Garden Houses & Garden Offices

Planning is often simpler than people expect, but it depends on your property and how the building will be used.

In England, many garden buildings can fall under permitted development if they meet certain conditions: commonly around overall height, placement, and how much of the garden is covered. As a practical rule of thumb, buildings close to boundaries have stricter height limits (often 2.5m if within 2m of a boundary), while buildings further away may be allowed to be taller depending on roof type.

There are important exceptions—such as listed buildings, conservation areas, flats/maisonettes, and homes with specific planning restrictions. We’ll talk through your situation during consultation and, where needed, point you to the right professional advice before you commit.

This is general guidance, not a substitute for a planning decision from your local authority.

If you want to use your garden office through autumn and winter, insulation shouldn’t be an afterthought. It’s far easier (and more effective) to specify the right build-up during construction than to try to upgrade later.

For all-season use, we can specify insulation to the floor, walls and roof, paired with double glazing and weather-resistant external finishes. Good ventilation and careful detailing also help reduce common UK issues like condensation and cold spots—especially in a workspace where you’ll spend long hours.

If you’re unsure whether you’ll need year-round use, it’s usually best to plan for it now. You can always choose simple heating later, but you can’t easily “undo” an under-specified shell.

Garden building costs are driven by size, specification and finish. At Woodera, smaller buildings start from £4,150, while larger, highly specified projects can reach £25,000+.

The key difference versus DIY kit buildings is that our quotes are built around a complete result, not just materials. Delivery and professional installation are included, and we clearly separate what’s standard from what’s optional—so you can make informed choices without surprise costs later.

Typical options that affect price include enhanced insulation, electrical fit-out, upgraded glazing, roofing upgrades, and internal finishes.

A garden building is only as good as the base it sits on. A level, stable foundation protects the structure, keeps doors and windows working smoothly, and helps prevent moisture problems over time.

We can provide base preparation tailored to your site—whether that’s a concrete slab for a robust, permanent solution, or alternative systems suited to sloping or softer ground. If you prefer to arrange the base yourself, we’ll supply clear specifications so it’s done correctly the first time.

customised buildings may take longer.

Typically, the first day covers delivery and main assembly; the following day focuses on doors, windows, external finishing and final weatherproofing. We’ll give you a realistic timeline up front based on access, site conditions and the design you choose.

A garden building should fit your garden and how you’ll actually use the space. We can tailor size, layout and door/window placement to improve light, access and privacy.

Finishes can also be adapted—external cladding treatments, stains/paint systems, insulation levels, internal linings, flooring and storage ideas. If you’re planning a working garden office, we can also discuss a sensible electrical setup for desks, lighting and equipment.