Looking to level up your garden?
A summer house shed may be just what you’re after. These multi-purpose garden buildings have grown in popularity over recent years. And for good reason. They provide a space to work, play or relax without the disruption and cost of a traditional home extension.
Here’s the deal…
A summer house shed isn’t just another garden building. It’s a lifestyle enhancement that can transform the way you use your outdoor space.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- What is a summer house shed?
- Why every homeowner needs one
- How to choose the right summer house
- Design ideas that actually work
- Essential features to look for
What is A Summer House Shed?
A summer house shed is a self-contained garden structure designed for relaxation and leisure activities. Think comfortable seating areas, natural light and a quiet escape from daily life. Unlike a standard storage shed, these buildings are built for use and enjoyment.
Bonus…
In most cases, a summer house shed will not require planning permission. As long as the building is located at the rear of the property and is no more than 2.5 metres in height (3.5 metres on a dual pitched roof), homeowners can install a shed without any planning headaches.
Summer house sheds come in all shapes and sizes, too. From a small corner model to a spacious timber cabin with a veranda to match. When browsing summer houses for sale, it’s worth considering both the available space in your garden and how the building will be used.
The garden stats don’t lie…
87% of UK households have access to a garden, that’s a lot of potential wasted space right outside the back door.
Why Every Homeowner Needs One
The reason for the popularity of summer house sheds is that they solve a problem faced by most homeowners. The need for additional space that doesn’t cost the earth or involve major building work.
So let’s take a look at the top reasons why a summer house shed is a good idea…
Extra Living Space
Space is at a premium in many UK homes. With small gardens and lower ceilings inside the house than in previous decades. The extra square footage that a garden building offers is a huge bonus. A summer house shed can be used for pretty much anything.
Office? Sorted. Art studio? Done. Reading nooks? Absolutely.
Year-Round Use
Another advantage of a summer house shed is that it can be used all year round. With some insulation, double glazing and perhaps a bit of heating, these buildings can be comfortable throughout the seasons. So long gone are the days of a dusty summer house that only gets opened during July.
Boosted Property Value
Got a property that you’re planning to sell in the future? A good quality garden building can add significant value to a home. Estate agents estimate garden rooms and summerhouses can increase a property value by 5-15% depending on quality, size and location. For a £300,000 home, that’s an additional £15,000 to £45,000.
Mental Health Benefits
Let’s not forget the mental health benefits either. In a world where stress is rife and mental health issues continue to soar, having a dedicated space to chill out is a godsend. A summer house shed creates a physical separation between work/home life and relaxation time. That separation matters more than most people realise.
How To Choose The Right Summer House Shed
Choosing the right summer house shed is an important decision that shouldn’t be rushed. After all, you’ll be living with this purchase for many years to come. So it’s worth getting it right first time. Here’s how to choose the perfect summer house shed.
Size Does Matter
Measure the available space in your garden before anything else. Then realistically assess how much floor space is needed. A home office will need space for a desk and storage. A relaxation area will need room for comfortable seating.
Work backwards from the intended purpose.
Material Quality
Timber quality varies hugely from one supplier to another. So don’t be tempted to buy the cheapest option you can find. Instead, look for pressure-treated timber that will resist rot and decay over time. Cheaper materials may save a little money upfront but are guaranteed to cost more in the long run.
Foundation Is Key
A level, solid base is the most important aspect of a summer house shed. Concrete slabs, paving stones or a purpose-built timber frame are all acceptable. Skipping this step is asking for problems down the line. Uneven bases can lead to sticking doors, warped walls and leaking roofs.
Design Ideas That Actually Work
Designing a summer house shed is fun. But there are certain features that seem to work better than others. Here are some great ideas for what to include.
The Garden Office
Remote and hybrid working is the new normal. 6.5% of private business sector workers in 2019 worked primarily from home but these numbers have grown even more since then. A summer house shed is the perfect solution for the WFH set.
The Entertainment Hub
Bars in the garden became the must-have feature of lockdown. And that’s a trend that’s not going to go away any time soon. A summer house shed makes the ideal base for entertainment without having to disturb the main house.
The Creative Studio
Artists, crafters and hobbyists of all types need dedicated creative space. Good natural light, plenty of storage for materials and no interruptions from family members. A summer house shed ticks all those boxes.
The Gym
Skip the gym membership and head for a garden gym instead. Privacy, convenience and no commute. Add some rubber flooring, mirrors and your chosen exercise equipment. And there’s a workout space that’s always open.
Essential Features To Look For
If you shop around, you’ll quickly find that not all summer house sheds are created equal. Here are the essential features to look for.
Windows and Doors
Large windows will let in natural light and give views out into the garden. Double glazing is recommended for insulation and noise reduction. French doors or bi-fold options are ideal for connecting indoor and outdoor spaces.
Roof Quality
Don’t skimp on the roof. Felt roofing is fine for budget builds but mineral felt or EPDM rubber will offer better protection and a longer lifespan. A dual apex roof provides better water runoff than a flat roof.
Electrical Installation
Power may not seem necessary but you soon realise just how useful it is. Lighting, heating, sound systems and charging points all need electricity. Don’t forget to factor in the installation cost.
Flooring Options
Timber flooring is the most common but insulated flooring will make a huge difference for year-round comfort. Vinyl or laminate flooring are good options for easy cleaning and durability.
Pulling It All Together
A summer house shed is one of the smartest home improvement investments you can make. The combination of additional living space, higher property value and enhanced quality of life makes the initial outlay worthwhile.
The key takeaways:
- Start with a clear idea of how the space will be used
- Invest in good quality materials that will last for years to come
- Never skimp on the foundation work
- Factor in electrical installation from the outset
- Design something that complements the existing property
As more and more people discover the benefits of dedicated outdoor spaces, garden buildings continue to grow in popularity. Whether it’s for a peaceful retreat, productive workspace or entertainment area. A summer house shed has it covered.
All that’s left to ask is this…
What will yours be used for?
