Garden Buildings & Outdoor Living

A summerhouse is a good spot to take in the view on a nice day. A log cabin? That can take on the same function if it has sufficiently thick walls. Generally, 44mm logs are a good place to start for wall thickness if you want to use it during the off-season. As for pods, they’re basically smaller versions of a summerhouse, and a somewhat exaggerated curve usually commands a higher price.

Regardless of what you end up buying, a good base is essential. A sub-par base will have your shed/summerhouse leaning and a closed door in no time.

Planning permission

A garden building is considered an outbuilding and a garden room. Many outbuildings are permitted under permitted development. If you are located in England, the following conditions must be met.

· The outbuilding is situated behind the principal elevation of the dwelling house.

· The outbuilding is not higher than 2.5 meters and the eaves must be higher than 2.5 meters.

· The outbuilding must not exceed 4 meters in height if it is covered by a dual pitch roof. If it is covered by a different roof it must not exceed 3 meters in height.

· The outbuilding must not exceed 2.5 meters in height if it is situated within 2 meters of the boundary of the land.

· The outbuilding must not be placed on more than 50% of the land surrounding the dwelling house.

· The outbuilding must not be used as a bedroom.

If your property is a listed building, you will need to receive planning permission to build any outbuilding. The same conditions apply to properties in a conservation area. Most new housing estates have a condition which prevents unapproved outbuilding development for a number of years after the property was built.

If you wish to build an outbuilding, you must seek planning permission to ensure you receive the correct conditions and restrictions.

Greenhouses

Greenhouses can be a good investment if you use the space. Many people like to grow different kinds of plants or crops in them. If your greenhouse becomes a storage area, that space is being wasted. Make sure your greenhouse is in a good location and has adequate water and drainage systems before constructing it.

Awnings and Gazebos

Patio awnings are a good way to provide shade over a seating or eating area without having to build a more permanent structure. Awnings should not be left out in the wind, as they can be damaged. Like a patio awning, a gazebo can be placed anywhere in the yard, as long as it is not obstructing other things.

Outdoor Kitchens

Provided that it is built near the house, an outdoor kitchen can be a good addition to a house. Outdoor kitchens can be expensive to build and are essentially a large grill, which may only be used for a short time.

Storage

Before building a large shed, think about what you are going to store in it. Less permanent structures can also be good storage options. A covered storage area can also be good for keeping food and trash storage areas clear of pests.