Contemporary summerhouses are more than just outdoor structures; it reflects present day design principles applied to garden living. These summer houses, characterised by clean lines, minimalist aesthetics, and innovative use of materials, are crafted to fit seamlessly into today’s gardens.
They offer a perfect blend of form and function, serving as a stylish retreat where you can relax, entertain, or even work, all while surrounded by the beauty of your garden.
What Does The Modern Garden Summer House Look Like?
We’re not a leading garden summer house supplier for no reason. We know how to design a contemporary summer house that looks the part and withstands the test of time.
Sleek, Up To Date Design
Our contemporary summerhouses feature sleek designs that make a bold statement in any garden. With large windows and open-plan layouts, these structures maximise natural light and space, creating an airy, welcoming environment.
Premium Materials
Built with high-quality materials, including redwood deal timber and toughened glass windows, our buildings are designed to withstand the elements while maintaining their stylish appearance.
We use durable, weather-resistant materials that ensure your summer house remains in top condition for years. However, we do not use OSB boards which you may find on buildings made down to a price.
Whether you prefer a natural wood finish or a coloured painted look, we offer a range of finishes to match your garden’s aesthetic.
Bespoke Customisation
Whether you prefer a minimalist look or something more colourful, we can tailor your summer house to suit your taste. From the size and layout to the choice of finishes, every aspect of your summer house can be personalised to create a space that’s truly your own.
Optional Insulation
It may be called a contemporary summer house, but that doesn’t mean you should only use it in summer. When you opt for an insulated structure, you can make sure your summerhouse remains comfortable throughout the year.
Why Invest In An Ultra Modern Summerhouse
Opting for a contemporary summer house has numerous advantages beyond just having extra space in your garden.
Enhance Your Lifestyle
Contemporary summerhouses provides a private space to unwind, work, or entertain guests. It’s an extension of your home, offering a quiet retreat amid nature.
Whether you’re using it as a home office, a studio, or a place to relax with family and friends, a summer house adds a new dimension to your lifestyle, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of your garden in comfort.
Increase Property Value
Adding a contemporary garden summer house to your garden can significantly increase your property’s value, making it an investment that pays off now and in the future.
With its sleek design and high-quality construction, a summer house enhances the aesthetic appeal of your property and adds functional living space, which is a significant selling point for potential buyers.
1st Choice Leisure Buildings — Your Contemporary Summer House Partner
At 1st Choice Leisure Buildings, we combine decades of experience with a passion for creating beautiful, functional garden structures. Our contemporary summer houses are designed with the homeowner of today in mind, offering the perfect balance of style and practicality.
We’re passionate about giving our customers the best possible garden buildings, which is why we use only the best materials and offer a range of customisation options. You can rest assured we will deliver a modern garden summer building that ticks all the boxes.
Choosing 1st Choice Leisure Buildings means choosing excellence in both design and installation. Our team of experts is dedicated to helping you create the perfect summer house for your garden, ensuring that every detail meets your needs and preferences.
From the initial design consultation to the free installation, we’re with you every step of the way.
Elevate Your Home With A New Stylish Summer House
Now’s the perfect time to transform your property with a contemporary summer house. Need help figuring out where to get started? We’ve got an online showroom you can visit at any time.
But for the full effect, we strongly encourage you to come and check our summerhouse collection in person at our UK showroom twixt Woking, Ripley and Guildford in Surrey Choose yours, and we’ll install it for free!
Painted Options
Insulated Range
Summerhouse Sheds
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Can I add electrics or heating to a contemporary summerhouse?
Definitely. A lot of people use their contemporary summerhouses as home offices, so they run power in, install sockets, lights, and even small
heaters. Just hire a qualified electrician, make sure there’s a good base, and think through ventilation so heating doesn’t make it stuffy.
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Can I use a contemporary summerhouse as a year-round space in Surrey (e.g., an office, studio, etc.)?
Yes — but only if you spec it properly. For year-round use, you’ll need
insulation (roof and possibly walls), good glazing, and a well-made base. Modern summerhouses lend themselves to “garden room” use more than a basic shed. Use it as an office, art space or hobby room, and with the right extras, it works in winter too.
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Do I need planning permission for a contemporary summerhouse in Guildford or Surrey?
Usually not, as long as you stick to
permitted development rules. That means keeping height reasonable (especially near boundaries) and using the building as a garden room, not a permanent home. That said, always check with your local council — Guildford, Woking or Ripley — because some neighbourhoods or conservation areas may have stricter rules.
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How do I choose where to position a contemporary summerhouse in my Guildford or Ripley garden?
Walk your garden at different times of day and work out where the sun falls, where you look out from your house, and what view you want. You’ll probably want to face the glazed side toward a part of the garden you like to look at or where you get good light. Also, make sure you leave space around it for maintenance and that the base won’t be affected by water run-off.
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How long will a contemporary summerhouse last in Surrey if built correctly?
If you do the groundwork (solid base), treat the wood, and maintain the roof and glazing, a well-made contemporary summerhouse can last for decades. These are not
cheap “throw-away” sheds — they’re built to be part of your home.
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How should I maintain a contemporary summerhouse in Surrey’s climate?
Maintenance is important:
treat or stain external timber regularly, check seals around windows/doors, and clear debris off the roof so water runs away cleanly. Ventilate inside to avoid damp — open doors or windows or use trickle vents.
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What are the common mistakes Surrey homeowners make when buying a modern summerhouse?
* Skimping on the base: not getting it level means glazing and doors go out of alignment.
* Underestimating insulation: they buy a “nice-looking box” but then never use it in winter.
* Poor positioning: placing the summerhouse in deep shade or where water runs off, rather than where it’ll actually be used.
* Not thinking about access: large modern panels can be heavy or fragile — check if they’ll fit through your garden gate or side path.
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What base do I need for a modern summerhouse in Woking?
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What is a contemporary summerhouse, and how does it differ from a traditional garden building?
A contemporary summerhouse typically means clean lines, modern materials (or high-quality timber), large glazed areas, and often a flat or mono-pitched roof. Unlike older-style summerhouses with lots of ornament, these buildings are more like garden rooms or mini studios. They suit modern gardens, especially in Surrey, because they feel like an extension of your home rather than just a shed.
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What modern design features should I look for in a contemporary summerhouse?
Look for:
* Large, double-glazed windows or sliding/glazed doors for natural light
* High-quality cladding or modern timber finish
* A low-pitch roof or flat roof that works with modern garden architecture
* Good internal height, so the space feels open and usable.
* Details like hidden gutters, clean trim, and integrated drainage
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