10 Things to Consider When Buying Garden House

When we think of garden-level apartments these days, it's rarely with that sense of classic Hollywood glamour that the old New York brownstone basements used to evoke. (Think of Kim Novak's apartment in "Bell, Book and Candle," or even the classic urban sets and settings of "Sesame Street.")

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In an age of commuter trains and flight to the suburbs, the aspirational emphasis is on space -- privacy, fences and lawns -- over the diversity and vibrancy of urban living. But to those who enjoy the life of the city, a garden-level home is not just a dark basement dungeon: It's a whole new view of the world.

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Creating your life inside this urban space is an adventure: a constant, fascinating flow of lives and stories just past your window. Getting out of the dark basement and making a garden-level space work for you is just a matter of thinking outside the box.

Let's check out some of the things you should look for in a garden-level property.

10: Light

It's important to look for a garden-level space that has windows and gets some sunlight. The effect of natural light on one's disposition and general mood can't be underestimated. As research continues into Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and similar syndromes, we're learning more and more about the effects of Vitamin D and sunlight on a variety of health concerns. It's important to maximize the amount of natural light in any home you consider as the quality most central to setting the mood, both for guests and for your day-to-day life.

"You want to live in a place you want to live," as the saying goes, so make sure you'll be comfortable before you buy or rent. Static-cling film on the windows can help with privacy, and hanging a mirror on the wall opposite your window can make a room appear lighter and larger. And be mindful of the placement and direction of windows: Southern and western exposures are preferable, although the latter may cost extra in cooling costs come summer.

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9: Water & Drainage

When we think of street-level apartments as basements, those negative connotations come mostly from water damage: mold and musty smells, flooding and insects attracted to water. The garden-level home for you must be designed -- or redesigned -- with these concerns in mind.

First, look at the street outside: Are the gutters wide and capable of draining off even excessive floodwaters? Are the edges of the street curved down, so water doesn't collect in puddles? Are there any signs of recent damage, or renovation, to indicate the level of regular maintenance to expect over the coming years?

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Inside, be wary of obvious signs of damage and decay. But also look for fast, cheap solutions to lingering problems, such as new drywall patches and panels, slapped-on paint and other indications of quick fixes that haven't necessarily treated the underlying issues.

8: Privacy

Your window on the world -- or at least its feet! -- goes both ways. Consider balancing your need for light with your need for privacy. Street-level homes often afford even smaller personal spaces than the apartments above you. Efficiencies and studios mean some private activities usually reserved for our bedrooms and bathrooms take place on a larger stage.

Ironing clothes before dashing to work, grabbing a forgotten towel and even just entertaining friends can quickly become a show for the world outside. Imagine your routine, and plan accordingly.

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While sheer café curtains provide ambient natural light and privacy during the daytime, at night your interior lights will broadcast your world like a movie screen! Similarly, blackout curtains can keep nosy passersby out at night, but come morning you'll be waking up in a cave.

Monitor traffic patterns and neighborhood personalities, and think about curtain systems to account for both day and night lighting.

7: Security

Whether you're home or away, windows can be an advertisement to thieves. Most garden-level apartments are outfitted with window bars and locks, and you'll want to double-check or replace those as a tenant. But there's also the preventive measure of making sure you and your home aren't targets to begin with.

Again, you'll need to balance your security concerns with your need for light, which means considering options: A sheer café curtain or sash provides cover during the day, but you'll need something a bit less inviting for nighttime protection.

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Your patio or garden decor should contribute comfort and style as you maximize whatever outdoor areas come with your home, but it can also be stolen or, worse, advertise the probable belongings within. Keep outdoor furniture and furnishings to a minimum, or stick with disposable outdoor furniture, and always turn off outdoor lights when they're not in use.

6: Ceiling Height

In terms of interior space, your first consideration after square footage should be ceiling height. It doesn't contribute to the advertised measurements -- unless used as a selling point -- but depending on the year and style of the architecture involved, ceiling height can vary widely, and it has a subtle but great impact on the way we view our home spaces.

In fact, ceiling height is nearly as important as light itself. A high ceiling can collect light and make the space seem far larger than it truly is, while a lower ceiling contributes to that "dungeon" feeling you want to avoid.

