Your Guide to Planning & Building a Garden Room Extension in the UK
May 7, 2024
Considering expanding your living space without committing to a full-scale extension? A garden room extension might be the perfect solution for you. These versatile outbuildings offer a stylish way to expand your living area without sacrificing precious garden space.
This guide covers all you need to know about garden room extensions in the UK, including types, planning, and year-round use tips.
Pros and Cons of Garden Room Extensions
Pros:
Increased living space: Acquire additional space for a home office, gym, playroom, or guest room.
More affordable: Typically cheaper than a full house extension.
Faster construction: Builders often construct garden rooms quicker than traditional extensions.
Less disruption: Construction usually occurs within the garden.
Year-round enjoyment of your garden: Creates a comfortable space to connect with nature, even in bad weather.
Potentially adds value: A well-designed garden room can be a selling point for potential buyers.
Cons:
Planning permission: Some garden rooms qualify for permitted development, but larger or more complex ones might need planning approval.
Limited size: Have size restrictions compared to traditional extensions.
Potential impact on neighbours: Consider if the design might block light or views for your neighbours.
Maintenance: Requires ongoing maintenance depending on the materials used.
Planning Your Garden Room Extension
Permitted Development vs. Planning Permission:
You can often build garden rooms without needing planning permission under permitted development rights, but remember there are limitations.Here are some factors that might trigger the need for planning permission:
Size: The maximum floor area for a detached garden room under permitted development is usually 25 square metres.
Height: The maximum height is typically 2.5 metres from the eaves (the horizontal line where the roof meets the wall).
Location: Extensions close to boundaries or in conservation areas might require permission.
For further assistance, don't hesitate to contact STAAC. Our team is here to provide expert advice!
Different Types of Garden Room Extensions
Conservatories: Abundant natural light, proneness to temperature extremes.
Orangeries: Enhanced insulation compared to conservatories, while maintaining luminosity and spaciousness.
Lean-to extensions: Affordable option for smaller gardens.
Brick-built rooms: Permanent, solid extension that matches your house.
Garden pods: Pre-fabricated, quick to install and affordable.
Modular rooms: Pre-built with flexible size and configuration options.
Greenhouses: For plants and relaxation surrounded by greenery.
Studio rooms: Designed for creative activities, with good light and soundproofing.
Garden Room Extension Cost
Here's a general ballpark to help you budget:
Lean-to extension: Lean-to extension starts at around £1,500 per square meter, a budget-friendly option often made from timber or uPVC.
Standard garden room: Standard garden rooms may cost between £1,650 to £1,800 per square meter. They are typically well-insulated and offer a broader range of design options.
Bespoke garden room: Tailored garden rooms cost over £2,000 per square meter, showcasing superior craftsmanship and sophisticated finishes.
Garden Room Extension Ideas
Here are a few garden room extension ideas to get you started:
Insulation: For comfortable use throughout the year, good insulation is key. Consider double-glazed windows and insulated walls and flooring.
Heating and Cooling: You may want to install electric heaters, air conditioning, or a heat pump system.
Ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential to prevent condensation and maintain good air quality. Opt for opening windows and vents, or consider a ventilation system.
Garden-Facing Extension Considerations: Consider your desired natural light and its impact on your garden layout.
Neighbor's Extension Overshadowing My Garden: Factor in how neighboring or future extensions may impact sunlight reaching your garden room.
Get a Free Quote for Your Garden Room Extension
STAAC Design & Build is a top choice for your extension:
Stress-Free Extension: Enjoy a smooth experience with reliable builders who prioritize deadlines.
Award-Winning Quality: STAAC uses only the best materials and proven techniques to create stunning, functional garden rooms.
Local Expertise: Leverage STAAC's years of experience and in-depth knowledge of local regulations.
A well-designed garden room can add value to your home, especially if it creates a desirable extra living space. However, the exact value increase can vary depending on several factors, including:
Location: Popular areas tend to boost property value more than less attractive ones.
Construction Quality: A sturdy, well-insulated garden room adds more value than a simple one.
Design Harmony: A garden room that matches your home's style increases its value.
Market Demand: In areas with high demand for extra space, a garden room becomes a strong selling point.
Q&A: Garden Room Extensions in the UK
Q: What are the different types of garden room extensions available?
A: There are several options to consider, each with its own advantages:
Timber garden rooms: A popular choice, offering a natural aesthetic and good insulation properties.
UPVC garden rooms: Known for being affordable, low-maintenance, and weatherproof.
Brick-built garden rooms: A more permanent option that seamlessly integrates with your existing house.
Glass & aluminium garden rooms: Create a light and airy feel, maximizing your connection to the garden.
Q: Are there any specific considerations for attaching a garden room extension to my house?
A: Absolutely! Here are some additional things to keep in mind when planning a garden room extension attached to your house:
Building regulations: Connecting a garden room likely means involving the existing house structure. This could prompt more building regulations concerning waterproofing, thermal insulation, and fire safety
Impact on the house: Consider how the extension will connect to the house. Will there be a doorway cut into an existing wall? Ensure the structural integrity of the house is maintained.
Matching aesthetics: Think about how the design of the garden room will complement the style of your house. You might want to use similar materials or colour schemes to create a cohesive look.
Utilities: Will you need to run electricity, plumbing, or heating from the house to the garden room? Factor in the cost and potential disruption of installing these utilities.
Ventilation and condensation: Connecting the garden room can create new airflow patterns. Ensure proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and condensation, especially if the extension isn't well-insulated.
Transform Your Garden With STAAC
Our local experts will guide you through the entire process, ensuring your space meets all building regulations. Get a free quote for your dream room!
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