Self-contained Teenager's Den in the Garden
First Published: 17 June 2023
Refreshed: 26 September 2024
Reading Time: 2 minutes 44 seconds
As teenagers progress towards adulthood, they often desire their own space—a place where they can entertain friends, study in peace, and relax, all while enjoying a sense of growing independence. At this pivotal stage of life, a garden room can provide the perfect solution, offering a personal retreat just a stone's throw from the family home. By opting for a garden annexe that complies with Building Regulations, this private sanctuary can even serve as a sleepover spot, making it even more appealing.
This 40sqm annexe, built by Timeless Garden Rooms, is a striking example of this concept. Designed with teenage family members in mind, this bespoke garden annexe strikes the ideal balance between adolescent independence and family proximity. Far from being a temporary solution, this annexe is a versatile space designed to grow with the family. The family plans to use it as an entertainment space during summer evenings and as guest accommodation.
Turnkey Service, Including the Planning Process
Timeless Garden Rooms offers a complete turnkey service, managing the entire project from initial design through to construction, final decoration, and connection to mains services. This end-to-end service ensures that clients can enjoy their perfect space without the stress and hassle of managing the build themselves.
A key element of this turnkey service is guiding clients through the often complex planning approval process. Although this can be a daunting task, Timeless Garden Rooms draws on their extensive experience and industry contacts to make the process as smooth as possible.
For this 40sqm annexe project, the planning process required tree and biodiversity surveys, which Timeless Garden Rooms handled on behalf of their client. They also prepared a detailed method statement for installation, outlining measures to protect the surrounding environment during construction.
Timeless Garden Rooms’ commitment to adaptability was evident when the Planning Department requested a 'softer' roofline for the annexe. The team responded by revising the design to feature an asymmetrical roofline. By offsetting the ridge, they successfully reduced the overall height of the roof, meeting planning requirements.
What could have been a limitation turned into a creative opportunity. This design adjustment enabled them to incorporate a sleeping deck above the shower room, creating space for a double bed and adding a whole new functional dimension to the annexe. It’s a prime example of how an experienced designer can respond creatively to planning challenges.
Timeless Garden Rooms: Designs Full of Character
Timeless Garden Rooms' designs are distinctive for their character, seamlessly blending practicality with aesthetic appeal. The exterior of their garden annexes is particularly eye-catching, with Farrow & Ball-painted weatherboard cladding and Western Red Cedar roof shingles. These materials and colours help soften the structure, allowing it to harmonise with the natural textures and tones of the garden.
Emphasising the connection with the outdoors, the annexe features three sets of French doors. These outward-opening doors create a seamless transition between the indoor and outdoor spaces.
Complete with Kitchen and Shower Room
Inside the annexe, the unique interior design sets it apart from the typical plastered interiors of a house. Timeless Garden Rooms collaborated with their clients to create an interior that exudes warmth and character. The walls feature faux panelling, finished in a Farrow & Ball shade, which contrasts beautifully with the rich, dark wood flooring.
The annexe also boasts a well-appointed shower room, fitted with the client’s choice of sanitaryware. As part of their comprehensive service, Timeless Garden Rooms handled all the necessary groundworks and final connections to mains services, with full approval from Building Control.
Additionally, the annexe includes a stylish kitchen, providing the teenagers and future guests with the convenience of preparing snacks without needing to enter the main house.
As demonstrated, every detail of this annexe has been thoughtfully designed and executed to create an independent, comfortable living space that complements the natural surroundings and caters to the evolving needs of the family.
Learn More
To discover more about creating a garden annexe, visit Timeless Garden Rooms' specialist website. Alternatively, you can contact the team on 01843 821 851 or email them at sales.timelessgardenrooms@gmail.com.
