Granny Units Are The New Retirement Home!
As much as we all love our parents and in-laws (hopefully) — lots of us are probably worried about how we can help them transition into a new lifestyle after they start losing independence in their advanced age.
Luckily — retirement and nursing homes are a thing of the past.
Granny units are affordable little abodes that you can put in your backyard. Not to mention that they are often painfully darling. They’re also called granny flats, granny cottages, or auxiliary dwelling units (ADU).
They may be small, but they have all the essentials for your loved ones. ADU’s should always come with a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen at a minimum.
There are loads of companies popping up that specialize in these sustainable wonders, and you can really make them as fabulous or as simple as you want.
With pre-fabricated designs that range from modern to downright dreamy — check out some of our favorite granny units.
The Granny Beach House

Via: CreativeCottages
The Grandpa Tree House
via: Propel Studio
This one has the best of both worlds! Forest trails out back and ocean views in the front. It’s small but it’s fully equipped. In addition to the necessities, it’s also got a living room with a fireplace, a loft, and in-unit laundry! Wow!
The Medical Pod
Via: Medcottages
This eco-friendly design is built on a slope, so it creates the illusion of a tree house! Ideal for Swiss Family Robinson fans!
The Urban Pod
Via: The Chicago Tribune
This one will give you peace of mind if your in-laws need extra assistance. Nursing homes can be expensive — but this is a cheaper option that will allow you to monitor the quality of your family’s care more closely.
The Tropical Bungalow
ADU’s can go in your garden or even your garage! Talk about close. We hope you like your in-laws!
For all those beach bunny grannies who wish they could retire in the Carribean! This pod even comes with its own tropical plants.
The Parent’s Pool Palace
Via: Storybrook
This one is on the bigger side of tiny. It has an open floor plan, high ceilings, and lots of possibilities for upgrades. Whether you’re on a tight budget or looking for luxury — you can customize this poolside haven however you like.
The Camper Concept Cottage
Via: Eco-PERCH
This one is for all those modern grannies. It’s a chic but functional pod that can fit as many as four for a sleepover. With natural materials, an unusual shape that maximizes space — this is the ultimate granny cottage.
The In-Law Mod Pod
VIa: Metal Building Homes
This futuristic unit has all the amenities you can imagine. It comes with the essentials plus a dining room, a living room, a walk-in closet, and extra space for appliances.
The Minimalist Granny Studio
Via: Nova Deko Modular
This unit has a simple open floor plan and a large porch. It has lots of windows so it allows for great natural light.
The Garden Studio
Via: Contemporary Garden Rooms
This one has two glass walls so it would make for a nice bright flat beside your garden — but it could also double as an artist’s studio or a sunny office!
The Multi-Purpose Garden Room
You’ll love this unit’s sleek scandinavian design. It might look a bit like a deluxe greenhouse, but don’t be fooled. We’d use it as a granny unit or a home gym, but it’s really up to you. The possibilities are endless!
The Backyard Barnhouse
Via: Treehugger
This pod has a lovely rustic feel — and you can tell just by looking at it that it’s very cozy. It has a fireplace for colder nights and a skylight for added natural light. With an efficient and flattering design, it may seem like the biggest tiny house you’ve ever seen.
The Tuscan Cottage
Via: Kimberly Novosel
This one simply oozes European charm. Just looking at it makes you hungry for pasta and long indulgent conversations.
The Glass Pod
Via: Studio Shed
Some flowers would look nice in this gorgeous unit — but it also makes a great granny unit!
The Storybook Cottage
Via: pinterest.com
This would make a quaint home for any granny — but it could also serve as a charming escape. Can you say lady lair?
So there you have it! 15 Cute Granny Units You’ll Fall In Love With. Do you have an ADU or Granny Pod? Or are you thinking of getting one?
Share your thoughts down below!
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