Over the years we have evolved, and we keep coming up with new inventions and innovations. This is evident in the things we see around us, such as the evolution of our means of transport, the clothes we wear, and even the type of houses we build.
One of these improvements is the carriage home, also commonly known as a backyard suite, or an accessory dwelling unit (ADU). Regardless of their title, these flexible living spaces are not only beneficial to their owners, but also to the community as a whole.
Kelowna Carriage Houses: A Brief History
Carriage homes, or backyard suites, are flexible housing units that are also popularly referred to as coach houses. Carriage houses are typically constructed separately from the main house and can be built with one, or two levels. Working with a custom home builder allows your secondary suite to be designed to compliment your taste, budget, lifestyle and timelines.
Historically, as their name implies, these structures were originally designed to hold carriages and the likes. Simultaneously, some were used as stables or barns and they were constructed with a large doorway and high roofs to accommodate the ins and outs of large animals and equipment. However, with the dawn of a new age, people don't often have horses or barns anymore, so we have found a way to use these functional spaces in this modern age.
Today, you can find these amazing home additions throughout Kelowna and surrounding rural areas. These smaller homes are now more elaborate and better versions of their ancestors. Modern carriage houses are highly attractive, and include many more architectural and design efforts in their development. They can be are used as guest rooms, home offices, workshops, storage units, and/or a garage.
The Benefits of Building a Carriage House
Carriage homes are the smart investment of the 21st century for various reasons. Here are some of the reasons why they are a great form of investment for their inhabitants, their owners, and the community as a whole:
Carriage Homes Provide More Space
With the development of a carriage house on your property, you can enjoy additional of space, especially if you build a two-story carriage house. This type of suite leaves you with enough room for a garage, workshop, or storage unit on the main or lower floor. Then you will enjoy a living space on the upper floor that can conveniently serve as a guest house or any other purpose you wish to use it for.
Backyard Suites Create Private Rental Units
Building a carriage house allows you to create extra income while giving you the benefit of maintaining your privacy. These rentals are typically highly sought after as they are affordable, and allow the tenants access to a yard- unlike many apartments. Building a carriage house allows you to easily rent out rooms or garage space without worrying about your privacy being compromised; the buildings are in separate areas, with fully separate entrances, so you don’t need to worry about other people seeing into your home.
Laneway Houses Investments in Kelowna
Carriage houses are an all around good financial idea. You can easily rent out your carriage home, and you will typically see a rise in the value of your property. Because your investment is literally in your backyard, you can keep a close eye on things.
Build Smarter to Create Eco Communities
Building 'in' instead of 'out' through smart developments like carriage houses, infills, and multi unit developments are a gift to the communities they are in. These green developments:
- create affordable living options for families
- decreases urban spread
- encourages carpooling, biking and walking
- allow for multi-generational living while still providing separate living for everyone
Backyard Suites Are a Smart Investment
Carriage homes today are hugely improved from their original versions hundreds of years ago. Although these secondary homes have been around for a long while, their uses and designs have evolved over the years. Today, the common types of carriage houses are single-level suites, and two story developments depending on what your property allows for. An experienced carriage house builder will help you determine exactly what can, and cannot be built on your property.
- Single leveled, or bungalow style units easily allow for wheelchair access or higher ceilings if needed.
- Two-story homes are typically comprised of a full living area over a garage, but these can be customized for your exact needs and specifications.
FLR Custom Homes Kelowna offers you quality custom home design, expert craftmanship and 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 a Carriage House is right for you.
Carriage House FAQ's
With our years of home construction, FLR Custom Homes has cultivated a library of diverse plans and building options. After your initial consultation with our team, we can curate a selection of homes that can work with your lot features, needs, budget, timeline, and that can meet your vision of the perfect home for you in the Okanagan.
We love the idea of building a backyard suite as an investment for a couple good reasons:
- Carriage homes are an investment that is easy to keep an eye on, as it is literally in your back yard
- These flexible spaces can increase the value of your property
- Renting our a laneway suite allows you to create an extra steam of income through rental income
- These garage suites increase the foot print of your home, therefor increasing your resale likelihood
If you are weighing out the pros and cons of investing in a carriage house reach our FLR Custom Homes Kelowna for an in-depth, no obligation needs analysis. We can help you decide what is the best option for you.
The true carriage house style typically does not have a basement. This type of secondary suite consists of one, or two, levels that are above ground. Partnerting with a custom builder that can help you determine what is, and is not, allowed on your property is a good place to start.
Live The Okanagan Dream
Life in the Okanagan means idyllic lakes, lush orchards, stunning views, endless skies, and the opportunity to live your best life. If you are ready to build the home of your dreams amid the abundant beauty that can be found here, connect with FLR Custom Homes today. Share your vision for your perfect home and together let’s make it happen.