by Granny Flat Builder | Dec 4, 2024 | Completed Granny Flats, Custom Granny Flats, Granny Flats, South Coast Granny Flats
This country-style granny flat in Moss Vale showcases how thoughtful design and material choices can create a comfortable and functional living space. Whether you’re planning a secondary dwelling for family, guests, or rental purposes, this build provides a practical example to inspire your project.
Exterior Design
The external colour scheme balances durability and aesthetic appeal. A “Monument” roof and gutter system ensure a modern yet timeless look, while the “Dover White” fascia provides a clean contrast. External features like eaves, posts, downpipes, and door architraves are painted in “Hailstone,” a neutral colour that ties the design together. The Newport 170mm cladding in “Taubmans Old Driftwood” adds a classic, textured finish that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
The treated pine deck, finished with a natural stain, extends the living area outdoors and adds a warm, organic touch. Practical inclusions like a Gull Grey water tank and an Iron Grey clothesline ensure the flat meets everyday functional needs while maintaining cohesive styling.
Interior Features
Inside, the flat is designed for simplicity and comfort. The walls are painted in “Winter Ice,” creating a neutral and versatile backdrop. Internal doors and trims in “Hailstone” maintain consistency with the external palette. Durable and stylish QLD Spotted Gum hybrid flooring runs throughout, providing a cohesive look and easy maintenance.
Bedrooms
In the bedrooms, mirrored wardrobe panels on a white frame optimize space and natural light. This practical choice enhances the room’s functionality without compromising on style.
Bathroom
The bathroom combines utility with clean design. Belga Charcoal floor tiles offer durability and a modern touch, while Reflect Gloss white wall tiles keep the space bright and easy to clean.
Kitchen
The kitchen is equipped with laminate Carrara benchtops and Nouveau Grey Matt cabinets, offering a balance of affordability, durability, and style. These materials are practical for a high-use area while maintaining a contemporary look.
Key Takeaways for Your Build
This project demonstrates the importance of choosing materials and finishes that balance practicality, affordability, and aesthetics. From the external cladding to internal flooring and cabinetry, every element has been selected with both function and style in mind.
For anyone considering building a granny flat, this case study highlights the benefits of:
- Selecting durable and cohesive materials.
- Prioritizing neutral tones for versatility.
- Incorporating practical features like a treated pine deck and ample storage.
If you’re planning a granny flat build, take inspiration from this Moss Vale project to create a space that is both functional and inviting.
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Saratoga Granny Flat Gallery
Book a free site inspection for your Granny Flat in the Southern Highlands – or anywhere in NSW or ACT
by Granny Flat Builder | Nov 27, 2024 | Central Coast Granny Flats, Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats
The Cube Granny Flat in Saratoga: Design and Durability
Flori and Gabriel’s journey to building their dream granny flat in Saratoga culminated in a project that met all their expectations and more. Completed in 2024, the two-bedroom granny flat showcases the clean, modern lines of The Cube design, enhanced by thoughtful features like a skillion roof with raked ceilings in the living areas.
Saratoga, known for its relaxed coastal charm and leafy surroundings, presented some site-specific challenges for the build. The sloping block required scaffolding during construction and the inclusion of a stormwater dispersion trench. Additionally, the property’s BAL 29 bushfire classification called for stringent construction methods and fire-resistant materials, ensuring the granny flat is not only stylish but also safe and compliant.
One standout aspect of this project was the significant cost saving. Flori and Gabriel had initially engaged another builder but were shocked when the price increased by $100,000 over the course of a year for a comparable two-bedroom granny flat. Switching to Acrow not only delivered a more reliable and professional experience but also helped them achieve their dream within their original budget.
Flori and Gabriel opted for Acrow’s standard inclusions during the color selection process, resulting in a streamlined yet high-quality finish.
Saratoga Granny Flat Gallery
Saratoga Granny Flat Five Star Client Review
Flori left a glowing 5-star review, reflecting her and Gabriel’s satisfaction with their Acrow experience:
Our granny flat project in Saratoga was completed mid-September 2024 and we are extremely pleased with the final product. We approached Acrow Homes based on their excellent reviews and after having a not-that-pleasant experience with another building company that in the course of the year increased their price by $100k (and that’s on a 2-bed granny flat!!).
