What’s the Difference Between a Granny Flat and a Studio?

Do you know the difference between a granny flat and a studio? Not knowing could cause you some trouble. Max Fragar, PIA Life Fellow, explains the difference.

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Or for those that prefer to read, here is a transcript of the video…

What’s the difference between a granny flat and a studio? G’day, I’m Max Fragar from the Council Approval Group.

What’s the difference between a granny flat and a studio?

Now granny flats are known as secondary dwellings. And they are fully separate habitation and independent occupation. Also, a granny flat or a secondary dwelling is generally limited to 60 square meters. But there are other situations in some places where you can have more than that.

A studio, however, is a structure associated with a dwelling. It’s not designed for separate full-time habitation. Generally, a studio is a place for your hobby or an artist to do pottery, for example. You can have a bathroom, you can have a space, and you can even have a place to sleep. But you can’t prepare your own food. So the big difference is that a granny flat or a secondary dwelling can have a kitchen, but a studio can not. It can’t be for separate habitation or permanent habitation. It’s also a different classification under the Building Code of Australia.
In many cases people have wondered about a studio and we’ve said they’re better off to do it as a secondary dwelling or even sometimes as a dual occupancy with subdivision.

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So if you want to explore that and you want to get the best for you, first book a consultation with one of our experienced team. Then they will take you through the possibilities. We’ll do some research and take it forward for you. Thank you.

Article Last Updated: 28 June 2024