How to build a garden office

Work from Your Garden

More people are working from home than ever and many do so from an office in their garden. And why not? It saves all that tiresome commuting and with internet connections generally being better than ever, communication is easy. And, if surrounded by plants and wildlife, surely the standard of work is better? A garden office is therefore one of the must have features of a modern garden.

12x12 28mm Forest malvern Log CabinPlanning Permission

Obviously, you have to stay legal so always check with your local council to see if any permissions are needed before erecting any building. As guidelines can vary depending on area, we can't provide a reliable yes or no as to whether you will need permissions.

Also have a chat with the neighbours at the same time – get everyone on board and the whole process is easier.

13x10 Alpine Quebec 28mm Log CabinSize

Choosing an office for the garden is the exciting bit. Whatever you decide upon has to be right for your work and the garden. A building shouldn't dominate a garden design to the detriment of the rest of your patch yet it needs to be large enough to accommodate your needs now and for any future expansion.

Remember to account for space around the log cabin for maintenance. Mark out the size in garden twine to help you visualise the space.

16x13 Alpine Colorado 34mm Log CabinElectricity

Once you have any permissions needed and have chosen the design, you need to get any required utilities to the area where the building is going to be erected. Electricity is a must and drainage a possibility.

Ensure all the work is done by qualified tradespeople and get all certification wherever required.

15x11 Palmako Louise 34mm Log Cabin

Location

Siting of your garden office is vital to its success. It's tempting to pick a sunny spot and go with that – but it may make your ideal office a sauna. Equally, hidden in a dark corner, an office could become a dank, inhospitable cavern.

Make a note of where the sun rises and sets at various times of the year (deciding on such an important aspect does and should take time).

9x13 Forest Seddon (Pickering) 34mm Log CabinFoundations

Depending on the style and size of garden office you may need extensive footings, or a simple frame. Whatever is required (if you need advice get a professional to quote), do it right.

If you purchase a cabin from Shedstore, our friendly UK-based customer service team will be able to advise you on the best base for your new office.

20x16 Windsor Home Office EliteInstallation

Once the foundations are in place, it's often a case of slotting together pre-cut, pre-treated lengths of wood to create the workplace of your dreams. If you are doing it yourself, read all instructions carefully and get help when putting the building together. Purchas a log cabin from Shedstore and you can usually select installation as an optional extra.

Ensure the finished building is well insulated, ventilated and – of course - kitted out with all the luxuries you would expect: coffee machine, comfy chair and plenty of internet access. Even consider a water cooler!

15x11 Palmako Bret 44mm Log cabinSecurity

One final point is that a well-stocked and furnished office is a burglar’s dream. Invest in reliable security and always detail everything with your insurance company. It's better to be safe than sorry.

A garden office will change your lifestyle, allowing you that work-life balance we all strive for. Explore our full range of home offices by clicking the link below.