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Today, we are going to guide you through the diverse types of garden buildings and garden structures so you can see why they are more popular than ever. Garden sheds and greenhouses seem like they have been around forever, but newer options like log cabins, summer houses, garden offices and gazebos are all now available. They provide a fantastic way to add more space to your home without the cost of an extension or a costly remodelling project.
What are differences between garden buildings and garden structures?
Primary differences arise in areas such as function, construction and purpose. Garden buildings often have a storage element, which most garden structures do not. Garden buildings are built to be more substantial, enclosed and lockable, and are often considered "permanent" in nature. Garden structures are typically less substantial (although still sturdy and well-built), are usually open-sided and often have an aesthetic-first appeal with many not having a roof.
Types of garden buildings
We will cover the distinct types of garden buildings so you can see which one(s) would be the perfect addition to your garden. This is ideal when you want to be able to make a garden more like a home without delay! Our popular types of garden buildings are:
- Sheds
- Greenhouses
- Summer houses
- Garden offices
- Log cabins
- Playhouses
- Storage units
- Garden rooms
- Garages and carports
Always remember, it is important to check planning permission requirements for distinct types of garden buildings before you make a purchase.
1) Sheds
First on our run-through of the different types of garden buildings are the delightful world of sheds, starting with the classic wooden sheds you will see right across our range. They are the ideal choice when you want something affordable, easy to maintain and full of countryside chic.
For those looking for something a little more durable and are not too concerned about the industrial look that comes with it, we recommend metal sheds. They have the bonus of acting as an effective deterrent when you are storing gardening tools, bikes and other outdoor bits and pieces.
Then there is our range of plastic sheds which includes this 6'x5' Palram Canopia Skylight Plastic Shed that lets the light flow in with ease. This makes it the ideal choice when you want to be able to set the tone for a space that allows you to make the most of your storage and shelving solutions. The engineered design of plastic sheds creates a flat surface that enhances water run-off and prevents draughts.
Corner sheds are another bright idea, especially if garden space is at a premium or if you want to make the most of the layout of your garden. Having your storage nestled away in the corner can help free up play space for the kids and sitting space for the adults.
For those who want the best of many of the features above, we would recommend a closer look at garden workshops. They will allow you to customise your space exactly how you want to.
2) Greenhouses
Next in our guide to the diverse types of garden buildings here at Shedstore, we are diving into the world of greenhouses. Our range of glass greenhouses includes this Halls Cotswold Blockley 8’x10’ toughened glass greenhouse that is perfect when you want to be able to install and forget.
There are also lighter polycarbonate greenhouses that are quick and easy to assemble. Add in the countryside touch of our wooden lean-to greenhouses and the way they save space and you will have plenty of options when you want to exercise those green fingers.
This is all great stuff when you want to let your seedlings flourish, so they will be ready to bloom when it is time for potting.
3) Summer houses
Traditional summer houses have a timeless charm and countryside style about them that is sure to enrich any type of space with ease.
For those looking for something a little more minimalist, potentially with full-length windows, our contemporary summer houses are well worth a look. And if you want to feel that little bit snugger because you are nestled away, our corner summer houses are just the ticket.
No matter which style you choose, shaping your summer house for relaxation and leisure is all about making sure you feel truly at home. A few books, pictures, blankets and comfortable chairs are really all it takes.
4) Garden offices
Garden offices are a type of garden room, which are insulated and suitable for all-year-round use. Insulated garden offices are a great option when you want to enjoy a space that feels exactly right at all times of the year. You will also see these types of structures referred to as garden office pods at times.
One of the most popular types of garden buildings right now are standalone garden offices like the 12’x10’ Palram Canopia Copenhagen garden office. They allow you to work from home in style and all in a way that lets you escape the hustle and bustle that is going on in the main house.
Having a dedicated workspace in the garden that gives you time and space is a wonderful way to beat stress while boosting productivity.
5) Log cabins
Next up on our guide to new types of garden buildings to consider are log cabins! Traditional log cabins have a homely charm and chic approach to wooden finishing that is sure to make a house a home. On the other side, modern log cabins have a minimalist, luxurious air about them that is sure to create quite the first impression. It is important to remember that a log cabin must comply with building regulations, especially if they are intended for habitation.
You can also shop for multi-room log cabins if you want to really shape your space in your own image. This is a great option if you want to have a reading space, a small ad hoc work area, and even a place for the kids to hang out when they get a bit older.
6) Playhouses
Wooden playhouses are one of the types of garden buildings that are sure to make quite the statement. They have a homely charm that is truly timeless, as well as a knack for shaping the rest of the garden to fit around your vision.
