Smart Design Tips for Making the Most of Your Garden Room Space

The beauty of garden rooms is that they fit almost anywhere. But if your garden is smaller than average, or you have a slimmer portion of land to dedicate to a full-scale build, there are strategic ways you can make the most of the space you have – and even give the illusion of additional space where there is none.

From office pods to cosy spare rooms, your compact garden room is just as adaptable as any other, and we are here to offer some expert tips to help you expand its full potential.

1. Understand Your Needs

Before you can think about how much space to create, you first need to define exactly what you will be using the space for. The design and storage solutions of your garden room hinge on a clear understanding of its primary function. A home office might necessitate built-in shelves and a compact desk, whereas a hobby room could require versatile storage for materials and equipment.

Recognising these specific needs early in the planning process ensures that every element of the garden room’s design is aligned with its intended use.

2. Implement Smarter Design Strategies

We have been excelling in employing smart design strategies that blend aesthetics with functionality for over 40 years. A key aspect of this is the utilisation of vertical storage. By incorporating shelves, cabinets, or even stylish wall-mounted units, you can improve storage solutions, freeing up valuable floor space for other purposes.

Multi-functional furniture is another brilliant way to make more space where there is none. Pieces like sofa beds, desks with built-in storage, or tables that convert into seating areas can dramatically enhance the utility of your garden room, without cluttering the space.

3. Master Light, Colour, and Illusion

garland of large edison lamps as fairy lights

awning in cafe terrace gazebo with a garland of strings of retro edison lamps lighting with warm light close-up decorative objects on backyard, nobody.

The strategic use of light, colour, and mirrors can play a transformative role in the perception of space within your garden room. Proper lighting is essential – and within our garden room designs, it is easy to utilise. Select exactly where you want your windows to go, and how many you need, right from our design platform. Our built-in, dimmable LED spots are a great way to complement this natural light boost. You can also include a few well-placed lamps, which can be easily moved and adjusted as needed.

Colour choices are equally influential on space. Lighter shades can make a room feel more spacious and airy, and soft neutrals or pastel tones on walls and ceilings can reflect light better, enhancing the sense of openness. For a cohesive look, coordinate these colours with your furnishings and decor.

Mirrors are another clever addition to create the illusion of expanded space. When placed strategically, mirrors can reflect both natural and artificial light, giving the room a brighter, more expansive feel. Consider positioning a large mirror opposite a window or in a way that it reflects the most open part of the room.

4. Practice Zoning for Multipurpose Use

Interior of light bedroom with shelf unit, plants and bed

This involves dividing the space into distinct areas, each tailored for specific activities, allowing for a versatile yet organised environment.

For instance, one corner of the room can be dedicated as a snug reading nook, complete with a comfortable armchair, a small bookshelf, and focused lighting. Another area can serve as a productive home office, equipped with a compact desk, ergonomic chair, and storage for office supplies.

The key is to ensure that each zone is clearly defined yet seamlessly integrated into the overall design. This can be achieved through strategic furniture placement, the use of area rugs to delineate spaces, or even temporary dividers like folding screens.

5. Integrate With the Outdoors

Your garden room stands as a key feature in your outdoor space, so blurring the lines between inside and outside spaces can expand the usable area.

The large glass French or bi-fold doors that our designs come with open up the space wonderfully on their own, but you could also consider adding a patio or decking area just outside the garden room, complete with comfortable outdoor seating or a dining set. This extension acts as a natural continuation of the indoor space, perfect for entertaining guests or enjoying quiet moments in nature.

Bonus Tips for Maximising Space in Your Garden Room

Here are a few more practical tips to help you streamline your storage and reduce clutter in your new or existing garden room:

Custom Shelving and Cabinets: Tailor-made shelving and cabinetry can be designed to fit specific dimensions of your garden room, ensuring no space is wasted. Consider wall-mounted shelves or cabinets that reach up to the ceiling, providing ample storage without encroaching on the living area.
Hidden Storage: Incorporate furniture with built-in storage, like ottomans with internal compartments or benches with under-seat drawers. This perfectly maintains a tidy and clutter-free environment.
Use of Baskets and Boxes: Baskets and decorative boxes can be both functional and stylish. They are perfect for storing smaller items and can easily be tucked away under tables or in shelving units.
Vertical Gardening: For those who wish to include plants in their garden room, vertical gardening is an excellent space-saving solution. Wall-mounted planters or hanging pots can add greenery without taking up precious floor space.
Pegboards for Tools and Supplies: Pegboards are incredibly versatile for organising your tools and craft supplies. They provide easy access and visibility to frequently used items while keeping them neatly arranged. In craft rooms and workshops, this is especially important, as proper storage can ensure safety.
Foldable and Stackable Furniture: Opt for furniture that can be folded or stacked when not in use. This is particularly useful in multi-purpose garden rooms where space needs to be adaptable for different activities.

A Garden Room That Fits Just Right

By implementing these practical tips and storage solutions, you can significantly enhance the functionality of your garden room, making it a more enjoyable and efficient space.

If you are yet to build your own, or are concerned about the size of your garden, why not try our design tool? The process is intuitive and completely free, so you can put together your own garden room quote in a matter of minutes – one that fits your garden and your budget.