Blog>Ideas>Garden room ideas: 12 ways to maximise your outside space
Last updated: 27 February 2024
Garden room ideas: 12 ways to maximise your outside space
A garden room is a great way to add more functionality to your outdoor area. These garden room ideas show you how to create an extra space to use all year round.
These 12 garden room ideas showcase a selection of ways to make the most of your outdoor space, even during the colder winter months.
If extending your home isn't an option, but you could do with more space, a garden room could be the perfect solution.
An office, at-home gym, children's playhouse, or hobby room; a fully functioning garden room provides limitless possibilities. Not to mention, a well-designed garden room can add value to your property too.
So without further delay, let's take a look at some inspiring ways to maximise your outdoor space with these garden room ideas.
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Garden room ideas
1. A garden office
With many people now working from home, a garden room office is the ideal way to create a separate workspace away from the main hub of your home.
It offers peace and quiet, a view of the outdoors, and a short commute up the garden - what's not to love?
2. A yoga studio
Energise your morning routine with a yoga practice in your very own garden studio. A peaceful area, nestled in the outdoors, with sunlight beaming through the glazing, is the perfect spot for your Sun Salutations.
As a yoga teacher, with a good-sized plot and the right permissions, you could create a bespoke garden room for your classes.
Similarly, if you have your own small business - as a dog groomer, hairdresser, or beauty therapist, a garden room could become a business premises.
NB. Before setting up a business from your garden room, check the specific planning permission requirements for your area and your property.
3. An at-home gym
An at-home gym has a ton of benefits. You don't have to wait for equipment, there are no crowds, and you don't need to pay for membership!
Spin bike? Free weights? An area for stretching and cooling down? Plan your personal workout space to your exact requirements.
You could even create a mirrored wall to ensure you're nailing your technique (although you may end up sharing the space with any budding dancers in your household!).
4. A garden room man cave
A garden room man cave is a great way to create a separate space away from a busy household. Whether you want an area to enjoy a favourite hobby, socialise with friends, or simply find a bit of peace and quiet, a garden room could be just what you need.
5. A garden room she shed
If you fancy a bolt hole just a stone's throw from your main residence, a she shed could be just the fix. It's your own private sanctuary to enjoy a bit of "me-time" while enjoying a view of the outdoors.
Check out our she shed ideas for plenty of inspiring ways to make this work in your garden.
6. Garden room ideas for teenagers
As the children get bigger, your home can start to feel, well, smaller. If it feels like your household is bursting at the seams, consider a garden room den for your teenagers.
It's a great way to give them more independence with their own space, yet still feel connected with the shared use of the garden. What's more, the garden room can be equipped with plenty of entertainment - a gaming area, pool table, TV, and mini-fridge - to keep the youngsters entertained for hours.
7. A garden room cinema
Make movie night feel like a premier with a garden room home-cinema experience.
A corner garden room is ideal for this, sheltered from outside noise and the glare of the sun.
A garden room installation specialist will ensure your home cinema has everything you need to enjoy films in comfort: soundproofing, insulation, optimal lighting, plumbing, and electrics. Find a local expert using our search function, below.
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8. A children's playhouse
A small garden room makes the ideal space for a children's playhouse.
It creates a secret hideaway that contains all their toys, games, and role-play activities.
Why not create a chalkboard wall inside to spark their creativity? Or build a mud kitchen outside? Be guided by your child to design a space they'll love for years.
9. An outdoor hobby room
Having a dedicated space to indulge in your favourite hobby or craft has many benefits.
You can spread out, get creative, and shut the door at the end of the day without it impacting others in your household.
Also, crafting in particular, is great for boosting your mood and reducing stress. Combine this with a view of the garden and perhaps a paved area to enjoy a cuppa and you've got yourself an idyllic retreat.
10. A garden room sanctuary
First, it was hot tubs, then came ice baths, and now, outdoor saunas. Homeowners are embracing health and wellness in their own backyards. When you can install a garden room as chic as this concept, it's easy to see why.
11. A garden room bar
A garden room bar is a great way to create a dedicated space for socialising, hosting parties, or simply chilling out.
Hook up your audio and connect to your WiFi to get the tunes playing while the drinks are flowing.
Find approved tradespeople to install your garden room and get it kitted out with plumbing, electrics, insulation, and soundproofing, using our search box, below.
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12. Garden room lodgings
A garden room could also be used as occasional lodgings if you have guests to stay. You will need planning permission and your garden room must adhere to building regulations if it is to be used in this way.
Find a garden room specialist
The best garden room ideas are those that have the potential to evolve. For example, a teenage den will only be needed for so long, after which time you may wish to use the space as a fitness studio or hobby space. Consider this when planning your garden room design and consult with the experts to make sure you create a long-lasting, versatile structure. Add your postcode to the search box below to see who comes highly rated in your local area.
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FAQs
Do garden rooms add value (UK)?
A well-designed garden office is a sought-after feature and can add around 5-10% to the value of your home.
Do you need planning permission for a garden room?
More often than not, garden rooms fall under Permitted Development Rights, which means you won't need planning permission. However, it will need to meet certain criteria, typically concerning its size and height. Always check with your local planning authority before commencing any building work.
How much does a garden room cost?
Prices start around £1,500 to £2,500+for a low shed with insulation and power, ranging up to between £15,000 to£30,000+ for a custom-built, high-spec installation.
Garden rooms vary in cost depending on whether you choose a bespoke or modular design, the materials and features you select, the finishes you opt for, and any exterior landscaping work that's required.
What is the best colour for a garden room?
The best colour for a garden room is one that will blend well with its natural surroundings. Soft green or blue adds a pop of colour, while black, charcoal, or light grey offers a more contemporary vibe.
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