Set behind an existing house in a quiet suburb of Salisbury Brisbane is a recently completed second dwelling granny flat designed by local Bayside house designers Baahouse + Baastudio, who was recently voted Houzz of the Year 2015 for a house design built last year in Pullenvale (houzz.com/au/pro/baahouse/baahouse-baastudio). They have now designed another contemporary modern design that sets the trend for small backyard living.
Gone are the days when we think of a granny flat as a simple shed or structure. With new creative styles constructed with raw, natural timbers, Baahouse + Baastudio have developed a style of granny flats that changes the way people perceive granny flats and opens up the options to choose a second dwelling that is suitable for the Australian climate, aesthetically pleasing, and functional.
At only 180 square feet, this “Cotswold” design has a small footprint on site of only 21 by 18 feet, but with its second level, high ceiling spaces, open-plan living, and large sliding doors extending to a deck area, the house feels double the size. With a high-level ceiling and large void looking down from the first floor level, the design allows for airflow and light between the two levels.
Externally, the louver windows and large sliding doors ensure that the house captures the breezes and allows the light to filter through.
The black cedar box design pictured above shows three aspects of the external cladding. The western red cedar timber will age over time and turn gray, blending into the surrounding trees and natural environment. The western wall and southern wall are clad in custom orb metal roofing, which is a great contrast to the cedar and is also maintenance free. We have also incorporated two layers of fiberglass transparent cladding to add another unique feature to the design. The fiberglass is semitransparent, creating a lovely sense of light inside and, from the outside, giving the house a water-like appearance. At night, the house illuminates like a Japanese lantern. These layers of fiberglass between the hardwood timber studs also create an air pocket that keeps the wall cool on hot days.
Within, the interior boasts large open spaces and a kitchenette with hoop pine cabinetwork that blends in with the spotted gum timber flooring. The main space on the lower level is a large open dining/lounge area, while upstairs is the bedroom space, which can be converted into two rooms. The bathroom has been kept simple but functional.
Starting from $130,000 for a complete build, this is a must-have extension for your backyard. Whether it’s for extra space for your family (parents of children), retreat, home office/studio, or an investment, this new innovated design will enhance your lifestyle and will be the talk of your neighbors.
www.baahouse.com.au
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