‘Wee houses’ could be the future for British homeowners

Granny flats could be the way forward for housing.

The future of British homes could be on our doorsteps quite literally. The credit crunch means thousands of people throughout the country still can’t afford to join the property ladder, but now a little help is on the way.

The way we live could be revolutionised thanks to companies who are building miniature wooden houses that can be situated in a garden.

Those behind the mini properties say they are perfect for first-time buyers, as granny flats, an alternative extension, or even as a guest house or student accommodation.

Earlier this month, Jennifer Hope launched The Wee House Company,which builds modern one and two bedroom detached homes that are less than half the price of a traditional house.

Jennifer was inspired to launch the Ayrshire business after house-hunting with her boyfriend last year and realising there was nothing they could afford.

“I’d just finished university and everything was out of our price range,” the 22-year-old explained.

“My parents have had a house-building company for 23 years and my dad and I always liked the idea of a modular house. There are some out there already but they’re quite contemporary. I wanted something that looked more traditional, like a but-and-ben.”

Jennifer started working on designs and plans last year, and the business has quickly come together.

“The houses are suitable for starter homes, people looking to downsize, a granny flat for an elderly relative or even as holiday homes. They’re certified dwelling houses that you can get a mortgage on and as such planning permission is required.

“Our manufacturing base is in Cumnock and we construct the houses in sections and then transport them to the destination.”

One-bedroom houses are £59,000 and the two-bedroom design is £79,000.

“I live in a one-bedroom Wee House with my boyfriend and dog. We built it in my parents’ garden and we love it,” Jennifer added. “It’s a great option for people.”

Mark Burton’s company, Tiny House UK, works on an even smaller scale and his homes come on wheels! Measuring from 12ft to 16ft depending on the design, prices start from as little as £6,500.

“He said: “The Tiny House movement is already big in America, but it’s catching on here now too. I was a builder for a long time but it became really cut-throat.

“I’d heard of Tiny Houses and a couple of years ago I thought the time was right with all of the housing problems in the UK. Mine look a little different, almost like sheds, but that’s to blend in with the garden.

“They feel like a house inside and are very cosy. They’re like a portable loft conversion and can be used for all sorts of purposes home gym, office, student housing.

“The sleeping accommodation is upstairs and there’s also a shower, toilet and kitchen, which can be hooked up to the main house’s power supply or operated off-grid. We’re getting more and more interest all the time.”

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