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It’s not just the space in your garden you need to consider when looking at log cabin or garden room sizes. Thinking about how you see yourself using it helps, too. In this guide, we’ll take a look at each size range and what they allow you to do.
But first, the legal stuff:
What Is the Largest Log Cabin or Garden Room Without Planning Permission?
Under permitted development, the central limit is the 50% rule. Outbuildings, including log cabins and garden rooms, can’t take up more than half of the land around your house. This includes any existing extensions or buildings.
Height is another key point. Most log cabins and garden rooms sold in the UK fall within the legal limits, such as:
- If any part of the building is within 2 m of a boundary, the maximum height is 2.5 m.
- If more than 2 m from a boundary, the maximum height is 4 m for a dual-pitched or hipped roof, and 3 m for other roof types.
- The eaves, or the lowest part of the roof, must not exceed 2.5 m.
Your building must be single-storey and can’t sit forward of the principal wall of your house. Other rules can apply depending on how the space will be used. For instance, sleeping, running a business, or adding plumbing.
To stay compliant, check out our log cabin planning permission guide for a rundown.
Do Log Cabins and Garden Rooms Need to Meet Building Regulations?
Even if yours doesn’t need planning permission, you may still need to meet building regulations. These rules exist to make sure the structure is safe. That includes structural integrity, wiring, plumbing, and heating, among other considerations.
As a rule of thumb, if the building is under 15 m² and doesn’t have sleeping accommodation, you likely won’t need full building regs approval. But once it’s bigger, has a bathroom or kitchen, or is very close to a boundary, you should chat with your local council before you buy.
Log Cabin and Garden Room Sizes
Now that you know about planning permission and building regulations, here are the common sizes available:
8×6 ft – 8×8 ft
Best for: A compact workspace, small studio, or private retreat.
These are the smallest sizes available in most log cabin and garden room range, ideal for use as a garden room. Inside, there’s enough space for a few furniture pieces, like a small desk and chair set or a corner couch to lie back.
It’s not the best pick for mixing multiple uses, though, since you won’t get much room to move around. Still, these sizes are a good place to start if you’re short on outdoor space but want a functional room.
You might want to have a look at the BillyOh Outpost if that’s right up your street. It’s insulated for year-round use, with a double-glazed door that sits at the centre. There’s also a tall opening window on the side for ventilation and flooding the room with natural light. It all comes together well for the uses mentioned above.
Sizes in metres: 2.5m x 2.0m / 2.5m x 2.5m
10×8 ft – 10×10 ft
Best suited: A home office, casual hangout space, or a log cabin shed.
Either of these sizes gives you a middle ground, with more breathing room than the first two. While it’s not a huge ‘upgrade’, you can tell the difference once you’re inside.
For one, a log cabin shed layout that allows you to utilise the structure for storage and a workshop. Being able to divide zones within the same space says quite a lot about what these sizes can offer, wouldn’t you say? This is exactly what you’ll find with our BillyOh Clubman—a heavy-duty shed log cabin.
Overall, both are more than enough for solo use or two people working side by side.
Sizes in metres: 3.0m x 2.5m / 3.0m x 3.0m
12×8 ft – 12×10 ft
Best for: A garden pub, man cave, ‘she shed’, or personal gym
This is where it starts to feel more like an extra room. You’re no longer limited to choosing just one use with these garden room sizes. Better, you’ve got enough room to use the cabin for two uses out of one space.
One great idea is to set it up as a bar that can double as a man cave. Add an L-shaped counter at one end – this won’t take up much space. Pair it with a couple of stools, maybe a fridge, and wall shelves or cabinets for storage. You’ll likely have space for a comfy chair or a recliner and a small TV for game day. Bean bags are also nice if you often invite friends over.
At 12×8 or 12×10, a garden gym wouldn’t be a bad idea either. No trouble fitting in a treadmill, bench, or exercise bike, and you can still squeeze in for some storage.
Sizes in metres: 3.5m x 2.5m / 3.5m x 3.0m
14×8 ft – 14×10 ft
Best for: An outdoor living space extension, a guest room, or a side business.
In a log cabin or garden room of this size, the layout becomes less of a puzzle and more about preference. It also makes more sense for setups where you’re not using the space alone.
This could be your dream outdoor living space—a more sheltered retreat versus an open patio. Perhaps a guest room that you can furnish with space-saving furniture like a sofa bed and a mini wardrobe.
Running a side business from home? A beauty service is possible, with space for a treatment chair, storage, and even a small waiting spot. Or turn it into a private log cabin salon that works by appointment, so it doesn’t feel overcrowded.
The same applies to other setups. A barber’s corner, a tattoo space, or a packaging room if you sell products online, to name a few!
Need more info? This should help: How to Start a Business from a Garden Building
Sizes in metres: 4.0m x 2.5m / 4.0m x 3.0m
16x10ft – 16x14ft
Best for: Any of the mentioned uses, just in a full room.
This is the point where it’s less about what you can fit in and more about how you want to use it day to day. In essence, you have flexibility overall. Whatever you have in mind, full-sized furniture will fit alongside others.
Think partition walls or even plumbing and electrical fittings if you’re going all-in. The BillyOh Kent, although meant for office purposes, already comes equipped with dividers. It’s so versatile that it can be used for relaxation and entertainment with family and friends.
The smaller section would make a lovely kitchenette, for instance. Then the larger one could house a fitted-out dining room. The possibilities are endless, and you have more options to make the space work for you!
Refer to these log cabin interior ideas for more inspiration.
Sizes in metres: 5.0m x 3.0m x 5.0m x 4.0m
Ready to find the perfect log cabin or garden room for your space? Explore our full range and see what works for you.
