In the UK, space is at a premium and uncertainty lingers in the housing market. With this in mind, it is little wonder that so many are looking at ways to enhance their existing spaces. Especially if it eliminates the rigmarole that moving or taking on a full building project entails. Not only that, but summer houses have become cherished spaces for relaxation, entertainment, work, and an increased connection with the great outdoors.
Designing a summer house that meets the needs of the whole family is where it can become challenging. There are unique challenges involved in creating a space that walks that fine line between shared family experiences, individual privacy, and of course, suitability. In this article we’re going to offer you some ideas on how to craft a multi-generational summer house that works for everyone. We’ll focus on practical solutions, regulatory considerations, and offer up some inspiration to get your creative juices flowing.
Designing a summer house: Compact Yet Functional Spaces
As with all projects that will serve several functions, it’s essential that you give due consideration to the diverse needs of your family. Much as you would if you were renovating your house:
- Shared Spaces: Areas for gatherings of family and friends, meals, hobbies, or activities like board games and movie nights. What do you need to include that supports these activities?
- Private Spaces: Quiet corners for relaxation, work-from-home setups, or personal hobbies.
- Accessibility: Accommodating older family members with mobility considerations. This goes not just for the summer house itself, but access in general as well.
- Child-Friendly Features: Creating zones where kids can play safely without disturbing others and without the need to be eagle-eyed when you’re meant to be enjoying your new multi-purpose space.
Start by having a family discussion to brainstorm what each member would most like to see included in your summer house. This collaborative approach ensures the final design reflects everyone’s input. No doubt the younger members of your tribe might throw some interesting curveballs in there. Climbing wall on the outside, anybody?
Incorporating Universal Design Principles
Universal Design principles focus on creating spaces that are both functional and accessible for people of all ages and abilities. These principles were developed by a team of architects, product designers, engineers, and environmental design researchers. Key elements include:
- Step-Free Access: Install ramps or gently sloping paths for ease of entry.
- Wide Doorways: Ensure doorways can accommodate wheelchairs or prams.
- Flexible Layouts: Use sliding doors or movable partitions to create adaptable spaces.
- Comfortable Flooring: Opt for slip-resistant materials like cork or rubber in high-traffic areas.
These features not only enhance accessibility but also future-proof your summer house for evolving family needs.
Maximising Space: Functional Design for the Whole Family
Unless you’re fortunate enough to have plenty of outdoor space at your disposal, chances are that your garden size will be the primary consideration. To put it plainly, your summer house will most likely need to be compact yet functional. However, as this is the case for so much of modern living these days, there are plenty of solutions and plenty of inspiration out there. Here are some easy to adopt tips on how you can maximise your space:
Modular Furniture
Invest in furniture that serves multiple purposes:
-
- Sofa Beds: Much as you would in your home, transform your seating area into a guest room.
- Foldable Tables: Use drop-leaf tables for dining or crafts, then fold them away when not in use. You can also get tables that attach to walls that you can pop up then fold down flat for further space maximisation.
- Storage Ottomans: Combine seating with hidden storage for toys, blankets, or tools. Companies like IKEA are masters of this craft and are often praised by architects, designers, and contractors alike for their novel yet practical storage solutions.
- Hidden Furniture: Thanks to design geniuses across the globe that work in places with extremely limited space, there are many clever ways that you can make your spaces serve more than one purpose with transformable furniture.
Vertical Storage
Think outside the (storage) box! Shelves and cupboards are not the only way to store things away. Hanging items like bicycles, garden tools, or even folding chairs is an easy way to free up floor space. You could borrow ideas from garage storage solutions too. Make use of the ceiling if floor space is limited or you’re keen to make freedom of movement a priority.
Light and Mirrors
A favoured trick of interior designers, use large windows, skylights, and strategically placed mirrors to bounce the light around a compact space to make it feel brighter and larger.
Shared and Private Spaces: Striking the Right Balance
In order for a multi-generational summer house to really work for everyone, it needs to offer both communal and personal areas. There are a number of ways that you could go about this and these are some strategies you could consider:
Zoned Layouts
Divide the space into distinct zones:
- Living Zone: For group activities like watching TV or playing games.
- Quiet Zone: A small library or reading nook.
- Outdoor Zone: A deck or patio for barbecues and al fresco dining that extends the available space, saving the indoors for items that need more protection from the elements.
Soundproofing
Use acoustic panels or heavy curtains to minimise not only noise between zones but noise from external sources like traffic or neighbours. Carpeting and soft furnishings can also help absorb sound.
Outdoor Extensions
Don’t restrict yourself to your summer house! If you’re feeling creative and have already put in the groundwork, both in terms of research and physically, why not incorporate a veranda, pergola, or garden pod? These help to create additional semi-private spaces while retaining the connected feel. These outdoor extensions provide the feel of privacy without isolating anyone completely.
Outdoor Living: Making the Most of British Weather
Sustainability and of course weather resilience are crucial considerations for any UK summer house. Here are some tips:
- Wood: Choose FSC-certified cedar or larch, renowned for natural weather resistance and sustainability.
- Insulation: Install high-quality insulation to keep the summer house warm in winter and cool in summer.
