Grandmother’s apartment, designed for one or two people, is an independent living area, usually located on the floor of a family home. A grandmother’s apartment can be detached or it can be attached to another house. It is sometimes referred to as the grandmother’s apartment because it is a popular way for families to entertain elderly parents in decorated flats in Barcelona.
In the construction industry, the grandmother’s apartment is often referred to as a side apartment or accessory housing unit (ADU). Other terms include large pod, mother-in-law unit, husband-‘s apartment, reward unit, Casita, carriage unit, and Ohana unit (mostly in Hawaii).
Many granny flats fall into the tiny house category, and the surge in interest in tiny house living has been a boon to grandparents who are interested in this type of housing.
Many grandmothers’ homes fall into the category of small homes, and increasing the interest in living in small homes has been a boon for grandparents who are interested in this type of housing.
As more multi-generational housing becomes more popular, grandmothers’ apartments are likely to become more common. Real estate consultants and builders report that they are currently a good selling point.
Amenities in a Granny Flat
Some of the grandmother’s apartments are miniature versions of full-size residential units with full kitchens. In others, kitchen facilities are limited, perhaps to a mini-fridge and microwave, which involves fewer safety issues than full kitchens.
The Granny Pod
The newest wrinkle in a grandmother’s business is commonly referred to as the big sheath. Provides high-tech surveillance capabilities to monitor residents remotely. Other devices include a timed drug dispenser. Features that can be installed include a toilet that monitors the temperature and performs a simple urine test.
The difficulty of Adding a Granny Flat
Barriers to the growth of large apartments include municipal laws, zoning laws, building restrictions, neighborhood covenants, and other regulations. In many cases, homeowners simply ignore or circumvent such rules, which are relatively easy when converting a garage or other existing structure, but easier when building a new structure.
New construction is also more expensive, and homeowners may find it difficult to finance it. Water and electricity connections can also be expensive. Some municipalities want off-street access and/or parking for large apartment dwellers, which can add to the cost or make it completely impossible for certain properties.
The growth of the prefabricated or modular building industry has made it easier for some homeowners to add to homes, but this type of structure may be banned in some areas.
Advantages of Adding a Granny Flat
In addition to creating a living space, the grandmother’s apartment has other benefits. There is more security with another tenant on the property, especially if the apartment is on the side or behind the ground. Tenants can sometimes share transportation and other amenities with residents of the main house. Sometimes they may be able to share baby care, lawn care, and other maintenance tasks.
