A MOTHER has revealed that after wanting a home with more space, she came up with a savvy solution.
Charlotte, a blogger from the UK, now has a garden annexe just a few steps away from her new pad, which is home to her teenage son, 17.
A mother has revealed that her teenage son lives in an annexe in her garden[/caption]
Not only does it have a kitchen, huge sofa and a double bed, but Jude’s also got a lovely bathroom too[/caption]
The mum acknowledged that the annexe houses her son Jude, who has autism.
Six years ago, the mother made a “big decision,” as she stressed that living in the same house as his siblings became “overwhelming” for Jude.
Due to the “noise, unpredictability, and busy energy of family life,” it became “really hard” for Jude to feel “regulated or calm.”
As a result, the mother sold her townhouse and looked for a property that could work for the entire family.
She revealed: “That’s how we ended up here, with a small annexe in the garden. Jude’s space. Finally a place he could feel safe.”
The mother took to social media to show off Jude’s home in the garden, leaving many totally stunned.
The content creator, who has 31,400 followers on TikTok, acknowledged that having a garden home for her 17-year-old son has “completely transformed” their family life.
Now, Jude is “calm,” has “independence” and even better, feels “safe, understood and settled.”
She added: “Was it conventional? No. Was it the right choice? Absolutely.”
Charlotte gave a quick tour of Jude’s house, which is complete with a kitchen, large bathroom and huge sofa.
She said: “This is where Jude lives, he’s lived here now for six years – when we moved, we knew we needed a space that Jude could live in that was just for him and he could escape the madness of our house.”
Charlotte recognised that Jude’s annexe has cameras and sensors and he is able to “come in and out as he pleases.”
He loves it out here and we love knowing that Jude gets the space he needs, while we’re just a tiny little walk away back into the house
Charlotte
As well as a TV, Jude also has a large sofa where he “likes to chill.”
She added: “He runs in and out between the bedroom and the lounge – he’s got a small double bed, perfect size for him.”
Rules on turning sheds into bedrooms
MANY people are turning to smaller outdoor structures to create more room in their homes but here’s the rules you need to stick to if you live in the UK and want to do it yourself.
Planning Permission:
- Generally, outbuildings like sheds are considered permitted development and do not require planning permission if they meet certain criteria (e.g., not taking up more than 50% of the garden, not being forward of the principal elevation, and being single-storey with a maximum height of 2.5 metres if within 2 metres of a boundary).
- However, converting a shed into a habitable space like a bedroom may change its classification, potentially requiring planning permission. It’s best to check with your local planning authority to confirm.
Building Regulations:
- Any conversion that involves creating a habitable space must comply with building regulations. These regulations ensure the safety, health, and welfare of people in and around buildings.
- Key areas covered include structural integrity, fire safety, insulation, ventilation, damp proofing, electrical safety, and escape routes.
Insulation and Heating:
- Proper insulation is essential to make the space comfortable and energy-efficient. This includes insulating walls, roofs, and floors.
- Adequate heating must be installed to ensure the room can be used year-round.
Ventilation:
- Adequate ventilation is necessary to prevent condensation and ensure good air quality. This may involve installing windows that can be opened or mechanical ventilation systems.
Electrical Work:
- All electrical work must comply with Part P of the building regulations. It is advisable to have electrical work carried out by a qualified electrician.
Water Supply and Drainage:
- If you plan to include a bathroom or kitchen facilities, you will need to ensure proper water supply and drainage systems are in place, complying with relevant regulations.
Fire Safety:
- Fire safety measures, such as smoke detectors and fire-resistant materials, must be incorporated to ensure the safety of occupants.
Access and Egress:
- The converted space must have safe and accessible routes for entering and exiting, including emergency escape routes.
Neighbour Considerations:
- If your property is in a conservation area, listed, or subject to other restrictions, additional rules may apply.
Before proceeding with the conversion, it is highly recommended to consult with your local planning authority and a qualified professional to ensure all legal requirements and safety standards are met.
As well as a wardrobe full of his clothes, there’s also a bathroom with a “big double shower” for Jude.
Charlotte beamed: “He’s got a good space to himself, he loves it out here and we love knowing that Jude gets the space he needs, while we’re just a tiny little walk away back into the house and it makes everything possible.”
Social media users react
Charlotte’s TikTok clip, which was posted under the username @twinstidesandautismvibes, has clearly left many open-mouthed, as it has quickly racked up 363,200 views, 6,116 likes and 133 comments.
Social media users were impressed with Jude’s annexe home and many raised to the comments to praise Charlotte’s “inspiring” parenting.
One person said: “That’s amazing, great space for Jude. Thank you for sharing.”
You’re such an amazing mum
TikTok user
Another added: “That’s such a brilliant space for him.”
A third commented: “Parenting at its best.”
Meanwhile, another parent gushed: “This is fantastic! Gives me lots of inspiration for my own son.”
But that’s not all, as someone else wrote: “You’re such an amazing mum. Love watching the journey of your boys!”
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