by Granny Flat Builder | Mar 26, 2025 | Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats, Lake Macquarie Granny Flats
The Gemini – A Stunning 2-Bed 2-Bath Granny Flat Build in Lake Macquarie
Building a granny flat is not just about adding extra space — it’s about creating a stylish, functional living area that feels like home. At Acrow Granny Flats, we recently completed a stunning Gemini 2-bed 2-bath Granny Flat in Belmont North, Lake Macquarie — and it’s a perfect example of how smart design and high-quality finishes come together to create a modern, comfortable living space.
This Gemini was designed with both privacy and functionality in mind, featuring two bedrooms at opposite ends of the home, a central open-plan living area, and stylish finishes that reflect the client’s unique taste. Let’s take a closer look at the details that make this granny flat stand out.
Smart Design for Comfortable Living
The Gemini’s layout is designed to maximise both comfort and privacy. The two bedrooms and two bathrooms are positioned at opposite ends of the granny flat, creating a sense of separation and privacy — ideal for shared living or hosting guests.
The central living space features a modern L-shaped kitchen that flows seamlessly into the living and dining areas. Large windows and sliding doors flood the space with natural light and provide direct access to a patio, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
Beautiful Colour Selections and Finishes
The thoughtful selection of colours and materials gives this Gemini granny flat a modern yet welcoming feel:
Exterior
✅ Cladding: James Hardie Primeline Chamfer Weatherboard in Taubmans Silver Blaze
✅ Roof, Fascia & Gutter: Colorbond Basalt — a sleek, deep grey that complements the weatherboard perfectly
✅ Windows: Aluminium frames in Pearl White Gloss for a crisp, clean finish
✅ Front Door: Hume Bushfire Resistant BFR4 with translucent glass — finished in Merbau clear stain for warmth
Interior
✅ Walls: Taubmans Silver Pearl throughout (except ensuites), with Taubmans Brilliant White in bathrooms for a fresh, bright feel
✅ Flooring: 12mm Timber Laminate in Valley Oak throughout the living areas and hallways
✅ Bedrooms: Crestview Carpet in Warm Stone — soft and inviting underfoot
✅ Kitchen:
- Benchtop: Smart Stone Essentials Range in Santorini (20mm)
- Cabinetry: Laminex White 200 in a natural finish with nickel handles
- Splashback: Gloss White tiles (300x600mm) laid horizontally
- Appliances: Haier 600mm Electric Oven, Ceramic Cooktop, and Slide-Out Rangehood
Bathrooms
✅ Floor Tiles: Bellingen Charcoal Matt (600x600mm) for a sophisticated look
✅ Wall Tiles: Gloss White (300x600mm) laid vertically in a stackbond pattern
✅ Fixtures: Pina Handshower and Basin Mixer in chrome
✅ Vanity: Duraplex 600mm with a white china top and frameless mirrored shaving cabinet
✅ Shower: Semi-frameless with a chrome frame and modern brass floor grate
Laundry
✅ Tub: Everhard 30L Mini Laundry Unit
✅ Tapware: Phoenix Ivy MKII Sink Mixer
✅ Splashback: Gloss White tiles to match the kitchen
Lets Take a Look – 2-Bed 2-Bath Granny Flat Gallery
A Private Retreat with Modern Comfort
The Gemini’s clever layout and modern finishes make it the perfect retreat for homeowners seeking extra space, a rental opportunity, or multi-generational living. The separation of the two bedrooms enhances privacy, making it ideal for both short-term stays and long-term tenants.
The open-plan kitchen and living area create a welcoming hub for daily life, while the seamless connection to the outdoor patio provides an inviting spot for entertaining or relaxing.
Why the Gemini Is Perfect for Lake Macquarie Living
Building a 2-bed 2-bath granny flat in Lake Macquarie is a smart investment. The Gemini’s functional design and high-quality finishes provide long-term value, whether you’re creating space for family, a private guest retreat, or a rental opportunity.
At Acrow Granny Flats, we handle the entire process — from design and approvals to construction and final handover — ensuring a stress-free building experience.
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 | 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 | Jun 2, 2024 | Granny Flats, Lake Macquarie Granny Flats
Granny flats, also known as secondary dwellings, are becoming increasingly popular in Lake Macquarie. These versatile additions to properties offer numerous benefits, from providing additional living space for family members to generating rental income. The Lake Macquarie Council has released a comprehensive fact sheet detailing the guidelines and regulations for constructing granny flats in the area. This article will summarise the key points of the fact sheet, ensuring you have all the necessary information to consider adding a granny flat to your property. For detailed information, you can download the full fact sheet here: lake-mac-council-secondary-dwellings-fact-sheet.
What is a Granny Flat?
A granny flat is a self-contained accommodation unit within, attached to, or separate from the main dwelling on the same lot. According to the Lake Macquarie Council, a secondary dwelling must:
- Be established in conjunction with a principal dwelling.
- Be on the same lot of land as the principal dwelling (excluding strata plans or community title schemes).
- Have a maximum floor area of 60 square meters or 25% of the principal dwelling, whichever is greater.
Granny flats are permissible with consent in the following zones under the Lake Macquarie Local Environmental Plan 2014 (LEP 2014):
- R1 General Residential
- R2 Low-Density Residential
- R3 Medium-Density Residential
Key Regulations for Lake Macquarie Granny Flats
Eligibility and Zoning
- Property Size: To build a granny flat in Lake Macquarie, your property must be at least 450 square meters.
- Zoning: Granny flats are permitted in most residential zones, including R1 General Residential, R2 Low-Density Residential, and R3 Medium-Density Residential areas.