Mick and Chris are true professionals, and it was a pleasure to work with them. Chris managed the project with great care towards details, keeping our interest at heart, being always responsive and providing us with regular updates.
A special mention to Crystal who has provided us with weekly email updates on the progress, always responsive and helping when needed. She has also taken us through the process of choosing the colors for the interior/exterior, the tiles, and everything else inside the flat, coming up with recommendations when we were getting stuck.
From the start of the process to the finish, it went very smoothly. Communication was great throughout the entire project. No massive surprises in the scope of work, however to set expectations, when building a new home there’s always something that requires a variation therefore budgets should allow for that.
In summary, Acrow Homes have done an outstanding job for us and we’re confident they will handle future projects with the same care and excellence they have provided to us. For those that are not feeling 100% confident in their chosen builder, it doesn’t hurt giving Acrow a call and see if they can help you.
Why Choose The Cube?
The Cube design combines modern aesthetics with efficient use of space, making it a popular choice for clients seeking a two-bedroom granny flat. You can learn more about this design on our Cube Granny Flat design page.
If you’re considering building in a BAL 29 area like Saratoga, Acrow’s experience with bushfire compliance and their commitment to quality ensure your project will be completed to the highest standard. Contact Acrow today to discuss your vision!
Book a free site inspection for your Granny Flat on the Central Coast – or anywhere in NSW or ACT
by Granny Flat Builder | Nov 20, 2024 | Central Coast Granny Flats, Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats
Located in the picturesque coastal town of Avoca Beach, NSW, Diana’s granny flat project was initially intended to serve as a professional office for her work as a nutritionist and naturopath. However, upon completion, Diana decided to use the space as a rental property, showcasing its flexibility and the value of thoughtful design.
This project is a perfect example of how a granny flat can adapt to changing needs. Whether used as a workspace or a rental property, the finished build adds significant value to Diana’s home while blending seamlessly with the charm of its coastal surroundings.
A Custom Design with Stylish Features
Diana’s granny flat was designed to balance functionality and aesthetics. The dual skillion roof, paired with striking raked ceilings, gave the interior an airy, open feel, while hi-lite windows in the living and kitchen areas maximized natural light throughout the day. In the bedrooms, barn doors added a modern touch, combining style with space-saving practicality. While the design included these unique features, Diana opted for Acrow’s standard inclusions for the finishes, ensuring a cost-effective yet polished result.
Avoca Beach’s relaxed coastal vibe was complemented by the granny flat’s clean lines and contemporary design, making it both a practical living space and a visually appealing addition to the property.
Avoca Beach Granny Flat Gallery
Meeting the Challenges of the Site
Building in Avoca Beach often comes with unique site considerations, and Diana’s property was no exception. The sloping land required scaffolding during construction, as well as a retaining wall to stabilize the area and create a functional outdoor space. Acrow handled these challenges with expertise, incorporating a stormwater dispersion trench to manage runoff and ensuring all work met local council requirements.
Adding to the complexity, the property was located in a BAL 29 bushfire zone. Acrow’s team adhered to strict bushfire regulations, selecting fire-resistant materials and incorporating construction techniques that ensured compliance while maintaining the aesthetic integrity of the design.
A Flexible Future
The completed granny flat is not only a functional space but also a versatile investment. Designed with Diana’s original business needs in mind, it now serves as a stylish and comfortable rental property. Its contemporary design, high-quality construction, and location in Avoca Beach make it an attractive option for tenants while adding long-term value to the property.
This project demonstrates how Acrow Granny Flats delivers tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of each client. Whether building on a challenging site, complying with bushfire regulations, or creating a flexible design, Acrow ensures that every project results in a space that’s both practical and beautiful.
Book a free site inspection for your Granny Flat on the Central Coast – or anywhere in NSW or ACT
by Granny Flat Builder | Oct 11, 2024 | Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats, Lake Macquarie Granny Flats
How this Belmont North Granny Flat cost $130,000 less
Our Lake Macquarie Granny Flat client, Kristi, began her journey in early 2020, signing with her first builder and locking in an agreed cost. But after several months, that builder increased the costs by 50%, leaving Kristi frustrated and unsure how to proceed. Determined to move forward, she found a second builder. This time, after council approval, they claimed to have found $150,000 in “unexpected site costs,” raising the overall project cost by more than 100%.
