by Granny Flat Builder | Aug 14, 2024 | Central Coast Granny Flats, Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats
Central Coast Completed Granny Flat in Berkeley Vale
When Robert approached us, he had a clear vision: a place for his daughter to live independently but still close to family. His property in Berkeley Vale on the Central Coast provided the perfect opportunity to create a self-contained 2-bedroom granny flat with all the comforts of a modern home. Robert was excited to build something practical yet stylish, ensuring his daughter had her own space to call home.
The build started off a little rocky— or should we say, rainy. Heavy rainfall turned the site into a muddy mess, which delayed the early stages of construction. However, once we poured the slab, things began to move smoothly. Robert, who lived in the main house on-site, watched the progress unfold day by day.
Working with Robert, we modified our standard Cube design to better suit his needs. He opted for a few upgrades, like adding a luxurious shower head and installing pot drawers in the kitchen instead of the standard cabinetry, enhancing both the functionality and comfort of the space.
The final result was a sleek and modern granny flat that Robert and his daughter were thrilled with. From the stylish kitchen to the cosy living area, the space reflected a perfect blend of practicality and style. The upgraded features Robert chose added an extra touch of luxury, making it a space where his daughter could truly feel at home.
This project is a great example of how Acrow Granny Flats can transform your backyard into a comfortable, independent living space. With our head office based in Berkeley Vale, this area is our heartland, making Acrow the first choice for Berkeley Vale property owners looking to build a granny flat. Whether it’s for family or investment, we take pride in delivering high-quality builds tailored to meet your needs, no matter the challenges we face along the way. Stories like Robert’s reinforce why Acrow Granny Flats has become the trusted name in granny flat construction on the Central Coast.
Acrow Granny Flat Berkeley Vale Review
Despite the challenges that came with the wet conditions early on, Robert was more than happy with the final outcome. He shared his experience on Google. Here is the five star feedback Robert left on Google for our work:
Acrow was very professional and did a great job considering we had so much rain. The granny flat turned out fantastic.
Robert.
Berkeley Vale Granny Flat Project Gallery
Local Granny Flat Builder Central Coast Berkeley Vale
Berkeley Vale, located in the heart of the Central Coast, offers a perfect blend of suburban convenience and scenic beauty. With easy access to local schools, shopping centers, and the stunning coastline, it’s a prime location for families, investors, and retirees. The area’s strong community feel and growing infrastructure make it an ideal spot to invest in a granny flat, providing both functional space and potential rental income.
As a locally-based company with our head office in Berkeley Vale, Acrow Granny Flats is proud to be the trusted choice for granny flat construction across the Central Coast. With over two decades of experience, we understand the land and council requirements specific to this region. Whether it’s slope construction in the hills of Berkeley Vale or managing acid sulphate soils and flooding requirements near Tuggerah Lake, our team has the expertise to navigate the challenges of building in these diverse environments.
We offer a wide range of designs and floor plans, from custom-built options to inclusive packages, ensuring that every project is handled with precision and care. Whether you’re expanding your property for family use, generating additional income, or planning for retirement, Acrow Granny Flats is here to bring your vision to life.
For Central Coast residents, especially in Berkeley Vale, Acrow Granny Flats is the name you can trust to deliver outstanding results with a price to match you budget.
Download the Granny Flat Design Collection for Central Coast
Download the granny flat design collection
by Granny Flat Builder | Aug 7, 2024 | Central Coast Granny Flats, Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats
Central Coast Peninsula Area Completed Granny Flat Umina
Maria came to Acrow Granny Flats with a clear vision in mind—she wanted to build a functional and comfortable granny flat for her teenage daughter. After reviewing several options, she settled on The Prime, one of our most popular two-bedroom designs. The 60m² floor plan, featuring two bedrooms with built-in wardrobes, an open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area, and a combined bathroom and laundry, ticked all her boxes. But by the time the build was completed, Maria found herself rethinking her plan. The granny flat turned out so well that she considered renting it out for extra income instead!
Maria’s property in Umina, a picturesque coastal suburb known for its family-friendly beach, presented unique challenges due to its flood-rated location. Luckily, we have over 20 years of experience building granny flats in Umina and across the Woy Woy Peninsula, so we were fully prepared to meet the area’s specific requirements. Our team handled everything with precision and expertise. The project required a construction approach using bearers, joists, and a steel frame with trusses to ensure stability and durability, especially given the flood risks.
