Garden rooms have exploded in popularity since the pandemic lockdowns with people working from home and becoming accustomed to staying home. Garden rooms offer flexible options for people to maximise their living space.
Transforming outdoor living spaces into tranquil and inviting sanctuaries with gazebos and arbours has been common for summer use. But the right garden building can offer a unique blend of functionality and aesthetics, and cater to diverse needs and preferences… be it relaxation, work or entertainment.
Garden rooms provide an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. They seamlessly integrate with the natural surroundings of your garden, and generally have a different feel when compared to your main home.
So whether it’s a cosy reading pod surrounded by lush greenery, or a fully-equipped home garden office with panoramic views, these spaces should be designed to enhance well-being and promote relaxation.
Here at OGEL we know garden rooms have become essential elements of contemporary outdoor living, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal to create harmonious and inviting environments for relaxation, work and entertainment alike.
Garden room design ideas
Here are some of the most popular and creative ways to use your garden room space.
Garden studio
There are a myriad of benefits to being ‘arty’ in a garden studio…
It’s a versatile and inspiring space that seamlessly integrates with the natural environment.
It’s a dedicated area for creative pursuits that’s easy for you to close the door on and know it won’t be disturbed.
It offers solitude and tranquillity away from the distractions of indoor living, and if you’re a musician or like to play your music loud, it gives your family some peace and quiet!
In terms of interior design ideas, maximising natural light is key to creating an inviting and uplifting atmosphere. Large windows, skylights and glass doors can flood the space with sunlight, enhancing the sense of openness and connection to the outdoors.
Try to bring the garden into the studio with items such as indoor plants and natural materials. Using earthy colour palettes – be it fabrics or pictures – can further blur the boundaries between inside and outside, creating a harmonious and rejuvenating space.
When it comes to furnishing options, versatility and comfort are paramount.
Modular furniture that can be easily rearranged or folded away allows for flexible use of space and caters to different activities and preferences. Ergonomic workstations and ample storage solutions will help optimise functionality, while maintaining a stylish and clutter-free aesthetic.
Additionally, integrating smart technology and eco-friendly features can enhance the sustainability and efficiency of your garden studio.
Garden games room
A garden games room offers numerous benefits as a versatile and entertaining space that enhances outdoor living. It provides a dedicated area for leisure activities, encouraging social interaction and bonding among friends and family. Plus it doesn’t matter if you make lots of noise or need peace and quiet, as you can’t hear other people and they can’t hear you.
When it comes to interior design ideas for your garden games room, creativity is key to transforming the space into a vibrant and inviting atmosphere. Consider themed decor such as vintage arcade machines, colourful wall murals or retro-inspired furniture to evoke a sense of nostalgia and fun… just make sure that if you’re putting in a pool table, you have room to use the cue!
Garden music studio
Anyone whose child has started to learn the violin will tell you musical instrument practice is not a popular spectator event.
Therefore a garden music studio provides a perfect retreat for musicians, offering a dedicated space for practice and creativity amidst nature’s tranquillity.
The interior should include soundproofing materials for optimal acoustics. A good garden music studio should be packed with inspiring decor, such as musical-themed artwork or instruments displayed as art pieces.
It’s important to have comfortable seating for relaxation, collaboration and be ergonomically suitable.
Furnishing options should encompass workstations, storage solutions for instruments and equipment, and customizable lighting to enhance mood and focus. A big advantage of the OGEL system is that heavy equipment such as speakers can be easily and safely screwed or bolted to the walls.
Home garden gym
A home garden gym offers convenience, privacy and the opportunity to exercise in a natural environment, enhancing overall well-being.
Garden gym pods eliminate the cost and time involved in commuting to a crowded gym, while promoting consistency in fitness routines… you can exercise at a time to suit you, not the gym owner.
When it comes to laying out a home garden gym, we’d recommend installing large windows or skylights to maximise natural light and ensure that you have adequate ventilation. Depending on the activities being undertaken in the gym, a full-length mirror is often a good idea.
One area that home garden gym owners often overlook is the floor strength and we strongly recommend ‘sistering’ floor joists for maximum strength.
