We, as humans, are constantly evolving. We create new innovations, better ways of living and investing for our future. You can see signs of this innovation all around us in the way we work, the way we travel and the cities we live in.
One of the innovations to the way we live that is just truly beginning to gain momentum is the backyard suite, or carriage home. No matter what you call them, these flexible living spaces are sure to be one of the smartest and most sustainable ways to live not just for their owners, but to their communities as a whole.
Carriage Homes in Calgary: A Brief Overview
Carriage houses are flexible homes that are also known as laneway suites, or accessory dwelling units. These secondary units are typically built separately from the main home on the property and can be built in a variety of ways. Custom home builders have began developing these secondary homes for people. allowing flexibility in design, budget and construction timelines.
Many years ago, a carriage house was originally designed to hold carriages, as their name implies. Sometimes these spaces were also used as stables or barns for large animals and equipment, so they were often constructed with high roofs to accommodate easily moving in and out. In the city many of us don't have any use for a space for animals and farming equipment for these amazing little homes were designed as flexible secondary living spaces.
These smaller houses are now more chic and functional versions of their predecessors. Modern backyard suites are made with stunning design, and can include more architectural efforts in their construction They are often used for work from home offices, to accommodate guests, or as fully separated rental unit.
The Benefits of Building a Backyard Suite
Carriage houses are a smart, and flexible investment for many reasons. Not only are they a good investment for their owners, but they offer many benefits to those who live in them and the community as a whole:
Carriage Houses Create More Space
When you build a carriage house in your yard, it allows you to add extra square footage to your home in the form of a single, or two story home. The two story suites allow you to use the main floor for a garage, storage unit or shop while also enjoying an upper living space that can act as a guest house, home for aging parents, or older children.
Carriage Homes Create Private Rental Units
Building your own carriage house allows you to have an income suite on your property while still maintaining full privacy in your home. Unlike many apartments, renters love carriage suites as they are affordable yet they still offer access to an outdoor space. These super suites are equipped with fully separate entrances, and their own washer and dryer, should you choose, so you don't have to give up any of your privacy to have a rental on your property.
Building a Laneway Houses as an Investment
These awesome small homes make great financinal sense. When you build a backyard suite with a custom home builder in Calgary, they can ensure your new space compliments your home to create a synergytic look that will often increase the value of your property. Because this new development is in your backyard you can keep close watch on your investment.
Building Eco Communities
Building 'in' instead of 'out' through custom carriage homes, infill, and multi family homes are a sustainable way to build in Calgary. These smart developments:
- bring more affordable living options in the city
- slows urban spread by revitalizing great neighborhoods
- builds communities that facilitates walking, biking and transit
- creates more space for multi-generational living which is on the rise
Garage Suites Are a Good Investment
Carriage homes today are a big improvement from their original versions many years ago. Although not a brand new idea, these suites are taking off as the investment for every homeowner in Calgary. An experienced custom home builder, like FLR Developments, can take you through the process from zoning, permitting and figuring out what your property allows for:
- Bungalow style, or one level units are great options for aging in place, or wheelchair access.
- Two-story units typically offer a garage on the main floor, but can be customized to suit your needs.
FLR Developments is your custom carriage home expert. We offer you quality custom home design, excellent craftmanship and more than 4 decades of building experience. We are a full-service builder who will walk you through everything all phases of your project from land acquisition to construction and beyond. Contact our team today to find out if building a backyard suite is right for you.
WE CUSTOM DESIGN YOUR DREAM
Whether you want a custom luxury home, a stunning lake view spot, or the perfect commercial spot for your new venture, our team makes the process as straightforward, cost-effective, and simple as possible. From planning and design to permits and a third party warranty, we will expertly manage every stage of the process. We take the challenge out of new builds, so you can focus on what’s truly important: achieving your dream.
Want to know more about one of our developments and how we can get your project completed on time and on a budget? Contact us at (403) 980-2205 or fill in our online form.