Garden Apartment for a Long Garden
First Published: 2 November 2019
Refreshed: 30 September 2024
Reading Time: 2 minutes 30 seconds
We’re really impressed with this self-contained garden annexe, recently completed by the Kent-based Ark Design Build team. It demonstrates that a high-spec, modern studio-style apartment can be successfully created within a garden setting.
Positioned in the centre of a long garden, the apartment has been built close to two boundary fences, maximising the garden’s width. Both Planning Permission and Building Control Approval were secured for the project.
While garden annexes are often located at the far end of a garden, placing this one centrally has created a unique space, offering garden views to both the front and rear, while forming private garden areas for both the main house and the annexe.
Modern Studio Apartment in the Garden
With two sets of bi-fold doors opening onto the garden, the apartment enjoys plenty of natural light. The building, which measures 7.5m x 5m, has been designed as an open-plan space with a shower room in one corner.
Cleverly designed fitted furniture helps to define the sleeping, living, and dining areas, while strategically placed lighting further enhances the zones within the apartment.
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Double-Sided Garden Building
The central positioning of the annexe in the long garden, combined with the through-access from both sides, makes this a highly practical and stylish solution. The design allows plenty of light to flood into the space, making the annexe feel more spacious.
The front elevation features a 4-metre-wide set of bi-fold doors, while the rear wall includes a 2.4-metre-wide set. Both sets of doors open onto a composite decked veranda, providing space for outdoor seating.
The bi-fold doors are fitted with integral blinds, offering flexible control over light levels and privacy for the occupants.
We appreciate the detailing on the external walls, where recesses have been created to house external-grade downlights. These lights will cast a subtle glow in front of the doors, adding a stylish touch.
High-Spec Kitchen
The garden apartment includes a contemporary kitchen, featuring white high-gloss units paired with a graphite worktop and sink. The feature tiled splashback adds a distinctive touch.
The kitchen is compact but functional, incorporating a cooker, fridge, and washing machine.
Modern Shower Room
Though compact, the shower room is well-equipped. The shower cubicle features a tiled wall with a handy shelf, and there is also a toilet and washbasin.
The Ark Design Build team handled all connections to the mains services, which were signed off by Building Control.
Clever Design Features
The garden annexe incorporates several clever design features that make the space feel larger than it is. In addition to the elements already mentioned, there’s a fold-down double bed, fitted wardrobes, and a built-in projector, offering a more streamlined alternative to a traditional TV.
The Ark Design Build team also installed a heat shield in preparation for a wood burner to be fitted at a later date.
Learn More
To learn more about creating a modern garden annexe in the Kent region, get in touch with the Ark Design Build team on 07896 196 718 or via email at contact@arkdesignbuild.co.uk. Visit www.arkdesignbuild.co.uk to explore more of their work.
