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2 weeks
Vita Modular Ltd was commissioned to design and deliver a fully bespoke 2-bedroom granny annexe in Reading, providing a high-quality, accessible living environment for elderly parents with significant mobility challenges. The brief required a carefully considered balance between contemporary architectural design, practical accessibility, and long-term durability. Spanning 55m² with a contract value of £165,000, the annexe was completed in just 7 weeks from start to finish, demonstrating Vita Modular’s ability to deliver complex, high-specification projects within accelerated timeframes.
• Location: Reading
• Size: 55m²
• Configuration: 2 Bedrooms, Open-Plan Kitchen/Living Area, Bathroom
• Contract Value: £165,000
• Programme: 7 Weeks (On-Site)
• Build Type: Bespoke Steel Frame Modular Construction
The project was designed to function as a fully self-contained dwelling, allowing the occupants to maintain independence while remaining in close proximity to family.
The annexe adopts a contemporary architectural language, combining vertical timber cladding with bold, contrasting dark framing elements to create a clean, high-end aesthetic. The interplay between natural timber tones and anthracite detailing provides a striking yet balanced appearance that sits comfortably within the garden setting.
A combination of pitched and flat roof forms introduces visual interest while maintaining a low-profile massing that respects the surrounding residential context. Large-format aluminium glazing and sliding doors have been strategically positioned to maximise natural light and create a seamless connection between the internal living spaces and the landscaped garden terrace.
The internal layout has been meticulously planned to optimise the 55m² footprint, ensuring both functionality and comfort. The annexe comprises two well-proportioned double bedrooms, positioned to provide privacy from the main living space while remaining easily accessible.
At the centre of the annexe is a generous open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area, designed to act as the primary social hub of the home. This space benefits from direct access to the garden via large sliding doors, enhancing the sense of openness and allowing for flexible day-to-day living.
A spacious bathroom and dedicated utility/storage areas have been integrated into the layout, ensuring the annexe remains practical for long-term occupation.
A core driver of the design was the need to accommodate elderly occupants with severe mobility challenges. Vita Modular worked closely with the client to ensure the annexe incorporated a comprehensive suite of accessibility features, aligned with DDA principles and best practice for inclusive design.
Step-free access has been achieved throughout the entire annexe, including flush thresholds to all external doors, ensuring unrestricted movement between internal and external spaces. Door widths and circulation zones have been carefully considered to accommodate wheelchair use, with generous turning circles integrated into key areas.
The bathroom has been designed as a fully accessible space, featuring a walk-in shower, appropriately positioned sanitaryware, and reinforced wall structures to allow for the installation of grab rails and future adaptations if required.
The open-plan living arrangement eliminates unnecessary obstructions, improving ease of movement, while the kitchen has been designed with accessible worktop heights and clear zones to support safe and comfortable use.
Enhanced lighting strategies have been incorporated throughout to improve visibility, reduce fall risk, and create a safe and comfortable environment.
Collectively, these features ensure the annexe provides a dignified, future-proof living space that supports independence without compromising on design quality.
The kitchen has been designed with a contemporary, minimalist aesthetic, featuring sleek cabinetry, integrated appliances, and a compact breakfast bar that provides both functionality and social interaction. The palette of dark cabinetry contrasted with lighter surfaces creates a refined and modern interior feel.
This space flows directly into the living and dining area, where high-quality flooring, neutral finishes, and carefully positioned lighting create a warm and inviting environment. The inclusion of large glazing elements ensures the space remains bright and connected to the outdoors throughout the day.
As with all Vita Modular projects, the annexe was constructed using an engineered structural steel frame system, delivering exceptional precision, structural integrity, and long-term performance.
The specification includes:
• Engineered steel frame construction
• High-quality vertical timber-effect cladding
• Aluminium windows and sliding doors
• Warm roof system for enhanced thermal efficiency
• Fully plastered and decorated internal finishes
• Premium flooring throughout
• Fully fitted kitchen and accessible bathroom
• Energy-efficient lighting and electrical systems
This approach ensures a robust, low-maintenance building with excellent thermal and acoustic performance.
The project was delivered in just 7 weeks on-site, significantly faster than traditional construction methods. By utilising off-site manufacturing, Vita Modular was able to maintain strict quality control, reduce on-site disruption, and ensure programme certainty.
This efficient delivery model is particularly beneficial for projects involving vulnerable occupants, where minimising construction time and disruption is critical.
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Outcome
The completed annexe provides a high-quality, fully accessible living environment tailored to the specific needs of the occupants. It successfully combines contemporary design, practical functionality, and long-term adaptability.This project highlights Vita Modular’s ability to deliver bespoke annexes that not only meet complex accessibility requirements but also achieve a premium architectural finish, all within a controlled timeframe and budget.
Watch the video testimonial with the client:
Do I need planning permission for a granny annexe in the UK?
Yes, most self-contained annexes require planning permission. Vita Modular can manage the full process, including design, drawings and submission.
How long does it take to build a 2-bedroom annexe?
Typically 6–10 weeks on-site depending on size and complexity. This project was completed in just 7 weeks using off-site construction.
How much does a 2-bedroom annexe cost?
Costs vary based on size and specification. This 55m² annexe was delivered for £165,000 including a high-quality, fully fitted finish.
Can an annexe be fully accessible for disabled occupants?
Yes. Annexes can be designed with step-free access, wider doorways, accessible bathrooms and kitchens, and layouts suitable for wheelchair use.
Is a modular annexe as durable as a traditional build?
Yes. Vita Modular uses engineered steel frame systems which provide excellent structural performance, durability and precision.
Can annexes be used for independent living?
Yes. This annexe was designed as a fully self-contained dwelling with kitchen, bathroom, bedrooms and living space for independent occupation.
What is included in a Vita Modular annexe?
Typically includes structure, external finishes, windows and doors, full internal finishes, electrics, flooring, and kitchens/bathrooms depending on specification.
Will building an annexe add value to my property?
In many cases, a well-designed annexe can increase overall property value while also providing flexible living or rental opportunities.
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Read MoreWe’re so confident in the longevity and performance of our structural steel frame modular buildings that we offer an industry-leading 10 year guarantee as standard.
We are proud to offer an industry-leading guaranteed 6 week lead time from the date of order.
Our distinctive range of exterior cladding finishes and architectural embellishments is quite simply unparalleled. There are no limits to the space we can create for you.
Our price includes everything from delivery, installation, foundations, doors & windows, painted walls, electrics, lighting and flooring, to name just a few.
Our modular buildings comply with all aspects of current UK building regulations, so you not only have complete peace of mind that your extension is built to last but you also have a space that can be comfortably used all year round.
We use the most advanced modular construction technology to precision craft every modular building at our Warwickshire production facility.
