In this article, we will explore various outdoor garden room ideas and tips for designing a beautiful and functional space that you can enjoy year-round.
Garden Rooms have become increasingly popular in recent years, providing a peaceful and private space to relax, entertain and connect with nature.
Whether you have a small backyard or expansive landscape, there are endless possibilities for creating your own bespoke garden room retreat.
Choosing the Right Location
The first step in designing an outdoor garden room is choosing the right location. Ideally, this should be a quiet and secluded area of your garden, away from any noise or distractions.
Garden Rooms can be placed in a variety of locations, such as a corner of your garden, against a wall, or even freestanding in the middle of your yard.
Consider the views and natural light available in each area to help you determine the best location for your garden retreat.
You may also want to consider the orientation of the space in relation to the sun and wind, to ensure optimal natural light and protection from strong winds.
Designing Garden Rooms for Year-Round Use
To fully enjoy your garden room throughout the year, it’s essential to design with seasonal changes in mind.
This can be achieved through the use of versatile and durable materials, as well as incorporating heating and cooling solutions.
Some ideas for creating a year-round garden room include:
- Installing a retractable roof or awning to provide shade in the summer and protection from rain or snow in the winter.
- Incorporating a fireplace, fire pit, or outdoor heater for warmth during colder months.
- Utilizing natural elements such as stone or wood for a timeless and weather-resistant design.
Garden Room Styles
When it comes to the style of your garden room, the possibilities are endless. Some popular choices include:
Timber Garden Room
A classic and rustic option, traditional wooden garden rooms offer a cosy and charming atmosphere.
They can be custom-built to suit your needs and can include features like insulated walls, double-glazed windows, and a variety of finishes.
Cost in the UK: £10,000 – £20,000
Modular Garden Room
For a more contemporary and flexible option, modular garden rooms are becoming increasingly popular.
These pre-fabricated structures can be easily installed and adapted to your changing needs, making them perfect for those who want an adaptable space.
Cost in the UK: £5,000 – £15,000
Modern Glass Garden Room
For those who prefer a more modern garden room, a glass structure is the perfect choice.
Not only does it provide ample natural light and stunning views of your garden, but it also offers a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living.
Cost in the UK: £20,000 – £40,000
Greenhouses and Conservatories
For the avid gardener, a greenhouse or conservatory can serve as an excellent garden room.
These structures not only provide a tranquil space for relaxation, but they also offer the perfect environment for growing plants year-round.
Cost in the UK: £5,000 – £20,000
Summer House Garden Room
A summer house garden room is a popular choice for those who want to enjoy their garden in the warmer months.
These quaint and charming structures come in a variety of designs and can be used as an outdoor dining area, reading nook, or even a home office.
Cost in the UK: £3,000 – £10,000
Does a Garden Room add value to your Home UK?
In short, yes, a garden room can add value to your home in the UK.
Not only does it provide additional living space and enhance the overall aesthetic of your property, but it also appeals to buyers looking for outdoor living and entertaining areas.
However, it’s essential to consider factors such as the size, style, and location of your garden room when determining its impact on your home’s value.
Garden Room Functions
Your bespoke garden room can serve many purposes, depending on your lifestyle and needs. Some popular functions include:
- A Garden Office, Art Studio or Craft Room
- A Yoga Studio or Meditation Retreat
- A Garden Bar
- A Games Room
- A Garden Room Gym
- An Outdoor Kitchen or Dining room
- A Children’s Playroom or Teenage hangout spot.
- A Guest Bedroom
- A Hot Tub area or Spa Retreat.
- An Entertaining space or just a Quiet Reading Room
All of these are a great garden room idea UK homeowners can consider.
Bespoke Garden Rooms
A bespoke garden room is a unique and custom-built space that is tailored to your specific needs and preferences.
Whether you have a particular function in mind or want a garden room that seamlessly integrates with your existing landscaping, a bespoke design can bring your vision to life.
So lets have an in depth look at some of these Garden Room Ideas:
A Garden Office, Art Studio or Craft Room
For those who work from home or have a creative hobby, a bespoke garden room can serve as the perfect office or studio space.
Customize it with features like built-in shelving and storage, plenty of natural light, and even soundproofing for optimal productivity.
A Garden Room Yoga Studio or Meditation Retreat
Transform your garden room into a serene and peaceful sanctuary for yoga or meditation practice.
Choose calming colours, add plants and natural materials, and consider incorporating a water feature for the ultimate relaxation experience and mental space.
