Whether you’re looking for a home garden office, art studio, workout room, or a tranquil retreat, self-build garden room kits offer an affordable and customizable solution. Building a serene, functional space in your backyard has never been easier or more popular. solution.
These DIY garden room kits are part of a growing trend in home improvement, blending convenience with creativity. But what exactly are these complete garden room kits, and why are so many people adding them to their homes?
This guide will explore everything you need to know—from costs and benefits to planning permission and potential drawbacks—to help you decide if building your own garden room is the right move.
What Are DIY Garden Room Kits?
Self-build garden room kits are pre-designed packages that contain the complete kit including all the materials and instructions you’ll need to assemble a fully functional garden room, right in your backyard. Think of it as IKEA, but for your outdoor retreat. The pre manufactured garden room typically includes: Walls, flooring, roofing, and sometimes insulated panels.
The DIY garden room kits vary in designs from minimalist modern spaces to cosy cabin-style rooms, offering something for every aesthetic and purpose.
Why They’re Trending
The popularity of self-build insulated garden rooms has surged for several reasons:
- Affordable Alternative: Compared to hiring contractors to construct a room, these DIY kits save you a lot of money on labour costs.
- Personalized Projects: These kits allow you to have a hands-on role in creating your perfect garden room.
- Adding Multi functional space: With remote work and hobbies on the rise, people are looking for versatile and private spaces to enhance their lifestyles.
From home yoga garden studios to your very own pub, the versatility of these kits is driving their appeal.
How Much Do Self-Build Garden Room Kits Cost UK?
The cost of self-build garden room kits can vary depending on size, design complexity, materials used and any additional features such as insulation or electrical wiring. An average cost for a self-build insulated garden room ranges from £3,000 to £10,000.
While this may seem like a significant investment, it’s important to consider the long-term benefits and potential savings compared to hiring contractors or renting out office space. Plus, with these garden room kits being customizable and able to be built in stages, you can also spread out the costs over time.
Additional Costs to Consider
- Foundation Work: You may need to prepare a base (e.g., concrete or pavers) for the garden room to rest on.
- Utilities: Want electricity or plumbing? Budget for these additions depending on your needs.
- Interior Finishing: Draw on your creativity for flooring, paint, and furniture, which aren’t always included in the kit.
While self-build kits are affordable compared to custom builds, these extra costs are worth keeping in mind.
What do DIY Garden Room Kits Include?
A complete kit to build a new garden room will come with the following basic elements:
- Walls: The kit will include all necessary wall panels, which you can choose to customize with windows or doors, external cladding and structural insulated panels may cost extra.
- Flooring: Depending on the garden rooms finish and design, flooring usually comes in floorboards or laminate materials.
- Roofing: Some kits may include roofing material and trusses, while others leave this component up to you.
- Insulation: Many kits come with insulated panels for year-round comfort.
Some more comprehensive DIY Garden room kits include additional components such as electrical wiring, heating and plumbing systems. It’s best to carefully read the details of each kit before making a purchase.
Pros and Cons of A DIY Garden Room
As with most things there are pros and cons with a DIY garden room, lets break them down:
The Pros
- Cost-Effective: Significantly cheaper than hiring professionals.
- Customizable: You can adapt kits to better fit your style and space requirements.
- Skill Development: Enjoy a sense of accomplishment as you build something with your own hands.
- Quick Assembly: Most kits can be completed within a few days, depending on their complexity.
The Cons
- Time and Effort: Although faster than traditional builds, assembling the kit will still take time and physical effort.
- Skill Requirement: Some basic DIY skills are often required to ensure the structure is sound.
- Not Fully Custom: While kits offer options, they’re still less flexible than a bespoke garden room.
- Potential Issues with Weatherproofing: Depending on the materials, you might need to add extra insulation or weatherproofing for year-round use.
- Longevity: Kits may not have the same lifespan as custom-built structures.
Taking the DIY route has its advantages, but it’s important to weigh them against your time, skills, and patience.
Do You Need Planning Permission for a Self-Build Garden Room?
The good news? Most garden rooms fall under permitted development, meaning you don’t need planning permission—as long as you adhere to specific guidelines. Here’s a quick summary of rules in the U.S. and U.K.:
General Rules for Permitted Development
- Height Restrictions
- Under 8ft (around 2.5m) for structures near a property boundary.
- Over 8ft may require approval, depending on local guidelines.
- Usage
- The space must not be used as a self-contained living area or permanent accommodation.
- Home offices, gyms, and recreation rooms are typically fine.
- Size and Placement
- Structures that take up more than 50% of your garden space may require permission.
- Placement matters—large rooms too close to a property boundary may face restrictions.
Always Double-Check Local Laws
The criteria can vary depending on your location, so it’s best to check with your local planning authority or council.
Final Notes: Is a Garden Room Kit Right for You?
Building a garden room is more than a simple project—it’s an investment in your space and lifestyle. The affordability, functionality, and hands-on nature of self-build kits make them a great option for those looking to enhance their outdoor area without breaking the bank and adding a stunning additional space for all the family to enjoy.
Whether you want a quiet workspace or a place to unwind, garden room kits put the power of customization into your hands. Remember to compare costs, assess your DIY skill level, and check your local planning regulations to make the right choice.