Space solutions - summer houses have the answer

Mar 18 2010 By Mary Barabe

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Ask your friends to tell you the one thing they’d like to change about their home, and we’re betting the majority will say they need more space. So, if moving to a new, bigger home is not feasible, why not make the most of what you’ve got and extend your living area out into your garden?

You may be forgiven for thinking that the British climate hardly allows for al fresco living - but you’re wrong. There are plenty of clever ways to weather-proof the garden and create a whole new space which can be enjoyed during both winter and summer.

Summer houses are growing in popularity as people begin to see the value they can offer - and the average garden building can be erected over a weekend and cost a fraction of the sum an extension would cpst you.

Whether you’ve just got a few hundred pounds to create a functional living area in your garden, or have serious amounts of cash to splash out, it couldn’t be easier to extend your living space. Plus, not only will you reap the benefits yourself, but should you decide to sell your home it will serve to make it more attractive to potential buyers.

Adding a summer house to your garden is one of the easiest and most effective ways to add space to your home. These handy buildings come in a whole host of sizes and styles, so spend some time considering how you’re planning on using the extra room before you take the plunge.

If you’re looking for an extra play space for the kids then consider getting a style that has doors opening out onto a veranda and as much room as you’re able to fit in your garden - after all we all know how kids’ toys seem to double in volume! Toys can be kept safe providing you fit a lock to the doors.

Summer houses are ideal for a home office too, providing a quiet space at the end of the garden to get away from it all and a dedicated area in which to keep files, paperwork and stationery supplies. If it’s a home office you need then you may like to consider opting for a sturdier building, which will create a more comfortable place to work in.

It’s worth spending a little bit extra from the outset to get a summer house that will last and last. Traditional summer houses are often supplied with pre-treated wood, but if you want to make a real feature of yours, you could opt for one of the many coloured styles.

You can also create a more habitable garden retreat by getting an electrician to install power points. This will enable you to work on a laptop without the battery dying, allow the kids to enjoy music while they play and make it possible to install a light source and heating, which will be particularly useful in the winter.

Cheaper, easier to install and less hassle than getting an extension, summer houses can help you create extra space at home whatever your budget.