Amy and her team enjoy building pergolas and garden buildings within their projects, tending to use a sketch-up model to illustrate any proposed buildings. They often work with companies that regularly build garden rooms, on occasion tweaking a building so it more suits the client’s requirements (it can be useful to have another professional eye on a generic garden room, tailored to the clients’ exact needs and site). She has also successfully collaborated with engineers and architects where the project has required their expertise.
Why choose to have a pergola?
People choose pergolas for a wide range of reasons as their many benefits make them a popular addition to outdoor spaces. Some of the reasons why people choose to have a pergola include:
Aesthetic and structural benefits:
- Defines a space: Pergolas visually define an outdoor area, creating a sense of “room” within a larger yard or garden. They can delineate a patio, dining area, or walkway.
- Adds architectural interest: They enhance the visual appeal of a home and landscape, providing a focal point and adding vertical interest.
- Supports climbing plants: Pergolas are ideal for growing climbing vines and plants, such as wisteria, grapes, or roses. This adds natural beauty and shade.
- Increases property value: A well-designed and constructed pergola can increase the value of your home.
Functional benefits:
- Shade: While not offering complete coverage like a solid roof, pergolas create dappled shade, making outdoor spaces more comfortable during sunny days. The amount of shade can be adjusted by the pergola’s design and the plants grown on it.
- Partial weather protection: While they don’t block rain entirely, pergolas can offer some shelter from light rain or drizzle. Adding a retractable canopy or shade cloth can increase protection.
- Comfortable outdoor living space: Pergolas create a pleasant environment for relaxing, dining, or entertaining outdoors.
- Privacy: When combined with climbing plants or screens, pergolas can provide a degree of privacy from neighbours.
- Supports outdoor lighting: Pergolas can be used to hang lights, fans, or other outdoor features, enhancing the functionality and ambiance of the space.
- Cooling effects: The shade provided by a pergola can also help to cool the area immediately under and around it.
Why choose to have a garden room?
Garden rooms, or garden buildings, offer a versatile extension of your living space. Here are some reasons that people choose to have a garden room:
Increased living space:
- Extra room: They provide valuable additional space without the expense and disruption of a traditional home extension.
- Multipurpose use: Garden rooms can serve various purposes, including:
- Home office
- Gym
- Art studio
- Yoga or meditation space
- Guest room
- Playroom
- Hobby room
- Separation of space: They offer a dedicated space away from the main house, providing privacy and can create a sense of separation between work and home life.
Lifestyle and well-being benefits:
- Improved work-life balance: A dedicated garden office can enhance productivity and create a clear boundary between work and personal time.
- Enhanced creativity: A quiet and inspiring space can foster creativity and focus.
- Increased connection with nature: Garden rooms often feature large windows or glass doors, allowing natural light and views of the garden.
- Improved well-being: Spending time in a peaceful and natural setting can reduce stress and improve mental well-being.
Practical and financial benefits:
- Increased property value: A well-built garden room can add value to your home.
- Cost-effective extension: Compared to traditional home extensions, garden rooms are often more affordable and require less planning permission.
- Year-round use: Modern garden rooms are well-insulated and equipped with heating and cooling systems, allowing for year-round use.
What do I do next?
If you’d like Amy to help with a pergola or garden room, get in touch for a free initial consultation.
