Large Summerhouses

Large Summerhouses

With roof options including apex, pent, or a unique curved design, you can choose the style that best complements your outdoor space. You also have the choice between traditional wooden or low-maintenance UPVC doors and windows, ensuring durability and a finish that suits your needs. With sizes up to 108 square feet, these summer houses offer plenty of space to enjoy your garden from.

Remember to explore our full range of summer houses and find the perfect fit for your outdoor space. If you want more information, our summer house buying guide will help you make the best choice.

What Is Considered A Large Summerhouse?

A large summerhouse generally starts at dimensions of 12x8 feet, with structures being 16x10 feet, or larger considered extra large. In the UK, any garden outbuilding that exceeds 30 square meters internally requires building regulations approval, and structures that are over 15 square meters or longer than 12-14 feet will be included in the large multi-purpose garden spaces category. As such, large summerhouses generally do not exceed this maximum footprint due to the avoidance of building control approval.

You tend to find that they often have multiple internal spaces that are sectioned off, and you can fit a decent amount of furniture in here. For example, you will be able to get a small dining set comfortably in a large summer house.

Choosing The Right Size

In order to choose the right size summerhouse, you should be thinking about how much space you have in your garden. There needs to be enough room for the summerhouse to fit, and for there to be a decent amount of room around the perimeter to allow for safe construction, access, and maintenance.

You should also think about the intended use of the summerhouse. Are you going to be using it for a relaxing area? Or, are you going to be using it for something different like a home gym, a home office, or a hobby room? Large summerhouses are generally able to fit gym equipment, crafting tables, or whatever you need without feeling cramped, but your specific needs and plans for the future will determine exactly how big you need to purchase.

Apex, Pent Or Curved Roof?

What roof is going to be best for your large summerhouse? This depends on your garden layout and headroom needs.

Apex roof summerhouses are best for freestanding setups and allowing you to add tall furniture. Pent roof summerhouses are best for being placed against garden boundaries, walls, or fences where there are height restrictions. Curved roof summerhouses are best for a statement piece in your garden.

Large Summerhouse, Log Cabin or Insulated Garden Room?

Deciding between a large summerhouse, log cabin, or insulated garden room can feel tricky, so you need to look at several factors. Consider your budget, the time of year that you want to use your building, and how often you’re going to want to use it.

A large summerhouse offers you the best structure for relaxation in the warm weather, a log cabin generally offers you more of a multi-use space, and an insulated garden room allows you to use it comfortably all year round. So, if you want somewhere to relax and enjoy the sun, a summerhouse is the perfect choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a large summerhouse be used as a home office?

Technically, a large summerhouse can be used as a home office. However, they won't be too warm in the winter months, and a log cabin or insulated garden room may be better suited.

Do large summerhouses need planning permission?

As long as your summerhouse stays under 30 square meters, meets the strict height limits, and is behind your house, then no. But if you exceed these size requirements, then yes.

Does a large summerhouse need a concrete base?

A large summerhouse needs a strong, completely level foundation in order to support its weight, and concrete is a fantastic option, but it’s not the only option. Read our shed base guide. Some of our summerhouses can be purchased with a timber base, perfect for uneven, soft ground such as mud, grass, or gravel.

Is a large summerhouse or log cabin better?

It depends on what you want it for. If you want an aesthetically pleasing structure and a relaxing space for warm days, a summerhouse is going to be a better option.