If you're considering building a granny annexe for a loved one or even as an additional source of income, you want to make sure it feels like home. Moving to a new space can be daunting, but with a little thought and care, you can create a welcoming and comfortable environment that your loved one will be happy to call their own. Here are seven ideas to help make your new granny annexe feel like home:
Add personal touches to the space to make it feel more like their own home. Include family photos, artwork, and other sentimental items. Decorate the space with your loved one's favourite colours and patterns, and try to incorporate items that hold special memories or significance and help with this new chapter of their life. This will help to make the space feel more personal and welcoming, somewhere that they feel comfortable and belong.
Create a cosy and comfortable living space in the annexe. Add soft furnishings like cushions, throws, and rugs to make the space feel warm and inviting. Consider adding a comfortable armchair or sofa where your loved one can relax and read or watch television. They might even have furniture of their own that they want to move with them. Also, make sure there's plenty of natural light, and add soft lighting to create a warm and welcoming ambience in the evening.
Why not bring the outdoors in by adding some plants to the annexe? Plants not only add beauty to the space but can also help to purify the air and create a calming atmosphere. Choose plants that are easy to care for, and make sure they're placed in areas where they'll receive enough natural light.
Outdoor furniture can make the area around the granny annexe more comfortable and inviting. Consider adding a table and chairs or a bench where your relative can sit and enjoy the garden. You could also add some potted plants or hanging baskets to create a cosy and welcoming atmosphere.
If you're building a self-contained annexe, including a kitchen can make the space feel more like a home. Your loved one can prepare their own meals and snacks, giving them a sense of independence and autonomy. Include a small fridge, microwave, and kettle, and make sure there's plenty of storage for groceries and kitchen utensils.
Lighting is an excellent way to make your granny annexe a feature in your garden, particularly during the evenings. Use outdoor lighting to highlight the annexe and draw attention to its design features. You could also install fairy lights or lanterns to create a magical atmosphere around the annexe. Make their new home something they can be proud of!
When designing the annexe, consider access and mobility. Make sure doorways are wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers and include grab bars in the bathroom and other areas where your loved one may need support. Install non-slip flooring, and make sure there's enough space for your loved one to move around comfortably.
In conclusion, creating a comfortable and welcoming environment for your loved one is essential when building a granny annexe. Incorporating personal touches, creating a cosy living space, adding greenery, including a kitchen, and considering access and mobility are all ways to help make the space feel more like home. With a little thought and care, you can create a space that your loved one will be happy to call their own.
