THE STEEL FRAME GARDEN ROOM GUIDE
Designing Your Dream Outdoor Living Space with a Steel frame Garden Room
Transforming your outdoor space into a stylish and adaptable living area is a popular aspiration. Have you considered a steel frame garden room? Our ultimate guide will take you through the advantages, design factors, and step-by-step process of making your steel-framed garden room dream a reality.
What is a steel framed Garden Room?
Why Steel Frame?
Investing in a steel-framed garden room is a smart choice for outdoor living. Combining design flexibility, durability, and low maintenance, it offers a compelling solution for an extension to your living space. The inherent strength of steel provides a sturdy and long-lasting structure that can withstand diverse weather conditions, making it a reliable space for year-round use. Its versatility allows for contemporary designs with large windows and doors, creating an effortless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Not only does a steel-framed garden room offer a modern aesthetic, but it also provides minimal maintenance requirements and resistance to deterioration, ensuring it stands the test of time. Seamlessly integrating with the natural beauty of your garden, it’s the perfect functional and stylish addition to your living space.
Benefits of Having a steel frame garden room
The decision to invest in a garden room for your UK home comes with a host of benefits catering to diverse needs. Let’s explore some key advantages:
1. Durability
Steel is known for its strength and resilience, providing a durable framework that can withstand environmental elements such as wind, rain, and snow.
2. Longevity
Steel-framed structures are designed to have a long lifespan, making them a durable and sustainable choice for outdoor living spaces.
3. Versatility in Design:
The strength of steel allows for open and flexible designs. Large expanses of glass, sliding doors, and other architectural features can be easily incorporated into the design to create a modern and airy atmosphere.
4. Low Maintenance:
Steel requires minimal maintenance compared to traditional building materials. It is resistant to rot, pests, and degradation, contributing to the long-term sustainability of the structure.
5. Adaptability:
Steel-framed garden rooms are versatile and can adapt to various design styles. Whether you prefer a contemporary, minimalist look or a more traditional aesthetic, the steel frame can be customized to suit your preferences.
6. Speed of Construction:
Steel-framed structures often have a quicker construction time compared to traditional building methods. This can result in a faster and more efficient process from design to completion.
Exploring the uses of a steel frame garden room
Steel-framed garden rooms offer a versatile and adaptable space that can cater to a variety of uses, enhancing the functionality and enjoyment of your outdoor living area. Here are several compelling uses for a steel-framed garden room:
Home office and studios:
Create a dedicated and inspiring workspace in your garden, away from the distractions of the main house. The natural light and tranquil surroundings can contribute to a productive and creative environment.
entertainment space:
Steel frames Design a stylish entertainment space where you can host gatherings, movie nights, or game sessions. The open design possibilities of a steel frame allow for the integration of wall mounted TV’s and multimedia systems and comfortable seating.
Artistic Retreat:
Use the garden room as a creative sanctuary for painting, sculpting, or any other artistic endeavours. The abundance of natural light and the connection to nature can foster a conducive atmosphere for artistic expression.
Fitness or Yoga Studio:
Transform the space into a private gym or yoga studio with the steel frame providing structural support for equipment, while the connection to the garden allows for a refreshing and invigorating workout environment.
Guest Accommodation:
Offer a comfortable and private space for guests by converting the garden room into a guest bedroom. The modern and open design can create a unique and welcoming retreat.
Workshop or Crafting Space:
Customise the garden room to accommodate a workshop for DIY projects, woodworking, or crafting. The durable steel frame provides a solid foundation for such activities.
take a look
Watch our video of a steel frame being built
Costs and Budgeting for a steel frame garden room in the UK: A Practical Guide
Costs for steel-framed garden rooms can vary widely based on factors such as size, design complexity, materials used, and the level of customisation. Here’s a breakdown of key considerations when budgeting for a steel-framed garden room:
Estimating the Cost of Building a Steel Framed Garden Room
Size and Design: The size of your garden room significantly impacts costs with larger structures require more materials and labour. Design complexity, such as bespoke shapes or intricate architectural features, can also contribute to increased costs.
Average Cost Per Square Meter: One way to estimate costs is by looking at the average cost per square meter of construction. In the UK, this can vary based on factors like location, materials, and customisation. As of 2023, the average cost per square meter for building work in the UK ranges from £4000. This is why many people are looking at a garden room for an alternative to big construction bills. The price range for a steel framed garden room is between £1000- £2500 per sqm.
Interior Upgrades: Beyond construction costs, it’s crucial to budget for any additional interior upgrades you may wish to include. This can range from adding air conditioning to a feature wall with designer wallpaper.
Cost Considerations for Landscaping and External Features
Landscaping: Consider adding features such as a garden, outdoor seating area, or a water feature to create a relaxing and inviting atmosphere. You can also choose to incorporate elements that reflect your personal style and tastes, such as sculptures or unique plant arrangements. By investing in landscaping and external features, you can create a space that is not only visually appealing but also functional and enjoyable for you and your guests.
Looking for extra strength and durablility
Structural integrity: The inherent structural integrity of steel makes it a robust choice for constructing a garden room. The steel frame provides a stable and secure foundation for the gym, ensuring that it can safely accommodate the dynamic loads associated with exercise equipment and activities.
Large Open Spaces: Steel frames allow for large, open interior spaces without the need for excessive supporting columns. This openness is advantageous for a gym layout, providing ample room for workout routines, equipment placement, and flexibility in gym design.
