Planning permission
Provided you stay within permitted development guidelines, you do not usually need planning permission. If you live in a house, the rules allow garden rooms with a flat roof no higher than 2.5m. Unfortunately the same rules do not apply if you are in a flat or converted house. However planning approval is usually straightforward and we can assist you.
The following link has more information:
www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission/commonprojects/outbuildings
How long does it take?
We can build your room in around 6-8 weeks, depending on design and time of year, as weather can be a factor. Also windows and doors can take time to order. As long as decisions on these are made early on in the process, we can stick to planned timescales.
How much does it cost?
This really depends on your requirements. A fully insulated building with electricity, bifold doors, plaster finished walls, and cedar cladding starts at around £20k, but can be more depending on your requirements. This may sound expensive, but when you compare this cost with a loft conversion or house extension, it is good value, less disruptive, and is much quicker to build.
Will it be warm and dry?
Many basic wooden garden buildings are just large timber sheds or summer houses. They are lovely in summer, but cold and damp in winter. We build fully waterproof with insulated walls, floors, and roofs, to a similar standard as a loft conversion. We install armoured cable from the house to an electric consumer unit, meaning that you can have minimal heating and use the room all year round, as the heat is not lost through the walls or ceiling.
HOw do i choose a design?
We can work from your ideas, photos, sketches or we can employ an architect or designer. As each room is built on site to your requirements, the only limit is your imagination and budget. If you like one of our previous builds, let us know and we can use that as a basis for your plans.
WILL I need a concrete base?
Our buildings are timber framed and usually sit on steel ground screws. This means you do not need a heavy expensive concrete base which adds to the cost and timescale. Installing ground screws involves drilling a series of screws into the ground for the timber frame to sit on. This can usually be achieved in a day. Concrete is very effective but not the best material for the environment, and is also messy and disruptive if it has to come through your house.
Can I have cedar cladding?
Of course. Or any other type of cladding you like. Take a look in the gallery and inspiration sections for different finishes. Our rooms can be clad in any material to match your taste and budget. Usually we opt for the more attractive (and expensive!) on the visible front and side elevations. For the back and hidden sides, we tend to use a cheaper but very durable low maintenance material.
What will it look like?
Some clients need a little help to visualise the end product. We can produce some 3d images to make life easier:
More information
If you would like to know more about our garden buildings please complete the following: