The rise of outdoor workspaces: How to create the perfect garden office

In recent years, the way we work has undergone a major shift. Remote and hybrid working have become the norm, and with that change, outdoor workspaces — especially garden offices — have surged in popularity across the UK.

Here at Lazy Susan, with decades of experience in garden furniture and patio design, we've seen firsthand how homeowners are transforming their outdoor spaces into stylish, functional extensions of their home.

In this article, the Lazy Magazine team explores the growing popularity of garden rooms — from their rise to prominence and the planning permissions you might need, to the most popular outdoor office styles and the perfect finishing touches to bring garden charm to your space.

Why are Garden Rooms so Popular in the UK

The surge in popularity of garden buildings — and garden offices in particular — across the UK is a testament to the evolving work culture and our desire to optimise our outdoor living spaces. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, the shift towards remote and hybrid working models has been substantial.

On a piece exploring the growing popularity of garden rooms, Ogel references research from Legal & General showing a 22% increase in property searches featuring garden rooms, garden offices, and garden buildings since before the pandemic.

This trend highlights the increasing demand for dedicated outdoor workspaces, especially as many homes lack the luxury of spare rooms to convert into offices. Garden offices offer an efficient solution — providing a private, distraction-free environment that helps boost productivity.

A well-designed garden office pod doesn't just serve functional purposes; it can also boost a property's market appeal. As homeowners invest in these structures, they're not only improving their current living conditions but also potentially increasing their property's resale value.

Working amidst greenery and natural light has been linked to reduced stress levels and improved mental health. Garden offices allow individuals to reap the benefits of nature, leading to a more balanced work-life experience.

According to research by the Paving Shopper, the UK's garden buildings market, which includes garden rooms and garden offices, is projected to reach £742.2 million by 2027, driven by the increasing demand for multifunctional outdoor buildings.

This growth reflects the broader trend of homeowners seeking versatile private spaces that cater to both professional and personal needs.

Here at the Lazy Magazine, we have seen firsthand the rise of garden offices in the UK. It is a multifaceted phenomenon, influenced by changing work patterns, spatial constraints, property value considerations, and a collective emphasis on wellbeing.

As experts in garden furniture and general garden and patio design, we've observed how garden buildings are reshaping modern landscaping.

What are the common uses for garden buildings in the UK?

While garden offices have surged in popularity — offering a quiet, dedicated space to work from home — garden buildings aren’t limited to just professional use.

Their versatility, aesthetic appeal, and ability to create extra space without a full extension have made them a sought-after solution for a wide range of lifestyles. Whether you're craving a creative retreat, a wellness hub, or a social hideaway, garden buildings offer endless possibilities beyond the 9-to-5:

• Garden Gym
  Skip the commute and bring your workout closer to home. A garden gym gives you the flexibility to exercise when it suits you, with space for weights, cardio equipment, yoga mats, and even wall mirrors for a professional finish.

• Creative Studio
  Whether you're a painter, writer, photographer, or musician, a garden studio can offer the perfect escape from distractions. Flooded with natural light and personalised to your craft, it's an inspiring space to let your creativity flow.

• Home Bar or Entertainment Room
  Transform your garden building into a stylish home bar or media room — ideal for hosting friends, watching the game, or enjoying movie nights without disturbing the rest of the household.

• Guest Accommodation
  A garden room can double as a cosy guest suite with a sofa bed, small en-suite, and modern comforts — perfect for visiting family, Airbnb hosting (subject to planning consent), or giving teenagers more independence.

• Wellness or Meditation Room
  For those seeking calm and balance, a garden retreat dedicated to yoga, meditation, or massage offers a peaceful haven to unplug and recharge in nature.

• Hobby Room or Workshop
  Whether it’s woodworking, crafting, sewing, or gaming, a garden building can become a dedicated space to indulge in your favourite pastimes — without taking over the house.

• Children’s Playroom or Teen Hangout
  Create a safe and fun space for kids or teens to relax, play, game, or study. Garden rooms offer freedom and privacy while keeping them close to home.

Do You Need Planning Permission for a Garden Office Room?