Hang a Punchbag or TRX With a steel frame you can hand a punchbag or TRX directly from the ceiling allowing a more versitile workout
screw pile foundations
When building a steel framed garden room the preferred foundations are screw piles.
Screw pile foundations, also known as helical piles or screw anchors, offer several benefits in various construction applications due to their innovative design and installation process. Here are some key advantages:
Ease of Installation: Screw piles are installed using hydraulic equipment, making the process relatively quick and straightforward. The absence of concrete curing time allows for immediate construction or loading, reducing project timelines.
Minimal Site Disturbance: The installation of screw pile foundations generates minimal disturbance to the construction site compared to traditional methods like concrete foundations. This is particularly advantageous in environmentally sensitive areas or locations with limited access.
Versatility: Screw piles are versatile and suitable for various soil conditions, including clay, sand, and gravel. Their adaptability makes them a practical choice for a wide range of applications, from residential buildings to infrastructure projects.
Cost-Effective: The overall cost of screw pile foundations can be competitive, especially when considering reduced labour, equipment, and material costs associated with traditional foundation methods. The quick installation also contributes to cost savings.
No Excavation or Spoils: Unlike traditional foundations that require excavation and removal of soil (spoils), screw piles do not generate excess soil. This reduces the need for soil disposal and associated costs.
Immediate Load-Bearing Capacity: Screw piles can bear loads immediately after installation which is beneficial in projects where time is a critical factor, as it eliminates the waiting time associated with curing concrete in traditional foundations.
Environmentally Friendly: The minimal site disturbance, lack of excavation, and potential for reusing screw piles in other projects make them an environmentally friendly foundation option. They are particularly suitable for areas with sensitive ecosystems.
Year-Round Installation: Screw piles can be installed throughout the year, including in cold weather conditions. The absence of curing time allows for construction in seasons when traditional foundation work might be challenging.
High Load Capacity: Screw piles offer excellent load-bearing capacity, making them suitable for supporting various structures, including residential homes, light commercial buildings, telecommunications towers, and more.
Best plants for Landscaping outside your steel framed garden room
The best plants for outside a garden room largely depend on the climate, soil conditions, and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve. Here’s a diverse list of plants that can enhance the surroundings of your garden room:
Lavender (Lavandula): Fragrant and low-maintenance, lavender adds both beauty and a pleasant aroma to the garden.
Boxwood (Buxus): Evergreen and versatile, boxwood provides structure and a polished look to garden borders.
Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum): Known for its stunning foliage, the Japanese maple introduces vibrant colors and a sense of grace.
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): An aromatic herb, rosemary is not only useful in the kitchen but also offers greenery and fragrance.
Heuchera (Heuchera spp.): Coral bells come in various colors and add a pop of vibrancy to garden borders.
Grasses (Various ornamental grasses): Ornamental grasses provide texture and movement, especially in the breeze.
Hosta (Hosta spp.): Ideal for shaded areas, hostas are valued for their bold foliage and low maintenance.
Climbing Roses (Rosa spp.): To add vertical interest, consider planting climbing roses that can adorn trellises or walls.
Hellebores (Helleborus spp.): Hellebores bloom early in the year, bringing delicate flowers and evergreen foliage.
Clematis (Clematis spp.): Climbing clematis vines produce an abundance of flowers, making them perfect for vertical accents.
Succulents (Various succulent species): For a modern and low-maintenance look, succulents thrive in containers and rocky landscapes.
Always consider the local climate, sunlight conditions, and your personal preferences when selecting plants for the area outside your garden room. A mix of evergreens, flowering plants, and those with interesting foliage can create a visually appealing and dynamic outdoor space.
With the strength of steel and the freedom of design, your steel-framed garden room can be a stunning addition to your outdoor space. Follow this ultimate guide to embark on the journey of creating a functional, stylish, and durable haven right in your garden.
Your garden, your rules — let your creativity flourish!
What makes an inframe garden room
FAQ
What is a steel-framed garden room?
A steel-framed garden room is an outdoor structure with a frame primarily constructed from steel. It serves various purposes such as a home office, studio, entertainment space, or gym, providing a durable and versatile extension to your living space.
Why choose a steel frame for your garden Room?
Steel frames offer exceptional strength, durability, and design flexibility. They can support large open spaces, accommodate modern designs, and withstand various weather conditions, making them a popular choice for garden rooms.
How durable are steel-framed garden rooms?
Steel-framed garden rooms are highly durable, resistant to corrosion, pests, and environmental factors. When properly maintained, they can have a long lifespan and withstand the test of time.
What are the advantages of steel-framed garden rooms?
While it’s technically possible, craning a garden annex into a back garden involves many logistical challenges. In London and the surrounding areas there are issues with crane reach, closing roads and weather interference. We are able to carry our steel frame though side or rear entrances, or though the house.
Do steel-framed garden rooms require planning permission?
Planning permission requirements vary by location and project specifics. It’s essential to check with local authorities to determine if permits are needed for your specific garden room project.
Can a steel-framed garden room be used year-round?
Yes, with proper insulation and design considerations, steel-framed garden rooms can be used year-round. They can provide comfortable spaces in all seasons, accommodating heating and cooling systems as needed.
Are steel-framed garden rooms customisable?
Yes, steel-framed garden rooms are highly customisable. The flexibility of steel allows for various design options, including large windows, unique shapes, and tailored interior layouts to suit individual preferences and needs.
Can a steel-framed garden room be used for different purposes?
Absolutely. Steel-framed garden rooms are versatile and can be used as home offices, studios, entertainment spaces, gyms, or relaxation areas. The adaptability of the structure allows for diverse applications.