If you prefer something a little more flexible and lightweight, a plastic playhouse would be the way to go. And if you want to really put on a show for the little ones, there are options out there when it comes to custom playhouses.
Enhancing the outdoor play experience is all about creating a space in which everything fits together. Toy boxes, accessible storage and space the little people can call their own really will make a world of difference.
Benefits of playhouses
These include:
- Provides a dedicated play area for children
- Adds a charming focal point to the garden
- Can be customised to fit specific themes or interests
7) Storage units
Tool storage units and bike sheds are two of the types of garden buildings that pay for themselves from the moment they arrive. Having the peace of mind that your valuables are out of sight and out of mind really is priceless. Add in the fact that you can reclaim so much of the valuable floor space in your main shed, and it really starts to make sense.
Log stores are another way to go about organising your outdoor space the smart way. It is all about having a space for the essentials so that your main shed and patio do not become a dumping ground for anything and everything.
8) Garden rooms
As we near the end of our guide to the types of garden buildings you need to know about, we need to say a few words about home office garden rooms. They are spaces that are not just for work though, you can use them for so much more. Garden rooms are specifically designed and insulated for comfortable use year-round.
Some love to offer them as cute guest accommodation when they have relatives over to stay, while others prefer having a yoga studio or creative space where they can get away from it all. You could have a traditional wooden summer house with large south-facing windows, or you could have a warmer, cosier log cabin that has something of an all-year vibe about it.
9) Garages and carports
Garages are another option, but one which can be expensive if you have to start from nothing. The interesting thing here is that there is now a sizeable trend towards carports so that homeowners can free up the space in their garages. Wooden garages are versatile garden buildings that offer practical use and aesthetic appeal.
The beauty of this approach is that you can turn your garage into a workshop, creative space, or multi-purpose storage and tooling area if you want to. Ideal when you want to be able to make the most of your space simply by putting the car elsewhere. Adding a couple of windows, if needed, could really help the building project, and turn it into a space you want to use day in and day out.
Types of garden structures
Now we move onto the different types of garden structures we have available at Shedstore. These structures are solidly built but are often added as architectural features and to add a WOW factor rather than as permanent, lockable garden buildings. Our popular types of garden structures are:
1) Pergolas and gazebos
Although they may not be classified strictly as garden buildings, we believe they deserve attention. Traditional pergolas are based around a classic wooden construction that is great when you want to be able to train climbers and bring your new structure to life. This contrasts with modern pergolas and the more industrial or minimalist frames they tend to add to your space.
Wooden gazebos are versatile and popular among homeowners. If you want a little more shade, gazebos are the ideal starting point when you want a space for rest, relaxation and entertainment. A wooden gazebo will enhance the aesthetic appeal of outdoor spaces while providing functional shelter. Match your garden furniture and you will have a space that invites everyone to sit back and relax.
2) Arbours and arches
Classic arbours are one of the types of garden structures that work particularly well in a countryside garden looking for traditional charm. Add in a couple of decorative arches to bookend a walkway and you will have a real sense of unity that you will never want to be without again.
Using arbours and arches to enhance garden aesthetics is all about following your heart and going after what you want. One of the best ways to do this is to think about how you want them to interact with greenery like climbers or roses that you can prune to fit. Give it a little thought and you will soon fall in love with the result you create.
Why not read our buying guides?
There is only so much detail we can cover in this blog post. If you would like to view in-depth information about any of our related buying guides, please click on any of the links below:
Final thoughts
Garden sheds are an essential feature of any back garden, providing an ideal solution for storing tools and garden equipment. Beyond practical uses, garden buildings such as log cabins, summer houses, and garden rooms add significant value and living space to your home. Types of garden structures such as wooden gazebos and pergolas enhance the natural beauty of your outdoor area and create inviting spots for relaxation.
Look out too for extra room options like insulated garden offices to playhouses for children, ensures there is something for everyone. Many garden building additions fall under permitted development, meaning you can enhance your property without complicated planning permissions. Pressure treated materials ensure durability and longevity, making your investment worthwhile. Whether you are looking to build a cosy retreat or a functional workspace, the variety of garden buildings and garden structures available transforms your garden into a versatile and beautiful extension of your home.
Contact and guidance
Well, we have completed our guide to the distinct types of garden buildings and garden structures. We appreciate you may still need support though and that is where you may wish to contact us. Why not complete our contact form to send us an email with any questions you may have?
You can also contact the Shedstore team by calling us at 0333 003 0518. We can also text chat live when you connect to us through our Live Chat app, which can be accessed using the orange button.