In-laws, Outlaws, and Granny Flats: Your Guide to Turning One House into Two Homes

by Michael W. Litchfield

In response to tight times, a remarkably upbeat and widespread change is taking place in households across America. Homeowners are creating second dwelling units—often called in-law suites, mother-in-law apartments, or granny flats. Second units make a lot of sense. They’re perfect for families who want several generations living close by, they enable Baby Boomers to care for elderly parents while respecting their independence, provide private quarters for adult children still at home or, rented out, second units can generate income to pay the mortgage or provide for retirement. 
In-Laws, Outlaws, and Granny Flats is the first book to explore the many designs, uses and benefits of this time-honored and emotionally satisfying living arrangement. In-law units take many forms and they’re all shown here: attic, basement and garage conversions, bump-out additions, carve-out suites, and backyard cottages. Creating an in-law unit—turning one house into two homes—is arguably greenest, most cost-efficient way to create a small home or cottage because you’re building small, building on an existing lot, and conserving building materials. This book covers every aspect of turning one house into two homes. Its first four chapters deal with the specifics of assessing your needs, selecting an appropriate design, choosing space- and energy-saving appliances, and getting your plans approved. The book’s second half is a warm and engaging portfolio of in-law units and the families who created them: what needs prompted their decisions, which layouts worked best, and how they met life challenges with common sense, creativity and compassion. With more than 200 color photographs, 50 floor plans and architectural details, and a lively, personable voice, In-laws, Outlaws, and Granny Flats is perfect for homeowners who want richer lives and a more secure future.

 

Genres: Nonfiction, Architecture

224 pages, Paperback

First published March 15, 2011

Reviews

[Neely Owen]

somewhat dated in concepts -- but helpful in considering options for this kind of family living.

[Burbaco]

Read together with StoneRose

[Kaethe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just picked it up off the new shelf last night. We have a Granny flat, with my mother installed in, so there's a tremendous amount of info for people contemplating the building of one that looks useful, but that I'm not currently interested in. Litchfield is stressing the virtues of green and universal design, so I'm loving this, and stocking up on new ideas just in case I get to build my dream house.

A truly useful resource to anyone contemplating such an addition to the property, Litchfield covers everything from permitting and building codes to privacy and landscaping.

Library copy.

[raccoon reader · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is great. For anyone who wants to make the most of a small space, this book will inspire you to dream big with small square footage. I don't want to rent out any of these type homes but I do like innovate ways to make the best use of space and enjoy learning about how to do so. I'd recommend it not just to future renters, or future "moms coming to live with us" home owners, but also to anyone buying a new home or renovating an old one.

[ashley · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book does a nice job of combining explanatory text with photographs and charts which show unique ways to add that extra space for today's more modern family living arrangements.

I particularly liked that it gave recommendations for outfitting the spaces (appliances, flooring, windows, etc) - the chart on flooring types was worth my time for a photocopy!

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

From Taunton Press and up to their standard. Covers creating a 2nd living space via attic, basement and garage conversions, bump-out additions, carve-out suites, and backyard cottages. I didn't read every word but I enjoy good books about home building and design and an always on the look out for new ideas.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this book. While not a "small homes" book, it has so many interesting things to consider when thinking about small house living. I would love to have a small house on our property someday, for guests and for elderly parents and grandparents. A fun and up-to-date read.

[Carol Macdonald · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very inspirational and informative. Hope I can use the information very soon in building my very own granny flat.