Floor space is often at a premium, so being able to wall or shelf mount equipment – such as adjustable dumbbells, resistance bands and yoga mats –is also a must.
Ensuring the interior is light and bright, ideally with wipe-down walls and hard-to-damage downlights, is also a key consideration.
Garden home office room
A garden home office room for work from home’s or hybrid workers offers a plethora of benefits including:
- Increased productivity
- Reduced commuting stress
- Enhanced work/life balance
Working amidst nature fosters creativity and concentration, leading to improved job satisfaction and overall well-being.
Creative interior ideas for a garden home office room involve creating a productive work environment, so design elements such as indoor plants, natural materials like wood or stone, and large windows to bring in ample natural light are paramount.
Ensure desks, chairs and monitors are ergonomically thought out for maximum comfort, and if possible space-wise, consider a soft seating area for a break from the screen.
As most workers require an internet connection, give some thought to technology integration for seamless connectivity.
We have a dedicated blog on garden home offices if you would like to read further on the topic.
Garden bar
At OGEL, we hear many reasons for having a garden bar but our favourite is ‘I’ll know I’ve made it when I have one’. It’s hard to argue with that!
But having a garden bar offers a myriad of other benefits:
- It creates a designated space for relaxation and enjoyment
- It allows hosts to entertain guests in a laid-back atmosphere while enjoying the beauty of their garden
- A garden bar fosters a sense of community and camaraderie, making gatherings more memorable and enjoyable
- It keeps noise and mess in a discrete area without impacting the main residence too much
Consider incorporating rustic elements like reclaimed wood or stone accents to evoke a cosy and inviting ambience. String lights or lanterns can add a charming touch, while comfortable seating options like bar stools or lounge chairs encourage guests to linger and unwind.
Furnishing options for a garden bar may include a built-in counter or portable bar cart for serving drinks, shelving units or cabinets for storage, and a mini-fridge or cooler to keep beverages cold.
Additionally, consider adding a canopy or pergola for shade and protection from the elements, ensuring year-round enjoyment of your outdoor bar space.
Garden yoga studio
The mental and physical benefits of yoga are well known but practising it at home comes with its disadvantages… such as disturbing other people as you downward dog in the living room, not having the space to stretch out in the dining room or not having an adequate mirror to check posture.
Having a garden yoga studio negates many of these problems, as well as creating other benefits:
- Promotes physical and mental well-being in a serene outdoor setting
- The fresh air and natural surroundings create a rejuvenating atmosphere, facilitating deeper relaxation and focus during yoga sessions
- Space to adequately stretch out
- Ability to install a full-length mirror
When creating the best environment for your garden yoga studio, consider adding calming elements to the room. Our top recommendations include:
- dimmable lighting
- water features wind chimes
- use natural materials, such as bamboo or rattan for decor
- adding greenery to enhance the sense of peace and serenity
As with other garden room spaces, giving thought to furnishings is important to avoid costly mistakes, especially when the studio serves a number of uses. Think about equipment storage solutions, the ability to hang yoga mats up to avoid annoying curling… and don’t forget comfortable cushions or bolsters for meditation.
With thoughtful design and furnishings, a garden yoga studio becomes a sacred space for holistic wellness. It allows practitioners to nourish their mind, body and spirit in harmony with nature.
Garden man caves or she sheds
They go by a cornucopia of names… man caves (obviously), dude dens, bro bunkers (for our American cousins) and, for the female of the species, she sheds… but they are all basically the same thing: a dedicated space for relaxation and leisure activities away from the hustle and bustle of the main house.
They allow you to unwind, pursue hobbies and entertain guests in a private setting, surrounded by nature’s tranquillity.
The interior for a garden man cave should incorporate elements like wooden accents or stone features, along with masculine decor such as sports memorabilia, vintage signs or automotive-themed artwork.
For a she shed, this could be soft colours like pastels or neutrals to create a serene atmosphere, comfortable seating and possibly even a reading nook.
