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How to Build a Small Guest House in Your Backyard

9. 800 Sq. Ft. Backyard Cottage

800 Sq. Ft. Backyard Cottage

GET 800 SQFT PLAN HERE

Besides a modern farmhouse look, this cottage offers a small footprint and a practical solution for someone confined to a wheelchair. For this reason, an upstairs bedroom, bathroom, and loft space are perfect for a caregiver who needs privacy. As a result, a modern 800 sq. ft. ADU makes a perfect granny flat, rental, or backyard guest house offering plenty of flexibility.

10. Practical Mini Barndominium

If you are a fan of the barndominium style, this plan is for you. Also, mini barndominiums are a growing trend as families are looking for something spacious yet practical and budget-friendly.

This practical floor plan has plenty of room with 1067 sq. ft. of heated space, including 3 upstairs bedrooms. Downstairs, you’ll find an open living area and an extensive covered porch.

mini barndominium

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11. 840 sq. ft. Slope Guest House

If you have a difficult sloped terrain, this plan will solve the problem. With a clever layout on three levels, you will find everything you need for comfortable living.

For example, a cozy living area boasts a large kitchen, a cozy fireplace, and a library. Additionally, you have access to a ground terrace for outdoor enjoyment.

small backyard slope house

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12. 897 Sq.Ft. 2-Bed Country Cottage

A cozy 2-bedroom country cottage gives you almost 900 sq. ft. of space. As a result, you can build it as a backyard ADU, a guest house, or a comfortable granny flat. Significantly, the living area features vaulted ceilings and a modern island with seating for three people. Also, a low-maintenance small porch is great for stargazing.

2-Bed Country Cottage

GET 897 SQ.FT. COTTAGE PLAN HERE

13. 952 sq. ft. 2-Bed Country House

This floor plan with 2 spacious bedrooms and 2 covered porches is great for country living. With this in mind, imagine sipping iced tea in your rocking chair in the summer and a pumpkin spice latte in the fall, surrounded by the sounds of nature. For this reason, it is a perfect simple life in the country!

2-Bed Country Cottage

FIND 952 SQ. FT. COTTAGE PLAN HERE

14. 215 sq. ft. Prefab Guest House Wikkel by Dwellito

So, if you don’t want to deal with construction, you can pick a fab prefab by Dwellito. Most importantly, their innovative construction approach is both environmentally and budget-friendly. Notably, the house is shipped in pieces and assembled on-site. As a result, your prefab house is customizable and starts at $33,000 for the most basic model.

Wikkel House by Dwellito

Source: Dwellito

15. 269 sq. ft. Muutama by Dwellito

Muutama is a stunning 269-square-foot modular home, designed to elevate both your backyard and lifestyle. With angled roofs and a sleek charcoal exterior, this home is a work of art that will make a statement in any setting. Also, the interior is thoughtfully designed to maximize space and comfort. A pull-out bed, bathroom, and kitchen are all seamlessly integrated within the 269 sq. ft., making it a great home office by day and guest house by night.

Muutama by Dwellito

Source: Muutama by Dwellito

16. Tiny Guest House by Ana White – Free Plans

This tiny house was built on a trailer 24′ long and 8’6″ wide. As the regulations vary by state, check with local authorities if you plan to move it on the road. Generously provided by the talented Ana White, these free plans allow you to build a tiny house with a kitchen, a bathroom, and a loft. As a result, you can use it as a backyard guest house, granny flat, or wilderness getaway cabin.

Tiny Guest House by Ana White - Free Plans

Source: ana-white.com FREE PLANS

17. New American Backyard Guest House

GET 1199 SQFT PLAN HERE

This flexible floor plan can serve many needs in your backyard: a pool house, a guest house, a granny flat, a home office, a home gym, or an ADU rental. With an emphasis on an open-concept living area, this small house feels spacious and filled with natural light. There is one bedroom downstairs with access to a full bath. Additionally, an upstairs loft overlooks the open space below. With a full bath featuring a shower, it’s the perfect spot for a sleepover.