In many cases, you won't need planning permission to install a garden building or garden office in your private space in the UK. It generally falls under Permitted Development Rights, however, there are some important exceptions:

• Size
  The garden room structure must not cover more than 50% of your garden space.

• Height
  The garden room must be single-storey with a maximum height of 2.5m (if within 2m of a boundary line).

• Use
  The garden room can't be used as a separate dwelling.

• Location
  Listed buildings or homes in conservation areas may require permission for any type of garden building, even a simple shed.

Lazy Magazine Top Outdoor Office Tip: If in any doubt about planning permission for a garden office building or for peace of mind before you break ground, always check with your local planning authority before building, especially if your garde room design is larger or you are looking to include plumbing or heating in yout outdoor office space.

What are the Popular Styles of Modern Garden Offices in the UK?

Whether you're drawn to modern minimalism, classical charm, or something in between, there's a garden office or garden building style to suit every taste and garden size.

Here are some of the most popular styles we’ve seen customers embrace, along with the features that make them stand out:

1. Contemporary Garden Cabins
   These sleek, architecturally-inspired structures feature clean lines, large-format windows or floor-to-ceiling glass, and premium wood or composite cladding. The emphasis is on blending indoor comfort with outdoor aesthetics. Perfect for modern homes, they often include integrated lighting, climate control, and even smart tech compatibility. Think of it as a boutique office in your back garden.

2. Scandinavian Garden Office Pods
   Ideal for compact spaces, these minimalist pods are known for their functional design, neutral tones, and emphasis on natural light. Typically made from sustainable materials, they often include pale timber finishes, angled roofs, and streamlined furniture. A great choice for those seeking a calm, clutter-free environment that enhances focus and well-being.

3. Traditional Garden Lodges & Home Office Log Cabins
   For those who prefer a cosy, timeless feel, traditional timber lodges or log cabin offices offer a sense of warmth and craftsmanship. Constructed from natural wood—often cedar or pine—these offices can include pitched roofs, window shutters, and cottage-style finishes. They blend beautifully with established gardens and suit period properties especially well.

4. Multi-Use Garden Studios
   These versatile spaces are designed for more than just work — they can double as a yoga studio, creative workshop, or guest retreat. Many include foldaway desks, built-in benches with storage, or movable partitions that let you reconfigure the space easily. Ideal for families or freelancers who want a flexible, future-proof investment.

5. Eco-Friendly Garden Office Rooms
   Sustainability is top of mind for many homeowners, and eco garden offices deliver. Look for features like green roofs, solar panels, natural insulation (like sheep’s wool or hemp), and reclaimed materials. Not only do they reduce your environmental footprint, but they can also qualify for certain green building incentives.

6. Luxury Garden Office Suites
   At the high end of the market, luxury suites feature premium finishes, fully opening double doors, built-in soundproofing, underfloor heating, and even en-suite facilities. These dedicated office spaces are ideal for full-time remote workers or those running client-facing businesses from home. Perfect for year-round use, expect finishes like oak flooring, bespoke cabinetry, and integrated garden landscaping.

Lazy Magazine's Expert Tips for Designing Your Garden Office Building

With years of experience in garden furniture and outdoor living design, we've helped countless homeowners transform their outdoor spaces into stylish, functional retreats.

In fact, our roots go even deeper — we previously sold garden offices and garden rooms themselves, before choosing to focus exclusively on the patio furniture that brings those spaces to life.

Here are our top expert tips to help you get the most from your new outdoor workspace:

1. Orientation
   How you position your garden office can make a huge difference. Aim to maximise natural light by facing the main windows east or south, which brings in morning or all-day sun. But be mindful of screen glare, especially if your desk faces a window. Consider using anti-glare blinds or adjustable desk positions to strike the right balance between brightness and visibility.

2. Insulation
   Comfort is key if you plan to use your garden office year-round. Invest in high-quality insulation for walls, flooring, and the roof — materials like sheep’s wool, PIR boards, or wood fibre provide excellent thermal performance. Don’t overlook double-glazed windows and draught-proof doors. A well-insulated space will not only keep you warm in winter and cool in summer but also reduce heating bills.

