by Granny Flat Builder | May 24, 2025 | Canberra Granny Flats, Granny Flats, Studios
If you’re considering adding a backyard studio in Canberra—whether it’s a space to work, train, create, or simply unwind—one of the most common questions is: how long will approval take?
The good news? In many cases, studios in the ACT can be approved without needing to lodge a Development Application (DA). That means fewer delays, less red tape, and a smoother path to getting your build started.
Fast-Tracked Approvals: Class 10a Building Certification
Most backyard studios fall under what’s known as a Class 10a building—a classification used for non-habitable structures such as sheds, garages, and many studio types. These can often be certified through a building approval (BA) process, rather than a full DA, provided your project meets the key planning criteria.
In the ACT, this pathway is referred to as exempt from DA under Schedule 1 of the Planning and Development Regulation 2008. This approach allows a certifier to assess and approve your structure more quickly, often within 4 to 6 weeks, rather than the several months it may take for a development application.
What Makes a Studio ‘Non-Habitable’?
Under ACT legislation, a structure is only considered a dwelling (and therefore not DA-exempt) if it includes all of the following:
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A kitchen
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A bathroom or shower
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A toilet
So if your studio includes only a bathroom or wet bar, or is intended for use as a gym, office, retreat, or creative space, it may still qualify as non-habitable—keeping it eligible for the faster approval process.
Key Planning Requirements in the ACT
Even if your project qualifies as DA-exempt, it still needs to meet certain rules relating to size, height, and placement on your block. Some of the important criteria include:
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A maximum floor area of 50m² for structures on blocks larger than 600m²
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A minimum 15m setback from the front boundary
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Height limits: typically no more than 4m overall, and no more than 3m at the boundary
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Specific limitations on wall area and boundary proximity
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The structure must not be built over easements or block access to service infrastructure
Meeting these conditions allows your project to be certified by a private building certifier without needing to involve the local council’s DA process.
What If Your Studio Doesn’t Meet These Criteria?
Not all properties are straightforward, and some projects—especially those with added kitchens or more complex design features—will need to go through a full Development Application process. This typically takes longer (often 4–6 months), but it’s still entirely manageable with the right team guiding you through.
At Acrow, we take care of the entire approvals process for you, from initial site checks to certifier coordination and final sign-off—whether it’s a fast-tracked Class 10a structure or a DA-approved studio with full amenities.
A Smarter Way to Add Space in Canberra
Building a studio is one of the most cost-effective and efficient ways to create extra space without moving house or embarking on a large renovation. And with the right advice, many Canberra homeowners can get started far sooner than they think.
Want to know if your block qualifies for a DA-exempt studio?
We’re happy to take a look and give you clear advice upfront—no obligations.
by Granny Flat Builder | May 15, 2025 | Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats, Hunter Valley Granny Flats
Built in 2025 for Jess, this two-bedroom granny flat showcases how a standard design can be personalised to feel like a true home. Based on The Dock Plus layout and approved via CDC, this project in NSW proves that practicality and personality can go hand-in-hand.
The Design: The Dock Plus (Modified)
The Dock Plus offers a generous open-plan living, kitchen and dining layout—ideal for daily life or welcoming guests. Jess opted for a modified version of the design, incorporating:
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Two bedrooms with built-in wardrobes
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A shared bathroom with a separate laundry
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An island bench in the kitchen for extra prep space and casual meals
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A 3.5kW air conditioner for year-round comfort
Jess also upgraded the kitchen with black cabinetry handles and added a dishwasher, reflecting her focus on both form and function.
Steel Frame Construction and BAL 12.5 Adaptations
Built on bearers and joists with a steel frame and truss system, this home also met BAL 12.5 bushfire requirements—featuring aluminium flyscreens, eave vents, and a hardwood merbau porch and stairs. These additions not only offer peace of mind but contribute to a durable, long-lasting build.
Colour Choices That Make It Her Own Home
Unlike many secondary dwellings that lean toward neutral palettes, Jess brought vibrant character to her granny flat with:
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Four different interior wall colours
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Customised front door with Dulux “Golden Koi” at the entrance —a bold, warm shade that immediately sets her home apart
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A unique blend of warmth, fun, and individuality that’s rarely seen in secondary dwellings
This personalised palette shows how small design decisions can make a big visual impact, adding charm and ownership to every room.