What made this project truly special was Maria’s close involvement. Living in the main house, she had a front-row seat to the entire construction process and saw firsthand how our team worked. Throughout the build, she opted for several upgrades that added a personal touch and enhanced the overall look and functionality of the granny flat. Maria upgraded her entrance door handle for a more modern aesthetic, increased the tiling in the bathroom to ceiling height for a sleek, polished look, chose an upgraded vanity and mirror, and opted for a double bowl sink in the kitchen instead of the standard option. These customisations turned The Prime into a space that felt more like a modern, stylish home rather than just a simple granny flat.
Despite the complexity of the site and the customisations, the build went off without a hitch. Maria noted that there were “no delays in the build whatsoever,” and praised the “great personalised customer service” she received throughout the process. She also emphasised how pleased she was with her decision to choose Acrow Granny Flats over other competitors, describing our team as “a great bunch of people to deal with.” This glowing 5-star review reflected Maria’s satisfaction with both the end product and the overall experience of working with us.
At Acrow Granny Flats, we pride ourselves on making every project a seamless experience for our clients, and Maria’s case was no exception. From initial consultations to the final handover, we ensured that Maria felt supported and informed every step of the way. Our team’s dedication to quality and attention to detail is why we’ve built a strong reputation as the go-to granny flat builder on the Central Coast.
The Prime floor plan that Maria chose is one of our most versatile designs. With 2 bedrooms, built-in wardrobes, and an open-plan layout, it maximises the 60m² of space to create a living area that is both functional and inviting. The design also allows for flexibility, with the option of three different roof styles—gable, skillion, or hip—to suit a range of property styles. For Maria’s project, the combined bathroom and laundry area was a practical choice, and the small entrance porch added a welcoming touch. If she had chosen the Prime Plus upgrade, she could have opted for a slightly larger porch. You can fully customise any one of our granny flat designs to suit your block, budget and taste.
The success of this project highlights why Acrow Granny Flats is the preferred choice for homeowners in Umina, the Central Coast and beyond. Our experience in navigating local conditions, coupled with our commitment to delivering personalised customer service and high-quality builds, sets us apart in the competitive granny flat market. Whether it’s building for family, rental income, or simply adding extra space to your property, we work closely with each client to ensure the finished product exceeds expectations. Stories like Maria’s that reinforce why Acrow Granny Flats has become the trusted name in granny flat construction on the Central Coast.
Acrow Granny Flat Umina Review
Here is the five star feedback Maria left on Google for our work on this unique front yard granny flat. See also our Instagram post, thanking Maria
Great personalised customer service, no delays in the build whatsoever and a great bunch of people to deal with. Very glad I chose Acrow over other competitors
Maria.
Umina Granny Flat Project Gallery
Local Granny Flat Builder Central Coast Peninsula
Umina Beach, situated on the Central Coast Peninsula, provides an ideal mix of coastal charm and modern amenities. With pristine beaches, parks, and a vibrant local community, it’s a perfect location for families, professionals, and retirees alike. Umina Beach offers easy access to shopping centers, schools, and recreational facilities, making it a desirable place to invest in a granny flat.
For over two decades, Acrow has been the trusted name in crafting exceptional granny flats in the Central Coast. As a family-run business, we take pride in our extensive experience and dedication to delivering high-quality living spaces tailored to your needs.
Acrow offers a diverse range of stylish granny flat designs and floor plans to suit every taste and requirement. From custom designs to inclusive packages, we’re committed to bringing your vision to life. With our price beat guarantee and support for property investors throughout the Central Coast region, you can trust us to deliver exceptional results.
Whether you’re an investor seeking to maximise returns, a parent looking to accommodate a growing family, or a retiree planning for the future, Acrow Granny Flats is here to make your granny flat project a reality.
Download the Granny Flat Design Collection for Central Coast
Download the granny flat design collection
by Granny Flat Builder | Aug 7, 2024 | Central Coast Granny Flats, Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats
Can I build a Granny Flat in my front yard under CDC?
When planning to build a granny flat, one of the most crucial decisions is choosing the location. So, can you build a granny flat in your front yard? The answer is yes – under specific conditions.
Key Considerations for Building a Granny Flat in the Front Yard
Building a granny flat in your front yard is possible, but it requires careful consideration of your local council’s regulations, particularly the necessary setbacks. Let’s break down how this could work in your favour.
