?
If you’re based in Canberra or the surrounding region, don’t assume NSW designs are off the table. We regularly adapt our designs to suit ACT planning regulations and accessibility standards. Whether you’re working with a larger suburban block or a tight inner-city site, we can help you explore the possibilities.
From accessible design features like ramps and wider doorways to tailored aesthetics and practical layouts, our approach is always client-led. Every family’s needs are different—so your granny flat should reflect that.
Book a free site inspection for your Granny Flat anywhere in NSW or ACT
by Granny Flat Builder | Feb 17, 2025 | Canberra Granny Flats, Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats
Now Complete! Modern Barnhouse Granny Flat for Maddy & Blake
At Acrow Granny Flats, we take pride in delivering high-quality, custom homes—especially when stepping in to help clients whose projects have stalled. That was the case for Maddy and Blake, who had DA and CC approvals for their granny flat but no work had commenced. We took over the project and are now bringing their modern barnhouse vision to life.
A Striking Barnhouse Design
Nestled in a BAL 19-rated area, this granny flat blends contemporary design with practical living. The TrimDek roof profile and James Hardie Axon Cladding create a sleek, barnhouse-inspired exterior, complemented by a 43m² wrap-around porch—a standout feature that seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor spaces.
Inside, the expansive open-plan living area is enhanced by cathedral ceilings, square-set cornices, and a highlight kitchen window designed to frame the stunning surrounding views. The two oversized bedrooms each have private doors leading out to the porch, offering a sense of retreat and connection to the outdoors.
Premium Finishes for Comfort & Style
Maddy and Blake opted for a high-end interior, featuring:
✅ Matte black finishes throughout, including door hardware, PC items, and appliances
✅ Loose-lay longboard vinyl flooring in living spaces, with plush carpet in the bedrooms
✅ Floor-to-ceiling tiled bathrooms with luxurious wall-hung vanities and recessed shaving cabinets
✅ Double-glazed windows for insulation and energy efficiency
✅ Ducted reverse-cycle air conditioning for year-round comfort
Delivering Quality & Supporting Our Community
With construction progressing at pace, this project is a testament to Acrow’s expertise in delivering high-quality, custom homes—on time and to the highest standards.
As we complete Maddy and Blake’s dream home, we also celebrate the grand opening of our Fyshwick showroom in Canberra. Here, prospective clients can see our craftsmanship firsthand and explore tailored solutions for their own projects.
If you’re looking for a custom granny flat designed for style and functionality, Acrow Granny Flats is here to help. Visit our showroom or contact us today to discuss your project.
by Granny Flat Builder | Oct 25, 2024 | Canberra Granny Flats, Granny Flats
Granny Flats are known as ‘secondary residences’ in the ACT and are required to comply with regulations that are slightly different to those in NSW, hence why it is so important to refer to your local and state laws in the planning stages. Prior to 2013, the use of secondary residences was restricted for use solely by older family members of relatives. These days however they can be used for a wide variety of purposes.
The ACT requires a Development Application (DA) to be approved prior to the commencement of any building. In this process, a floor plan must be submitted to your local council showing the Granny Flat is compliant with the Australian Standard AS 4299 Adaptable Housing (Class C). This standard is to ensure the residence is easily adaptable to cater to the needs of people with disabilities.
Other requirements that must be met for the construction of a secondary residence include:
- Must be located in a residential zone
- Situated on a property with a minimum size of 500m²
- Minimum floorspace of 40m² and a maximum of 90m²
- Must include a private open space for tenants and at least one off-street car parking space
- Must have clear and unobstructed pedestrian access
- Is compatible with the exterior building materials of pre-existing buildings in the neighbourhood
- Only the property owner can own the Granny Flat, and there may only be one per property
- Must not inhibit the privacy of adjoining residences
- Must maintain setbacks of 1.5m from one side and 3m from the other, 3m from the rear and 6m from the front
Would you like a free, fixed price quote on a secondary residence in Canberra?
by Granny Flat Builder | Sep 11, 2024 | Canberra Granny Flats, Granny Flats
Building a Modern Barnhouse for Maddy & Blake
At Acrow Granny Flats, we take pride in stepping in to help when it matters most. For Maddy and Blake, former Cubitt’s clients, we’re bringing their dream granny flat to life after acquiring the project post-DA and CC approval. Though the project was approved, no work had commenced, and we’re now progressing at pace on-site to transform their vision into a beautiful modern barn house.
Located in a BAL 19-rated area, this custom granny flat features striking design elements that blend functionality with style. The TrimDek roof profile and James Hardie Axon Cladding give the flat a sleek, contemporary barn house aesthetic, while double-glazed windows offer added insulation and energy efficiency—perfect for year-round comfort.
Inside, the attention to detail continues with matte black finishes throughout the flat, from the PC items to the door hardware and appliances. The open, airy feel is enhanced by the cathedral ceiling spanning the living area, kitchen, and main bedroom. Square set cornices further elevate the modern feel.
Maddy and Blake have also opted for high-end upgrades, including loose-lay longboard vinyl flooring and plush carpet in the bedrooms. Both bathrooms will feature tiling up to ceiling height, with luxurious wall-hung vanities and recessed shaving cabinets adding a touch of sophistication.
In line with their preference for a clean, modern interior, ducted reverse cycle air conditioning will ensure the flat remains comfortable in all seasons. With construction well underway, our team is excited to bring this dream home to life.
This project is another example of Acrow’s commitment to building quality homes locally. As we work towards completing this stunning granny flat, it’s an exciting time for us with the grand opening of our new showroom in Fyshwick, Canberra. Here, prospective clients can see our craftsmanship first-hand and explore custom options for their own projects.