Design and Construction
- Size Limitations: The maximum floor area for a granny flat is 60 square meters. This limit ensures the secondary dwelling remains subordinate to the primary residence.
- Height Restrictions: The height of a granny flat must not exceed 4.5 meters. This helps maintain the aesthetic appeal and privacy of the neighbourhood.
- Setbacks: There are specific setback requirements from the property boundaries to ensure adequate space between structures and to maintain privacy. The standard setback is 3 meters from the rear boundary and 0.9 meters from the side boundaries.
Utilities and Services
- Independent Living: A granny flat must be self-contained, with its own kitchen, bathroom, and laundry facilities.
- Utility Connections: It should be connected to the same water, electricity, and sewer systems as the main dwelling.
Application Process
To build a granny flat in Lake Macquarie, you must either apply for a Development Application (DA) or use the complying development pathway, which is often faster. The complying development pathway is suitable if your project meets all the predefined standards set by the council.
Development Application (DA)
- Submission: Submit detailed plans and documents outlining your proposed granny flat to the Lake Macquarie Council.
- Assessment: The council will assess your application against local planning controls and regulations.
- Approval: Once approved, you can proceed with the construction, adhering to the conditions set by the council.
Complying Development
- Certification: Obtain a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) from a registered certifier.
- Fast-Track Approval: If your proposal meets all the necessary criteria, you can receive approval more quickly than through the traditional DA process.
Considerations for Bushfire and Flood Prone Lands
- Bushfire Prone Areas: If your land is identified as bushfire prone, the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) may need to be consulted. The RFS may not support developments on land with high bushfire attack levels due to the increased risk.
- Flood Prone Areas: The floor height of the granny flat must meet the specific planning level for flood-prone properties.
Developer Contributions – Section 94 Contributions
Council may levy contributions for various types of development, including granny flats. It is important to contact the Development Contribution team to determine if a Section 94 levy applies to your proposal. More information is available on the Council’s website or by contacting them directly.
Building Certification
The Council offers flexible and personalised building certification services. For more information about these services, contact Lake Mac Planning and Building Services.
Need Help?
Granny flats are an excellent addition to properties in Lake Macquarie, offering flexibility, additional income, and enhanced property value. By adhering to the guidelines set by the Lake Macquarie Council, homeowners can ensure their granny flat projects are successful and compliant with local regulations.
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 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 Lake Macquarie 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 Lake Macquarie granny flat project a reality.
Download the granny flat design collection
by Devesh Malhotra | Apr 18, 2024 | Completed Granny Flats, Granny Flats, Lake Macquarie Granny Flats, Newcastle Granny Flats
Newcastle Granny Flat Case Study
This recently completed Granny Flat in Edgeworth, offers privacy and comfort and was designed to be well suited for positioning on the block. The granny flat features two bedrooms, one of which includes built-in robes for added convenience. The strategic layout maximises privacy by situating the bedrooms at opposite ends of the home. An expansive open-plan living area serves as a place for relaxation and entertainment, boasting ample space for cooking and entertaining. The inclusion of bespoke elements such as the custom timber porch and a 1.2-meter breakfast bar elevates the aesthetic appeal and personalised touch.
Our client chose to adapt The Pavillion, a classic two bedroom granny flat design. Building this granny flat for his two eldest children to give them their own space, he was very involved in the design and colours process. The client personalised the granny flat floor plans slightly to extend the deck and add a breakfast bar in the kitchen. He upgraded his selections to include tiling to ceiling height in the bathroom, a niche in the shower, gas cooktop & hot water system, and supplied his own kitchen sink. The block didn’t present any challenges, Acrow did some additional sewer works but otherwise the job was straight forward and was completed ahead of schedule.
The long rectangle shape of the chosen granny flat was carefully considered to optimise space while maintaining a distinct sense of separation from the main home. Each dwelling enjoys its own generous yard space, fostering a sense of ownership and allowing each home to personalise their outdoor living areas. The position adds the potential for future fencing to further enhance privacy.
Acrow Granny Flat Review
Here is the five star feedback this client left on google for our work on this Newcastle granny flat:
I did heaps of research on all of the Granny Flat builders in my locality prior to finally settling on Acrow to build my new granny flat to give my 2 eldest children their own space. To say that I am totally happy with the choice of Acrow as a builder is a gross understatement, the entire package from price to quality of finishes is first rate.
Everything from the initial enquiry with Mick, the design phase with Sam, through colour selection with Crystal and finally to the construction phase with the project manager Dario, this was the easily the smoothest building project I have ever undertaken. Additionally, Dario was one of the most accommodating and easy to deal with people that I have ever encountered on a building site, nothing was to difficult for him and he always kept me informed of any changes to the schedule, (which was completed 2 weeks ahead of time by the way) and that makes me very happy.
I also want to say a big shout out to all the tradies and subcontractors Acrow employed on the job. I wish to thank all of these amazing people and congratulate Acrow on what I consider truly superior service. Such dedication to customer relations is rarely experience in this day and the entire company as an organization can justifiably be proud of their achievements.
Well done to all and my sincerest Thank You.
Peter.
With its thoughtful design, tailored amenities, and emphasis on privacy and individuality, this granny flat is a perfect investment or home for the family.
Granny Flat Project Gallery
Local Granny Flat Builder Newcastle
Edgeworth, located 18 kilometres west of Newcastle’s vibrant central business district, presents an ideal canvas for the addition of backyard granny flats. The abundance of space and the ambiance of Lake Macquarie contribute to the area’s appeal, making it a perfect destination for those seeking multi-generational living with space, or solid investment opportunities.
For over two decades, Acrow has been the trusted name in crafting exceptional granny flats in Newcastle. 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 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 Newcastle 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 granny flat project a reality.
Download the granny flat design collection
