Small summer house ideas: A garden retreat for all seasons

Browse our small summer house ideas to discover easy ways to make the most of these charming garden retreats. Having somewhere away from the hustle and bustle of your main house is the perfect way to escape the daily grind.

So, keep scrolling for our external and internal design ideas, each one tailored to inspire your garden room – from its structure to its decor. However, if you can’t wait to get started, pop your postcode into the search bar below and we’ll introduce you to our expert summer house professionals.

Simple and whimsical small summer house ideas

Consider octagonal summer house ideas for charm and whimsy

Compact and traditional, a small octagonal summer house is an attractive garden feature that works on multiple levels.

For example, they create a charming focal point in any garden, come in various sizes, and allow plenty of light through their long windows. As a result, they’re ideal for every kind of layout.

Related content: Garden room ideas: Inspiring concepts to create an idyllic garden retreat.

A traditional small summer house is perfect for a hobby household

A contemporary wooden summerhouse with a slanted flat roof is both stylish and functional. It adds an extra room away from your main home, making it an ideal place to practice those hobbies.

Whether you want to turn it into a reading nook, yoga room, gaming retreat, entertainment area, or home office, match the design to the rest of your garden.

For example, this summer house example (pictured) matches the black decking with the window and door frames, blending seamlessly with the surroundings.

Choose compact summer houses for small gardens with grand dreams

A sustainably sourced and easy-to-install summer house is ideal for small gardens with neat corners. The double doors and long windows flood the interior with oodles of light, inviting the sun to keep you warm even when there’s a cool breeze.

As the compact summer house design is small enough to fit into any type of outdoor space, you can decorate it in whatever way makes you happy. Keep it neutral to let it seamlessly blend with your garden, or choose a bold colour that makes a statement.

Furthermore, including wood panels and a charming step give the design extra character. Consider adding planters for extra decor prowess and a bistro set for class.

Add a small summer house for a garden cottage retreat

Turn your childhood playhouse into a grown-up vision by installing a cottage-style summer house. Pitched roofs, mini porches, woodland accessories, and sage paint create an endearing and creative result.

Whether you use it as a hideaway, for social gatherings, or to work; play with colours and style until your inner child is content.

Related content: She shed ideas: Some inspiration to nail your transformation.

Embrace a contemporary summer house for year-long enjoyment

A wooden-slatted summer house is sleek, chic, and anything but bleak. With full-length windows and sliding doors, this contemporary garden room example demonstrates how simple and consistent design can transform a space.

Decorated with soft lights, hanging plants, perennials, and lanterns, it’s the perfect place for those evenings when you’re in particular need of some rest and relaxation.

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Summer house ideas: Interior decor for dreamy downtime

Rustic and stylish summer house furniture ideas

A wood-panelled feature wall transforms this summer house’s interiors. It matches the window casing, coffee table, and floating shelves, each combining to evoke a sense of the great outdoors.

A large white sofa is a statement piece of furniture, while a cowhide rug adds character and personality. Black floor tiles finish the look, giving this otherwise simple room design a warm and stylish charm.

Related content: Eco house guide: How to go green.

Create a botanical oasis for an oxygenated hideaway

With upcycled furniture, plenty of plants, and sustainable materials, this summer house (pictured) embraces all things eco-friendly.

For those who live in a big city, having a garden retreat that fills your lungs with fresh air is a great way to embrace the great outdoors. Just imagine relaxing in your very own oxygen pod after a long commute home.

Summer house lighting ideas for gentle ambience

When the sun goes down, the lighting you choose creates the ambience you deserve. Depending on the type of summer house you’ve installed, this might include floor, hanging, pendant, or string lights. Other options include wall sconces, floor LEDs, and lanterns.

Why not create a cosy boho snug (pictured) with a swing seat, plenty of throws, blankets, and cushions? Decorate with plants, organza curtains, and festoon lights to finish the whimsical look.

Related content: Gazebo lighting ideas: 15 ways to make your gazebo glow.

Natural summer house painting ideas for a striking finish

The paint colours you choose for your summer house will impact its atmosphere. For example, soft pastels such as dusty blue, mint green, or blush pink will evoke tranquillity, while natural wood finishes add a rustic charm.

Conversely, strong and bold colours such as sage, teal, and midnight blue will add vibrancy and productivity, whereas neutral shades such as taupe, tan, and white are bright and inviting.

Related content: How to choose the perfect paint colour for any room.

Simple furniture for a small summer house

Keep your summer house simple and minimalist by creating a seating area for sitting back and sipping on tea (or vino!)

Let the view of your garden do the work, especially if you have a smaller structure; just make sure you’re as comfortable as possible.

As pictured, this summer house is cosy, calming, and simplistic. It doesn’t ask any more of you than to switch off, regardless of whether it’s beating sunshine or wet and windy outside.

Looking for a summer house installation expert?

If you’re inspired to start planning your perfectly formed summer house, look no further than our leading directory of tradespeople to find expert help. We always recommend getting at least three quotes before you hire. Use our request a quote form to help simplify the process.