GS-03 · By Aluma · Cost-effective

Coach house / above garage.

Built above or beside an existing detached garage. Lower foundation cost — we leverage the existing slab and structure.

Coach houses are the most cost-effective garden suite type because they reuse an existing foundation. The trade-off is a smaller footprint than a detached suite. Works on lots where a separate detached footprint isn't permitted.

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What a coach house looks like.

Coach house · Typical specs
Max GFA (typical) 40–60 m² (matches garage footprint)
Foundation Reuses existing slab (cost saver)
Structure Garage may need structural reinforcement
Services Separate electrical, water, optional gas
Entrance Exterior staircase to second floor
Eligibility Requires existing detached garage in code-compliant condition
Parking required 0 (Bill 23) — garage stays usable
Permit timeline 8–12 weeks

Common uses.

What people build coach houses for

Tight budgets

Lowest-cost garden suite type because foundation work is minimal.

Tight lots

Works on lots that won't permit a separate detached footprint due to setbacks.

Keep the garage

Garage ground floor keeps its function — parking, storage, workshop.

Home office above

Quiet workspace separated from the main house — workshop below, office above.

Coach houses built to OBC structural standards, with $2M general liability and WSIB current. Across Hamilton, Burlington, Oakville, and the GTA.

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