An Outdoor Bar
For those who love to entertain, a garden bar is an excellent addition to any outdoor space.
Customize your garden room with a built-in bar, comfortable seating, and even a small fridge for drinks.
A Games Room, Children’s Playroom or Teenage Hangout Spot
Give your kids (or yourself) a fun and functional space to play, relax, or hang out with friends.
Add features like a pool table, gaming consoles, or bean bag chairs for a laid-back vibe.
Garden Room Gym
Save on expensive gym memberships by transforming your garden room into a home gym.
Equip it with exercise equipment, mirrors, and sound system for your perfect workout space.
Outdoor Kitchen or Dining Room
Take your entertaining to the next level with an outdoor kitchen and dining area in your garden room.
Customize it to suit your needs, whether that’s a built-in BBQ, pizza oven, or full kitchen setup.
A Hot Tub Area or Spa Retreat
Turn your garden room into a luxurious spa retreat with a hot tub, sauna, or even a plunge pool.
Add in some comfortable seating and calming lighting for the ultimate relaxation experience.
Entertaining Space or Quiet Reading Room
Whether you love hosting parties or prefer to curl up with a good book, your bespoke garden room can be designed to fit your needs perfectly.
Consider adding comfortable seating, a bar area, or even a fireplace for the ultimate entertaining space.
Or, create a peaceful and quiet reading room with cosy chairs, shelves filled with your favourite books, and plenty of natural light.
Guest Bedroom
A bespoke garden room can also serve as a comfortable and inviting guest bedroom.
With proper insulation, heating, and even an en-suite bathroom, your guests will feel right at home in their own private space.
Garden Room Designs and Ideas
Here are some garden room interior design ideas to help you create your own unique outdoor garden retreat:
- Add comfortable seating such as a sofa or armchairs, along with cushions and throws for a cosy atmosphere.
- Incorporate natural elements like potted plants, flowers, and herbs to bring the beauty of the outdoors inside.
- Install soft lighting options such as string lights or lanterns for a warm and inviting ambiance.
- Consider adding a small kitchenette or bar area for entertaining guests.
- Make use of vertical space by hanging plants or installing shelves for storage and decoration.
- Personalize your garden room with artwork, photographs, or other meaningful decorations.
- Bi fold doors, French doors or sliding doors can create a seamless connection between your garden room and outdoor space.
- Use rugs, curtains, or other textiles to add texture and warmth to the space.
- Underfloor Heating or a small wood burner can help keep your garden room warm and comfortable in cooler weather.
- Utilize natural materials like wood, stone, and rattan for a cohesive and organic feel.
- Incorporate windows or skylights to maximize natural light and create a bright and airy atmosphere.
By incorporating these design elements into your garden room, you can create a unique and inviting space that truly reflects your personal style and enhances your outdoor living experience.
Planning Permission and Building Regulations for Garden Rooms
Before embarking on your garden room project, it’s essential to check with your local council for any planning permission or building regulations that may apply.
In most cases, a garden room will not require planning permission as long as it meets certain criteria, such as being less than 4m in height and not taking up more than half of the total garden area.
If you are adding a guest room or an extra living space which will be occupied year round, you may need to apply for planning permission.
Maintaining Your Garden Room
To ensure your garden room remains a beautiful and functional space throughout the year, regular maintenance is necessary.
Some tips for maintaining your garden room include:
- Regular cleaning of windows and surfaces.
- Checking for any damage or wear and tear, such as leaks or cracks.
- Removing debris and fallen leaves from the roof and gutters.
- Keeping plants trimmed and well-maintained to prevent overgrowth.
- Regularly checking and maintaining any heating or cooling systems.
Is it best to build a Garden Room myself or use a Garden Room Company?
Whether you choose to build your garden room yourself or hire a professional garden room company will depend on your budget, time constraints, and DIY skills.
Building a garden room yourself can save money, but it requires knowledge of construction and may take longer.
On the other hand, hiring a reputable company can provide you with expert design and construction services for a hassle-free experience.
Whichever option you choose, a garden room is an excellent investment for enhancing your outdoor living space and adding value to your property.
Conclusion
Garden Rooms are a versatile and functional addition to any outdoor space, offering endless possibilities for customization and creating the ultimate retreat for the entire family.
From a relaxing meditation practice to entertaining guests or even as a guest bedroom, a garden room can serve multiple purposes and add value to your home.
With careful planning and consideration of design elements, you can create a unique and inviting space that complements your outdoor living experience.