Inside Out

Garden rooms have become increasingly popular in recent years, Seymours Prestige Homes looks at the main factors driving their popularity.

At the beginning of 2020 it would have seemed inconceivable that in just five short years 40% of the workforce would be working from home at least some of the time - that adds up to some 22 million people. 

The rise of remote work is perhaps the biggest driver of the garden room boom. Since the global shift toward working from home, many have struggled to find a quiet, dedicated workspace inside their homes. A garden room provides an ideal solution—a purpose-built office just steps away from the main house, yet private and serene.

Separated from household noise and distractions, it fosters focus, creativity, and work-life balance. For freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers alike, a garden office offers the structure of a traditional workplace with the comfort of home.

But as two local specialists reveal, the desire for added space has gone far beyond the world of work.

“For a lot of people a garden room provides the ideal opportunity to work in peace and quiet,” says Mike Maguire at Chessington-based Riverside Garden Rooms.

“However, we are now seeing a lot more requests for gyms, entertainment zones and spas.”

Beyond office use, garden rooms serve countless other purposes: guest bedrooms, fitness studios, music rooms, art spaces, or even garden bars. The beauty lies in their versatility. Unlike full home renovations or extensions, they require less time, money, and paperwork—making them a practical and attractive choice for families needing more room to grow.

“We are seeing more and more people request spaces designed for teenagers,” says Paul Ransom at Into the Garden which is based in Walton-on Thames. “Garden rooms are so adaptable. People use them for cake decorating, craft workshops and yoga studios - they really do have multiple uses.”

Quick and Non-Invasive Installation

Unlike traditional home extensions, garden rooms usually don’t require planning permission (depending on local regulations). They can be built in a few weeks and cause minimal disruption to daily life during installation.

Modular buildings are usually created off site and then assembled in situ. This process, weather permitting, can take around two weeks. 

“The timescale depends on the company and the build. Our bespoke rooms are designed by the customer and an architect," says Paul. “The cost depends on the finish and materials chosen - and in terms of time, we allow for between four and five weeks. But that is still considerably shorter than an extension of full loft conversion.”

Mike adds: “It is also a lot less inconvenient as works are mostly carried out outside your home.”

Year-Round Use

Modern garden rooms are fully insulated, wired for electricity, and often include heating and cooling—making them usable in all seasons.

Another draw is sustainability. Many garden rooms are constructed using eco-friendly materials and are energy efficient by design. Solar panels, green insulation, and smart lighting are increasingly common, appealing to homeowners looking to reduce their environmental footprint.

“Modern insulation and heating makes them as snug as a house,” says Paul. “Our rooms offer substantial insulation - it really is like adding another room on to your home.”

A garden room not only meets immediate need but also adds value to the home—making them a sound investment. Prospective buyers often view them as a bonus feature, whether used as a home office, studio, or guest retreat.

Modern garden rooms are more than utilitarian sheds. Built with contemporary materials and sleek designs, they can become architectural focal points in the garden. With options like floor-to-ceiling glazing, cedar cladding, and green roofs, these spaces feel both stylish and connected to nature. Many are fully insulated, with electricity, heating, and even Wi-Fi—usable all year round, no matter the weather.

Finally, in an increasingly connected world, the idea of a private retreat has become more appealing. A garden room can be a sanctuary—whether for hobbies, mindfulness, or simply unwinding with a book. It’s a space that offers autonomy, peace, and inspiration—values that resonate deeply in today’s fast-paced life.

“They are really something worth looking into,” says Mike. “If you are looking for a versatile space, then a garden room is the answer.”

For more information, visit Into the Garden (intothegardenroom.com) or Riverside Garden Rooms (riversidegardenrooms.co.uk)