- Roofing: Metal or slate roofs offer durability and minimal maintenance while felt is simple to replace in the event of any incidents.
- Windows: Double-glazed windows improve energy efficiency and reduce condensation.
Additionally, you could consider using recycled or reclaimed materials for an eco-friendlier approach.
Inspiration from UK Case Studies
The Multi-Purpose Space Maximiser
Beth and Jamie and their two teenage daughters live in a 5-bedroom house on the Sussex coastline. Beth’s mother is recently widowed and will be moving in with them next year after the works to renovate the old 20-square-metre garden shed and modify the house are finished. Beth and Jamie run their own accountancy firm from home so space in the house is already at a premium. This project will provide a professional work environment and extra recreation space.
Key features to include:
- Separate office to one end with sliding doors for privacy and to allow dual use of the space.
- Floor to roof windows that wrap around the building to maximise the view and to provide plenty of natural light
- Comfortable seating area with convertible sofas to accommodate the girls’ social lives or if Grandma wants a moment of peace and quiet!
- Patioed area with pergola to enjoy the best of the three days of summer we get to enjoy in the UK.
The City Retreat
In Surrey, a family created a summer house with the needs of their growing family in mind. Anna and Julian have two boys under 4 and are expecting twins in the summer.
- With all the kit and kaboodle that goes with having small children and also babies, all furniture has to earn its keep. Sofas double up as storage boxes with pop up seats.
- Separate alcoves with sliding doors for nap time.
- Toilet and kitchenette plumbed in to avoid urgent dashes back to the house
- Wide doors for ease of pram manoeuvring
- Simple design to allow conversion to home office once the children are all at school
These examples highlight how creative thinking, and careful planning can give you a space that is versatile, functional and achievable.
Final Touches: Personalising Your Summer House
Now that your structure is complete, the fun part can begin! It’s time to make it your own:
- Decor: The world really is your oyster here! Obviously it is probably going to depend on how you intend to use the space. If it is going to serve a number of purposes, using a neutral base palette with pops of colour through cushions, rugs, and artwork will keep it flexible without being devoid of personality.
- Plants: Add indoor plants or a vertical garden for an extra touch of greenery and calm.
- Family Photos: Create a gallery wall celebrating shared memories, especially if you’re planning to use the space as a family area. Who doesn’t like a walk down memory lane?
- Outdoor Lighting: Use fairy lights or solar-powered lanterns for a cosy ambience.
These small touches will make your summer house feel welcoming and personal.
Conclusion
Designing a multi-generational summer house is an exciting challenge that requires some thoughtful planning. By balancing the shared and private spaces, optimising compact layouts, and incorporating sustainable materials, you can create a versatile retreat that caters to every family member. If you’re still having doubts, we thoroughly recommend having a browse through Pinterest and Instagram. There are some incredible designs, solutions and ideas out there to suit all tastes, needs and budgets. And with a wide array of different global methods showcased here, you can let your imagination run riot.
FAQs
Do I need planning permission to install a summer house in my garden?
In most cases, you won’t need planning permission if the summer house is considered a permitted development. This is the case if the following apply:
- The summer house is single-storey and less than 2.5m tall and is within 2m of your property boundary).
- The total area covered by outbuildings and extensions doesn’t exceed 50% of your original garden space.
- It isn’t located in the front garden or on designated land (like national parks or conservation areas).
- However, for larger or more elaborate designs, or if you live in a listed property, you might need planning approval. Always check with your local planning authority or use the planning portal.
What is the best material for a summer house?
Timber is an ever-popular choice for summer houses. Summer house lovers are drawn to its natural aesthetic, proven durability, and natural insulation properties. To get extra bang for your buck, pressure-treated wood goes that extra step and is an ideal material as it’s resistant to rot and decay. Other materials include composite wood for low maintenance or metal and UPVC for a modern look. The choice depends on your style, budget, and maintenance preferences.
How much does it cost to build and install a summer house?
We think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the range of pricing options on offer. The cost of a summer house in the UK can vary greatly depending on size, materials, and design. On average:
- Budget models start at around £1,000–£2,500.
- Mid-range options range from £3,000–£8,000.
- Luxury models or custom builds can exceed £10,000.
Of course, this does not cover everything associated with your summer house. You should budget for additional costs like groundwork, insulation, electrical work, and interior furnishings if needed.
Can I use a summer house year-round?
Yes! But you’ll need to make provisions to ensure it is suitable for year-round use. Especially if you’re planning on using it daily, as an office for example. A few necessary purchases would include insulation, double glazing and heating. Ventilation would also be a bonus to prevent dampness in colder months. Although this will be more work and expense, it will also significantly extend the lifespan of your summer house.
What permissions are needed to add electricity and plumbing?
Electricity is the most common ‘added extra’ as you’ll almost certainly want lighting as a bare minimum. You’ll need a qualified electrician to install and then certify the work to make sure it is up to code. For plumbing, such as a sink or bathroom, you may require additional approvals. Both trades should be able to tell you if the work you are doing will require planning permission but aside from this, you should notify your local building authority to make sure your new building meets regulations for water supply and drainage systems.
Image Credit: All images via Ideogram