Furnishing options can include comfortable seating like recliners or bean bags, a built-in bar for refreshments and entertainment systems for watching movies or playing games.
Additionally, adding outdoor heating or a firepit allows for year-round enjoyment of the space.
With thoughtful design and furnishings, a garden man cave becomes a cherished sanctuary for relaxation and recreation in the comfort of one’s back garden.
Garden room themes to consider
Most garden rooms are a blank canvas (usually white) that you can decorate and furnish to your own taste. Here are a few ideas…
Rustic retreat
Trying to create a rustic retreat theme? Then opt for natural and weathered materials to evoke a cosy and inviting atmosphere. For wall coverings, consider reclaimed wood panelling or stone veneer for that shabby chic look.
Furnishings should feature distressed or antique pieces with earthy tones and textures like leather or rough-hewn wood.
When it comes to lighting, it could include wrought iron chandeliers, lantern-style pendant lights or vintage-inspired sconces to enhance the rustic ambience.
For floor coverings, consider hardwood or good quality laminate, natural fibre rugs or distressed tile to add warmth and character.
Overall, aim for a harmonious blend of rustic elements to create a charming and timeless hideaway.
Modern minimalism
A modern look is possibly the easiest to create for most garden rooms.
Aim for clean lines and simplicity in your design choices. Opt for neutral walls, such as plain white or light grey paint, to create a sense of spaciousness.
Furnishings should always be sleek and uncluttered, with a focus on functionality and minimal ornamentation, and try to use lighting – such as pendant lights or downlights – with clean geometric shapes to enhance the minimalist aesthetic.
The floor can include hardwood or polished concrete for a seamless look. Keep accessories to a minimum to maintain a sense of openness and simplicity, resulting in a sleek and contemporary space.
Bohemian oasis
When trying to create the opulence of the bohemian vibe, embrace vibrant colours, eclectic patterns and global influences.
On the walls, opt for colourful tapestries, textured wallpapers or hand-painted murals.
When looking for furniture, feature a mix of vintage and handmade pieces with rich fabrics like velvet and woven textiles.
Lighting is key so incorporate Moroccan lanterns, string lights or beaded chandeliers for added ambience.
Likewise, floor coverings should include layered rugs, patterned tiles or natural fibre mats to enhance the bohemian theme… all resulting in a relaxed and inviting space.
Coastal haven
Is coastal your thing? Then aim for a light and airy aesthetic reminiscent of beachside living.
On your walls go for soft hues like pale blues, sandy beige or crisp white to evoke the tranquillity of the seaside.
Furnishings should feature natural materials such as rattan, wicker or distressed wood, accented with nautical elements like rope or seashells.
Go for lighting options that mimic the glow of sunlight reflecting off the water, such as glass pendant lights or coastal-inspired table lamps.
And when it comes to the floor, try to include sisal or jute rugs for a beachy texture… all adding up to give your coastal retreat a serene and relaxed ambience.
Zen garden
Simplicity and serenity is the key. Neutral walls – in light beige or soft grey – create a calming backdrop.
Minimalist furniture with clean lines and natural materials, such as bamboo or low-profile seating.
Lighting should be soft and diffused, so paper lanterns or recessed fixtures will enhance relaxation. On the floor put tatami mats or natural fibre rugs for a grounding effect.
Keep the space uncluttered and balanced to evoke a tranquil Zen garden atmosphere.
A Bonsai tree in a pot is also a nice touch.
Cottage chic
Go for a cosy and charming aesthetic with vintage-inspired touches. Take inspiration from Laura Ashley by wall coverings in soft, pastel colours or floral wallpapers for a nostalgic feel.
Furnishings should be shabby chic and feature distressed or painted wood finishes, adorned with feminine details like ruffles or lace. Opt for romantic lighting options such as chandeliers with crystal accents or delicate sconces.
Floor coverings can include hardwood floors with floral area rugs or vintage-inspired carpets.
Be eclectic with a mix of old and new pieces to create a welcoming and lived-in atmosphere… perfect for a cottage retreat.
Greenery galore
Embrace the beauty of nature indoors with walls in earthy tones or botanical wallpaper to bring the outdoors in.
