What are some common mistakes to avoid when building a garden office?

What are some common mistakes to avoid when building a garden office?

When you need an office close by, a garden office can be a great choice. These are standalone structures typically located in a backyard or garden area, designed to serve as home offices, creative studios, or additional living spaces.

  • Home Office: Many people use garden offices as a dedicated workspace, providing a quiet and separate environment to focus on work.
  • Creative Studio: Artists, writers, and other creative professionals may use garden offices as studios to pursue their work.
  • Additional Living Space: Some homeowners use garden offices as extensions of their living space, creating a comfortable retreat or guest room.

Garden offices are often constructed using a variety of materials, including wood, brick, steel etc. The choice of materials depends on factors such as budget, aesthetic preferences, and local building regulations.

Most importantly, a Rubicon garden office can be customised to suit individual preferences and needs. This includes the layout, interior design, and the inclusion of amenities like heating, electricity, and internet connectivity.

Before investing in a garden office, it's important to carefully plan and consider factors such as local regulations, budget, and the intended use of the space. Additionally, consulting with professionals or experts in garden office construction can provide valuable insights and ensure a successful project.

However, there are some common mistakes that you should avoid when building a garden office, such as:

  • Failing to check the planning rules: Whilst most garden offices can be built under the Permitted Development Rights (PDR), thereby avoiding the need for Planning consent, there are occasions when PDRs can be removed by the Local Authorities under an Article 4 Direction. So it’s always best to check first, before you start building, to avoid any legal issues or complaints from the authorities or your neighbours.
  • Assuming the end of the garden is the best location: You may think that placing your garden office at the farthest point from your house will give you more privacy and quietness, but this may not be the best option. You should consider factors such as access, drainage, sunlight, views, and security when choosing the location of your garden office.
  • Neglecting to consider access for the garden room to be built: Building a garden office may require heavy machinery, materials, and workers to access your garden. You should talk to your supplier to make sure that there is enough space and clearance for them to do so without damaging your property or causing inconvenience to your neighbours.
  • Going for a building that won’t be comfortable year-round: A garden office should be well-insulated, ventilated, and heated to ensure that you can work comfortably in any season. Most good quality garden offices will have double glazing, electric sockets, lighting, and an internet connection as standard in order to make your garden office functional and efficient.
  • Choosing the wrong design or materials: A garden office should blend in with your garden and house style, as well as meet your personal preferences and needs. You should choose a design and materials that are durable, weather-resistant, low-maintenance, and aesthetically pleasing.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can build a garden office that will enhance your work experience and add value to your home.

At Rubicon, we offer the ultimate Garden Offices with the highest specifications on the market today. BUILT TO LAST™ over 30 years, they are fully insulated, useable all-year round, and built to modern 2013 Housing Standards using a twin-walled, vented cavity design.