Granny Flats & Studios
A second dwelling for family, a studio for working from home, or a self-contained unit that earns its keep. Built properly — not a shed with a bathroom in it.
Second Dwellings
Self-contained and independent
A well-built granny flat gives an older parent or an adult child somewhere genuinely independent to live, on a block you already own. Kitchen, bathroom, living space, its own entry.
The rules around second dwellings vary by council and by zone, and the answer depends on your block size, setbacks and overlays. We'll check yours before you get attached to a plan.
- Full kitchen, bathroom and laundry
- Separate entry and private outdoor space
- Independently metered services where required
- Accessible layouts and step-free entry
- Council requirements checked before design starts
Studios & Offices
Twenty steps to work
A backyard studio is the cheapest square metres you'll ever add to a property, and the difference between working at the kitchen table and having a door you can shut is not small.
Insulated, lined, heated, wired for real work, and finished to the same standard as the house — because you'll be in it every day.
- Insulated, lined and climate controlled
- Data, power and lighting designed for actual work
- Acoustic separation from the house and neighbours
- Built-in desks, storage and shelving
- Optional bathroom or kitchenette
Siting
Getting it in the right spot
Where the building sits determines whether your back yard still works. Too central and you've lost the garden; too far back and you've lost the sun.
We look at setbacks, overshadowing, drainage, tree protection zones and the route for materials to get in — before drawing anything.
- Setback, overshadowing and overlooking assessed
- Drainage and stormwater connections planned
- Tree protection zones respected
- Access route for materials worked out early
- Landscaping and paving to tie it back to the house
Why us
Why clients choose us for this work.
Rules checked first
We confirm what your block actually allows before anyone pays for a design that can't be built.
Built like a house
Same framing, insulation, waterproofing and finish standard as the main dwelling. Not a kit.
One contract
Slab, frame, services, fit-out and landscaping all managed by us.
Sited to keep your garden
Placement worked out around sun, drainage and what's left of the back yard.
FAQ
Questions we get asked.
Do I need a permit for a granny flat in Victoria?
Usually yes — a building permit at minimum, and often a planning permit depending on your council, zone and any overlays. Requirements around second dwellings have shifted in recent years, so we check your specific address rather than working from general rules.
How big can a granny flat be?
That's set by your council, your zone and your block's setback and site coverage rules rather than by one statewide number. We assess your title and planning controls before design so you know your actual envelope.
Can I rent it out?
Depends on how it's approved and on your council's position on second dwellings. Some approvals restrict occupancy to a household member. Worth confirming before you build a business case on it — we'll flag what your approval pathway allows.
How long does a granny flat take to build?
Several months on site for a full self-contained dwelling, plus the approval time beforehand. A simple uninsulated studio is faster; anything with a kitchen and bathroom takes real time because of the services and waterproofing.
Can you connect it to the existing services?
Usually yes — power, water and sewer can generally be extended from the main dwelling, though capacity has to be checked. Separate metering is possible and is sometimes required.
Free quote
Get a quote for your granny flats & studios project.
Tell us what you're planning. Paul will come back to you, book a site visit and put an itemised quote in writing.
- No obligation, and no charge for the site visit
- An itemised quote in writing
- Paul runs the job he quotes
Get a free quote
Four quick questions. Paul will come back to you to book a site visit.
More services
What else we take on.
Extensions & Additions
Rear extensions, second storeys and reconfigured floor plans that add the space your family actually needs.
Learn moreHome Renovations
Whole-home and room-by-room renovations — structural changes, new joinery, fresh services throughout.
Learn moreKitchen & Bathroom Upgrades
The two rooms that make or break a house. Custom joinery, stone, tiling and waterproofing done properly.
Learn more