No council approval
A warm and welcoming space, designed for possibility
When Oliver and Elizabeth decided to build a granny flat in Bolwarra Heights, they came to Backyard Grannys with a clear vision: a beautiful, functional space that could work as both a long-term rental and a stylish Airbnb.
They weren’t just after something practical - they wanted a design that felt timeless, with a nod to heritage style and a strong connection to the peaceful, semi-rural feel of their property. From the first design meeting to the final finishes, Oliver and Elizabeth worked closely with our team to bring that vision to life.
The result is a two-bedroom, two-bathroom granny flat that feels more like a charming country cottage than a secondary dwelling. With its wraparound verandah and bullnose detailing, it’s a space that welcomes you in and invites you to stay.
Build process
To achieve the right layout and liveability, the home was designed at 70m², slightly larger than the standard 60m² size allowed under complying development. The process included the submission of a Development Approval (DA) through Maitland Council, giving Oliver and Elizabeth the flexibility to include everything they needed.
The build process was managed end-to-end by our team, with open communication and attention to detail throughout. From design approvals to final finishes, it was a smooth and collaborative process - just the way it should be.
Material selection
Every detail of this granny flat was selected with care - to reflect the clients’ style, enhance the comfort of the home, and stand the test of time.
Exterior:
- Cladding: James Hardie Linea weatherboards painted in Surfmist for a crisp, classic finish
- Roof and Gutter: Colorbond Woodland Grey for contrast and durability
- Entry Door: Hume Newington XN5, painted in Haymes Greyology 1 for a soft, elegant welcome
Kitchen and interior:
- Cabinetry: Polytec Hamptons profile with brushed nickel hardware
- Benchtop: Luna White stone for a clean, bright workspace
- Flooring: Luxury vinyl plank (QLAY 2.0) in ‘Burleigh Heads Spotted Gum’ – offering the warmth of timber with added resilience
- Bedrooms: Redbook carpet in ‘91 Basalt’ for a cosy, quiet feel
- Paint: A calming palette of Haymes Greyology tones throughout, with gloss finishes on trims and doors
- Bathrooms: Atlas Greige floor tiles and gloss white wall tiles for a fresh, modern finish
Together, these materials create a space that feels relaxed and welcoming - perfect for a guest stay or a more permanent home.
Return on investment
As well as being a beautiful place to stay, this granny flat is a smart investment. Thanks to its dual-purpose design, Oliver and Elizabeth can enjoy the benefits of both long-term rental income and short-stay Airbnb hosting.
They’re expecting an estimated 10.2% annual return on investment, showing just how powerful a well-designed granny flat can be when it’s planned with both lifestyle and return in mind.
Dreaming of your own granny flat?
Whether you're building for family, for guests, or for extra income, we’re here to help you bring it all together. At Backyard Grannys, we combine smart design with personal service - so you can feel confident at every step.
Reach out today and discover what’s possible.
