Carly and Ben’s Garden Cottage for Guests

Canberra Outdoor Structures completed a remarkable project in Conder, constructing a stunning garden cottage for the Drysdale family, Carly and Ben, which exceeded their initial expectations. Originally intended as a sleepout for guests, this captivating cabin took on a whole new significance for the young family when they received joyous news – they were expecting a second daughter!

Suddenly faced with the prospect of running out of rooms inside their house, Carly and Ben embraced the opportunity to transform the cottage into a delightful, functional space for their growing family.

Guest house in ACT: facade
Guest house in ACT: facade

“Carly had a very clear idea of what she wanted the cabin to look like and she designed and styled it beautifully” – said Murray Fleming, the builder. “We had the custom project modified to the client’s taste. Also, the new building had not to obstruct the views of the Lanyon Valley visible from the main house. So, we had Crete cabin prolonged with the additional room for the bathroom.”

Guest house in ACT: ensuite bedroom
En-suite bedroom
Floor plan Guest house in ACT
Floor plan

The talented owner was inspired by older style homes with the historical feel. “I managed to find vintage doors online and they were freighted from Melbourne, these brought some extra charm.” – said Carly.

Guest house in ACT: room
Cozy but bright and airy room

“I wanted to create something cosy but bright and airy – said Carly. “When I painted the inside stark white, I was a little worried it was too much, but once it was decorated, it was the perfect canvas. Our guests love it, and so do we!”

Murray and his team were so accommodating and happy to personalise areas for us. These include a bigger deck which steps down using spotted gum, a structural frame and moulding for our doors and the bathroom addition.” – said Carly.

Guest house in ACT: bathroom
Classy colors: the bathroom
Guest house in ACT: vanity

We asked Carly why she chose YZY Kit Homes. “I love the exposed timber, the natural knots and joins and the ceiling beams.”- she said. “The hinged windows and gold fittings are gorgeous and suit the overall style I was trying to achieve.”

Guest house in ACT: panoramic doors
Panoramic doors

Love the cabin? Contact Murray Fleming, the builder at Canberra Outdoor Structures if you live in Canberra and around.

If you need a cabin elsewhere, please find your nearest builder for a quote, site visit or a consultation.