SIPs granny annexe
An 8m x 5m one-bedroom home in Scotland for a client who had already built a house in SIPs and knew exactly what she wanted from the panels.
There are several construction systems used to create self-contained granny annexes, and one of the most popular is Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs). SIPs are favoured because they allow for quick assembly of the building’s core structure while also creating a highly insulated envelope.
SIPs panels come in various thicknesses, and the thicker the panel, the better the thermal performance. Where SIPs excel compared to other construction methods is in eliminating ‘cold spots’-areas in the framework where insulation is absent due to the presence of supporting timbers.
By creating a highly insulated building envelope, the granny annexe will remain comfortable year-round. Thanks to the excellent insulation, the annexe will require minimal energy for heating and cooling, resulting in low running costs.
At a glance
- Size: 8m x 5m, one bedroom, designed with a client who had built a house in SIPs before and knew the system.
- Why SIPs: quick to assemble, and they do away with the cold spots you get where a timber frame interrupts the insulation — so low running costs.
- Glazing: 1.8m French doors with high-opening windows either side, rather than the usual full-height side panels, plus a glazed door, an opening window and a tilt-and-turn.
- Frames: double glazed throughout, anthracite grey uPVC outside and white inside.
- The kitchen: L-shaped, so it does not dominate the living area, and among the best-equipped we have seen in an annexe.
- Planning: a Scottish site, so a Building Warrant — and a Coal Mining Risk Assessment, the site being in a high-risk area.
Annexe Spaces utilise SIPs technology
Annexe Spaces, the specialist living annexe arm of Garden Spaces, were commissioned by a client in Scotland to create a self-contained home in her garden. She wanted her parents to live with her but wanted them to maintain their independence.
Having previously built a house using SIPs panels, the client was already familiar with the benefits of this building system. She worked closely with the Annexe Spaces team to design an 8m x 5m one-bedroom home, packed with thoughtful features.
Light-filled living space
As we can see from the images, Annexe Spaces have created a wonderfully light living area using a combination of window styles.
On the front elevation, leading into the kitchen and open-plan living area, they installed 1.8m-wide French doors with high-opening windows on either side. This practical alternative to the more common full-height side windows provides both light and ventilation.
Additional glazing has been fitted in the living area, bedroom, and shower room, including:
- 1 x 1m wide x 2.23m high glazed door
- 1 x 0.8m wide x 0.48m high opening window
- 1 x 1.8m wide x 1m Tilt & Turn window
All doors and windows are double-glazed with Anthracite grey uPVC frames externally and a white finish internally.
Well-equipped kitchen
Downsizing to a granny annexe doesn’t mean you need to give up your interests, like cooking. Annexe Spaces works with clients to create a kitchen space that meets their needs. In this case, the annexe features one of the best-equipped kitchens we have seen in our garden annexe projects.
The L-shaped kitchen configuration does not dominate the living area but includes everything needed for cooking, housed in stylish units.
Contemporary shower room
Though modest in size, the shower room is full of contemporary style. It is accessed via a space-saving pocket door that slides into the wall. The room is fitted with modern sanitaryware and a large walk-in shower.
The use of white shower boards and a clear glass shower screen gives the space a sleek look while making it easy to clean and maintain.
Comprehensive groundworks and connections
Annexe Spaces handled all the groundworks and connections to utilities for their client, including installing a mini pumping system. When comparing garden annexe companies, it’s essential to check if they handle these services, as Annexe Spaces do. Some companies only build the shell and leave the utility connections to be organised separately, which can add unexpected costs. Working with a company like Annexe Spaces, who manage the entire process, can save time and money.
Planning and Building Control applications
Annexe Spaces managed the planning application and building control sign-off for this project. As the site was in Scotland, they obtained a Building Warrant before work commenced.
The application process also required a Coal Mining Risk Assessment due to the site being located in a Coal Mining Development High-Risk Area.
Learn more about Annexe Spaces
To find out more about creating a SIPs garden annexe, chat with the experts at Annexe Spaces on 0845 387 9 387 or email info@annexespaces.co.uk. Visit their website to explore the various ways you can customise your garden annexe.
