Layouts that work for you
Once you have made the decision to start building your annexe, there are a host of exciting options that need to be made. One of the most important things to consider is the layout of the annexe and how this will be designed in order to provide the best possible solution to your housing needs. The layout is something that needs to be correct from the get-go, as it is difficult to make alterations later in the build.
What factors are important when choosing your layout?
The starting point for deciding on the layout of any home is to look carefully at the way that you use the building and how that use might change or adapt in the future. This is especially true for elderly customers, who’s mobility might not be as good as it was, or could require improved access for a wheelchair or walking support. A self-contained annexe is often a perfect solution for elderly people, for who a level of independence if still desired, but with the added security of being close to family and relatives.
The smaller size of an annexe means that rooms tend to be conveniently close to each other, all on one level, with great access between shower rooms, bedrooms and living spaces.
Garden space and layout
Another key factor when choosing the layout of your garden annexe is the building’s orientation and how it sits within the garden space. This has an obvious bearing on where windows will be placed and where you want different views from.
You might want a living room with French doors overlooking the garden, or maybe a great view from the sink for you to do your washing up, or maybe you prefer a bedroom with a more secluded outlook. How your windows and views are configured on the property will help determine how the layout will be organised.
The size of the garden can also have an impact on the size and layout. Current regulations for annexes state that they should not take up more than 50% of the total garden plot area, so this could limit some people into the size of the property or whether it has one or two bedrooms. Annexes with a floor space of less than 25m2 might need to have a studio configuration in order to maximise the space available.
Can planning rules effect layout?
One or two bedrooms is an important consideration, which can also have an influence on your planning application. As an annexe is a self-contained accommodation that will be lived in, it will need planning permission.
Part of the planning process will require you to write a statement outlining your needs to build an annexe, whether it’s for personal, health or family requirements. If a two-bedroom annexe is going to be built then planning authorities will need to know the reasons for the extra bedroom and might take this into consideration when processing the application.
In order to make the planning as stress-free as possible, we offer a planning service for a small extra charge. Knowing the annexe industry inside-out means that our success rate is very high and we have a good understanding of what is required by local authorities in order to get an annexe successfully approved.
Facilities and services
Another factor that is necessary for an annexe to pass planning is that it be classed as an ancillary building. An important part of this is that it shares some of the services and facilities with the main house, such as sewage, electric, water etc. To be able to connect services the annexe will need to be positioned in a particular way, perhaps with a shower room and kitchen orientated towards these services. All of these factors can have an impact on the layout and alter how the building is designed.
Best annexes for small spaces
For a narrower garden or a smaller garden space, there are a number of options that can be used to make the most of the size. If you do not want to compromise much on internal floor space then we would recommend either an L-Shaped floor plan or to reposition the annexe so that it faces the garden on the narrow end. An L-Shaped annexe is a great way to get the maximum floor area from a narrow site, offering the possibility of a 1 or 2 bedroom layout.
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