Garden Rooms vs. Home Extensions: Which Is Right for You?

When looking to add extra space to your home, two popular options emerge: garden rooms and home extensions. Both offer unique benefits, but which one is right for you? In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences, costs and benefits of each to help you make an informed decision.

1. Understanding the Basics

Garden Rooms

A garden room is a standalone structure built in your outdoor space, separate from the main house. It can serve multiple purposes such as a home office, gym, studio, or even a guest room.

Home Extensions

A home extension is a structural addition to your existing house, expanding interior living space. It can include an extra bedroom, a larger kitchen, or an extended living area.

2. Key Considerations

Cost

• Garden Rooms: Typically, garden rooms are more affordable, with prices starting from £16,000-£35,000+, depending on size and features.

• Home Extensions: Extensions generally cost more, often £30,000-£100,000+, due to materials, labour and planning permissions.

  
  

Planning Permission

• Garden Rooms: In most cases, garden rooms fall under permitted development rights, meaning you don’t need planning permission unless they exceed size or usage limits.

• Home Extensions: Many extensions require planning permission and compliance with building regulations, which can add time and cost.

  
  

Speed of Installation

• Garden Rooms: Can be built in 2-6 weeks, making them a quick solution for extra space.

• Home Extensions: Can take several months due to construction complexity, permits, and potential delays.

  
  

Functionality & Usage

• Garden Rooms: Ideal for private, separate spaces like an office, gym or relaxation area away from household distractions.

• Home Extensions: Best for integrating additional living areas such as extra bedrooms, larger kitchens, or expanded lounges.

  
  

Disruption & Mess

• Garden Rooms: Minimal disruption to your daily life as they are built separately in the garden.

• Home Extensions: Major construction work inside your home can cause noise, dust, and inconvenience for weeks or months.

3. Which One Is Right for You?

Factor	Garden Room	Home Extension
Cost	Lower	Higher
Planning Needed?	Rarely	Often
Build Time	Short	Long
Disruption	Minimal	High
Best for…	Work, gym, studio	Extra in-home living space

Choose a Garden Room If:

• You need a quick and cost-effective space solution.

• You want privacy and separation from the main house.

• You prefer minimal disruption during construction.

  
  

Choose a Home Extension If:

• You need a larger integrated living space (e.g., more bedrooms or an extended kitchen).

• You’re prepared for a higher budget and longer build time.

• You want to increase your home’s internal square footage.

  
  

4. Conclusion

Both garden rooms and home extensions offer valuable extra space, but the right choice depends on your needs, budget, and timeline. If you need a fast, cost-effective and flexible solution, a garden room is ideal. However, if you’re looking for long-term property size increase and need extra indoor space, a home extension might be worth the investment.

Still unsure? Get in touch with our experts to explore the best option for your home! Or download our brochure here!