You may have heard Granny Annexes called a number of things including a Self Contained Garden Pod or even a Garden Room, but what is the difference? It’s important to understand these when you’re looking for extra space and considering the right solution for your own needs.
While anomalies will always exist depending on your own personal circumstances, there are some simple factors to take into account that can classify your build between one and the other.
Self Contained – All in one
While the likes of a Garden Room tend to be just that – a room (albeit with all mod cons!), garden pods and granny annexes can often be confused.
What is important is the detail of whether it is self-contained or not. Could you live in it – ie does it include a kitchen area and a bathroom as well as your bedroom and living space.
A granny annexe will always include the above whereas garden pods (when not specifically detailed as self-contained) could simply be an additional living space or work area.
Your Self-Contained Garden Pod Arrangements
While being self-contained or not is clearly important – the most important thing you must decide before putting your plans in place is whether your new build will be lived in. Whether your build is an Annexe or a Pod, there are two main reasons why:
- Planning Permission – If the main purpose of your build is for full-time accommodation – be it a family member or not, you will most likely need it.
- Building regulations – If your build is self-contained, whether it is lived in full time or an occasional space for relatives or business letting (such as a holiday let) – your annexe or pod must still meet building regulations, even if planning permission is deemed not to be needed.
Planning permission can bring up a whole host of additional questions, that’s why we suggest contacting one of our team to discuss it in more detail, or we have provided additional planning information previously. However it goes, we’re proud to offer a 100% planning consent commitment or your deposit back.
A Build For All Ages
A granny annexe is not just for granny. When researching a self contained garden pod and an annexe it seems to be that there is a general consensus that a granny annexe is only for an older generation. This certainly is not the case.
Though the word granny can imply this, an Annexe is suited for all ages – it all comes down to the finish. With a brand new build on the table, planning is key here. Your bespoke pod can be as modern or as traditional as you choose. From cladding to decor and kitchens to bathrooms, there are literally thousands of unique configurations to choose from. It really does come down to your own personality, style and finishing touches when you’re looking to build this extra space in the garden.
At iHUS we have helped many families secure their dream build – and it isn’t just older people looking to downsize or looking for additional support.
How iHus can help with a self-contained Living Pod
Take Zoe Trickett as a prime example. Zoe was looking for a property of her own but was unable to purchase in her local area. An iHUS annexe provided the perfect solution.
Needing to be close to parents due to the additional support required for her son with autism, Zoe found iHUS and the turnkey solution approach fitted her need exactly.
“It’s so much easier for us living here,” says Zoe, “with everything on one level it has reduced the risk of accidents. It’s completely removed the stress. I worried Bradley would spend more time in Mums house as he’s used to it, but he absolutely loves our new home!”
Zoe’s story is not the only one, there are many other reasons why an Annexe should be considered for younger generations including being priced out of the market or for single-income families.
A Custom Pod to Suit Your Style
Though we have a large range of builds to choose from – it may be that you want or need a bespoke pod.
While with some builds this can be down to awkward plot sizes or being located in a conservation area, others are built to a custom specification simply because the owners want a particular style. And this can lead to incredible results.
If you’re considering a garden pod, garden annexe or a granny annexe for your property – think about your own tastes and preferences and you’ll be delighted with the opportunities.
Let iHUS provide the solution for you
Understanding that the opportunities are limitless whatever label you give your new build – be it a garden pod or an annexe – is all you really need to comprehend. Consider your needs above everything else and you’ll be amazed at what is on offer.
Let iHUS be the company to provide that solution and from initial consultation through to getting the keys to your property you’ll have everything covered for you.