Very frustrated, at this point, Kristi turned to us at Acrow Granny Flats, hoping we could offer a straightforward and honest approach.
Instead of rushing Kristi into another contract, we took the time to look over her plans and the costings from the previous builder. It was immediately clear that the inflated site costs made no sense. Rather than starting the project from scratch, we suggested using The Cube, one of our existing designs, and adapting it to match her council-approved plans. This meant Kristi could go through a complying development (CDC), and didn’t have to go through the lengthy approval process again, saving her both time and money.
Our commitment to transparent pricing was a relief for Kristi, who had previously been hit with unexpected cost increases. With us, she only paid for the upgrades she chose herself.
Kristi chose several modifications to The Cube to personalise her new granny flat. These included:
- A separate laundry
- A breakfast bar in the kitchen
- A dishwasher installation
- Merbau posts for an extended deck
The build was relatively straightforward, constructed on bearer and joist foundations with a timber frame and truss. Kristi made most of her upgrades during the quoting process, so she was well-prepared for the final colour selections. Importantly, there were no unexpected costs or delays—just a smooth and hassle-free build.
Belmont North Granny Flat Gallery
Kristi’s Full Five Star Review on Google
Kristi was kind enough to leave a 5-star review on Google, detailing her experience:
“We started our granny flat process at the beginning of 2020, and Acrow were the third company we signed with. After paying a deposit and locking in an agreed cost to the first company, after several months, they increased the costs by 50%. We then repeated the process with a second company who kept the initial costs the same until after final council approval, then they increased the costs by over 100%—apparently, they found $150,000 in unexpected site costs!
We then approached Acrow and explained our situation. They took the time to look at our plans, contract and costings before we paid them anything (a nice change). They couldn’t see how the second company had arrived at their site cost figures. Acrow suggested instead of starting again with council approval, we choose an Acrow plan which is closest to our approved plan and apply to council for alterations. This was a relatively easy and quick process.
Acrow stuck to the initial quoted cost, and the only extra costs were ones we chose. We were very happy with the quality and professional manner of the whole Acrow team. Our point of contact, Dario, was exceptional and was always easy to reach. Our final costs with Acrow were $130,000 cheaper than the second granny flat company, and $70,000 cheaper than the first company.
We highly recommend Acrow and would certainly use them again.”
Fixed costs, transparent and honest.
Kristi’s experience highlights the benefits of choosing a builder who prioritises honesty, clear communication, and customer satisfaction. By saving her up to $130,000 compared to other builders, we were able to deliver the high-quality granny flat Kristi had envisioned, without the stress of unexpected costs or delays.
If you’re looking for a team that delivers what they promise, without hidden surprises, get in touch with Acrow Granny Flats today. We’re here to make your granny flat or home extension project as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Anyone looking to build a granny flat in Belmont North, Lake Macquarie, or the surrounding areas can count on Acrow Granny Flats for a stress-free building process and transparent pricing. Our local expertise ensures that your project meets all council requirements, allowing you to build with confidence. Get in touch with us today to discuss your granny flat or home extension project!
Book a free site inspection for your Granny Flat on the Central Coast
by Granny Flat Builder | Oct 2, 2024 | Central Coast Granny Flats, Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats
BAL29 Granny Flat Completed in Tumbi Umbi
Jackie and Sean recently added a beautiful 2-bedroom granny flat to their investment property in Tumbi Umbi on the Central Coast, using Acrow Granny Flats. The project, completed in 2023, showcases Acrow’s expertise in delivering high-quality homes even in challenging environments like those with bushfire risks.
The flat, built under DA approval, used the popular Cube design and featured a steel frame and truss construction with screw piers by B&J. Project Manager Dario and Sales Manager Mick ensured a smooth, efficient process, starting from the early planning stages all the way through to the final handover. This home was rented out for $450 per week shortly after completion, demonstrating its immediate value as an investment.
Managing a tricky location and BAL29 requirements
Given the location of the property on a busy main road, the team made some adjustments to the usual schedule, starting early in the morning to manage deliveries and avoid disrupting traffic. This thoughtful planning ensured that the project ran smoothly without delays, a testament to Acrow’s proactive project management.
