One Bedroom Granny Flat Designs Vs Two Bedroom Granny Flats: Which Is Better?

If you’re thinking about adding a granny flat to your property, then as per the experts like Granny Flat Solutions, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is how many bedrooms to include. Should you go for a cozy one bedroom or a slightly larger two bedroom design? Great question. In this post, we’ll compare the pros and cons of one bedroom granny flat designs and two bedroom granny flats. We’ll look at factors like cost, size, layout and more to help you decide which configuration best suits your needs. Sounds good? Let’s dive in.

One Bedroom Granny Flats

A one bedroom granny flat is usually the smaller and more affordable choice. Here are some of the main benefits:

More Compact Size

One bedroom granny flats typically range from 300 to 600 square feet. Their small size means they’re easier to fit into narrow side yards or smaller back corners of a property. If you’re short on usable space, a 1 bedroom design is the way to go.

Lower Construction Costs

Building a smaller granny flat costs less upfront compared to a larger two bedroom. You’ll need fewer materials, shorter construction time, and a smaller footprint to work with. Making it a more budget-friendly option.

Good for 1-2 People

A cozy 1 bedroom granny flat can comfortably accommodate 1-2 people, like a single occupant or couple. The compact layout has everything you need without wasted space.

Easier to Furnish

Furnishing and decorating a small granny flat is pretty simple. You just need to outfit the bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and sitting area versus multiple bedrooms and living spaces.

Overall, one bedroom granny flats offer a practical, affordable option if you only need housing for a couple occupants and have limited outdoor area to work with.

Two Bedroom Granny Flats

On the other hand, two bedroom granny flats provide more living space and flexibility:

More Spread Out Layout

Two bedroom granny flats are typically 650-900+ square feet. The extra bedroom allows for a more open, spacious layout. There’s room for larger living areas, walk-in closets, etc.

Accommodates More People

The second bedroom is great for hosting guests, family members, teens or occupants who need their own room. Allows for more privacy too.

Increased Resale Value

Many home buyers prefer at least two bedrooms. So a 2 bedroom granny flat may have higher resale value if you ever want to rent or sell it.

Multi-Purpose Space

With two bedrooms, you can use the second room as an office, yoga studio, craft room or whatever you like. More flexibility.

Two bedroom granny flats work well if you have the yard space and need room for extended family, rental income potential or resale value down the road.

Key Factors to Consider

When deciding between one or two bedrooms, keep these key factors in mind:

• Budget – What renovation costs fit your budget? Two bedrooms will increase materials and labor expenses.
• Yard dimensions – Do you have enough outdoor space for a larger footprint? Measure thoroughly.
• Occupancy needs – Will one bedroom suffice for 1-2 people? Or do you need room for a family?
• Future plans – If you may rent it out later, two bedrooms offer more rental income potential.
• Uses – How will you use the space? As a home office or yoga retreat? Then two bedrooms give flexibility.
• Construction rules – Check local regulations on maximum granny flat size. This may limit you to 1 bedroom only.

Conclusion 

Take time to weigh your needs and lifestyle. This will make it clear whether a one or two bedroom granny flat is the best fit for your property.

Design Tips for Small Granny Flats

If you opt for a cozy one bedroom granny flat, there are some great design tricks that can maximize the small space:

• Opt for an open concept – Knock down walls between the sitting room, kitchen and dining areas. This makes it feel more spacious.
• Install pocket doors – Pocket doors slide into the wall rather than swinging open. This saves precious square footage.
• Use multi-purpose furniture – Murphy beds, pull-out couches and fold up tables save space when not in use.
• Go vertical – Add tall bookshelves, wall-mounted cabinets and shelving to get storage off the floor.
• Choose bright, light colors – White walls, ceilings and cabinets make a small space feel airy and open.
• Add windows and skylights – Maximize natural light to make a compact granny flat feel bright and roomy.

With the right layout and furnishings, even a 300 sq. ft. granny flat can feel surprisingly livable.

Conclusion

When choosing between a one bedroom vs two bedroom granny flat, there are great benefits to both options. Think about your current needs and future plans. If it’s just housing 1-2 people, then a one bedroom design keeps costs down. But if you need extra space for family or rental income, two bedrooms may be worth the splurge. Whichever you choose, a granny flat adds a useful living area to your property. And that’s a smart investment. Just follow the planning and design tips above to maximize the space. Then get ready to enjoy your fabulous new granny flat.