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However, low ceilings shouldn't necessarily be a deal-breaker. Through placement of art, mirrors and other eye-catching objects -- or clever use of wallpaper or paint -- you can increase the impression of height without feeling cluttered. The walls aren't really closing in, after all!

5: Usable Space & Location

When visiting a garden-level property, keep in mind you'll be living in the apartment. It sounds simple, but it can get complicated. Don't be fooled into planning your life around the space based on your fantasies.

Imagine not only your dream activities -- cocktail parties, or writing a novel on the patio -- but also your daily routine: Will you use that breakfast nook? Will the patio see that much use across the seasons? Analyze the space in terms of your probable activities, and you'll see more easily whether the space is right for you. It's possible you need more -- or less -- space than you think.

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Will you really avail yourself of the nightlife, restaurants and nearby attractions? How many nights a week will you come home exhausted and simply want a place to lay your head? Location, like any other selling point, is only worthwhile if it has meaning for you.

4: Division of Space

There's also a place for ingenuity in your future plans. When you visit a garden-level property, you'll probably see it furnished to maximize floor space and square footage -- but this can also make the space seem less usable, paradoxically, since you're being presented with one smallish space. Use your imagination to see the ways in which the space can be defined to fit your specifications and needs.

Folding screens, rolling screens and inexpensive bookshelves -- even couch, chair or rug placement -- are time-honored ways of dividing efficiency spaces to make them both more usable and more comfortable for living.

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Look at the property to be sure you'll be able to define spaces for sleeping, eating and entertaining. You should be able to employ that square-foot paradox to your own benefit, and by keeping these false "walls" at or below head level, you'll preserve both flow and light while maintaining privacy -- and using your space as efficiently as possible.

3: The Outdoor Situation

Many garden-level homes have some sort of semi-private outdoor access. It's a good idea to consider options for how to best use outdoor areas before moving in, to make sure you take advantage of the space.

Tending plants in an attached patio or vestibule is one way of bringing the outdoors into your home. The city garden is a proud tradition, whether in simple window or herb boxes, or -- if you're blessed with the space -- larger DIY planters. A simple trellis with flowering vines minimizes your project's footprint while providing a wall of color or fragrance.

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If you enjoy being outside, you might define your outdoor space as a living area. Sturdy furnishings, scented candles and some nice outdoor cushions are all you'll need to create a reading room or private dining area in the middle of the city.

2: Surrounding Neighbors

In a garden-level space, you'll be contending with the noise of neighbors, possibly in all directions. Passersby and neighborhood characters may also find their way into your life, in both welcome and unwelcome ways. But there's no need for strangers to remain that way, and it's in your best interest to get to know them.

Neighbors should be sources of comfort, not fear. Part of the adventure of urban living is this close proximity, and when the proper boundaries are created and enforced, it will contribute to the vitality and excitement of life in your new home.

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You can ensure that this will be the case by investigating the situation before committing to an apartment. It's more important in an urban situation than in any other apartment scenario to get a sense of the surroundings and whether or not they'll be friendly. Use your wits and follow your instincts, but remember to keep an open mind.

1: Future Possibilities

When we buy or rent, it's important to think about the changes life can bring five or 10 years down the line. Whether you're single or simply child-free, make sure to take the possibility of changes to your family, lifestyle and even simply your preferences into account.

What about your job and finances? Is it possible you'll end up wanting -- or being able to afford -- a larger or more private place before your commitment is up?

Consider the reasons you're considering garden-level and whether you're interested in committing to them for a while. These sorts of living spaces fill a specific need, but if you aren't sure you're the garden-level "type," it bears thinking about.

On the other hand, remember too that your garden-level apartment or condo is not a lifetime commitment. It's an adventure in living as close to the heart of the city as you possibly can.

For more great information, check out the links below.

Garden-Level Property FAQ

What is a garden-level property?

A garden-level property is an apartment situated between a basement and first floor, so that someone standing up inside would find their heads at or around street level. They became popular in post-World War II when young people left their family homes, creating an increased need for housing.

Are garden-level properties safe?

