Creating a garden office

‘When asked to name the single best thing about having a garden office, nearly all of our members say it’s the commute,’ says Damian Keady, one of our home improvement experts. ‘True, you may occasionally be delayed by the need to do some weeding or by the arrival of some interesting garden birds, but not one member has yet told me that they’d prefer to be on the tube or stuck in a traffic jam.’

The benefits

There are plenty of other important advantages too. As well as saving you time and stress, garden offices save the environment a great deal of energy – first by cutting out all that mileage and second because they are generally far more efficient than conventional office buildings. They can also add considerable value to your home – while costing far less than a conventional extension or buying a house with enough rooms in it for you to work inside. Most importantly, they create a good working environment. They free you from the usual home-worker distractions of children and family pets – and clear your living space of any sign of work.

The choice

‘Often the most difficult consideration with regard to garden offices isn’t whether to go for one, but what sort to go for,’ says Damian . ‘Our experts are on hand to help you find the best fit for the space and budget you have available.’

‘Garden office design has really blossomed in the past few years,’ Damian adds. ‘There are dozens of great companies out there offering really innovative and interesting spaces. You can buy a handcrafted traditional shepherd’s hut that looks like it’s just rolled off the pages of a Thomas Hardy novel and comes equipped with its own pot-bellied stove. Or you could get a swish, glass-fronted cube inspired by Le Corbusier that comes equipped with wireless internet and under-floor heating. Other options include a mini log cabin, ultra-modern pod, or simply a high-end garden shed. Whatever takes your fancy, there’s likely to be an office that fits, and our experts will help you find it.

Going bespoke and getting permission

As well as buying from bespoke companies, many of our members have employed architects to design them something tailored to their needs and situation. Plenty more have saved money by planning and building their own project. Our experts can help with both options, and can put you in touch with the best architects in your area. They will also happily talk you through the best design practice and offer advice on how to rig up heating and electric wiring – or find reputable professionals to do so.

Finally, our experts are also on hand to advise you about the issue of planning permission. ‘Planning shouldn’t actually cause you too much heartache or hassle,’ Damian says. ‘The beauty of garden offices is that they normally don't show up on the local council's radar. It’s always worth playing safe though, especially if you live in a conservation area, so do ask our experts for advice. But so long as the structure isn’t too close to your house, it doesn’t look too permanent and you aren't planning on living in it, your garden office should be fine. It will be your refuge, bolt-hole and place you can really get things done. And it will be just a few easy steps from your back door.’