Granny Flat Designs & Floor Plans

Some local councils give special allowances for building bigger granny flats (up to 100m²). These exceptions are typically for larger properties or properties in rural areas.
The good news is that if your granny flat or ancillary dwelling is 70m2 or less, it does not require planning approval. This means the building process is likely to be swifter than other construction projects. There is also no minimum requirement for either the size of your granny flat or the size of the lot you are building on. Which means granny flats are accessible for every homeowner.   

How to submit granny flat designs in Perth?

While the process of building a granny flat has been streamlined by the recent R-Code amendments, it’s still important to follow the correct procedures. The first thing to do is check with your local council, as your area might have its own local planning scheme that you have to comply with.
You should submit detailed plans, including a floor plan, elevation and structural and engineering details. Engaging a professional granny flat designer to help will save you time and money in the long run.

You will also need to apply for a building permit.

• Do I need planning permission?

In most cases, if you comply with the standard R-Codes for your area, you will not need planning permission. You will, however, always need a building permit. Engaging a professional will ensure that you do not miss any of the planning protocols required. 

• Do I need a granny flat designer?

Working with a granny flat designer can help you speed up and clarify the process. You should pick someone who has experience working in your area, and understands local regulations. 

Using a granny flat builder like Granny Flats WA also gives you the option to choose between one of our existing granny flat designs or a custom design, tailored for you. 

How do you design a custom granny flat in Perth, WA?

To design a custom granny flat in Perth, you must enlist a qualified architect or building designer. This ensures the building design is safe and in line with the relevant guidelines. You can discuss the specifics of what you want for your granny flat with the designer. Once a design has been established, the plans are drafted before being submitted.

Granny Flats WA offers custom designs and drafting so you can make your dream into reality.

What can you include in a custom granny flat design?

A variety of features can be included in your custom granny flat. It’s your home, so it can be your decision. Usually, what you include depends on what you intend to use the granny flat for.
If you are designing a granny flat to rent out, you should emphasise appropriate features for a living situation.
Beyond the necessities like a kitchen, bathroom and laundry, you can include features like increased built-in storage space and useful home appliances. If you plan to use it as a hobby room or guest house for visitors, this isn’t as much of a priority.
If you are planning for an elderly relative to move in, you might need to consider including some accessibility features. Most modern granny flat designs can be adjusted to take limited mobility into account.

Does my granny flat design have to be attached to my home?

Which materials are used to build granny flats in Perth?

Different materials can be used to build a granny flat. The materials used can have an impact on the price. You may opt for cheaper materials to lower the building cost or premium materials to make the granny flat more appealing. Certain councils place restrictions on materials used and require them to be matched to the house. 

What are granny flat floor plans?

The floor plan of a granny flat is a technical drawing that includes the dimensions and layout of the rooms within the granny flat. The dimensions make sure that all of the sizings are appropriate whilst the layout will determine the number of bedrooms and the features that will be included. Generic floor plans can be used for a granny flat, or a design can be customised. Granny Flats WA offers both pre-made floor plans and the option to customise your design. Our floor plans range from studio granny flats to four-bedroom granny flats. 

View some granny flats designs below, or contact us to see which floor plans may be best suited to you.