Simple DIY backyard studio with ensuite for bedsitter cabin 3.6m x 7m at Sunshine Coast QLD

DIY your flat-pack granny flat

With previous building experience and the right tools, people can easily save big bucks on building a DIY backyard studio with an ensuite like this one. Look at these stage-by-stage construction shots kindly sent by our Sunshine Coast customer who is the proud owner/builder of a modern 3.6m x 7m cabin with an ensuite and compact kitchenette. You can see how, after completion, this little backyard studio building is now lived-in and loved. Scroll down below the images for more details.

Inspired by our design for a small backyard studio with facilities

Our customer was inspired by our original design for a 4m x 5m studio apartment that was first planned for a customer in Melbourne who had a grown-up offspring returning from overseas.

Our mini self-contained backyard studio design is a great use of space, providing functionality and independence within a small footprint. In real life, 4m x 5m was a bit tight for comfort but this Sunshine Coast customer’s 3.6m x 7m interpretation is much easier to live in.

Take a look at the original layout images here and compare them to what our customer has built for themselves in real-life above – a great result for a larger and more functional but still very compact space. We love the trendy barn-style door that also saves space and the use of a low-cost shower curtain that is practical and looks almost luxurious against the surrounding finishes.

If you need extra accommodation for a family member who can still do their washing and have some meals in the main house, or for an income-producing backyard Airbnb-style cabin, this design could also suit your needs.

We can easily help you to replicate this design or customise according to your needs starting with a flat-pack kit. Some customers prefer to get one of our prefab granny flats or backyard studio rooms with an ensuite because our prefab buildings are delivered complete to your property where access is available. Other customers prefer the flexibility of using a flat-pack kit for their backyard building projects.

If you’re thinking about undertaking a DIY backyard studio with ensuite project, you need to have experience with similar small building projects (eg: how to frame a window, etc) or you’ll need to know some tradies who don’t mind giving you a hand or some helpful advice. You’ll also need a good range of professional-grade power tools and safety equipment or it could be too risky for you to undertake DIY.

Whether you go DIY or get a professional installer, any backyard studio intended for human habitation (eg: an extra living room, bedroom, office, or study) will require some form of building approval or certification process according to local council regulations. If you give us some details about your proposed DIY project, we can help you to navigate compliance with the appropriate drawings and paperwork. Click to get started.