Most garden-level apartments are outfitted with window bars and locks, making it difficult for thieves to enter the premises. Consider sheer curtains that allow natural light in, but make it difficult to see inside. Additionally, choose inexpensive items for the outdoor area that comes with your unit, as they are more susceptible to theft.

Do garden-level properties have more pests?

There are significant pros to a garden-level unit, but you are more likely to have problems with insects and rodents in them, especially if the building isn't particularly well-maintained. When you're looking at the unit — whether to rent or buy — be sure to inquire about what preventative measures are being taken.

Lots More Information

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Sources

• GardenGuides.com. "Guide to Container Gardening." (March 22, )http://www.gardenguides.com/how-to/tipstechniques/containerindoor/container.asp
• Hamer, David. "Learning from the past: Historic Districts and the New Urbanism in the United States." Planning Perspectives. .
• Niedringhaus, Ashley. "Space-Saving Solutions." Real Simple. (March 22, )http://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/space-saving-solutions-/index.html
• Puckett, Nancy. "My Basement Apartment." DivineCaroline. April . (March 22, )http://www.divinecaroline.com//-basement-apartment
• Schwartz, Wes and Kayla. "Good Questions: Aren't Basement Apartments Too Dark?" Apartment Therapy. Sept. 25, . (March 22, )http://www.apartmenttherapy.com/boston/good-questions/good-questions-arent-basement-apartments-too-dark-

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The truth is, finding a decent work-life balance is a struggle for most of us. The 9-5 grind can be tough on our mental and physical well-being, leaving us feeling stressed, anxious and exhausted… It doesn't have to be this way, though!

A garden office is a perfect way to fix that! You can finally have a dedicated workspace where you can focus on your work without distractions. With a garden office, you'll have more hours in the day to spend with your family and loved ones. You'll also have more time for yourself to keep things in order, stay healthy, and indulge in your own interests.

Before buying check out these 10 tips:

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What Is A Garden Office?

In essence, a garden office is the same as a garden room (a building in your garden used for recreation) but its sole purpose is to be used as a workplace. 

It’s the perfect way to work from home without the distractions of day-to-day life such as noisy family members, pets or your favourite television show playing in the background.

1. Garage Conversion Or Garden Room

For those who have a garage that’s not being used for its original purpose, an office is sometimes the obvious choice because you already have the foundations, the wall structure, and a roof. It’s a lot easier (and cheaper!) to convert something that already exists than it is to start from scratch.

Or is it?

If you take a look around your neighbourhood, you'll notice that the vast majority of people now use their garages as a place to store kid's toys, boxes from your last move, Christmas decorations, etc.

In other words, it's become a dumping ground for all the things you don't want or need in your house but can't bear to throw away - so, unless you're planning on doing a serious declutter, you might want to think twice about converting your garage.

Instead, you could build a garden room from scratch: This way, you'll have a blank canvas to work with and you won't have to worry about compromising the structure of your home.

2. Do You Have Space?

Now you know what a garden office is, and you've decided this is going to be your next purchase; the first thing you need to consider is whether or not you have space in your garden.

If this is a DIY project, then you really need to take some measurements before you start buying materials or looking at blueprints. Not doing so could result in a lot of wasted time, money and resources.

On the other hand, if you are buying a bespoke garden office and having it fitted, the company you’re using will likely provide a free survey to assess the space in your garden.

It’s important that you have a level surface and enough space for your garden office - if not, you might end up with something like a slanted floor which could have all sorts of unintended consequences..!

3. Have You Decided On A Budget?

Yeah, we know… The elephant in the room. However, calculating your budget beforehand is an important step in this process.

When we talk about budget, we don’t just mean the cost of materials. You also need to take into account the costs of labour, if you are planning on hiring someone to do it for you.

Luckily, most garden office suppliers will give you an overall cost that covers both materials and labour - that way, it will be easier for you to compare different options and make the best decision for your needs and budget.

You also need to think about the running costs of your garden office. This includes things like electricity, heating, and cooling. Most things can be added later, but it will be much easier and more cost-effective if these items are installed at the time of construction.

Furniture

Don't forget, as well as budgeting for the cost of the garden office and installation, you also need to factor in the cost of furnishing it. This can be anything from a simple desk and chair to shelving units, bookcases, and more.