18. Modern Guest Studio – 360 Sqft

GET STUDIO PLAN HERE

Compact yet efficient, this 360 sqft space offers cozy and private living quarters for your guests, in-laws, or even renters. Ideal for a small backyard ADU, it has a small footprint of 20′ x 18′.

As you step inside, you find one bright studio where the living, sleeping, and dining areas share one cohesive space. The efficient kitchenette, perfect for light meals, includes a sink, microwave, and mini-fridge. Furthermore, a private full bath with a tub/shower combo is tucked away from the main living area.

Also, for outdoor charm, it includes a 4-foot covered front patio. Your guests will enjoy morning coffee or stargazing at night on a small patio where there is room for a container herb garden and outdoor seating.

Selecting the Perfect Layout

When it comes to selecting the perfect layout for your cozy guest house, there are a few key factors to consider. Firstly, think about the size and shape of your backyard space.

Consider whether a traditional rectangular layout would work best, or if a more unique, angular design would complement the surroundings. Next, take into account the orientation of the guest house in relation to the sun and other structures in your yard.

Maximizing natural light and privacy will play a crucial role in creating a comfortable and welcoming space. Additionally, think about how the layout can optimize the flow and functionality of the interior space, making sure to allocate areas for sleeping, lounging, and storage.

By carefully choosing the layout of your tiny retreat, you can ensure a harmonious and inviting living space that seamlessly blends with the natural beauty of your backyard. Now, let’s move on to choosing the right materials for your project.

Choosing the Right Materials

When it comes to creating your cozy guest house, selecting the right materials is essential for both the aesthetic appeal and durability of your project. Opt for high-quality materials that can withstand the outdoor elements and provide a sturdy foundation for your retreat.

Consider using natural materials such as wood or stone to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, or explore modern options like metal or concrete for a more contemporary look. Keep in mind your style and preferences when choosing materials, as they will set the tone for the overall design of your guest house.

By carefully selecting the right materials, you can ensure that your small backyard guest house not only looks great but also stands the test of time. As you begin to make these decisions, remember that the materials you choose will play a crucial role in ensuring the long life of your backyard oasis.

how to build a small guest house

Adding Personal Touches to Your Small Guest House

As you continue to bring your cozy guest house to life, don’t forget to add personal touches that reflect your unique personality and style. Whether incorporating your favorite colors, adding wall art, or displaying cherished mementos, these personal touches will make your retreat feel truly special and welcoming.

By infusing your guest house with meaningful elements, you’ll create a space that not only provides comfort but also resonates with your individuality. After all, explore how you can enhance the ambiance by creating a relaxing atmosphere.

Furthermore, check out these ideas on how to decorate your space:

Creating a Relaxing Atmosphere

To create a truly inviting and relaxing atmosphere in your cozy guest house, consider the use of soft lighting, comfortable seating, and soothing decor elements. Soft, warm lighting can instantly make a space feel cozier and more welcoming, while plush seating options such as a comfortable chair or loveseat can encourage guests to unwind and relax.

In fact, decorate with calming colors, like soft blues or earthy greens, to evoke a sense of tranquility and peace in your guest house. Indeed, by carefully selecting these elements, you can transform your retreat into a serene oasis where your guests can escape the stresses of everyday life.

how to decorate a guest house

Source: Interior Design on Pinterest

In Conclusion

In conclusion, transforming your backyard into a cozy guest house is a rewarding project that can enhance your living space and provide a peaceful retreat for yourself or your visitors. For instance, by carefully selecting the layout, materials, personal touches, and atmosphere, and maximizing space efficiency, you can create a welcoming and tranquil space a few steps away from your home.

For this reason, start planning your backyard retreat today and unlock the potential for comfort and relaxation right in your backyard. As the saying goes, “A guest house is a home away from home, where every guest feels welcomed and every visitor feels at peace.”

So, take the steps to create a small guest house as a tiny sanctuary for a truly memorable experience for your guests.