The NSW Affordable Rental Housing State Environmental Planning Policy (SEPP) outlines that the front setback for a granny flat must be based on the setbacks of the two nearest houses within 40 meters of your property. To determine the allowable front setback for your granny flat, calculate the average distance between the two nearest houses’ setbacks from the street.
For example:
- If your neighbours’ houses are set 7 meters and 8 meters back from the front boundary, the average setback would be 7.5 meters. This would be your minimum front setback.
- Your property also needs a 1.8m setback between the granny flat and the main house unless the granny flat is constructed with brick, masonry, or a special fire-rated wall, which may allow more flexibility.
This strategy works best on large residential lots where your house is set further back from the street compared to neighbouring homes. This way, the front yard can accommodate the required setbacks, making the addition of a granny flat feasible. Read more about setbacks in our article.
If your property does not meet all the conditions required to obtain a CDC, your Granny Flat may still be approved by lodging a DA, although it may be less common to be approved via DA, Acrow Granny Flats team would be able to advise for your specific circumstances, so always get in contact to ask.
Street Appeal for Front Yard Granny Flats
It won’t hurt for your front yard granny flat to harmonise with your primary dwelling and the surrounding environment, to keep the neighbours happy, although when working under CDC your certifier will only care about whether it meets regulations, including any local council nuances. If you do live in an area where council may impose rules around aesthetics (e.g. heritage areas).
To boost the street appeal of your front yard granny flat, consider the following tips:
- Orientation: Ensure the granny flat faces the main street, aligning with the overall streetscape.
- Patio Design: Incorporate stylish outdoor furniture to enhance the front view of the flat.
- Lighting: Consider statement lighting like Hamptons-style pendant lights or recessed lighting to add charm and warmth.
- Driveway Access: If you don’t already have a driveway, consider designs that also offer safe pedestrian access.
- Doors & Windows: Choose windows and doors that not only maximize ventilation but also complement the overall aesthetic of both dwellings.
- Landscaping & Paths: Use planters, matching plants, and well-designed pathways to create cohesion between the granny flat and the main house.
- Fencing: A picket fence or similar fencing can add a polished and welcoming look.
By paying attention to these elements, you can ensure that your front yard granny flat adds value and visual appeal to your property.
Battleaxe Block Design and Granny Flats
If your property doesn’t meet the necessary conditions for building a granny flat under a Complying Development Certificate (CDC), you may still have the option to lodge a Development Application (DA). However, if subdividing your property has crossed your mind, it’s essential to note that you cannot subdivide a block with a granny flat under the existing planning permissions.
In summary, building a granny flat in the front yard is certainly a possibility, provided you meet setback requirements and maintain a cohesive design. If you face challenges, consulting your local council or exploring a DA might still allow for creative solutions to maximize your property’s potential.
Can I build a Granny Flat in my front yard under CDC?
Yes, it is possible to build a granny flat in your front yard under CDC, but specific conditions must be met. A great example is this project we completed. Typically, front yard granny flats are not allowed due to setback requirements and fire-separation regulations. However, Jim’s property had unique features that made this feasible. He had an ample front yard that allowed for a 1.8-meter gap between the existing dwelling and the granny flat, meeting the Building Code of Australia’s fire-separation standards. Additionally, the neighbouring dwellings were set much further forward compared to his house. This enabled Jim to construct his granny flat at a similar setback, ensuring compliance with local regulations.
If your property is similarly set back on the block while your neighbours’ houses are much closer to the front boundary, you can design and obtain approval for a granny flat in your front yard. This case shows that, while unusual, building a front yard granny flat is possible with the right conditions and careful planning.
Download the Granny Flat Design Collection
Download the granny flat design collection
by Granny Flat Builder | Jul 24, 2024 | Central Coast Granny Flats, Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats
Completed Central Coast Granny Flat Ourimbah
For her Ourimbah property on the Central Coast, Samantha Pennington chose our contemporary two-bedroom design, The Dock.
Constructed on a steel frame and truss system with a slab on ground (SOG) foundation, the granny flat was delivered through a Development Application (DA) process, which added time due to council delays. Once approved we completed the granny flat within 12 weeks. Built in a BAL 29 bushfire zone, the project followed our standard specifications, with Samantha opting to keep all selections as included – another testament to the value that Acrow Granny Flats offer.
The Dock offers a practical two-bedroom layout with built-in wardrobes, a combined bathroom and laundry, and an open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area that makes the most of its 60m² footprint.
The build was managed by Sales Manager Duke Brown and Project Manager Dario Villar, who oversaw the project through approval and construction. Samantha lived in the main home during the build and enjoyed watching the granny flat take shape in her backyard.
Acrow Ourimbah Granny Flat Review
Samantha later shared her experience in a glowing five-star Google review, praising Acrow’s patience through the long approval and loan process, and the efficient build once construction began:
I’ve been dealing with Acrow for almost 2 years and they have been great. The DA approval took 7 months due to delays with council. There were then delays on my side getting the loan approved. Acrow were very patient through the whole process. Once they got the all clear the build was done in 3 months. I was very happy with the end result and the service provided by Acrow. I’d recommend them to anyone wanting to build a granny flat!
Ourimbah Granny Flat Project Gallery
Local Granny Flat Builder Central Coast
Ourimbah, located in the Central Coast region, offers a perfect blend of convenience and community. Close to Tuggerah Lake and essential amenities, it’s a short drive to major commercial centres and the Central Coast’s beautiful beaches. Ourimbah provides a lifestyle that caters to professionals, singles, families, and retirees, making it an ideal place to invest in a granny flat.
For over two decades, Acrow has been the trusted name in crafting exceptional granny flats in the Central Coast. As a family-run business, we take pride in our extensive experience and dedication to delivering high-quality living spaces tailored to your needs.
Acrow offers a diverse range of stylish granny flat designs and floor plans to suit every taste and requirement. From custom designs to inclusive packages, we’re committed to bringing your vision to life. With our price beat guarantee and support for property investors throughout the Central Coast region, you can trust us to deliver exceptional results.
Whether you’re an investor seeking to maximise returns, a parent looking to accommodate a growing family, or a retiree planning for the future, Acrow Granny Flats is here to make your granny flat project a reality.
Download the granny flat design collection
by Granny Flat Builder | Jul 14, 2024 | Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats, Lake Macquarie Granny Flats
Lake Macquarie Granny Flat Case Study: Cooranbong
Our client Jim chose our popular two-bedroom design, The Prime, for his granny flat project. Opting for the standard configuration, he did not require any upgrades, so we were ready to build quickly. Completed in 2023, this build was notable for its location at the front of the main house, a less common choice that suited Jim’s specific needs perfectly and was still able to be constructed under CDC. The project was managed efficiently by our Sales Manager, Mick, and overseen by our Project Manager, Dario, ensuring timely completion in approximately 14 weeks.
The Prime floor plan is a favourite among our clients, featuring two bedrooms with built-in wardrobes, a generously sized bathroom/laundry, and an open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area. Jim opted for the skillion roof style, enhancing the modern aesthetic of his new home. With an internal area of 60 square meters, The Prime offers a spacious yet cosy living environment.
Despite the simplicity of the build, the project was not without its challenges. Constructed on bearers and joists with a steel frame, the granny flat required careful planning and execution to ensure stability and durability. Jim’s choice to position the granny flat at the front of his property presented a unique opportunity to maximise the available space while maintaining a harmonious layout with the existing main house.
Jim was an exceptional client, and his positive experience is reflected in his stellar five-star review on Google. His feedback highlights the quality of our work and the dedication of our team. We are proud to have delivered a project that combines style, practicality, and comfort, meeting all of Jim’s expectations.
The Prime granny flat stands as a testament to our commitment to providing high-quality, adaptable living solutions. Jim now enjoys a beautifully designed, functional space that complements his lifestyle and enhances his property’s value.
Acrow Lake Macquarie Granny Flat Review
Here is the five star feedback these clients left on Google for our work on this Cooranbong granny flat:
What a Fantastic Experience !!
From the very beginning, The sales rep let me know all of the ins and outs ,very honest and did a great job getting the legals that needed to be done, The office staff were friendly and a great help in deciding the colours of the flat and the fixtures inside,
The builder went over everything with a fine tooth comb, if he had an issue with anything he rang me about it and rectified it straight away, very knowledgeable,
I met these guys face to face and they were all a pleasure to deal with, The best part is the price i was quoted is exactly what i paid even through price fluctuations during the build,
Every Friday I received an email telling me what was completed that week and what will be done next week, i was never out of the loop, This is a very professional outfit,
I couldn’t be happier !
Thank You Acrow !!
Jim.
Cooranbong Granny Flat Project Gallery
Local Granny Flat Builder Lake Macquarie
Cooranbong, a suburb in the Lake Macquarie region, offers a perfect blend of convenience and community. Nestled near the lake and close to the Watagan Mountains, it’s a short drive to major amenities and the Newcastle CBD. Cooranbong provides a lifestyle that caters to professionals, singles, families, and retirees, making it an ideal place to invest in a granny flat.
For over two decades, Acrow has been the trusted name in crafting exceptional granny flats in Lake Macquarie. As a family-run business, we take pride in our extensive experience and dedication to delivering high-quality living spaces tailored to your needs.
Acrow offers a diverse range of stylish granny flat designs and floor plans to suit every taste and requirement. From custom designs to inclusive packages, we’re committed to bringing your vision to life. With our price beat guarantee and support for property investors throughout the Lake Macquarie region, you can trust us to deliver exceptional results.
Whether you’re an investor seeking to maximise returns, a parent looking to accommodate a growing family, or a retiree planning for the future, Acrow Granny Flats is here to make your granny flat project a reality.
Download the Granny Flat Design Collection for Lake Macquarie
Download the granny flat design collection
by Granny Flat Builder | May 23, 2024 | Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats, Hunter Valley Granny Flats
Maitland Area Hunter Region Granny Flat Case Study
This granny flat was recently completed in Bolwarra in the city of Maitland. It was built for a mother and son duo with the only issue being who gets to move in! They selected The Dock Plus design from our large range of modern two bedroom granny flats and were able to make upgrades on the design and build such as a dual skillion roof, Velux skylights and extended porch. They also chose to upgrade the windows and sliding door.
A modern tiled bathroom separates the two bedrooms, each fitted with a built-in robe to maximise space. The Dock Plus design also includes a linen cupboard and a separate laundry for added convenience. The clients have created a real entertainers delight with this granny flat design. To complement the generous and well thought out living space they have added a porch that wraps around from the front all the way down the side of the granny flat. The sliding door gives easy access from the living area straight onto the porch, and outdoor lighting means the space can be used day and night. The kitchen features modern appliances and additional bench space.
This was a DA submission, and the property is in a heritage listed area. Some neighbours made enquiries about this build when the submission was in council, however everything went through fine. Access for the build was through the existing houses’ garage which we managed for the client, keeping a tidy site at all times.
With the personal touches – it’s now a perfect little home. In fact, illustrating the flexibility of a granny flat with Acrow, our client built the granny flat with the intention of her moving in, however her son and his fiancé ended up moving in instead. This was a great addition to a large block which already contained a 4 bedroom house, meaning the clients have all the space needed to live their best lives – as independently or together as they wished
Maitland Granny Flat Five Star Review
Our client was so happy they left us a five star Google review:
I would recommend Acrow to anyone thinking about building a granny flat. We found the company to be professional and very competitive in the growing market of granny flat builders. We made some alterations to our initial plan and were impressed with Acrow’s advice and preparedness to accommodate these changes.
Maitland Granny Flat Project Gallery
Local Granny Flat Builder Maitland and Hunter Valley
Bolwarra is a charming suburb located in the City of Maitland within the Hunter Region of New South Wales. Bolwarra is an easy commute to Newcastle CBD and a short drive to the Hunter wine region. It is just a stone’s throw from Central Maitland where you will find everything you need including the lifestyle precinct ‘The Levee’ which offers a range of dining and entertainment options, a blend of small business and national retail stores and professional services. A granny flat is one of the best ways to add extra space to an existing home in Bolwarra or to capitalise on the investment potential that comes with it.
For over two decades, Acrow has been the trusted name in crafting exceptional granny flats in the Hunter. As a family-run business, we take pride in our extensive experience and dedication to delivering high-quality living spaces tailored to your needs. We have a dedicated granny flat display located in Cessnock you can visit.
Acrow offer a diverse range of stylish granny flat designs and floor plans to suit every taste and requirement. From custom designs tailored to your specific needs to inclusive packages that exceed expectations, we’re committed to bringing your vision to life. Plus, with our price beat guarantee and unwavering support for property investors throughout the Hunter region, you can trust us to deliver results that exceed your expectations.
Whether you’re an investor seeking to maximise returns, a parent looking to accommodate a growing family, or a retiree planning for the future, Acrow Granny Flats is here to make your Hunter Valley granny flat project a reality.
Download the Granny Flat Design Collection for Hunter Valley
Download the granny flat design collection