Ellalong Granny Flat Gallery
Granny Flat Delivered On Time with High Praise
The build commenced in mid-November 2024 and reached Practical Completion by early March 2025. Despite the Christmas break and minor delays, the project remained within the 12-week construction window. The final result not only met but exceeded Jess’s expectations.
Here’s what she had to say in her 5-star Google review:
*“We recently had our forever home built by Acrow Granny Flats, and we couldn’t be happier with the entire experience. From the very beginning, everything was well organised and ran smoothly. The process was quick, professional, and completely stress-free.
Crystal in the office was always prompt, friendly and helpful, Duke the sales manager guided us through the early stages with clarity and honest up front pricing and Dario our project manager made sure everything went to plan and was built to a high standard.
The quality of the build exceeded our expectations, and the whole team was a pleasure to deal with. If you’re thinking about building a granny flat, we highly recommend Acrow—professional, efficient, and genuinely great to work with.”*
Why Ellalong is Ideal for a Granny Flat
Ellalong is an ideal location for a granny flat thanks to its generous block sizes, peaceful rural atmosphere, and proximity to Cessnock and the Hunter Valley. The area attracts families, retirees, and renters looking for a quieter lifestyle with town conveniences nearby. With favourable zoning and CDC pathways under Cessnock City Council, it’s often straightforward to gain approval for a secondary dwelling. Whether you’re building for family, future flexibility, or additional rental income, Ellalong offers the space and setting to make a granny flat a smart investment.
Another Standout Build by Acrow
From the upgraded kitchen to the curated colour scheme, this Dock Plus modification is a strong example of how Acrow delivers more than just standard plans—they deliver homes that reflect their owners. With clear communication from the sales team, careful project management on site, and the technical confidence to meet BAL 12.5 requirements, Jess’s build is one more project Acrow can be proud of.
Book a free site inspection for your Granny Flat in the Hunter Valley – or anywhere in NSW or ACT
Whether you’re planning a secondary dwelling to rent out, house family, or live in yourself, Acrow can help make it feel like home. Book a free site inspection today to explore your options across NSW and the ACT.
by Granny Flat Builder | May 9, 2025 | Canberra Granny Flats, Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats
As demand for multi-generational and flexible housing continues to grow, Canberra granny flats have become an increasingly popular solution for families seeking more independence, accessibility, and long-term value on their property. A project in Kambah, in the ACT highlights how thoughtful design and a focus on adaptability can deliver a high-quality secondary dwelling that supports both present needs and future possibilities.
Understanding Adaptable Housing Rules in Canberra (ACT)
In the ACT, granny flats (secondary residences) on blocks over 500m² must either be designed to meet full Class C (accessible) standards—or demonstrate they can be easily adapted to suit the needs of people with a disability. This means that the dwelling doesn’t need to be fully accessible from day one, but must be designed in a way that can accommodate accessibility features in the future with minimal structural change.
To meet these rules, a granny flat must have all essential living spaces—including a bedroom, bathroom, and living area—located on the ground floor. This ensures the space can be modified for mobility access if needed down the track.
For this particular project, the client incorporated several forward-thinking design features to meet adaptability requirements while still maintaining flexibility in the final layout. The initial plans included a ramp to demonstrate access could be achieved, but after discussions with building certifiers, low-rise steps were approved instead—since the site allowed for easy installation of a ramp later without altering the core structure. This is a great example of how ACT regulations allow for practical, site-sensitive design decisions, as long as adaptability is clearly demonstrated.
As required, the submitted floor plans included “post-adapted” layouts to show how the space could be modified in future—removing the need for a formal report from an independent assessor, which is not required for secondary dwellings.
Practical Accessibility Features
The granny flat was designed for long-term adaptability, making it ideal for occupants who value both independence and ease of movement. Some of the key accessibility-friendly design elements include:
- Wider Doorways: All internal doorways were widened beyond standard dimensions to allow easy passage for mobility aids such as walkers or wheelchairs—now or in the future.
