How To Build a Garden Office
Undoubtedly, typical office environments have changed significantly in recent years. While remote work’s popularity gradually increased in specific industries before 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic forced this workplace evolution along, significantly accelerating the process.
The result, as we all know, is that not only were many (if not most) industries around the world able to make remote work possible, but a lot of businesses never returned to the office.
Even in industries where in-person collaboration is necessary, it’s become increasingly popular for employees to have at least a few -work-from-home days during the week.
Clearly, one of the most unexpected consequences of the devastating pandemic that changed our lives as we knew them was that almost everybody now has the ability, capacity, or at least potential to work from home.
This means that being able to work at home comfortably and efficiently is absolutely essential. While it was all fun and games in the beginning, and people enjoyed the novelty of spending the day in sweats and working from the couch, things have stabilised now, and it’s time to get professional and settle in for the long term.
If you’re going to be working from home, whether part-time or five days a week, you must have a comfortable space that allows you to function at your absolute best. This means different things for different people, but that’s the beauty of at-home workspaces—you can tailor it to your own preferences, and you don’t need anybody’s permission!
A great start for just about anybody, however, is to designate a particular space to work in. That’ll allow you to start your day in the comfort of your home, get ready for a day of work, and then separate yourself physically and psychologically.
It may sound like a small thing, but creating a discernable distinction between working from home and working from the office is essential to achieving a work-life balance, especially in the long term. It allows you to keep your work life in your workspace, step away from the stresses of work at the end of the day, and leave it all in the office.
These days, people are constantly looking for creative ways to create home offices, and there are plenty of ways to do this, but our firm favourite, along with many others, is a garden office.
Not only does it help you create additional separation between your home and work lives, but it can also be great for practical reasons – among other things, it’ll be quiet, it’s a great use of outdoor space, and it offers great versatility.
So, how do you build a garden office? Well, fear not because we’ve created a step-by-step guide to help you create the perfect outdoor workspace for your home.
In today’s fast-paced world, the need for a tranquil workspace away from the hustle and bustle of home life has become increasingly apparent. A garden office provides the perfect solution, offering a serene and productive environment.
Whether you’re a freelancer, an entrepreneur, or someone needing a quiet space to work, building a garden office can be rewarding. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create your garden office.
Planning and Preparation
1. Decide on the Purpose and Size of Your Office
The exact purpose of your office will influence exactly what you want – how big it is, the layout and more. Is it going to be a full-time office or just a part-time workspace? From there, consider how much space you’ll need for furniture, storage and any equipment necessary for your job.
2. Select a Location
Of course, it will be in your garden, but where exactly? Make sure to choose a quiet area with good natural light. It also needs to be level with good drainage to avoid any potential issues with dampness.
3. Consider Local Building Regulations
Building regulations are different in different countries and regions, so make sure you check with your local planning authority to check if you need any permits or if there are restrictions on grade structures. This may affect size, height and placement.
4. Set a Budget
Figure out what you’re willing to spend on the project. Then, create a budget, considering the costs for materials, labour, tools and any additional features like insulation, decor or heating.
Design Your Garden Office
5. Create a Design Plan
Start by making a rough sketch of your office, including the layout, windows, doors, and placement of electrical outlets and furniture. It doesn’t have to be professional, but it’s a good starting point.
6. Pick Your Materials
Select materials that are weather-resistant and durable. Common options include wood, steel and composite materials. First Choice Leisure Buildings has plenty of options available to you!
7. Consider Ventilation and Insulation
No matter where you live, insulation is vital for creating a comfortable space all year round. Make sure you insulate the walls, floor and roof, and ensure there’s adequate ventilation to prevent condensation and maintain air quality.
Building the Foundation
8. Clear and Level the Site/Clear any debris, vegetation and rock from your chosen site and level the ground to ensure stability.
9. Starting Building the Foundation
There are plenty of options for foundations of garden offices, including concrete slabs, ground screws and timber frames. Concrete is the most robust and durable, but it’s more expensive and requires more skill. Timber and ground screws are cheaper and easier to install, so they tend to be preferable for smaller structures like this.
Create the Frame
10. Build the Floor
Start the building by constructing the floor frame using pressure-treated timber (usually plywood or T&G timber boards). Once it’s level and secure, lay the flooring material on top.
11. Erect the Walls
Assemble the wall frames on the ground and then lift them into place. Use sturdy, pressure-treated timber for the frames and make sure they’re square and level. Secure the frames to both the floor and each other.
12. Install the Roof
Construct the roof frame and attach it to the wall frames. Depending on the climate and your preferences, you may choose a pitched, flat or apex roof. Then, cover the roof with shingles, metal sheets or roofing felt.
Add Windows, Doors and Exterior Finishes
13. Install Doors and Windows
Cut openings for doors and windows into the walls, then install them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
14. Exterior Cladding
Apply exterior cladding to the walls to protect the structure from the elements. For a modern aesthetic, you can use timber cladding like pine cedar or metal or composite cladding.
Interior Finishes
15. Insulation
Add insulation to the interior walls, floor and roof using things like foam board, mineral wool or fibreglass. When you’re doing this, make sure there aren’t any gaps!
16. Install Electrical Wiring
If you want electricity in your garden office, we assume you do, hire a qualified electrician to install the wiring. Make sure the placement of outlets, switches and lighting fixtures are functional.
17. Drywall and Finishing
Cover the insulated walls inside with plywood or drywall. Sand and tape the joints, then paint the walls however you fancy. Install your flooring to complete the interior – carpet, vinyl and laminate are popular options.
Furnishing and Decor
18. Furnish the Space
Select furniture that suits your design aesthetics and strikes the perfect balance between attractive and functional. Things like a comfy chair and desk are essential, along with ample storage space, depending on your particular needs.
19. Make the Space Your Own
Add some personal touches to your garden office by adding photographs, plants and artwork that suit your style.
Good lighting is also important, so prioritise high-quality lighting fixtures and consider adding a desk lamp.
20. Climate Control
The last thing you want while you’re working is to be uncomfortable, so consider installing heating or cooling systems based on your area’s climate.