We are proud to be supporting the local community. By stepping in to help Maddy and Blake, we’re ensuring their home is built to the highest standards and on track for completion.
Keep an eye out for updates as we approach completion on this exciting build.
by Granny Flat Builder | Sep 4, 2024 | Canberra Granny Flats, Granny Flats, South Coast Granny Flats, Wollongong Granny Flats
Granny Flats Canberra Showroom – Bring the Family
Investors and home owners alike will be pleased to know that Acrow Granny Flats, already completing works in Canberra, South Coast and surrounds, is opening their new home in Canberra – and you’re invited for the Grand Opening!
📅 Date: Saturday, 21st September
⏰ Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 Location: Unit 1/80-82 Kembla St, Fyshwick ACT 2609
This isn’t just an open day—it’s an event packed with activities and opportunities. Whether you’re curious about secondary residences, planning a home extension, or just looking for a fun day out with the family, this event has something for everyone.
Explore Stunning Granny Flats
Take a tour through our two fully constructed granny flats, each showcasing unique designs tailored for different needs:
- 82m² Granny Flat – The Eucalypt: This spacious and modern design is perfect for those who desire a bit more room. The Eucalypt offers a thoughtful layout with open-plan living, two bedrooms, and contemporary finishes that blend comfort and style. It’s an ideal choice for those looking to maximize space without compromising on design.
- 72m² Granny Flat – The Ellerslie: A cosy and functional space, The Ellerslie is designed with efficiency and elegance in mind. This flat features two well-sized bedrooms, a streamlined kitchen, and a welcoming living area. It’s a great option for those who appreciate a balance of style and practicality.
Both flats are equipped with examples of Acrow’s inclusions, ensuring you get a comprehensive understanding of your options, and the quality and attention to detail that goes into every project we undertake.
Family Fun Day
We’ve lined up activities to make sure everyone enjoys the day:
- Sausage Sizzle: Enjoy a tasty snack while exploring our displays and chatting with our team.
- Lucky Door Prize: Enter for a chance to win exciting prizes just by attending.
- Kids’ Activities: Keep the little ones entertained with face painting, balloons, and lolly bags.
Special Offer: Save $10,000
To celebrate the grand opening of our Canberra showroom, we are taking $10,000 off any new quote signed by 31 October. Exclusive to NSW South Coast and Canberra addresses, book your site inspection on the day. (Terms and conditions apply.)
Live Radio Broadcast and $2,000 Drop Promotion
Adding to the excitement, local radio stations 2CCC and 2CA Classic will broadcast live from the event between 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM. Plus, they’ll be running their popular $2,000 drop promotion—don’t miss your chance to win!
Talk to the Experts
Our team will be available throughout the day to discuss your granny flat projects, dual occupancy plans, or major home extensions. Take advantage of this opportunity to get expert advice and learn how Acrow Granny Flats can bring your ideas to life.
Whether you’re planning your next home project or just looking for a great day out, join us at the Acrow Granny Flats showroom grand opening. It’s going to be a day you won’t want to miss! For more information, contact us at [email protected].
We can’t wait to see you there!
————————————————————-
PROMOTIONAL TERMS
Save $10k Promotion is exclusively available for ACT and South Coast builds. It is only valid for quotes dated between 01/09/2024 – 31/10/2024 and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Quotes must be signed by 31/10/2024 to qualify. Discount is applicable on the build price only and will be reflected in the total contract value. Please contact our office or your Sales Manager to confirm eligibility and for any further questions.
by Granny Flat Builder | Jul 1, 2024 | Canberra Granny Flats, Granny Flats
Canberra is witnessing a significant shift in residential building with more and more home owners looking to add secondary residences for family or for rental income. If you are in the market to buy a property with this intention, we have a few tips to help you find the right block
Tips for buying when your goal is to add a secondary residence in Canberra, ACT
- Try to purchase a block that is rectangle, with house to the front and plenty of rear garden.
- It is best if the house is square on the land not on an angle….it gives you more room for privacy from the house and the granny flat.
- Best size is from 700m2 upwards as you will always need a 3.000 mtr rear setback.
- The side setbacks are 1.500 from one boundary and 3.000 from the second side boundary.
- Many houses in ACT have electrical easements, it is best if this is along the rear boundary not the side.
- It is best to have the width of two cars at the side for access as you need to provide parking for 3 cars in total behind the building line.
- 2 can be tandem but the third has to be unhindered (this allows the granny flat tenant clear access at all times) modifications of this can be worked but that will depend on the block.
- If you remove a garage to build this granny flat you will most definitely need to ensure you meet the parking codes.
- No large trees within 4 mtrs of a granny flat, ACTPLA are hesitant to allow you to remove any significant trees in the area.
- You can only build out the front of a property if you have at least a 13.000 set back from the road
- Corner blocks are the best so long as they have plenty of back garden as the granny flat needs to be built behind the building line of the other houses in the street.
Canberra’s Trusted Granny Flat Builders
If you live in the ACT and are searching for a clever way to invest in your own property, a Granny Flat built by Acrow may be exactly what you’re looking for. Our customers are building Granny Flats in Canberra for myriad of reasons. For example, as a comfortable alternative to expensive and overcrowded nursing homes, that keep your elderly loved ones close while maintaining your personal space for daily life. Families are investing in Granny Flats in Canberra to pay off a mortgage much faster by making the most of vacant backyard space. With the ability to build a Granny Flat from up to 90m2 in the ACT, the possibilities are endless for you to maximise the return on your property.
Ask us to review a property you are looking at:
