Should You Buy or Build a Garden Room?

 

 

Garden rooms have become one of the most desirable home upgrades across the UK. Whether it’s for remote work, a home gym, creative studio, or a peaceful retreat, a garden room offers flexibility and added value to your property.

But one question many homeowners ask is: should you buy a ready-made garden room, or have one built from scratch by a professional builder? Both options offer unique benefits, and the right choice depends on your budget, timeline, and design goals.

In this post, we’ll explore the pros, cons, and costs of each option so you can make an informed choice.

Understanding the Two Options 

Option 1: Buying a Garden Room

Purchasing a garden room from a reputable supplier usually involves choosing from a range of pre-designed units that are delivered and installed on your property. This option is ideal for those who want a quick and convenient solution, with minimal decision-making and disruption.

Benefits of buying a garden room:

• Quick and efficient installation
• Guaranteed structural integrity and warranty
• Wide range of styles and finishes

Ideal for those who want a high-quality finish without the hassle of project management, buying is a popular option if your time is limited or your DIY skills are minimal.

Option 2: Building a Garden Room

When we talk about “building” a garden room, we’re not referring to DIY. We mean working with professional garden room builders who can design and construct a completely bespoke space tailored to your needs. 

If you’re located in South East England, you’ll find a range of bespoke garden room builders in Essex, such as Garden Room 365, who specialise in fully custom solutions designed to fit any space and style. With over 25 years of experience and a hands-on approach to every stage of the process, they ensure your garden room is not only beautifully crafted but also tailored to your exact requirements.

Benefits of building a garden room:

• Full customisation of size, shape, and layout
• Freedom to match design with your garden and home style
• Greater control over materials, finishes, and internal features
• Higher-quality insulation and performance
• Built-in value from expert construction and attention to detail

Working with a reputable builder ensures your garden room complies with building regulations and performs well year-round—something off-the-shelf options may not always guarantee.

Cost Comparison

Here are two of the most common and important questions homeowners ask:

How much does it cost to buy a garden room in the UK?

Buying a pre-fabricated or modular garden room can cost anywhere from £10,000–£15,000 for entry-level models, with mid-range options around £20,000–£25,000. High-end versions with premium materials, plumbing, electrics, and luxury features can reach £35,000–£40,000 or more.

These prices typically cover a standard design, installation, and sometimes electrics—though plumbing and heating may come at an extra cost.

How much does it cost to build a garden room in the UK with a professional builder?

Custom-built garden rooms by professional builders start around £15,000–£20,000 for smaller, well-insulated spaces, and typically range from £25,000 to £50,000 depending on size, complexity, and finishes. Projects with en-suites, kitchenettes, or high-end features like underfloor heating or smart lighting may exceed this.

While building may come at a higher upfront cost, the value lies in the bespoke design, superior build quality, and long-term durability.

Planning Permission and Building Regulations

In many cases, garden rooms fall under permitted development rights—especially if they’re under 2.5 metres in height and not used as permanent living accommodation.

Still, there are important rules to consider:

• Must be located behind the main house
• Usually exempt if not used for sleeping or commercial letting
• Keep within 1 metre of boundaries if taller than 2.5 metres
• Additional rules apply in conservation areas and listed properties

A key benefit of working with experienced garden room builders is that they’re familiar with these regulations and can ensure your project is compliant from day one.

Time and Effort Involved

A ready-made garden room can often be installed within 1–2 weeks, including groundwork and connection of utilities. This makes it ideal if you need the space quickly or want minimal disruption.

A custom-built garden room typically takes 3–6 weeks, depending on size, design complexity, and weather conditions. Although it requires more planning and coordination, the result is a high-quality space that’s tailored precisely to your needs.

Design and Customisation Options

Buying a modular garden room typically offers a selection of set designs, materials, and finishes. While you can often choose cladding colours, window placement, or door styles, the level of personalisation is limited to what’s offered by the manufacturer.

In contrast, building a garden room with professional builders gives you full creative control. From bespoke layouts and premium materials to integrated lighting, plumbing, and design features like skylights or bi-fold doors—you can tailor every detail to suit your lifestyle and garden space perfectly.

When it comes to lighting options for garden rooms, the possibilities are just as varied as the design itself. Whether you’re creating a cosy retreat, home office, or entertainment space, lighting can set the tone and enhance both functionality and style. You can incorporate recessed ceiling lights for a clean, modern look, or add dimmable fixtures to create a warm ambiance. For a bold and luxurious touch, black chandeliers are becoming an increasingly popular choice, offering dramatic contrast and a stylish statement that elevates the entire room’s aesthetic.

Maintenance and Durability

Pre-made garden rooms can be lower-maintenance, especially when made with composite or uPVC cladding. However, quality can vary between suppliers, so it’s important to check what materials are used.

Professionally built garden rooms tend to be more robust, thanks to better insulation, foundations, and finishes. Builders also use materials suited to UK weather, making your room more comfortable year-round and reducing upkeep costs over time.

What’s Right for You?

If you’re seeking a quick solution with predictable costs and don’t need much customisation, buying a pre-made garden room could be the perfect fit.

However, if you want to maximise space, enjoy full control over the design, and invest in something that truly adds long-term value to your home, building a garden room with a professional builder is the recommended route. You’ll benefit from expert guidance, better materials, and a room that’s tailored to your exact lifestyle.

Need Help Getting Started?

Whether you’re looking for inspiration or ready to build, connecting with Garden Rooms 365, trusted garden room builders can help you plan a space that suits your vision and budget. From initial design to completion, a professional approach ensures your garden room project is a smart and lasting investment.