Bespoke security office showcases Garden Spaces’ versatility
A 4.3m × 4.6m security office in the front garden of a large property, raised 600mm above the driveway beside a protected tree, with two workstations, a kitchenette and cedar cladding.
This unusual commission by Garden Spaces demonstrates just how versatile their high-spec garden rooms can be. Designed and built as a security office for a large property, the project draws on the company’s bespoke design expertise and their team’s vast knowledge and experience in handling complex sites.
A well-insulated, multi-layer garden room offers a secure and comfortable year-round workspace, making it an ideal solution for this purpose. In this case, the client needed a building with excellent visibility of the property entrances, a practical internal layout, and the comforts of a room in the house.
At a glance
- Size: 4.3m × 4.6m.
- Built for: A security team, with two multi-screen workstations, a kitchenette and a dining space.
- The site: 600mm above the driveway, near a protected tree and a neighbour's foundations.
- Planning: Approved, with amendments handled by Garden Spaces as the design developed.
- Company: Garden Spaces, from design and planning through to commissioning.
Unusual site and planning requirements
Located in the front garden, the new office required planning approval from the outset. While the client had initially secured permission, several amendments were needed as the design developed. Garden Spaces handled this process as part of their overall service, drawing on nearly two decades of experience in navigating planning applications.
This was not a straightforward site. The building’s elevated position – roughly 600mm above the driveway – was close to a large tree protected by a Tree Preservation Order, as well as the neighbour’s foundations, which required a party wall agreement. Multiple site visits and design iterations were undertaken, with the Garden Spaces team working closely with the client until every detail was right – an approach not all companies would take.
To protect the tree roots and meet the requirements set out by the local authority’s arboriculturalist, an incremental packer foundation system was employed. Careful planning also ensured that waste, water, armoured electrical cabling, and data connections could be brought into the building with minimal disruption.
Easy access in the elevated position
To make access straightforward, the design includes a set of bespoke steps leading to a decked entrance. These are paired with custom-made balustrades, designed to complement the main house while providing essential safety for the elevated position. Sourced specifically for this project, the balustrades tie the entrance detailing together and ensure the approach is both practical and in keeping with the property’s character.
Finished like a room in the house
Inside, the 4.3m x 4.6m security office is finished to the same high standard as a domestic interior. The plastered and decorated walls and ceiling are complemented by quality laminate flooring. The electrical specification was designed in collaboration with the client to accommodate a complex IT system for two workstations with multiple monitors. An air conditioning unit provides heating and cooling for year-round comfort.
A corner glazing configuration ensures good visibility while allowing plenty of natural light to flood in. The wide rectangular opening window on the rear wall adds useful cross-ventilation.
Kitchenette and dining area
The brief also included a kitchenette and a dining space for the security team. Garden Spaces designed and fitted the kitchen, integrating it seamlessly into the layout so the team can prepare and enjoy meals without leaving their post.
External finishes
The exterior is clad in oiled Western Red Cedar, creating a warm, natural finish that will age gracefully over time. Jet black aluminium doors and windows give a modern edge, while the bespoke balustrades complete the look and add an extra layer of safety.
Turnkey service
As with all their projects, Garden Spaces provided a complete turnkey service, managing everything from design and planning to final commissioning. When the team left site, the new security office was ready to move into and start operating immediately.
Learn more about Garden Spaces
To learn more about creating a fully insulated security office, chat with the experienced Garden Spaces team on 0845 387 9 387 or email info@gardenspaces.co.uk. Explore www.gardenspaces.co.uk to see more examples of their work.