Ensure furnishings feature natural materials like wood and rattan, complemented by leafy green upholstery or accents.
Be careful to have lighting that mimics natural sunlight, such as pendant lights with woven shades or floor lamps with bamboo detailing. Floor coverings can include bamboo mats for added texture and warmth.
Using plenty of indoor plants and botanical prints is key to create a lush and inviting atmosphere, transforming your space into a greenery filled sanctuary.
Garden room feature ideas
Sometimes it’s the little things that add the final touches to a garden room. They can be integral to the garden room or just adjacent to it.
Here are some ideas to whet your appetite:
Skylight splendor
Consider putting in a skylight so you can enjoy the night sky and indulge in a bit of stargazing. This works very well in a quiet garden with minimal light pollution, but consider also putting in a blind to control the amount of light and heat during daytime.
Cosy fireplace corner
A fireplace in a plastic building? Yes it can be done with the correct shielding and use of a log burner. Or a firepit in the garden a sensible distance from the garden room works equally well.
Outdoor kitchenette
Create a convenient cooking space with a grill, sink and countertop incorporated in a gazebo – or similar – attached to your garden room.
Lounge area luxury
When it’s summertime, nobody wants to sit indoors. Unfortunately, this is the UK so having the option to go inside to shelter from a downpour is almost mandatory.
Comfortable rattan-style seating with removable, and ideally washable, soft cushions underneath a pergola adjacent to your garden room should work a treat. For the chilly spring and autumn nights, why not incorporate a firepit or brazier with some blankets to maximise usage of this area?
Small garden room ideas
Only got a small garden but still want to enjoy the outdoor room experience?
If the answer is yes, then OGEL will have a solution for you… with the smallest footprint of one of our buildings being only 1.6m x 2m for our solo pod office, which comes fully installed from £6999.
If this seems a little too ‘compact’ then something like a 3m x 2m garden room can accommodate a seating area, TV and a well-placed desk – if the layout is carefully thought about – which at prices starting from £9999 is much better value and less hassle than building a conservatory.
Uses for small garden rooms include:
- Craft studio
- 1 person yoga area
- 2 item cardio gym
- Discreet lounge
The secret with a small garden room is to maximise floor space so that the room doesn’t feel cluttered… good storage that maximises height is the key.
Modern garden room ideas
One of our clients, Dave, had maximised his garden for family use with bi-fold doors across the back of his detached property to really open up the house onto the garden.
Putting in a custom-built BBQ area was great for the family and friends get-togethers that form an extensive part of the home’s social network.
The final part of the jigsaw was the garden gym. Everything was laid with the stone pathway leading exactly to where the garden room was going to be with the final result being a stunning dream exercise studio.
Or should that be half exercise studio/half hangout pad… part way through the build Dave’s children came into the garden room and realised this was the ideal teenager den. Luckily, as the placement of sockets and switches had been well thought out, it was a simple task to lower the height of the flat screen TV to be exercise bike AND game console friendly!
Cheap garden room ideas on a budget
There are several ways to have a garden room without breaking the bank, but this does depend on a number of factors”
When do you want to use it?
If all you need is some extra storage gardening equipment then the 6’ x 3’ garden shed is fine as you’re not in there very often and when you are it tends to be in the summer months. But if you want a garden office that can be used in the middle of January, then a cold wooden potting outbuilding isn’t going to cut it because you’ll need something insulated.
What do you want to use it for?
To carry on with the shed example, having some low-cost storage for the lawnmower and other gardening equipment is one thing as the level of security needed is fairly low, you’ll not be spending an excessive amount of time in there and, when you do, it will tend to be in the spring and summer months.
A garden room, on the other hand, will be something that will be used for a much longer length of time… possibly into the winter so you’’ll want it to be waterproof, rodent-proof, light, airy and warm.
How much maintenance and repairs are you happy with?
Most garden rooms and outbuildings tend to be wood based so a certain amount of weatherproofing and painting is usually needed but what a lot of people do not realise is that wooden buildings rot from the ground up, which gives them a limited life even when built with the best of materials.
