Garden space is in high demand. A new generation of homeowners are eager to have their own natural respite, one they can enjoy all year round, and it is driving up the price of homes around the UK. As a result, homeowners are looking for ways to maximise their return on investment, extracting as much value from their new outdoor space as they possibly can. This means changing the way we typically think about garden spaces.
One of the most popular targets of this transformation is the garden shed. No longer sought after for storage space, a development perhaps associated with the mainstream popularity of minimalism, sheds are altogether beginning to be replaced with different spaces and structures, one of the most popular of which is the summer house.
Moreso than storage, having a space dedicated to relaxation, a room that embraces its natural surroundings more than any other location in a property, is incredibly valuable for enjoyment and wellness. Historically, however, decadent summer houses have been a luxury beyond the reach of many, not only for the space they require but also for their cost. This has now changed and summer homes, as well as many garden outbuilding varieties, have now become more affordable than ever before.
To begin, you must empty your shed and identify exactly what work is needed to begin the transformation. If your shed isn’t already big enough to become your ideal summer house space, then you need to look at extending its floorplan or altogether replacing the structure. Be sure to look for structural issues too since the interior will be occupied by yourself and not solely inanimate objects. If there are any holes or cracks, the environment will be far from comfortable and could even result in damage.
Once your structure is ready, you should begin building the foundations of a robust environment. This means potentially adding insulation and soundproofing, depending on your intended use, or adding a new floor. Most sheds will make do with a basic wooden floor, one that is not appropriate for summer home relaxation. A more appropriate choice would be tile, vinyl, or carpet. Once you have made your decision, then it’s time to begin painting and decorating.
While this stage of the summer house design process is generally the most fun, it is important to keep in mind that your outbuilding will be subjected to various weather conditions and should therefore be designed with versatility and resilience in mind. Be sure to install appropriate windows and to protect your external paint appropriately. Wood treatments and waterproofing materials are essential investments that will prevent greater costs later down the line.
Once your new summer home is complete, it’s time to decorate! This means adding in the furniture and furnishings that will transform the new room into a desirable space, one that you will want to revel in all year round because, despite the name, an appropriately designed summer house is the ideal way to enjoy your garden no matter the season or climate.