- Spacious Bathroom: The bathroom was built with open shower access, reinforced walls for future grab rails, and plenty of turning space.
- Flat Thresholds: Flooring transitions were designed to be smooth and level between rooms, reducing trip hazards.
- Ramp-Ready Entry: While the dwelling currently uses steps, the front entry was built in a way that a ramp can be easily installed later if needed.
These design features not only support current comfort but also increase the value and flexibility of the flat for future use—whether as a rental, guest space, or accessible accommodation.
Kambah Canberra Adaptable Granny Flat Gallery
Smart Layout for Independent Living
The internal layout of the granny flat was carefully considered to offer both functionality and privacy. It includes:
- A fully equipped kitchen with accessible bench heights and smart storage
- Open-plan living and dining area with natural light
- A generously sized bedroom with built-in storage
- A modern, adaptable bathroom
Each space was designed with long-term comfort in mind, using durable and low-maintenance finishes suited for everyday living.
Navigating the Canberra Approval Process
Building a granny flat in Canberra means working within a clear regulatory framework. This project required compliance with:
- Plot ratio and block size restrictions
- Adaptable housing guidelines under ACT planning rules
- Open space and site coverage requirements
- Drainage and stormwater considerations
By incorporating adaptability into the early design phase and providing post-adapted plans, the approval process remained straightforward and stress-free.
A Flexible, Future-Proof Investment
This custom granny flat shows how adaptable design can meet a wide range of needs—without sacrificing aesthetics or comfort. The result is a secure, private, and flexible living space that can evolve over time.
As more families in Canberra look to support loved ones or create independent living solutions, granny flats remain a valuable and practical option. With a strong understanding of ACT regulations and thoughtful design choices, homeowners can build with confidence, knowing their investment will meet both present and future needs.
Whether you’re planning for accessibility, independence, or multigenerational living, an adaptable Canberra granny flat offers a smart solution built to grow with you.
Book a free site inspection for your Granny Flat anywhere in NSW or ACT
by Granny Flat Builder | May 6, 2025 | Central Coast Granny Flats, Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats
A Modern Secondary Dwelling Built for Lifestyle and Location
Set against the green backdrop of Narara on the Central Coast, this two-bedroom granny flat was built using one of Acrow’s most popular designs—The Prime. It showcases how a well-planned secondary dwelling can transform a sloped block into a stylish and functional space for extended family living, rental income, or simply more room to live.
The Design: “The Prime”
The Prime is a 2-bedroom layout that remains a top choice among Acrow clients. Designed with flexibility and comfort in mind, it features:
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Two spacious bedrooms with built-in wardrobes
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A combined bathroom and laundry with generous proportions
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An open plan kitchen, dining, and living space ideal for relaxed, modern living
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The option of three roof styles—gable, skillion, or hip
For this build, the gable roof option was selected to complement the existing home on the property and blend with the residential streetscape of Narara.
Adaptations for Granny Flat Built on a Sloping Block
One of the standout features of this build was the sloping block. Rather than seeing it as a challenge, Acrow saw it as an opportunity to elevate the rear yard with clever site planning. The construction team adjusted for levels with raised subfloor construction and considered drainage and access during the early planning stages. The result is a well-positioned granny flat that feels level, light-filled, and well-integrated into the property.
Colour and Style Selections
The final product reflects a clean and contemporary aesthetic with timeless appeal. Some key external and internal colour selections include:
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Exterior:
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Cladding: James Hardie Linea weatherboard in Shale Grey for a modern yet coastal feel.
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Roofing & Gutters: Colorbond Monument, adding contrast and durability.
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Windows & Sliding Doors: Matt black aluminium framing to sharpen the façade.
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Front Door: Painted in Shale Grey with chrome hardware for continuity and style.
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Interior:
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Walls & Ceilings: Dulux Lexicon Quarter, a crisp white that enhances natural light.
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Flooring: Hybrid vinyl plank in Natural Spotted Gum, offering a warm timber look with practical durability.
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Kitchen:
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Cabinetry in Polytec Ultra White Matt
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Laminated benchtops in Natural Concrete
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Splashback tiles in Gloss White Subway, laid in a traditional horizontal pattern.
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Bathroom: White gloss wall tiles with a soft grey floor tile (Soft Concrete), paired with chrome tapware and a custom vanity in Coastal Oak.
These choices create a fresh and neutral interior that will remain appealing for years to come—perfect for rental or family use.
Narara Granny Flat Gallery
Why Narara is Ideal for a Granny Flat
Located just over an hour north of Sydney, Narara is part of the Central Coast commuter belt, making it ideal for homeowners seeking a balanced lifestyle between city access and local calm. Its leafy surrounds, family-friendly atmosphere, and growing infrastructure make it a standout location for secondary dwellings.
For families, a granny flat in Narara means more space without moving suburbs. For investors, it means strong rental demand from commuters, students, or professionals working locally or in Sydney. With generous block sizes and favourable council conditions, Narara is a smart choice for building a granny flat.
Another Smart Build by Acrow
This build in Narara is a perfect example of how Acrow handles everything from design through to completion, even on challenging sites. From managing slope-related complexities to delivering a modern, highly liveable outcome, Acrow’s team brought both technical know-how and attention to detail every step of the way.
Book a free site inspection for your Granny Flat on the Central Coast – or anywhere in NSW or ACT
by Granny Flat Builder | Apr 24, 2025 | Canberra Granny Flats, Granny Flats
If you’re planning to build a secondary residence—commonly called a granny flat—in the ACT, there’s a key design requirement you may not have come across: the Adaptable Housing Standard.
This standard is a planning tool that ensures new homes are designed with future accessibility in mind. And if you’re working with Acrow Granny Flats, you can rest easy knowing that we apply this standard from the start—helping you secure approval faster and avoid costly design changes later on.
What Is the ACT Adaptable Housing Standard?
The ACT Adaptable Housing Standard is based on the Australian Standard AS4299. It outlines features that make homes easier to use for people with limited mobility, including those who use wheelchairs, walking frames, or who want to age in place.
The Territory Plan applies this standard to various types of developments to ensure housing diversity and long-term accessibility. In practice, it means certain dwellings must be either built to meet the standard (compliant), or at the very least be designed to be easily modified to meet it in the future (adaptable).
Why Does It Exist?
As Canberra’s population grows and ages, accessible housing becomes more important. The ACT Government has introduced these requirements to:
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Provide greater housing choice
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Allow people to remain in their homes as their needs change
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Reduce the cost and disruption of future modifications
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Make communities more inclusive
Adaptable homes benefit not only those with mobility needs but also families with young children, carers, and people recovering from injury.
How Does This Apply to Granny Flats (Secondary Residences)?
If you’re planning a granny flat on a block over 500m², your design must either:
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Meet Class C of AS4299, meaning it includes all essential adaptable features from the start, or
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Be easily adaptable to meet those features in the future.
The ACT planning authority considers a granny flat to be “easily adaptable” if it includes all essential rooms (like the bedroom, bathroom, and living area) on the ground floor and can be modified without major structural changes.
Unlike larger developments, you don’t need a formal certification report from a third party—but you must submit floor plans that show how the home can be adapted after construction.
At Acrow, we prepare both the initial layout and the adapted (post-modification) plan with every granny flat application. That means you meet the ACT’s requirements from the start and avoid approval delays.
So What Are “Essential” Features?
The Australian Standard outlines 119 features, categorised as:
For secondary dwellings, the essential features are the focus. These typically include:
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Wider doorways and hallways
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Step-free entry
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A ground-floor bedroom and bathroom
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Reinforcements in bathroom walls for future grab rails
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Kitchen and laundry layouts that can be adjusted
You don’t need to build with all the features immediately—but the home must be designed in a way that makes future adaptations simple and cost-effective. This might mean you don’t build a step free entry but the design is such that the steps can be removed and replaced with ramps or other step free access at a later date.
