The original ‘granny pod’ guest cabin 3.6m x 7m at Newcastle NSW

Way back in 2017, we could only show people a handful of completed projects using our all-steel flatpack building kits, because the Backyard Pods concept was only just beginning to gain acceptance as an alternative to timber-framed and slab-based construction methods. Then our founder went on Channel 9 News to show a couple of early projects, including this one, the so-called ‘granny pod’. Take a look at this early project that later became a lovely guest cabin near the pool and barbeque area.

Not every backyard studio, pool house, or guest cabin is intended for use as a self-contained granny flat. The ‘granny pod’ concept is not quite fully self-contained for rental yet as a multi-purpose studio it remains suitable for a broad range of purposes. As a fully approved, all-steel, permanent construction designed and built to last for generations, the typical backyard studio from Backyard Pods can get repurposed to meet changing needs throughout the many stages of family life. It also remains a value-adding enhancement to the whole property with great returns on the original investment whenever the property is eventually sold.

This so-called ‘granny pod’ (as distinct from a ‘granny flat’) in a suburb of Newcastle was originally proposed for a member of the extended family who would be able to join the family for meals inside the main house, so the kitchenette was just enough to prepare snacks. Likewise, separate laundry facilities weren’t needed, and there was no intention to ever rent it out.

Time went by and inevitably, the needs of the family were evolving. When there was no longer the requirement to accommodate a family member, the ‘granny pod’ was instantly repurposed to become the family’s ‘poolside guest cabin’. We didn’t offer deck and veranda kits in the beginning, but the custom-built timber-framed deck and veranda on this pod already faced the swimming pool enclosure, and the huge rear deck on the main residence, with its outdoor seating and barbeque facilities, was just a few steps away.

And so it happened that this pod became the major drawcard for guests who could attend the family’s many barbeques, pool parties, and long-weekend celebrations with no worries about driving home afterward. The poolside guest cabin contains a modern ensuite with open-plan bedroom, sitting/TV, and kitchenette with a freestanding fridge and plenty of storage cupboards.

The flatpack pod kit was 3.6m x 7m in size and the colour is Colorbond Monument. Installation was organised by the owner-builder and the owners also styled the interior with fresh turquoise accents to visually connect with views of their sparkling backyard pool.