Granny Flat Renovation into an Airbnb Apartment in Newport Melbourne

A modest backyard building transformed into a comfortable Airbnb

Location: Newport, VIC
Project type: Granny flat renovation / short-stay accommodation

This small backyard granny flat had been sitting largely unused. With its dated finishes, brown timber-grain walls and old carpet, it felt tired and uninviting, but the clients saw potential as a self-contained Airbnb.

The brief was clear: keep costs down, avoid unnecessary work, and create a comfortable, welcoming space for guests.

Rather than over-designing, the transformation focused on simple, well-judged moves. Removing the carpet immediately lightened the space. Painting the walls created a fresh, neutral backdrop. A compact IKEA kitchen introduced functionality without blowing the budget.

These changes were modest individually, but together they completely shifted how the space felt - from dated and dull to warm, calm and usable.

The project now provides the clients with a flexible additional space, a reliable income stream and consistent high ratings on Airbnb, proving that thoughtful design doesn’t need to be expensive to be effective.

Takeaway:
A space doesn’t always need a big budget, it needs a clear vision and a few well-considered decisions.