3. Connectivity
   Think carefully about your electrical and tech needs. You’ll want multiple plug sockets, task lighting, and ambient lighting to suit different times of day. If your home Wi-Fi doesn’t reach the garden reliably, consider installing a wired Ethernet connection or a Wi-Fi extender to ensure a strong, uninterrupted signal — essential for Zoom calls and cloud-based work.

4. Greenery
   Plants aren’t just decorative — they can have a big impact on your mood and productivity. Indoor greenery like peace lilies, snake plants, or ferns helps purify the air and bring a calming, natural touch. Consider vertical planters, shelves of succulents, or even a small herb garden just outside the door for a fresh, inspiring garden office atmosphere.

5. Zones
   Even in smaller spaces, zoning can make your garden office more functional. Use rugs, lighting, or modular furniture to subtly separate areas. For example, a desk/work zone, a storage nook with shelves or built-ins, and a small lounge corner for breaks. A compact armchair or beanbag, paired with a side table, can create a cosy retreat for reading or quick resets between meetings.

Garden Furniture Ideas for Your Garden Office

While the interior of your garden office matters, it’s the surrounding space — the area just outside the garden building — that often gets overlooked. Creating a well-furnished outdoor area next to your garden office can elevate your workday, offering space to take calls, recharge with a coffee, or even brainstorm in the fresh air.

At Lazy Susan, we believe garden furniture works best when it's used for its intended purpose: designed to withstand the elements and enhance your outdoor lifestyle. While some pieces can double up indoors, the real magic happens when they’re used to create a seamless transition between your inside workspace and your garden.

Here are some of our top furniture recommendations for setting up an inviting, practical area just outside your garden office:

1. Ergonomic Outdoor Desk & Chairs
   If you like to step outside with your laptop on warmer days, look for ergonomic outdoor seating with proper lumbar support and UV-resistant tabletops. Compact garden bistros in materials like powder-coated aluminium will provide both durability and style — perfect for a quick work session in the sun.

2. Compact Garden Bench & Side Table
   A garden bench outside a garden office provides a peaceful spot to take breaks, enjoy fresh air, and reset mentally. It encourages stepping away from the screen, boosting creativity and reducing stress. Plus, it adds charm and functionality to the outdoor space. Add a matching side table to create a convenient setup for drinks, books, or a laptop during casual work sessions.

3. Outdoor Lighting
   Extend your use of the space into early mornings or late evenings with outdoor lighting. Solar-powered lanterns, rechargeable LED lamps, or low-voltage festoon lights create a warm, productive atmosphere and help define the space without overpowering the garden’s natural ambience.

4. Shade & Shelter Solutions
   A freestanding parasol, awning, or timber-framed pergola just outside your office can make the area more usable in all weather. Not only do they offer protection from sun and light rain, but they also frame the space beautifully — turning it into a true outdoor extension of your working life.

5. Finishing Touches
   Complete your outdoor workspace with thoughtful accessories like weatherproof rugs, plant stands, or even a small water feature to create a calm, inspiring environment. These elements enhance both aesthetics and wellbeing — especially important when you spend long hours nearby.

Our Final Thoughts on Contemporary Garden Offices…

Garden offices are far more than a passing trend — they represent a smart, long-term investment in the way we live and work.

As remote and hybrid working become the norm across the UK, having a dedicated, beautifully designed garden building just steps from your home is no longer a luxury — it’s a lifestyle upgrade.

But it’s not just what happens inside the garden office that matters. By thoughtfully furnishing the area around the outsode of the garden building itself, you can create a seamless flow between work and nature — a space where you can focus, recharge, and genuinely enjoy your environment throughout the seasons.

At Lazy Susan, we’ve seen firsthand how the right furniture and layout can transform a simple garden building structure into a truly inspiring outdoor workspace. Whether you're looking for ergonomic seating, stylish all-weather tables, or expert advice on how to tie it all together, we’re here to help.

Let us bring your garden office vision to life — with comfort, style, and durability at its heart.

If you have our garden furniture positioned in or close to your garden office or any other garden building, we’d love to see a few photos for our Do Some Good charity campaign. You can tag us @LazySusanFurniture on Instagram or Facebook or Upload It Here.