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.