This is not a problem with an OGEL building… it’s practically maintenance-free and is certainly rot free!
DIY furniture
Instead of purchasing expensive outdoor furniture, consider building your own using inexpensive materials like cinder blocks and wooden planks.
You can also refurbish old furniture with a fresh coat of paint or new cushions. YouTube videos and Pinterest are great sources of inspiration and ‘how to’ videos.
DIY greenery
You’re in the garden so why not bring parts of it into the garden building? Grow your own plants from seeds or cuttings to save money on landscaping. You can also propagate plants from friends or neighbours to fill your garden room with lush greenery without spending a fortune.
Outdoor lighting
Create an ambience in your garden room with affordable outdoor lighting options such as string lights, solar-powered lanterns or LED candles. These can add a cosy atmosphere without requiring any electrical work.
Functional design
In our experience, most garden rooms are multi-use so make the most of your space by incorporating multifunctional furniture and storage solutions. For example, use a storage bench to provide seating and keep gardening supplies neatly tucked away.
Paint
A fresh coat of paint can instantly transform the look of your garden room. Choose light, bright colours to make the space feel larger and more inviting. Look for paint that is suitable for outdoor use to ensure durability.
Do-It-Yourself projects
Take on DIY projects like building a simple pergola or creating a vertical garden to enhance your garden room without spending a lot of money. There are plenty of tutorials and inspiration available online to help you get started… and they are a great way of adding to a smaller garden building
Things to consider when planning your garden room
Do I need planning permission for my garden room?
Garden rooms are typically not subject to planning permission requirements as they are considered ‘outbuildings’ under permitted development rights. This designation allows them to be constructed without the need for approval from local authorities. While specific regions like national parks may have their own restrictions on permitted development, OGEL can generally manage the application process on your behalf, alleviating any concerns you might have.
Contact us here…
How big can my garden room be?
Theoretically as big as you want though in practice all garden outbuilding would need to be less than 50% of the garden area available to fall within permitted development rules and avoid applying for planning permission.
Can I turn a garden room into a bedroom
Yes you can, BUT you will require planning permission as classed as ancillary use.
To read further on planning please read our blog Can I sleep in a garden room?
Is it cheaper to build or buy a garden room?
It’s fair to say that building something is always going to be financially cheaper than buying something, but it’s not normally as simple as that, especially when it comes to construction.
- Do you have construction skills?
- Do you have the tools?
- Have you got the time to spare?
In essence, it is a time and skills versus financial cost decision… which will always depend on the individual.
Do garden rooms add value to a house?
It is very rare for a garden room not to add value to a home but it very much depends on a number of factors.
What condition is the garden room in? If its a wooden dilapidated shed, a prospective buyer is just going to see the time and money cost of trying to get rid of it.
Does a prospective buyer have use for a garden room? Most buyers will view additional space as a positive, but if it comes at the expense of land that someone wants for a lawn or kitchen garden then it will be viewed as a disadvantage.
We have a blog dedicated to answering Do garden rooms add value to your property? If you want more information.
Additional living space
A garden room provides valuable additional living space without the need for a costly extension. This extra room can be used for a variety of purposes such as a home office, gym, guest accommodation, hobby room or entertainment area. The versatility of the space adds appeal to potential buyers who may be seeking flexible living arrangements.
Enhanced lifestyle
A well-designed garden room enhances your lifestyle by offering a retreat within your own property. It provides a tranquil space where you can relax, unwind, and enjoy the beauty of your garden. This lifestyle enhancement can increase the overall desirability of the property.
Improved kerb appeal
A thoughtfully designed garden room can enhance the visual appeal of a property from both inside and outside. It serves as an attractive focal point in the garden, adding interest and character to the outdoor space. Enhanced kerb appeal can make your property more appealing to potential buyers and contribute to a higher resale value.
Potential rental income
Subject to the correct planning permission, you may choose to rent out your garden room as a separate living space or short-term accommodation to provide an additional source of income. The ability to generate rental income adds financial value to the property and can contribute to a higher valuation.
