Published: 24/04/2023
Our gardens are often an oasis of calm and relaxation – or at least they should be! A space to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and to hide from our everyday responsibilities occasionally. But what if we could take our outdoor living to the next level? What if we could create a space that not only enhances the beauty of our garden but also provides a practical and functional purpose? That's where outdoor buildings come in. Whether you want a space to entertain guests, work from home, or enjoy nature, there are many options to suit your needs. They are an excellent way to create an inviting outdoor living area and bring a whole new meaning to the great outdoors.Let’s explore the various options for outdoor buildings that can enhance a garden space, whatever your taste…
Summer Houses: Summer houses are a popular choice for those who want to create additional living space in their garden…space that can be used all year round. It is all about bringing the indoors outdoors. These buildings are versatile and can be used for various purposes, such as a home office, a gym, a playroom, or simply as a peaceful retreat. Many companies offer a range of designs and sizes, so you can choose a summer house that suits your garden space and needs…the world of summer houses really is your oyster!
Gazebos: Gazebos are an elegant and stylish addition to any garden. These outdoor buildings provide shelter from the sun and rain, making them the perfect place to enjoy a meal or a drink with friends and family. They are also the ideal place to sit alone and enjoy some escapism from everyday life – like the laundry! A gazebo is an excellent option for someone who may not have the space or budget for a summer house but still wants to enhance their garden to its full potential. Just because you have a lower budget, it doesn’t mean you should miss out; it just means you need to be more creative.
Garden Sheds: Garden sheds are an affordable way to add extra storage space to your garden. They can store gardening tools, equipment, bicycles, outdoor furniture, and other items that can clutter your garden or garage. Once upon a time, they were considered an eyesore, but nowadays, you can choose one that complements your garden's aesthetic. Many even use them as an alternative to a summer house; with the right imagination, anything is possible. Times have changed in the world of sheds…they aren’t just a place for Dad to hide away now!
Greenhouses: If you're a keen gardener, a greenhouse could be the perfect addition to your garden. These structures allow you to grow a range of plants, fruits, and vegetables all year round, regardless of the weather, as they provide a controlled environment that protects plants from pests and other outdoor elements. It’s a great way to grow your own produce, not to mention a fantastic thing to do with your children. Getting them outdoors and learning about nature is priceless.
Playhouses: A playhouse can provide hours of entertainment and fun for families with young children. These buildings can be customized to include swings, slides, and other fun features children will love. Playhouses are a great way to encourage children to spend more time outdoors and to develop their imagination and creativity. And if the adults want to join in, then why not. Don’t let us stop you…
You’ve picked your outdoor building but what next?
Once you've chosen your outdoor building, it's important to use it to its full potential. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your new outdoor space. But remember that this is your chance to get creative so think outside the box and make it personal to you:
Create a theme and make the space comfortable - Whether you want a tranquil and peaceful space or a fun and lively area, you can create a theme that suits your needs. Add seating and heating to ensure you can use your building all year round, and add decorative items to make your outdoor building feel like an extension of your home. It is all about having fun and making it your little haven. This is the exciting part, so enjoy every second! Add lighting and create some atmosphere - Outdoor buildings can be used in the evening as well as during the day. Add lighting to your building and the surrounding area to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Lighting can transform it into a beautiful, functional space at night, which means enjoying those long summer evenings. Install lights inside your outdoor building for a cosy hideaway, or add outdoor lighting to highlight the structure and its surroundings. Scrap that…do both!
Sustainable Materials - Sustainability is an important consideration when it comes to outdoor buildings. When choosing materials for your outdoor building, consider using sustainable options. Look for environmentally friendly materials made from renewable resources, such as bamboo, recycled plastic, or reclaimed wood. This not only reduces waste but also reduces the need for new materials to be produced. What about solar panels? They can be installed on outdoor buildings to generate renewable energy. We certainly aren’t here to preach, but this is your opportunity to make a difference, so it’s worth considering.
Outdoor buildings can be a wonderful addition to any garden space; from summer houses to playhouses, there is a range of options to suit everyone. By using sustainable materials, you can create a beautiful and eco-friendly space that provides a private space for couples, a relaxing retreat for retirees, or a fun play area for families. Furthermore, outdoor buildings can bring many benefits beyond simply enhancing your garden space; they can also increase the value of your property… who wouldn’t want that?!
When choosing the right outdoor building for your garden, it's essential to think about your needs and preferences. Consider factors such as size, style, materials, and functionality, as well as your budget and available space. Why not explore the options and see how an outdoor building could bring something new to your life? Most importantly, have fun…a garden building is on most homeowners’ bucket lists, so if you can make your dream a reality, grab it with both hands.