An Oak Garden Room is an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of life indoors, which in the current climate is something we can all relate too. Enjoying your garden from a different perspective can be so relaxing whilst also providing a functional additional space, which you can use all year round.

Each Nationwide Oak project is unique, but there are a number of factors, which are common to all of them.  Here we highlight some of the most important questions from our customers.

Do I need planning permission for a garden room?

Most garden rooms do not require planning permission. However, each property is different and it is necessary if the building covers over half your garden, is not for domestic use or if it is over 3m high with a pent roof (a single sloping surface) or 4m high with an apex roof. Larger garden rooms which are within 2m of any boundary line and over 2.5m high or nearer to a public highway than the original dwelling, also require planning permission. For planning purposes, a public highway would include any road or footpath with a public right of way. If you live in a Conservation Area or in a Listed Building, permission may be needed for any garden room over 10 cubic metres.

Do I need building regulations approval for a garden room?

Approval is required for any garden room with an internal floor area of more than 30m². 

Most garden rooms are smaller than this, but if you are aiming to construct a more substantial building, then it will be needed.  Take a look at our blog for planning for more information or contact your local planning department for further advice. The government’s Planning Portal provides a full list of conditions for outbuildings and structures too.

How do I decide on the design of a summer house?

The only thing you really need to consider with this question is how you plan to use your garden room. Come and speak to our creative team and we can create your perfect, bespoke oak garden room.

From a circular oak gazebo with a cedar shingle roof and open aspect to surrounding views…

To an oak framed entertainment area with pizza oven- perfect for family barbeques and summer parties…

Or this beautiful glazed garden room.

Should I connect the garden room to mains water and electricity?

In previous experience, no customer has ever regretted installing either, but it is worth considering early on as it has a huge impact on the location.

Providing an electricity supply is fairly straightforward, but the work needs to be carried out by an electrician who is approved under the Electrical Competent Person Scheme, plus the work needs to be notified to the local building control department.

Be inspired!

Whatever your preference is, making the decision to construct an oak garden room is one you will never regret. Not only will it enhance your property (adding value too), it is likely to become your favourite space in your home.

At Nationwide Oak Buildings we have experience in building a wide variety of oak garden rooms. 

For more inspiration on creating your dream garden room, take a look at our gallery for inspiration or download our brochures.