Narrow Garden Office Designed for a Tight Plot
Published: 3 September 2025
Reading Time: 2 minutes 10 seconds
As more new housing developments are built, we are seeing an increase in irregularly shaped gardens. Developers often shape plots to maximise the number of properties on a site, which can leave behind narrow or awkward spaces. With the right vision, however, even these areas can be transformed into something highly functional that adds real value to both house and lifestyle.
This 4.8m x 1.8m garden office by Miniature Manors is a great example. The client had a slim strip of ground behind the garage – space that might easily have been written off – but it has been turned into a stylish home office.
Bespoke Design for an Awkward Space
In situations like this, a pre-designed, fixed-size garden room is unlikely to fit. By working with a company like Miniature Manors, who offer a bespoke design service, you open up unique opportunities. Their team tailored this long, narrow building to run neatly along the back of the garage, making the most of the available space without overpowering the garden.
The glazing layout was carefully planned. A set of 1.85m-wide aluminium bi-fold doors opens out to the garden, wrapping around the left-hand corner with a full-height window, complete with an opening fanlight for ventilation.
Contemporary Style with Low Maintenance
The whole building has been clad in James Hardie Plank fibre cement boards in ‘Khaki Brown.’ This durable material is ideal for situations like this, where some elevations are difficult to access, as it requires virtually no maintenance. Available in a wide range of colours, it combines practicality with design flexibility.
To the front, the roof projects beyond the bi-folds to create a neat canopy detail, fitted with exterior-grade downlights that add both style and function.
Light and Fully Functional Interior
Inside, the space feels bright and welcoming despite its narrow footprint. At one end there is room for a comfortable desk, while the glazed corner creates a lovely seating spot to enjoy views of the garden. Plastered and decorated walls and ceiling, together with a light laminate floor, enhance the sense of light.
As part of Miniature Manors’ turnkey service, the electrics were designed around the layout and connected back to the main house, so the client could begin using the room straight away.
Making Use of ‘Dead Space’
This project shows how even a small, overlooked part of the garden can be turned into something highly valuable. The result is a room that is comfortable to use every day of the year, requires little maintenance, and enhances both the home and the way it is lived in.
Learn More
Miniature Manors focus their work in East Sussex, Surrey, and West Sussex. To learn more about their bespoke garden rooms, visit www.miniaturemanors.co.uk, email contact@miniaturemanors.co.uk, or call 01403 610 619.
