Since 2020, garden rooms have gone from a ‘nice to have’ to an absolute must-have. Whether you’re after a quiet space to work, a dedicated home gym, or a cosy art studio tucked at the end of the garden, building your own outdoor retreat is more popular than ever. But before you start dreaming about paint colours and plush rugs, there’s a whole checklist of practical bits to think through first.
Here’s a handy guide to keep your garden room build on track – from the ground up.
Planning & Permissions
Most garden rooms don’t need planning permission, but there are exceptions – especially if you’re adding plumbing, electrics, or planning to sleep in it. Always double-check with your local council. It’s better to ask early than fix mistakes later.
Foundations Matter
Even the prettiest garden room will struggle if it’s built on poor foundations. Consider a solid concrete base or ground screws, depending on your soil and size of the room. Make sure it’s level, durable, and ready to support whatever you’re planning to use the space for.
Structural Framework
This is where things get serious. Your framework is the skeleton of the whole build, and it needs to be strong. Most garden rooms use timber frames, which are lightweight and efficient – but only if properly secured.
You’ll want joist hangers from Speedy Fixings to keep your timber frame solid – especially if your garden room doubles as a gym, workshop, or storage space. They provide essential support and help keep everything aligned and stable long-term.
Insulation & Cladding
If you plan to use your garden room all year round, proper insulation is key. Floor, wall, and roof insulation will make a big difference in both comfort and energy efficiency. Pair this with weather-resistant cladding, such as cedar, and you’re onto a winner.
Electrics & Lighting
Want sockets, overhead lights, or Wi-Fi in your new space? You’ll need to factor in cabling early on. It’s best to work with a qualified electrician – especially for outdoor connections. And don’t forget to plan for future tech needs, not just what you use today.
Final Touches
Once the structure is up, it’s time to make it yours. Paint, flooring, storage, heating – this is where you get to style your garden room exactly how you want it.
Whether you’re going full office mode or creating a weekend retreat, every dreamy garden room starts with solid planning – and solid fixings. With the right foundation (literally and structurally), your outdoor escape can be as beautiful as it is practical.
