A summerhouse transforms your garden from a simple outdoor space into somewhere you can relax, entertain, work or pursue hobbies. Unlike a basic storage shed, a summerhouse is designed as a destination — a place to spend time, not just store things.
This guide covers the key decisions: style, size, position, cladding and optional features.
Summerhouse Styles Explained
Contemporary Summerhouses
Contemporary summerhouses feature clean lines, large windows and a modern aesthetic. They often have a pent or flat roof and bi-fold or large glazed doors. The Contemporary Summerhouse is one of our most popular models — it brings a touch of modern architecture to the garden and works beautifully as a relaxation space or garden office.
Traditional Summerhouses
Traditional summerhouses have a classic pitched (apex) roof, symmetrically placed windows and a timeless design that suits period and cottage gardens. Models like the Cambridge, Essex and Norfolk offer charm and character with fully glazed double doors.
Corner Summerhouses
Corner summerhouses are designed to fit into the corner of your garden, making excellent use of what is often wasted space. Their distinctive L-shape or triangular design maximises internal space while minimising the footprint. The Conistone and Devon are popular corner options.
Octagonal Summerhouses
Octagonal summerhouses are eight-sided, creating a distinctive garden focal point. They're perfect for positioning in the centre of a garden or lawn, offering panoramic views from every angle. The Octagon, Hertfordshire and Hampshire models are our octagonal options.
Combination Summerhouses
A combination summerhouse combines a summerhouse with an attached shed or storage area. This is ideal if you want a summerhouse for relaxation but also need practical storage space. The Combination Contemporary Summerhouse is our flagship model in this category.
Hot Tub Summerhouses
Specially designed to house and shelter a hot tub, these summerhouses protect you from the elements while enjoying your spa year-round. The Brighton model is designed for this purpose.
Choosing the Right Size
Summerhouses are available in a wide range of sizes:
- 6×6 — Compact and cosy; ideal for smaller gardens
- 8×6 — A popular mid-size with room for a small table and chairs
- 8×8 — Spacious enough for comfortable seating and entertaining
- 10×8 — Large enough for a dedicated seating area and additional furniture
- 12×8 — Generous proportions for a garden room or entertaining space
Consider what furniture you'll want inside — measure your furniture and add at least 50cm clearance around it.
Positioning Your Summerhouse
Think carefully about where to place your summerhouse:
- Orientation — A south-facing position captures the most sunlight, but consider whether you'll want shade in midsummer
- Views — Position the summerhouse to look out over the best part of your garden
- Access — Ensure there's a clear path to the summerhouse entrance
- Boundaries — Remember the 2.5m height limit if placing within 2m of a boundary (read our planning permission guide)
- Trees — Avoid positioning directly under overhanging branches that could damage the roof
Cladding and Construction
All our summerhouses are built using tongue and groove or shiplap construction — never cheap overlap boards. Available cladding upgrades include:
- Standard shiplap — 12mm, excellent weather resistance
- Premier shiplap — 16mm, superior insulation and durability
- Loglap — 19mm, log cabin appearance
- Pressure treated — maximum rot protection with 15-year guarantee
Windows and Doors
Summerhouses typically feature fully glazed double doors for easy access and plenty of natural light. Window options vary by model:
- Fixed windows — standard on most models
- Opening windows — available on some models for ventilation
- Georgian bar windows — add a traditional, elegant touch
Veranda Options
Some summerhouse models are available with an integral veranda, creating a covered outdoor seating area. A veranda extends the usable space of the summerhouse and provides a sheltered spot to sit even in light rain.
Free Installation Included
Every summerhouse we supply includes free professional installation by our experienced team. You don't need to worry about assembly — we build it on-site to the highest standard.
Browse our full range of summerhouses or request a custom build if you need something tailored to your garden.
Browse our Summer Houses
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