Also, will you need blinds, lights, or other accessories? These will all need to be considered when working out your budget.

4. Check The Planning Rules

Depending on the type and size of the garden office, you may or may not need planning permission.

As a general rule of thumb, if the office is less than 2.5m high and 3m from any boundary, you won’t need planning permission. However, we will always recommend that you check with your local authority before starting any work.

Note: This is something you (the customer) will need to do as the garden office company is not responsible for ensuring that the office complies with planning rules.

5. Heating And Cooling Preferences

If you are likely to be using your garden office all year round, you will definitely need some form of heating and cooling.

For optimal comfort in your garden room year-round, choose an air-conditioning unit that also functions as a heater! This is not only a more efficient solution, but it will also save you money in the long run.

6. Plumbing Preferences

More and more people are using their garden rooms for multiple purposes. So, if you think you might want to add a bathroom or kitchen in the future, make sure that your garden office has the necessary plumbing installed.

It’s much easier and less expensive to do this when the office is being constructed than to try to add it at a later date. Trust us, you don’t want to have to rip up your brand-new flooring because you forgot to add plumbing!

Again, if you are having an on-site survey carried out, they will ask you about your plumbing preferences and include it in the quote.

7. Electrics Preferences

As with plumbing; if you think you might want to add things like additional lights, sockets, or other electrical items in the future, make sure that your garden office has the necessary wiring installed.

Like the previous point, it’s much easier and less expensive to do this when the garden office is being constructed than post-completion.

8. Do You Need Internet Access?

If you have a large garden and you're planning on installing your garden office quite far from your house, you might want to consider checking whether you can get a signal with your by standing in the spot where the office will be.

Of course, this isn't exactly scientific, however, it will give you a good idea of whether or not you'll need to install a booster in your office or perhaps even install an additional broadband line.

Spending thousands installing a brand-new garden office, kitting it out with everything you could possibly need/want for a fully-functioning WFH office and then falling at the last hurdle because the internet connection is poor or even *gasp…non-existent.

Not great.

9. What Is The Foundation?

This question only applies if you're building the garden office yourself or having it installed by a local handyman/builder. If you are using a professional garden office company, they will take care of the foundation for you.

The most common type of foundation used for garden buildings is a concrete slab - this is quick and easy to install and provides a great base for your office.

Another option is to use paving slabs. However, we would only recommend this if the garden office is going to be used as storage or for light work as it might not be able to support the weight of a fully-fledged office.

10. Insulation

One of the great things about having a garden office is that you can control the temperature a lot more effectively than if you were working in a traditional office.

However, in order to do this, you do need to make sure that your office is properly insulated. This will not only make it more comfortable to work in; it will also help to keep your energy bills down.

When you're considering which features to include in your new garden room, well-insulated walls should definitely be near the top of your list.

At Cabin Master we use Kingspan™ thermal insulation boards in all of our garden buildings so that you can enjoy your new space to the full any time of year.

First No-No:

Never buy from a company that does not have a website, has zero reviews, and is selling on classified ads websites only.

You have zero guarantees about the quality of the product and who you are dealing with. Also, there is no customer service to speak of, should anything go wrong.

Second No-No:

Don’t try to reduce costs by cutting corners when it comes to the foundation and/or insulation of your garden office.

A garden office is a significant investment and, as such, you want to make sure that it is built to last.

Cheap, poorly insulated garden offices will soon become unbearable to work in during summer and will cost you an absolute bomb in heating bills over the winter months!​

Third No-No:

Ensure that you are able to see several designs, styles, and craftsmanship of the garden office company you are thinking of going with.

We recommend that you request to see at least 3 different show models in person before making your final decision.

Do NOT rely on photos alone as these can often be misleading and do not necessarily give you a true sense of the size and/or quality of the product you’re buying.

In Summary

We hope you enjoyed our 10 Tips (+ 3 No-No’s) About Garden Offices Before You Buy guide.

Building a garden office is a significant investment so it's important to do your research and ask the right questions before you take the plunge.

If you have any further questions or would like to find out more about our range of garden offices, please don't hesitate to get in touch.

We would be more than happy to help you!

For more information, please visit Garden House.