Designing a granny flat means making every square metre count — especially when it comes to the kitchen, bathroom and laundry. These are the most functional spaces in the home, yet they often come with tight size constraints in secondary dwellings. Thoughtful layouts can dramatically improve convenience, comfort and long-term usability.

Here are the smartest design strategies for achieving highly functional (and stylish) kitchen, bathroom and laundry layouts in granny flats.

Smart Kitchen Layouts for Granny Flats

A well-designed kitchen should feel open, efficient and comfortable to use — even in a compact footprint.

1. Choose a Layout That Maximises Flow

Popular kitchen layouts for granny flats include:

• Straight-line kitchen: Ideal for narrow spaces and open-plan living.
• L-shaped kitchen: Provides more benchtop space and improves flow.
• Galley kitchen: A great option for long, narrow floor plans with excellent efficiency.

Each setup ensures smooth access between the sink, stove and refrigerator — the all-important “work triangle.”

2. Add Vertical Storage Wherever Possible

Use the full height of the wall with:

• overhead cupboards
• appliance towers
• pull-out pantry systems

Tall storage keeps the kitchen tidy while maintaining an uncluttered floor area.

3. Integrate Appliances for a Streamlined Look

Built-in appliances such as dishwashers, microwaves and rangehoods help make a small kitchen feel larger. Consider smaller appliances like 450 mm dishwashers or apartment-sized fridges to save space.

4. Use Light Colours to Reflect Space

Whites, soft greys and light timber tones amplify natural light and make compact kitchens feel more open. Pair these with warm lighting for an inviting, homely feel.

Smart Bathroom Layouts for Granny Flats

Bathrooms need to be practical, easy to maintain and comfortable — all within a restricted footprint.

1. Choose a Layout That Maximises Usability

Place fixtures along one wall or in corners to maintain clear circulation space. Ideal arrangements include:

• shower at the back
• toilet centrally located
• vanity closest to the entry

This minimises plumbing runs and improves accessibility.

2. Use Space-Saving Fixtures

Consider:

• wall-mounted toilets
• recessed shaving cabinets
• floating vanities
• frameless glass shower screens

These features create visual spaciousness and maximise floor area.

3. Improve Accessibility for Long-Term Comfort

For multi-generational living or elderly parents, think ahead with:

• step-free showers
• non-slip tiles
• wider doorways
• reinforced walls for future grab rails

Small modifications now can future-proof your granny flat for decades.

4. Prioritise Ventilation and Natural Light

Good airflow prevents mould and keeps the space fresh. Incorporate:

• a large window (frosted for privacy)
• skylights
• high-performance exhaust fans

Light-filled bathrooms always feel larger and more comfortable.

Smart Laundry Layouts for Granny Flats

The laundry is often the smallest room in a granny flat — but clever design makes it highly efficient.

1. Combine Laundry With the Bathroom (When Practical)

A bathroom-laundry combo can save valuable floor space. Include:

• stacked washer/dryer
• custom joinery for storage
• a laundry tub that doubles as extra bathroom bench space

This approach keeps the layout clean and efficient.

2. Use Built-In Joinery to Maximise Space

Custom cabinetry can hide appliances, cleaning supplies and hampers. This reduces visual clutter and helps the laundry blend into the overall design.

3. Install Overhead Shelving

Upper cabinets or open shelves provide essential storage for:

• towels
• detergents
• linens
• toiletries

Using vertical space means less reliance on bulky cupboards.

4. Add Outdoor Access if Possible

A laundry with an external door makes it easy to:

• hang washing outside
• manage cleaning tasks
• improve ventilation

It also creates a second point of entry into the granny flat, improving functionality.

Bringing It All Together: Integrated, Efficient Layouts

When kitchens, bathrooms and laundries are designed smartly, the entire granny flat feels more spacious, usable and comfortable. The most successful layouts share a few key principles:

• efficient use of every square metre
• smart storage solutions
• visual openness through light and colour
• practical circulation and accessibility
• future-proof design choices

Thoughtful planning now ensures the granny flat supports its occupants — whether family, tenants or guests — for many years to come.