When planning a granny flat, one of the first and most important decisions is how many bedrooms to include. A 1-bedroom granny flat offers simplicity and affordability, while a 2-bedroom design provides more flexibility, value, and rental appeal.
In this guide, we compare both options to help you decide which best suits your property, budget, and long-term goals.
Why Bedroom Count Matters
The number of bedrooms will impact:
- The size and overall layout of the granny flat
- Construction and approval costs
- Functionality for family members or tenants
- Resale potential and long-term rental appeal
Balancing your immediate needs with future possibilities is key. Here’s how each option stacks up.
The Advantages of a 1-Bedroom Granny Flat
Best suited for: singles, couples, retirees, or small rental studios.
Benefits:
- Lower upfront cost – Smaller size means reduced construction and material expenses.
- Simpler approvals – Often easier to meet council or CDC requirements like setbacks and private open space.
- Compact and low-maintenance – Easy to clean, furnish, and maintain.
- Ideal for small blocks – Works well on narrow or sloped lots where space is limited.
Limitations:
- Not ideal for families or shared living.
- Rental potential is lower compared to multi-bedroom options.
- May add less resale value in certain markets.
Why 2-Bedroom Granny Flats Are So Popular
Best suited for: families, tenants, multigenerational living, or Airbnb-style rentals.
Benefits:
- More functional space – Perfect for families, guests, home offices, or dual living.
- Higher rental income – Two-bedroom layouts generally attract longer-term tenants and stronger weekly rents.
- Increased resale value – Greater appeal to buyers if you decide to sell in future.
- Flexible use – Can adapt as your family grows or your needs change.
Considerations:
- Requires a larger block to comply with CDC or council rules.
- Higher build cost, though often balanced by stronger returns.
- May need careful planning to manage privacy, access, and setbacks.
Key Things to Consider
- Block Size & Site Conditions – Will your land accommodate a 2-bedroom flat while meeting regulations?
- Intended Use – Is the granny flat for family, rental income, guests, or work? A 2-bedroom may future-proof your investment.
- Budget – A 1-bedroom is cheaper upfront, but a 2-bedroom often offers better long-term value.
- Approval Pathway – A 1-bedroom can be easier to approve via CDC, but many 2-bedroom plans also comply with NSW SEPP and council DCPs.
- Privacy & Access – More bedrooms may require design adjustments to maintain separation from the main home.
Expert Tip
If you’re unsure, a 2-bedroom granny flat is usually the most versatile choice. With clever design, it doesn’t always require much more space than a 1-bedroom — yet it offers significantly more flexibility for rental, resale, or changing family needs.
Let’s Find the Right Plan for You
At Granny Flat Solutions, we design and build both 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom granny flats tailored to your site, lifestyle, and budget. From compact retreats to spacious dual-living designs, we’ll help you choose a layout that’s practical today and adaptable for tomorrow.
Contact us for a free consultation and site assessment — and discover which granny flat option is the perfect fit for your property.