What Is A Garden Room

Garden rooms are self-contained structures, typically constructed in the back garden of a property, that are designed to provide additional living or working space. These rooms can be used for a wide range of purposes, such as a home office, a yoga studio, an entertainment space, a guest room, or even a small workshop.

A room in the garden can be constructed from a variety of materials, but are mainly timber framed with a choice of different external claddings. They often feature large windows or glass doors to allow natural light to enter, and can be designed to blend in with the surrounding landscape. High quality garden buildings also include insulation, electrics, heating, and air conditioning to make them comfortable for year-round use.

Overall, garden rooms provide a versatile and attractive option for homeowners who are looking to add extra space to their property without the need for a full-scale home extension.

Why Are Garden Rooms Popular

Outdoor rooms and garden spaces have become increasingly popular in recent years for a number of reasons, including:

Extra living space: An outdoor garden space offers additional living space without the need for a home extension, which can be costly and disruptive. A garden room can provide a dedicated space for a home office, gym, hobby room, or guest bedroom.

Versatility: Each outdoor room can be designed to suit a wide range of purposes and can be used in many different ways. They can be adapted to suit changing needs and can be decorated and furnished to create a specific look or atmosphere.

Natural light and outdoor views: With large windows and glass doors, garden buildings offer plenty of natural light and outdoor views, creating a connection to the garden and the surrounding environment. This can have a positive impact on mood and wellbeing.

Value for money: Garden rooms are often less expensive than traditional home extensions or renovations, making them a cost-effective way to add space and value to a property.

Quick and easy to install: Garden buildings can be constructed relatively quickly and with minimal disruption to the main house. Many companies offer prefabricated or modular options that can be assembled on-site in a matter of days.

Overall, garden rooms are popular because they offer a practical, versatile, and cost-effective way to create additional living space and enhance the value and appeal of a property.

Benefits of Garden Rooms

One of the primary benefits of a room in the garden is that it provides additional living space without the need for an expensive full-scale home extension. This can be particularly useful for those who live in smaller homes or in urban areas where space is at a premium. Each building can be designed to suit your specific needs, whether that be as an office, a playroom, or a gym. They can also be a great way to escape from the hustle and bustle of the main house and enjoy a quiet and peaceful outdoor environment.

Another advantage of a room in the garden is that they can add value to your home. A well-designed and constructed garden room can increase the overall appeal of your property and make it more attractive to potential buyers. Additionally, if you use the garden room as a home office or workspace, it can be a tax-deductible expense, which can help offset the cost of building it.

Difference Types Of Garden Rooms

There are many different styles and types of garden spaces to choose from, depending on your needs and preferences. Here are some of the most popular types:

Traditional or classic: Traditional or classic outdoor rooms are a popular choice for those who want a natural and rustic look. They can be designed in a range of styles and sizes, and can be made from a variety of timber types. Classic or traditional timber garden rooms are also highly customizable, and can be designed to match the look and feel of your home and garden. They are typically constructed using traditional timber frame construction building methods and materials, such as timber framing and external cladding, and are often designed to blend in with the surrounding environment.

Modern or contemporary: Modern or contemporary outdoor structures offer a fresh and stylish take on traditional outdoor rooms. They are typically designed using modern building materials and techniques, such as glass, and composite materials, and are often characterized by clean lines, minimalist styling, and bold architectural features. They can be customized to suit specific needs and preferences, and can be designed to complement the style of the existing property or to stand out as a bold and unique statement.

Garden Room External Claddings

There are many different types and styles of claddings to use on the exterior of a garden room. Depending on your preferences and needs, here are some of the most popular types:

Fibre Cement: Fibre cement garden rooms are structures that are constructed using fibre cement boards or fibre cement panels, which are made from a blend of cement, sand, and cellulose fibres. Fibre cement is a durable and low-maintenance material that is resistant to fire, moisture, and pests, making it an ideal choice for outdoor use. Fibre cement boards are available in a wide range of different colours.

Composite Wood: Composite garden rooms are outdoor buildings that are constructed using a combination of composite cladding materials, typically including a composite material for the walls. Composite cladding materials are made from a blend of materials, such as wood fibres and plastic, that are combined to create a strong and durable product. Composite claddings are available in a wide range of different colours.

Split Face Stone: Split face stone garden rooms feature external walls made from split face stone panels. Split face stone is a type of natural stone that has been cut or split to create a rough and textured surface, which gives it a unique and rustic look. One of the advantages of split face stone garden rooms is that they offer a natural and rustic look, with a range of colours and textures available to suit a variety of styles and preferences. Split face stone is also durable and long-lasting, with a lifespan of up to 50 years or more, and is resistant to weather, rot, and pests.

