A Bespoke Garden Room Designed to Maximise an Awkward Corner
Published: 26 February 2025
Reading Time: 3 minutes
Creating a garden room in a perfectly square space is one thing, but framing a building to fit an irregularly shaped garden corner is another level of craftsmanship. This is exactly what Rustic Realities achieved with this project, working closely with returning clients who had previously commissioned a storage room to fit another tricky spot. Knowing that their unique design challenges were in safe hands, the clients entrusted Rustic Realities to bring their vision to life.
Tailored Design for a Unique Space
After several design iterations, adjusting both the size and shape to make the most of the available space, the final design was agreed upon. The building has a footprint of 3.5m x 2.4m at its widest point, tapering down to 1.8m at the opposite end where the single door is positioned. Built on a groundscrew foundation and topped with a durable EPDM rubber roof, the structure is designed for long-term stability and performance.
A Natural Yet Contemporary Exterior
The exterior of the garden room is clad in Thermowood battens with a shadow gap profile, offering a slightly more contemporary aesthetic than Rustic Realities' usual designs. The knotty nature of the Thermowood retains a natural feel, while black featherboard fascias provide a subtle nod to Rustic Realities signature rustic style. Two black up/down wall lights were added, subtly illuminating the facade after dark.
Light-Filled Multi-Use Space
Inside, the clients wanted a clean and simple space that could function both as a garden office and an outdoor living room. To achieve this, the walls and ceiling were dry lined and painted white, paired with a light oak laminate floor for a warm yet neutral finish. High-quality insulation was used throughout, with Thermafleece sheep wool in the walls and ceiling, and Actis Hybris insulation in the base, ensuring the space remains comfortable year-round.
Maximising Natural Light
A key part of the design brief was to let in as much natural light as possible. This was achieved with an extensive array of custom-sized, double-glazed timber-framed windows and doors. A set of glass double doors provides a wide opening onto the garden, while a single door offers additional access. A floor-to-ceiling window enhances the feeling of space and connection with the outdoors, and a large 1m x 1m opening window positioned in front of the desk ensures plenty of daylight floods the workspace. While this level of glazing is a bold choice, it works beautifully within the design, ensuring the room feels bright and connected to the garden.
Premium Electrics Including a Cinema Screen
The clients opted for a high-end finish when it came to the electrical elements, selecting a premium range of switches and sockets rather than standard white fittings. A tall black electric column radiator adds a modern touch and ensures warmth during cooler months.
One of the most unique aspects of this project was an unexpected mid-build request—an external, remote-controlled projector screen hidden within the soffit. After some creative problem-solving and a consultation with Dan, the project electrician, Rustic Realities made it happen, seamlessly integrating this custom feature into the design.
Seamless Integration with the Garden
To create a smooth transition from the garden to the room, a small decked area was added as a step up from the main deck, along with a step from the grass to the double doors. Both are clad in Thermowood battens, tying them in with the overall aesthetic of the building.
Learn More
This project is a great example of how Rustic Realities can tailor a garden room design to fit not just a specific footprint but also a client's evolving ideas. They work in Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, and Oxfordshire. Chat with the team on 07712 581 532 or by emailing inforusticrealities@gmail.com. Explore their website to see more examples of their work.
