If you’re still trying to work from the corner of your bedroom next to the laundry pile and a full-sized rowing machine, you’re not alone — but you might be behind the times.
A new wave of UK homeowners are ditching the spare room and heading down the garden. Garden rooms — once a luxury for the wealthy — have gone mainstream. And they’re not just sheds with fairy lights anymore.
We’re talking fully insulated, wired-up, double-glazed spaces that feel more like mini houses than outbuildings. Some are sleek home offices, others are art studios, yoga retreats, or just quiet corners where the kids aren’t.
According to recent data from multiple estate agents, demand for properties with a usable garden building has nearly doubled in the past 18 months.
So, what’s behind the boom?
Why Everyone Wants One
The answer’s a mix of lifestyle changes, rising energy bills, and a craving for more personal space. Since the pandemic blurred the lines between home and work, many of us discovered we don’t need more house — we need better use of space. Enter the humble garden room.
Here’s why they’re trending so hard:
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They’re cheaper than an extension – No knocking through walls or moving radiators.
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They rarely need planning permission – Most fall under permitted development.
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They add value – Estate agents are starting to list garden rooms as selling points.
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They offer proper separation – Work out there, live in here. Peace at last.
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They’re DIYable – Flat-pack kits, timber frame builds, even upcycled cabins.
It’s not just about remote work, either. Families are converting garden rooms into teenage hangouts, guest pods, music studios, and even Airbnb rentals.
DIY Appeal: Build It Your Way
For DIYers, garden rooms are the holy grail — a big, rewarding build with tons of custom potential. Whether you go prefab or start from scratch, you’ve got total control over the size, materials, layout, and budget.
There’s a whole world of garden room styles out there, but the most popular builds tend to include:
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Timber cladding with EPDM or corrugated roofs
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Glazed French or bifold doors
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Underfloor or electric panel heating
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Insulated stud walls and internal OSB or plasterboard finish
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Solar panels and battery storage for off-grid setups
And let’s not forget one of the best perks: you get to build something without worrying about structural integration into your main home. No brick-matching nightmares, no council debates over chimney stacks. Just wood, nails, and vibes.
Is It Worth the Money?
Short answer: yes — but only if you do it right. A professionally built garden room can cost anywhere between £10,000 and £30,000, depending on finish. DIYers, though, are pulling it off for under £6k — sometimes even less with reclaimed materials and a bit of creative problem-solving.
Done well, a garden room adds serious function and even resale value. Done badly (read: leaky roof, draughty panels, no insulation), you’ve just built an expensive regret hut.
It’s worth taking your time with design, ventilation, and weatherproofing. And don’t skimp on electrics — hire a qualified sparky for the hookup, even if you’re doing the rest yourself.
Final Thoughts
Garden rooms are here to stay. They’re practical, personal, and — crucially — outside the house. Whether you want a writing den, a place to scream into a pillow, or just a warm space for a post-lawnmower beer, the trend makes total sense.
If you’re looking for a summer project with lasting payoff, this might be your next great build. Your spare room won’t miss you.
