Architect, Draftsman or Builder ? Choosing the Right Path for Your Granny Flat Project
Kickstarting Your Granny Flat Journey: Where Do You Begin ?
So, you’re ready to embark on your granny flat journey. Exciting times ahead! But before construction begins, before the approvals, before you even start choosing paint colours or light fittings — you need a plan. Literally.
The first question many people ask is: Who should I trust to bring my vision to life? Should you go with a builder who offers a full package, hire a draftsman, or engage an architect ?
Each option has its pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your budget, your vision, and how involved you want to be in the design process.
Let’s break it down.
1. The One-Stop-Shop: Builder-Designer Packages
If convenience is king for you, there are plenty of companies offering ready-made granny flat solutions — complete with stock standard floor plans and build contracts.
These builder-designer hybrids are the go-to for many homeowners because they streamline the process. One company, one price, one contract. Simple.
These companies often compete heavily on price, which can be attractive upfront. However, it’s important to remember: you get what you pay for. The cheapest quote may not always equal the best quality or service.
Tip: Always look into a company’s track record. Online platforms like ProductReview.com.au can be a goldmine of honest customer feedback. Choose a provider with a strong history of reliability and satisfied clients — not just the lowest price.
2. Going Custom: Why You Might Hire an Architect
For those who want something more tailored — perhaps a design that makes the most of a tricky site, or matches an existing home perfectly — architects offer a deeper level of design expertise.
Architects don’t just draw pretty pictures. They’ll meet with you to understand your lifestyle needs, your aesthetic preferences, and your site conditions.
Following this, they’ll present a fee proposal detailing the scope of services, which may include concept design, development approvals, construction documentation, and even project management during the build phase.
Yes, it’s a more premium option — both in time and cost — but for many, the end result is worth every dollar. A truly custom granny flat can add significant value to your property and lifestyle.
3. Draftsmen: The Middle Ground
Draftsmen (or building designers) are a solid option if you’re looking for something more affordable than an architect but still want a degree of customisation.
They’re particularly useful for getting your ideas down on paper and ensuring your design complies with local council regulations.
While they may not offer the same design depth as architects, many experienced draftsmen are more than capable of creating great, functional layouts — especially for straightforward granny flats.
Once your desired plan is finalized you will need to find a suitable Builder. This can be challenging so be prepared for a little pain in the process. You will need to invest a lot more of your time to achieve the desired outcome.
4. Project Builders: Best Bang for your Buck ?
Larger project builders have entered the granny flat space in recent years, often as part of a house-and-granny-flat combo deal. These builders can offer competitive per-square-metre pricing thanks to their high-volume business model and in-house design resources.
If you’re building a new primary residence at the same time, this could be a smart and efficient option. But for stand alone granny flats, project builders may not always be the most flexible or cost-effective choice unless they specifically cater to individual granny flat builds.
Conclusion: So, Who Should You Choose ?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer — and that’s the beauty of the granny flat journey.
Whether you go with a package deal builder, an architect for a bespoke touch, or a draftsman for a balanced approach, your choice should align with your goals, budget, and how hands-on you want to be.
Before you sign any contracts, take the time to:-
- Research all of your options
- Understand the relevant rules around granny flats in your State.
- Read real customer reviews
- Understand what’s included in the Offer
- Know what approvals you’ll need
Remember: the right plan sets the foundation for everything that follows. Get this step right, and you’re well on your way to creating a granny flat that adds value to your home — and enhances the way you live.
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