We Design with Adaptability in Mind—So You Can Build with Confidence
At Acrow Granny Flats, we’re experienced in meeting ACT planning rules and adaptable housing standards. When you work with us, we’ll:
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Ensure your design meets or exceeds Class C adaptability
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Provide the required post-adaptation plans for submission
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Eliminate the need for redesigns that can slow down your approval
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Help you build a granny flat that suits your needs today and into the future
By aligning your plans with the ACT Adaptable Housing Standard from the beginning, we keep your project moving—so you can get building sooner.
CHECKLIST – Adaptable Housing Standard
Essential Design Features – Required at Time of Build or Easily Adaptable
Access & Entry
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☐ Step-free path of travel from street or parking to entry door
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☐ Minimum 820mm clear opening at entry door
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☐ Thresholds at entry no higher than 5mm (or ramped where necessary)
Circulation Space
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☐ Hallways minimum 1000mm wide (preferably 1200mm)
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☐ Doors throughout with minimum 820mm clear opening
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☐ Circulation space of at least 1550mm diameter in key areas (bedroom, bathroom, living)
Bedroom (Ground Floor)
Bathroom
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☐ Located on ground level
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☐ Step-free shower
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☐ Toilet with clear space beside (min 900mm width)
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☐ Reinforcement in walls for future grab rails
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☐ Sink with knee clearance and lever taps
Kitchen & Laundry (Optional for Secondary Dwellings – but ideally planned for adaptation)
General Design
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☐ Slip-resistant flooring throughout
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☐ Provision for future installation of handrails or stair lifts (if applicable)
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☐ Power points and switches within reach (900–1100mm above floor)
Post-Adaptation Planning Tip:
Even if not all features are installed from the outset, your floor plan must show that they can be added later without major renovation.
✔ Planning with Acrow?
We include these essential features—or pre-plan for them—so your design meets ACT Adaptable Housing requirements from day one.
by Granny Flat Builder | Apr 11, 2025 | Granny Flats
Caring for family members, whether they are elderly or have disabilities, can be emotionally and physically draining. Your own physical space away from family can provide a respite from these responsibilities, allowing caregivers to focus on their own needs and well-being.
A parent with an adult child who has a disability faces a difficult decision between wanting to support their child’s independence and ensuring their safety and well-being. Of course as a parent you do not want the adult child to be too far from home, but also recognise the importance of allowing them to live a fulfilling life.
Having ones own physical space is essential for maintaining good mental health. Caring for any family member with disabilities can be a full-time job, and it can take a significant toll on a parent’s mental health. Adults need more privacy and independence, and having separate living spaces can allow them to have that while still being close. This can help them maintain a sense of autonomy and control over their own lives, which is important for their mental well-being.
With the cost of long term care objectionable to many families, existing homes can be adapted to accommodate the family situation. A Granny Flat can allow families to find a balance between being supportive parents and allowing children to live life on their own terms. Parents are able to work hard in the background to create accessible spaces that accommodate individual needs, and the end result is less worry about the childs’ safety and wellbeing.”
Having enough space can also help the parent maintain their own sense of identity and independence. It can be easy to lose oneself in the role of a full-time caregiver, but having space to pursue hobbies, interests, and other activities outside of caregiving can help maintain a sense of self. This, in turn, can help prevent burnout and promote better mental health for the parent.
In addition to providing space for separate living areas and individual pursuits, having enough space can also help reduce stress levels for both the parent and the adult child with disabilities. When living in close quarters, it can be easy for tensions to run high and for minor annoyances to become major sources of stress. Having enough space can help reduce these tensions and allow for a more peaceful living environment.
A granny flat can be designed to be accessible and accommodating to the needs of its occupant, including a wide array of specifications that are personal to them
Finally, having enough space can provide opportunities for socialisation and community involvement. For the adult child with disabilities, having space for friends and visitors can help them build and maintain social connections. For the parent, having enough space to host events or gatherings can provide opportunities for socialization and community involvement, which can be beneficial for mental health.
Overall, space away from family can be beneficial for mental health in many ways. It can provide opportunities for personal growth and development, promote independence and control, reduce stress and tension in relationships, and provide a break from caregiving responsibilities. While family is important, it’s also important to recognize the value of space and independence for maintaining good mental health.