Thermowood Timber: Thermowood garden buildings are outdoor spaces where the external walls are made from thermally modified wood. Thermally modified wood is a type of wood that has been heated to a high temperature, usually between 160°C and 220°C, in the absence of oxygen, which changes the wood's properties and makes it more durable, stable, and resistant to decay and insects.

Western Red Cedar Timber: Western red cedar garden rooms are clad externally in timber made from Western Red Cedar, a type of tree native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America. Western Red Cedar is a highly valued and durable wood that is known for its natural resistance to decay and insects, making it a popular choice for outdoor construction.

How to Design A Garden Room

If you are considering purchasing a new room in your garden, here are some tips on how to design it:

Determine your needs: The first step in designing an outdoor building is to determine what you want to use it for. This will help you determine the size, layout, and style of the structure. For example, if you want to use it as a home office, you may need space for a desk, computer, and storage. If you want to use it as a gym, you may need space for equipment and mats.

Choose a location: The next step is to choose a location for your garden room. You will need to consider factors such as the size of your garden, the orientation of the building, and how it will fit in with the rest of your property.

Plan the layout: Once you have determined the purpose and location of your garden building, it's time to plan the layout. This will involve deciding on the size and shape of the building, the placement of windows and doors, and how the interior will be configured.

Decide on materials: The materials you choose will depend on the style and look you want to achieve for your garden room. Timber, composite and stone are some of the most popular options, but there are many other materials to choose from. It's important to choose materials that are durable, weather-resistant, and easy to maintain.

Consider insulation and heating: If you want to use your garden building throughout the year, it's important to consider insulation and heating. Your outdoor room should be fully insulated, with insulation in the walls, floor, and ceiling. You should also consider heating options, such as electric heaters or underfloor heating, to keep the space warm and comfortable.

Choose the right windows and doors: The windows and doors you choose for your garden room are important for both functionality and aesthetics. You'll want to choose windows that allow plenty of natural light into the space, while also providing good insulation. Doors should be secure and weather-resistant, while also being easy to use and maintain.

Think about furniture and decor: Once your garden room is built, it's time to think about furnishing and decorating it. The style and type of furniture you choose will depend on the purpose of the space, as well as your personal taste and preferences. You may also want to add decorative touches, such as plants, artwork, or rugs, to make the space feel cosy and inviting.

An outdoor space in the garden is a great way to add functional living space to your home, while also enhancing the overall value and appeal of your property. Whether you want to use your garden space as a home office, gym, or playroom, there are many different types and styles to choose from. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can design and build a garden room that is both functional and beautiful, and that will provide years of enjoyment and relaxation.

Garden Rooms Direct

We are one of the longest established garden buildings companies in the UK. Established in 2006 and although we are based in North Yorkshire, we cover the whole of the UK. With 8 dedicated installation teams we can install on site anywhere from the top of Scotland down to Devon & Cornwall.

Each room is constructed to your exact requirements and is fully insulated to Building Regulations and professionally plastered inside. You can choose the exact location of your doors, windows, electrical sockets, lighting and heating. We can partition a section of your room for storage either with an internal or external access door. Our installation teams are all qualified professional joiners and can add bespoke decking in either timber or composite.

We know that buying a garden room is a big investment and we would always advise that you come and visit our showroom and talk to our knowledgeable and friendly staff. We have two large indoor showrooms displaying a range of different sizes and styles complete with Western Red Cedar, Thermowood, Composite, Fibre Cement and Split Face Stone external claddings.

Apart from viewing different sizes and designs you can also see a large display of patio doors, sliding doors, glass window panels, opening windows and a whole host of different options to create your own unique outdoor room.

Interested in Purchasing An Outdoor Room?

An initial conversation is a great place to start: You can ask as many questions as you like and we can give you advice on all the different aspects. Our staff have a wealth of knowledge about garden buildings and they are happy to share it with you. It won`t cost you a penny to call us. Our Freephone 0800 170 1274 telephone number is free to call from either a mobile phone or landline.

No obligation fixed price quotation: Let us know what you what space requirements you need and we will give you a no obligation fixed price quotation for the whole project. We will also send you our colour brochure and information pack which includes all our garden room designs and the different options available.

Free site survey: We can also arrange for our surveyor to carry out a free site survey. The site survey gives us the chance to see your outside space, to learn a bit more about you and to really understand what it is you are ideally looking for. Our survey costs you nothing and is undertaken by an experienced member of our team, not a salesman. You can discuss your requirements with the surveyor and he can also check the site area for suitable access and construction.