At 1st Choice Leisure Buildings, we have been designing and manufacturing timber garden buildings since 1979. As a family run business based in the UK, we have seen garden buildings change from simple storage spaces to fully usable extensions of the home. Over the past 45 years, one thing has stayed the same. When you choose the right building for your garden and your lifestyle, it becomes something you use and enjoy for years.
Whether you are looking for a summer garden shed, a workshop, or a home office garden shed, here are the key things our experience has taught us to look out for.
Start with how you will really use the building
The first question we always ask customers is simple. What do you want to use the building for day to day?
A summer garden shed used for relaxing, hobbies, or light storage needs a very different design to a home office garden shed that will be used all year round. Think about how often you will use it, how many people will be inside, and what you need space for. A desk and chair, gym equipment, tools, or garden furniture all require different layouts.
Being clear from the start helps you choose the right size, layout, and level of insulation. It also avoids the common mistake of buying something that looks good but does not quite work in practice.
Size matters more than you think
One of the most common things we hear from customers after installation is that they wish they had gone slightly bigger. Gardens often make buildings look larger on paper than they feel once installed.
Measure your available space carefully and consider how you will move around inside. Allow room for doors to open properly and for windows to let in light. If you are planning a home office garden shed, extra space makes a big difference to comfort, especially if you plan to use it all year.
Local planning rules can also affect size and height, so it is always worth checking before you decide.
Choose quality timber and solid construction
After decades in this industry, we know that the materials used make all the difference. High quality timber does not just look better. It lasts longer and performs better in the British climate.
We use responsibly sourced, FSC certified timber because it offers strength, durability, and peace of mind. Thicker cladding, strong framing, and proper fixings all contribute to a building that stands up to wind, rain, and everyday use.
A well built summer garden shed or home office garden shed should feel solid underfoot and secure when doors and windows are closed. These details matter more than flashy extras.
Think about light, airflow, and comfort
Windows and doors are not just about appearance. They affect how the building feels inside. Natural light can transform a garden building from a dark storage space into somewhere you want to spend time.
For a home office garden shed, good light reduces eye strain and creates a more pleasant working environment. Opening windows or vents also help with airflow and temperature control, especially in warmer months.
Positioning is important too. Think about where the sun rises and sets in your garden, and where neighbouring buildings or trees might cast shade.
Plan for year round use if needed
Many customers now want garden buildings they can use throughout the year. If this sounds like you, insulation and flooring are worth considering early on.
Insulated walls, roofs, and floors help maintain a comfortable temperature and reduce condensation. A solid base and quality floor structure also make a big difference to how the building feels over time.
Even if you are buying a summer garden shed now, planning ahead can give you more flexibility in the future.
Delivery and installation make life easier
A garden building is a significant purchase, so the service around it matters. From your first enquiry to aftercare, having support makes the whole process smoother.
We offer free delivery to many areas, with clear delivery maps so you know what to expect. For customers who want a hassle free experience, our professional fitting option ensures the building is installed correctly and safely.
Visiting our showrooms is also a great way to see the quality of our buildings first hand. Photos are useful, but standing inside a building gives you a real sense of space and finish.
Buy from people who will still be here tomorrow
Longevity matters. We have proudly served customers since 1979, and many return to us years later for additional buildings. Being family run means we care about our reputation and the relationships we build.
Good aftercare, clear advice, and honest guidance are just as important as the product itself. A garden building should be a long term addition to your home, not a short term fix.
Ready to find the right garden building?
Choosing the perfect garden building does not need to be complicated. With the right advice and a focus on quality, it can be an enjoyable process that adds real value to your home and garden.
If you are considering a summer garden shed, a home office garden shed, or something more bespoke, our team is here to help. Visit our showrooms, explore our range online, or get in touch to talk through your ideas. At 1st Choice Leisure Buildings, we would love to help you create a garden building you will enjoy for many years to come.
