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Hi I'm Kevin Tomlinson founder of Oakspan. I oversee every project personally to ensure your trust remains strong from our first conversation, room design, your build and handing over the keys.


With no sales team, the price and timeline I provide is the one I deliver. Real customer service means being large enough for efficiency but small enough for flexibility.


That's why Oakspan confidently provides a 10 year guarantee - with my name on it!


If you have any questions, please reach out. I'm happy to answer honestly and quickly.

Kevin Tomlinson • Mar 21, 2023

Granny Annexe in The Garden: The Perfect Solution for Multi-Generational Living

The Advantages of Building a Granny Annexe in the Garden

In today's society, living with multiple generations of family has become a popular option in the UK. With the population ageing, people are seeking ways to keep their loved ones nearby whilst maintaining independence. Granny annexe structures offer a practical and affordable solution to this growing trend. In this discourse, we will explore the advantages of granny annexe structures and how they can serve as an outstanding addition to any family's abode.


What are Granny Annexe Structures?

A granny annexe structure is an autonomous living space that is typically erected in a garden located on a family property. These structures are designed to be used by children living longer with parents, elderly parents or grandparents who desire to live close to their family while preserving their independence. Granny annexe structures are frequently denoted as "granny flats," "annexes," or "garden rooms."

Advantages of Granny Annexe Structures

Numerous benefits come with constructing a granny annexe on one's property. Here are just a few:


Increased Privacy

When elderly family members live with their family, privacy can often be a concern. Granny annexe structures offer a self-contained living space that provides complete privacy and independence. This is especially crucial for elderly relatives who may require additional care or support but do not want to feel like a burden.


Cost-Effective

Constructing a granny annexe is often more cost-effective than relocating elderly relatives to a care home. The cost of care homes can be prohibitive, and granny annexes offer a more affordable alternative. Furthermore, the cost of constructing a granny annexe can often be regained through increased property value.


Multi-Generational Residency

Granny annexe structures enable families to live together while preserving their independence. This is particularly beneficial when looking after elderly relatives who require additional care and support. It can also be an excellent solution for families with young children who may need help with childcare. Moreover, with children growing into young adults who remain living with their parents longer, a granny annexe can offer privacy and independence for both parties while remaining close.


Increased Property Value

Adding a granny annexe to one's property can increase its overall value. Granny annexe structures are often viewed as a desirable addition to a property, especially as multi-generational residency becomes more prevalent. This can be an excellent investment for those seeking to add value to their property.


Customisable

Granny annexe structures can be customised to suit one's individual needs. They can be designed to blend seamlessly into the existing property and can be tailored to the specific requirements of one's elderly relatives. This means that one can create a space that is perfect for one's family's needs.

How to Construct a Granny Annexe

Constructing a granny annexe is relatively straightforward, but it is crucial to ensure that one follows the correct planning regulations. The first step is to engage an architect or builder who can assist in designing and planning the structure. It is also essential to ensure that the granny annexe structure meets building regulations and planning requirements. This will help to ensure that the granny annexe structure is safe, legal, and built to a high standard.


Granny Annexe Structure Options

There are numerous types of granny annexe structures available. Here are a few of the most popular options:


Traditional Granny Annexe

A traditional granny annexe is a self-contained structure that is typically constructed from brick or wood. It offers complete independence and privacy for elderly relatives. These structures can be customised to suit one's individual needs and can be designed to blend seamlessly into the existing property.


Garden Room Annex

One of the primary benefits of building a granny annexe as a garden room is that it can be a cost-effective way of creating additional living space. A garden room is a self-contained building that can be erected quickly. The annexe can be designed to include all the necessary amenities, such as a kitchen, bathroom and bedroom, and it can be connected to the main house for electricity, water and gas.


Modular

Modular granny annexe structures are designed to be assembled on-site quickly. These structures are often constructed from prefabricated materials and can be customised to suit one's individual needs. Modular granny annexes are an excellent option if one needs a quick and efficient solution.


Granny Annexe Structure Costs

The cost of constructing a granny annexe structure can vary depending on the size, materials used, and the complexity of the design. A basic granny annexe can cost as little as £20,000, while a more complex structure can cost upwards of £100,000. It is essential to factor in planning permission and building regulations when budgeting for one's granny annexe structure. However, in the long run, it can be a cost-effective solution compared to the ongoing costs of a care home.


Final Thoughts

Granny annexe structures provide an excellent solution for multi-generational residency in the UK. They provide elderly relatives with a self-contained living space that offers privacy and independence while allowing families to live together. Granny annexes are a great investment for those looking to add value to their property and can be customised to suit one's individual needs. With a range of building options available, it is easy to find a solution that works for one's family.


If one is considering constructing a granny annexe structure, it is essential to work with a reputable architect or builder who can guide one through the process. With careful planning and attention to detail, one can create a space that is perfect for one's family's needs. A granny annexe structure can be an excellent solution for families with elderly parents, young children, or even grown-up children who remain living with their parents longer. It offers a practical and cost-effective way to create additional living space while maintaining privacy and independence.


Each and every garden annexe project we take on is given the same exceptional care, attention to detail and expertise. Our results are stunning, every single time. Get some inspiration from our annexe designs below

The Ivy

Large Garden Annexe

Learn More

The Willowbrook

Corner Garden Annexe

Learn More

The Ivy

Large Garden Annexe

Learn More
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