Aside from minor upgrades like a fixed overhead shower and a glass shelf, the granny flat was built according to standard selections. However, due to its location in a Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) 29 zone, certain changes were made to comply with stringent safety requirements. These included the installation of eave vents, a hardwood subfloor, and aluminium flyscreens. With a BAL 29 rating, homes must be able to withstand increased levels of radiant heat and ember attack, which made these upgrades essential for ensuring the safety and durability of the structure.
BAL29 Granny Flat Tumbi Umbi Review
Jackie left a glowing 5-star review on Google, reflecting her satisfaction with the build process and Acrow’s service:
“We are so happy with our 2 bedroom Acrow Granny Flat. The whole process was seamless and we were very happy with the way the Acrow team looked after our build right from day 1.
During construction, Dario always made us feel at ease, and we are very grateful for his expertise and experience in managing any situation to ensure it was as stress-free as possible for us.
Dario and the team’s communication was always fantastic. We really appreciated his honesty and ability to sort out any scenario with our best interest in mind.
Overall, we are very happy with our new flat and would 100% build with the Acrow team again. THANK YOU!”
BAL29 Granny Flat Tumbi Umbi Project Gallery
Local Granny Flat Builder Central Coast Tumbi Umbi
Tumbi Umbi, located on the NSW Central Coast, offers a peaceful suburban lifestyle with close proximity to both natural beauty and essential amenities. With convenient access to local schools, shopping centres, and beaches, it’s an attractive location for families, retirees, and investors alike. The area’s strong sense of community and continuous development make it an ideal choice for those looking to invest in a granny flat, offering both functional living space and the potential for solid rental returns.
As a locally-based company serving Tumbi Umbi and the broader Central Coast, Acrow Granny Flats is proud to be the go-to builder for granny flat construction in this region. With over two decades of experience, we have a deep understanding of the local land and council requirements, including submitting Development Applications (DA) with Central Coast Council. Whether it’s managing bushfire safety regulations in high-risk areas like Tumbi Umbi or meeting flood zone requirements around Tuggerah Lake, our team has the expertise to ensure a compliant and successful build.
For homeowners and investors in Tumbi Umbi, Acrow Granny Flats is the trusted name for quality builds, with a focus on delivering exceptional results while keeping your budget in mind. We provide a wide range of designs and floor plans, from fully custom builds to cost-effective packages, ensuring that every project is tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re expanding your property for family use, adding value to your investment, or planning for retirement, Acrow Granny Flats is here to make your vision a reality.
Book a free site inspection for your Granny Flat on the Central Coast
by Granny Flat Builder | Sep 25, 2024 | Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats, Hunter Valley Granny Flats
Acrow Granny Flats recently achieved a record milestone by completing this gorgeous granny flat in Aberdare, Cessnock for our client, Anne. in just 8.5 weeks. Designed as a personal sanctuary on her daughter’s property, this build showcases the efficiency and quality that Acrow is known for.
Anne selected the Petit Plus design, a spacious one-bedroom granny flat layout perfect for comfortable living. With minimal alterations to the standard plan, she opted for timber-look overhead cabinetry inspired by our Cessnock display, an upgraded toilet, and panel glide blinds for the sliding door. One standout feature of the granny flat is the raked ceiling in the living, dining, and kitchen areas, creating an inviting and airy atmosphere.
The project was managed by our experienced team, with Mick as the Sales Manager and Dario as the Project Manager. The seamless construction process included weekly updates that kept Anne informed at every stage, ensuring her confidence and satisfaction throughout the build.
Anne’s experience with Acrow Granny Flats was nothing short of exceptional. She shared her thoughts in a glowing 5-star Google review:
“After analysing other companies against Acrow, it was easy to decide on Acrow with all the inclusions they offered on my 1-bedroom Petit Plus. The whole process was very smooth and managed well. Weekly communication throughout the process was effective, and it was good to know what was happening each week. I would recommend Acrow Granny Flats.”
Anne’s experience with Acrow Granny Flats goes beyond just building a structure; it’s about creating a space where she can thrive and enjoy her independence. Completing her granny flat in just 8.5 weeks is a fantastic achievement, but what truly matters is how this home allows her to be close to her family while having her own retreat.
We take pride in making the building process smooth and enjoyable, and it’s heartwarming to see how happy Anne is with her new home. If you’re thinking about building a granny flat that feels just right for you, we’re here to help you make that dream a reality. Let’s chat about how we can create a space that’s perfect for your needs!
View the Aberdare Granny Flat Gallery
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